Reproductive Disorders Research Articles

Prevalence and Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Mycoplasma hominis and Ureaplasma Species among Women in Dakar

Introduction: Genital mycoplasmas, which cause infections of the lower reproductive tract in women, are a major cause of morbidity and complications. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of mycoplasma infections and the antibiotic susceptibility profile among women in Dakar. Material and methods: We conducted a retrospective descriptive study over a four-year period, from 02 January 2018 to 31 December 2021. The study population consisted of women referred to the microbiology laboratory at Military Hospital of Ouakam for genital mycoplasma testing. The Mycoplasma IES kit was used for mycoplasma testing and susceptibility testing in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. Results: A total of 1431 patients were enrolled during the study period. The mean age was 32.6 ± 8.5 years. The overall prevalence of mycoplasma infection was 55.8% (798/1431). Of the 798 positive cultures, 52.8% were infected with Ureaplasma urealyticum (UU) and 17.9% with Mycoplasma hominis (MH). UU+MH co-infection was 31.08%. Analysis of the sensitivity profiles showed that UU was sensitive to most of the antibiotics used, while M. hominis strains showed low levels of resistance to tetracyclines (TET DOX, MIN), quinolones (OFX, LEV, SPA) and JOS. This resistance was much higher with macrolides (ERY, ROX, AZT), certain quinolones (ASP, CIP) and aminoglycosides (SPE). However, M. hominis strains were much more resistant to these molecules than U. urealitycum isolates. Conclusion: Our study revealed a high rate of genital mycoplasma infection among women in Dakar. The high rates of resistance to certain molecules underline the importance of surveillance to prevent transmission of resistant strains and rational use of antibiotics.

Physical factors in treatment of inflammatory diseases of female reproductive system: Principles and approaches

Physical therapy methods have found wide application in various fields of clinical medicine, including when treating various diseases and pathological conditions of the female body. The vast majority of studies deals with the issues of the drug-free treatments of chronic inflammatory diseases of the lesser pelvis organs, which negatively impact the health of women of reproductive age. It should be noted that the works dealing with the possibility and evaluation of the effectiveness of including physical therapy methods in the combination treatment of the acute stage of nonspecific inflammatory diseases of the lesser pelvis organs are less numerous. A number of works on the use of the hyperbaric oxygenation and general magnetic therapy as components of combination therapy in forming the therapeutic effect deal with this area of research. The article presents the basic principles of using physical therapy modalities in gynecology and the conditions for optimizing the results of treatment of gynecological patients, including the results of combination therapy with the earliest possible integration of physical therapy modalities in the programs of standard anti-inflammatory treatment of patients with acute nonspecific inflammatory diseases of the lesser pelvis organs, allowing to optimize its efficacy.

Research progress on Sertoli cell secretion during spermatogenesis

Sertoli cells (SCs), as the somatic cells in the testis of male mammals, play a crucial role in the close association with germ cells. The blood-testicular barrier (BTB), established by their tight junctions, provides immune protection to germ cells, leading to their characterization as "sentinel" cells. Moreover, the physiological process of testicular development and spermatogenesis in male animals is intricately tied to the secretory activities of SCs. These cells secrete a diverse array of proteins and cytokines that interact with various targets, working in concert with mechanisms in the spermatogenesis pathway and contributing to each stage, from spermatogonial cell division to the maturation of spermatozoa. Hence, the secretory products of SCs are pivotal in fostering germ cell development and directing the appropriate maturation of sperm. This study is dedicated to investigating the varied secretions of SCs, outlining their critical functions throughout distinct phases of spermatogenesis, thus elucidating the substantial influence of SC secretion on male fertility. Furthermore, it offers valuable perspectives on reproductive disorders stemming from irregular spermatogenesis in clinical contexts.

Kisspeptin and Neurokinin B: roles in reproductive health.

Kisspeptin and neurokinin B (NKB) play a key role in several physiological processes including in puberty, adult reproductive function including the menstrual cycle, as well as mediating the symptoms of menopause. Infundibular kisspeptin neurons, which co-express NKB, regulate the activity of gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons, and thus the physiological pulsatile secretion of GnRH from the hypothalamus. Outside of their hypothalamic reproductive roles, these peptides are implicated in several physiological functions including sexual behavior and attraction, placental function, and bone health. Over the last two decades, research findings have considerably enhanced our understanding of the physiological regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis and identified potential therapeutic applications. For example, recognition of the role of kisspeptin as the natural inductor of ovulation has led to research investigating its use as a safer, more physiological trigger of oocyte maturation in <em>in vitro</em> fertilization (IVF) treatment. Moreover, the key role of NKB in the pathophysiology of menopausal hot flashes has led to the development of pharmacological antagonism of this pathway. Indeed, Fezolinetant, a neurokinin 3 receptor antagonist, has recently received Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for clinical use to treat menopausal vasomotor symptoms. Herein, we discuss the roles of kisspeptin and NKB in human physiology, including in the regulation of puberty, menstrual cyclicity, reproductive behavior, pregnancy, menopause, and bone homeostasis. We describe how perturbations of these key physiological processes can result in disease states and consider how kisspeptin and NKB could be exploited diagnostically, as well as therapeutically to treat reproductive disorders.

Bacteroides Fragilis Transplantation Reverses Reproductive Senescence by Transporting Extracellular Vesicles Through the Gut-Ovary Axis.

The diverse and dynamic population of microorganisms present in the gut microbiota may affect host health. There are evidences to support the role of gut microbiota as a key player in reproductive development. Unfortunately, the relationship between reproductive disorders caused by aging and gut microbiota remains largely unknown. Here, it is shown for the first time that gut microorganism Bacteroides fragilis (BF) transplantation ameliorates ovarian aging by transporting extracellular vesicles (EVs) through the gut-ovary axis. Mechanistically, miR-1246 is enriched in EVs derived from BF-treated intestinal cells, and these miR-1246-enriched EVs are transferred to ovaries, thereby effectively improving reproductive senescence by reducing oxidative stress in the ovaries. Specifically, miR-1246 reduces the ubiquitination of p62 and stabilizes the protein level of p62 by targeting E3 ligase SKP2. Then Keap1-Nrf2 complex is dissociated and Keap1 is recruited to form the p62-Keap1 complex. With the dissociation of Keap1-Nrf2 complex, Nrf2 is released and activated, thus promoting the transcription of antioxidant enzymes and relieving reproductive senescence. Collectively, the data indicates that intestinal cell-derived EVs serve as natural information carriers in the crosstalk between the gut and the ovary, and intestinal microorganism transplantation is a promising approach for the treatment of ovarian dysfunction diseases.

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances and Female Health Concern: Gender-based Accumulation Differences, Adverse Outcomes, and Mechanisms.

The deleterious health implications of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are widely recognized. Females, in contrast to males, exhibit unique pathways for PFAS exposure and excretion, leading to complex health outcomes. The health status of females is largely influenced by hormone-related processes. PFAS have been reported to be associated with various aspects of female health, including reproductive system disorders and pregnancy-related diseases. In this article, we provide insights into the correlations between PFAS and female-prevalent diseases. Current epidemiological and toxicological evidence has demonstrated that the adverse effects of PFAS on the health of the female reproductive system are primarily attributed to the disruption of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis and hormonal homeostasis. However, these findings do not sufficiently elucidate the intricate associations between PFAS and specific diseases. Furthermore, autoimmune disorders, another category that is more prevalent in women compared to men, require additional investigation. Immune biomarkers pertinent to autoimmune disorders have been observed to be influenced by PFAS exposure, although epidemiological evidence is insufficient to substantiate these relations. Further thorough exploration encompassing epidemiological and toxicological studies is essential to elucidating the inherent influence of PFAS on human pathologies. Additionally, comprehensive investigations into female health issues beyond their reproductive functions is essential.

A comparative study of menstrual poverty among urban and rural female learners in government schools of Zambia

BackgroundMenstrual poverty remains a significant health problem among female learners in Zambia, particularly due to the lack of access to menstrual products, leading to the use of unsafe alternatives and potential health risks such as reproductive tract infections. To address this pressing issue, this study examined the disparities in knowledge, attitudes, and practices concerning menstrual poverty among female learners in both urban and rural government schools within Zambia.MethodsThe study utilized a mixed-method sequential explanatory design, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. A cross-sectional survey of 447 female learners was conducted in urban and rural areas using a multistage stratified sampling approach. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and bivariate techniques in Stata version 14.2. The qualitative arm consisted of focus group discussions and key informant interviews, with thematic analysis applied.ResultsThe findings revealed that urban female learners possessed a more comprehensive understanding of menstruation than their rural peers, with a significantly higher proportion accurately defining the process (74% vs. 50%). Notably, both urban and rural learners experienced a spectrum of emotional responses to menarche, with fear and discomfort common among learners in both urban and rural settings, while support-seeking behaviours and cultural beliefs varied geographically. Rural learners commonly turned to herbal remedies for menstrual management (30% vs. 21%, p = 0.007). Furthermore, over 50% of urban and rural leaners reported dissatisfaction with the sanitary facilities, citing concerns such as cleanliness, privacy, and inadequate handwashing amenities.ConclusionThis study reveals significant disparities in menstrual knowledge, practices, and attitudes between urban and rural female learners. Government funding is imperative to implement comprehensive menstrual health education in all public schools to create a supportive environment for menstruating learners. Collaboration with the Ministry of Health is crucial to ensure access to essential resources, including pain relief and gender-sensitive facilities.

Nipecotic Acid Ameliorates Letrozole Induced Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome in Female Virgin Wistar Rats by Modulating Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal (HPG) Axis Regulated by GABA.

PCOS is a common endocrine disorder in women particularly in their reproductive age. GABA has been implicated in the pathogenesis of PCOS through its central role in the hypothalamus. Hence, in this study we investigated the effect of Nipecotic acid (NPA) in Letrozole induced PCOS in female Wistar rats as NPA has been proven as a GABA uptake inhibitor. In this study 30 female Wistar rats were divided into 5 groups each group containing 6 animals and treated as follows-Healthy control: Vehicle, 0.5% carboxymethylcellulose (CMC); Diseased control: Letrozole 1mg/kg orally in 0.5% CMC; Test group-1: Letrozole + NPA (2.5mg/kg i.p.); Test group-2: Letrozole + NPA (5mg/kg i.p.) and Standard group: Letrozole + Clomiphene citrate (1mg/kg in 0.5% CMC orally). Body weight, feed intake, water intake and vaginal smear was recorded on daily basis till the completion of the treatment tenure, whereas serum oestrogen, testosterone and GABA; ovary and uterus histopathology; lipid profile; OGTT; GsH, MDA and TNF-alpha in ovary tissue were estimated in the end of the treatment tenure. NPA treated groups demonstrated an improvement in the irregularities of the oestrous cycle with respect to PCOS control group. Further, NPA at both doses significantly (p < 0.001) reduced oxidative stress and inflammation in the ovary. It significantly (p < 0.001) reduced the serum testosterone and significantly (p < 0.001) elevated the serum oestrogen level. Histopathological reports depicted NPA reduced follicular cysts and promoted ovulation. These results emphasize the possibility of NPA as a treatment option for PCOS related reproductive and metabolic disorders, addressing the unmet need for effective PCOS management.

Chlamydia in farms located in the Argentine-Brazilian-Paraguay tri-border.

Chlamydias are zoonotic pathogens, broadly present in several bird species and responsible for economic losses in animal production. Our study focused on assessing the prevalence of Chlamydial species posing zoonotic risks in farm animals within the highly biodiverse Argentine, Brazil, and Paraguay tri-border area, characterized by significant human interaction. We surveyed nine farms in an area and nasally swabbed a total of 62 animals, that included cattle, horses and pigs. DNA was extracted and specific PCR was performed to identify and sequenced chlamydial species. We detected Chlamydia spp. in 6.5% (4/62) of the tested animals, with all positive cases found in cattle. None of the cattle showed symptoms of respiratory disease or had been diagnosed with reproductive disorders. Specific nested PCR confirmed two samples belonged to Chlamydia pecorum and two to Chlamydia psittaci. We report for the first time Chlamydia circulation with zoonotic risk in the region. We propose that surveys in birds and wild mammals could give a better understanding to know what Chlamydial species are circulating in the wild interface. The zoonotic potential should be taking into account as farm workers and the surrounding population could be silent carriers or have respiratory diseases being underdiagnosed, and therefore should be considered in the differential diagnoses.

Unveiling the molecular mechanisms of recurrent miscarriage through endoplasmic reticulum stress related gene expression

Recurrent miscarriage (RM) is a reproductive disorder affecting couples worldwide. The underlying molecular mechanisms remain elusive, even though emerging evidence has implicated endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS). We investigated RM- and ERS-related genes to develop a diagnostic model that can enhance predictive ability. We utilized the R package GEO query to extract and process Gene Expression Omnibus data, applying batch correction, normalization, and differential gene expression analysis with limma. ERS-related differentially expressed genes (ERSRGs) were identified through Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of genes and genomes analyses, and their diagnostic potential was assessed. Diagnostic models were developed using logistic regression, support vector machines, and least absolute shrinkage and selection operators, complemented by immune infiltration analysis and regulatory network construction. Integrated analysis revealed 1395 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), including 626 upregulated and 769 downregulated genes. Seventeen ERSRGs were identified. KEAP1 and YIPF5 displayed high diagnostic accuracy (area under the curve [AUC] > 0.9). Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of genes and genomes analyses highlighted the role of ESRDEGs in cellular responses to ERS, protein processing, and apoptosis. Diagnostic models demonstrated robust predictive performance (AUC > 0.9). A molecular interaction was found between RM and the ERS response, and the identified ESRDEGs could serve as potential biomarkers for diagnosis.

Sonograms of perineal muscles as a noninvasive diagnosis of pyometra and endometritis in beef cows: a preliminary study

Abstract. Changes in reproductive status affect the perineal muscles. These modifications enable the noninvasive diagnosis of pyometra and mastitis in beef cows. This study aims to assess the thickness and intensity of the coccygeus and levator ani muscles in beef cows affected by the reproductive disorders of pyometra and mastitis. The sample consisted of 59 Bali beef cows, 75 Madura beef cows, and 71 Ongole cross beef cows. The cervical organs, uterine corpus, uterine cornua, and placenta were visualized using transrectal imaging. The resulting images were categorized into two groups: a control group (with nonpregnant nonpartum, pregnant, and nonpregnant postpartum statuses) and a group with reproductive disorders. The coccygeus and levator ani muscles were visualized using transcutaneous imaging. Pregnant Bali beef cows have thicker coccygeus muscles than nonpregnant nonpartum Bali beef cows (P&lt;0.05). Pregnant Madura beef cows have thicker coccygeus muscles than nonpregnant nonpartum and nonpregnant postpartum Madura beef cows (P&lt;0.05). Pregnant Madura beef cows have thicker levator ani muscles than nonpregnant postpartum Madura beef cows (P&lt;0.05). Nonpregnant nonpartum and pregnant Ongole cross beef cows have thicker coccygeus and levator ani muscles than nonpregnant nonpartum and pregnant Bali and Madura beef cows. For pyometra, Bali, Madura, and Ongole cross beef cows have thicker coccygeus and levator ani muscles than endometritis, nonpregnant nonpartum, pregnant and nonpregnant postpartum Bali, Madura, and Ongole cross beef cows. In the control group, only the levator ani muscle of pregnant Bali beef cows had a significant intensity compared to nonpregnant postpartum Bali beef cows (P&lt;0.05). The muscle intensity of the coccygeus and levator ani of nonpregnant nonpartum, pregnant, and nonpregnant postpartum Bali beef cows was higher than nonpregnant nonpartum, pregnant, and nonpregnant postpartum groups for Madura and Ongole cross beef cows. For pyometra, Bali, Madura, and Ongole cross beef cows had higher coccygeus muscle intensity than nonpregnant nonpartum and pregnant Bali, Madura, and Ongole cross beef cows. Reproductive status and disorders affect the diameter of the reproductive tract and plecentome, which affect changes in sonogram thickness and intensity of the coccygeus and levator ani muscles.

Dietary supplementation with milk‐derived Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis relieves colitis‐linked reproductive disorders via gut‐testis axis

AbstractRapid urbanization, medication, and modern dietary patterns are the main challenges leading to impaired fertility, with a lack of effective therapies. Emerging evidence suggests that reproductive disorders may be closely associated with intestinal damage or occasionally worsen by the side effects of medications. Therefore, the development of dietary supplements as alternatives is crucial for intestinal‐linked reproductive health. Milk and dairy products are essential in dietary nutrition with great potential functional ingredients. Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis NJ241 (NJ241), a promising probiotic isolated from naturally fermented bovine milk, remains underexplored. This study aims to investigate the molecular mechanisms of NJ241 on colitis and its associated reproductive disorders. The biomarker microbes and their correlated metabolites were further explored by 16S rRNA sequencing and metabolomics. Hematological analysis and histopathological examination were applied for conjoined identification. Results indicated that NJ241 effectively restored the expression levels of Claudin‐2 and MLCK1, reducing intestinal permeability. Multi‐omics results further revealed that NJ241 may effectively improve gut barrier integrity by increasing the abundance of Akkermansia muciniphila and its metabolite trans‐ferulic acid. This effect was accompanied by a reduction in the pro‐inflammatory cytokine IL‐6 in both serum and testicular tissue, mediated through the TLR4 signaling pathway. Consequently, the restoration of microbiota homeostasis and a systemic reduction in inflammation rescued testicular spermatogenesis, which was impaired by colitis. The current findings consistently elucidated the potential molecular mechanism by which NJ241 ameliorates colitis‐linked reproductive disorders through the gut‐testis axis. Additionally, NJ241 demonstrates promise as a probiotic supplement for the development of fortified dairy products and provides strong evidence for the potential reproductive health benefits of naturally fermented bovine milk.

Relative increase in walking activity in lactating dairy cows submitted to timed artificial insemination: Risk factors and subsequent fertility.

The objectives of this study were: (i) to evaluate the associations between postpartum health disorders, relative increase in walking activity (RIWA) and expression of behavioral estrus intensity captured by pedometers; (ii) to assess associations between RIWA and pregnancy in cows submitted to timed artificial insemination (TAI). Lactating dairy cows (n = 881) were enrolled in the study. Cows were submitted to a 5d TAI protocol with insertion of a progesterone device. Pregnancy status was determined by ultrasonography on D30 after AI. During the postpartum period cows were categorized as healthy (n = 468), having a reproductive disorder (n = 185), metabolic disorder (n = 118), reproductive and metabolic disorders (n = 56), or clinical mastitis (n = 54). Healthy cows tended to have (P = 0.10) a greater RIWA and a lower proportion of healthy cows did not exhibit estrus (P = 0.03) compared with cows that had a postpartum health disorder. Similarly, ovarian status at TAI protocol commencement (P = 0.01), presence of twin pregnancy (P = 0.03), and season (P < 0.0001) were all associated with RIWA. Cows with a corpus luteum (CL) at TAI protocol commencement, carrying twins and those served during the cold season had an enhanced RIWA compared with those with no CL, carrying singletons and cows served during the hot season. In addition, healthy cows (P = 0.003) and cows showing estrus (P = 0.0002) had enhanced pregnancy per TAI compared with those with postpartum disorders, and those failing to exhibit estrus, respectively. Hence, cows that remained healthy during the postpartum had a greater RIWA, expression of behavioral estrus intensity and pregnancy to TAI compared with those that had a postpartum disorder.

Diet diversity score might be associated with reproductive health in women and infant outcomes: a systematic review.

Lifestyle and diet may affect the reproductive cycle. A dietary index called Diet Diversity Score (DDS) may be related to various reproductive outcomes. The present review aims to look over and conclude the prior studies on the relationship between the diversity of food ingredients and issues related to reproductive health and pregnancy. In the case of this relationship, our findings can increase clinical knowledge and help recommend a well-balanced diet for the target group. A comprehensive search was performed in major databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Scopus, and Scientific Information Database until March 2024. This research was combined with a search of Elsevier and SpringerLink databases, which led to the inclusion of relevant articles in this review. Our study was conducted based on 27 articles from 2012 to 2023, all containing a possible link between dietary diversity and reproductive complications. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale quality assessment was used to evaluate the quality of included studies. Due to our results, a higher score in DDS, which led to an increased intake of major nutrients and a greater variety of foods, was correlated with a lower risk of reproductive health disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome, maternal anaemia, and maternal bone status, as well as a reduced likelihood of certain birth outcomes, including low-birth weight infants, Apgar score and congenital heart defect. These findings highlight the importance of improving the DDS for maternal and infant health.

Effects of Intrauterine Isoproterenol Administration on Ovarian Follicular Development in Cows.

Isoproterenol (ISO) is a nonselective beta-adrenergic receptor agonist known for its vasodilatory effects. This experiment aims to investigate whether intrauterine ISO administration could alter vascular indices and follicular development in postpartum Holstein cows. The objectives are to evaluate the effects of intrauterine ISO administration on vascular changes and its impact on follicular development compared to placebo groups. This randomized controlled study was conducted on 36 Holstein cows selected based on their health status, including only those free from reproductive, metabolic and infectious disorders. The cows (n=36) were divided into two groups as control received distilled water alone (CON, n=18) and experiment received 4mg ISO in 40mL distilled water (ISO, n=18) and four subgroups as CON-I (n=9), CON-II (n=9), ISO-I (n=9) and ISO-II (n=9) according to days of intrauterine administration (I or II represents to 1 or 2days after ovulation, respectively). Uterine and ovarian artery blood flows were assessed before and after administration by Doppler ultrasonography. Blood samples were collected both before and after administration (on Day 1 or 2) and on Days 3, 6 and 9 post-ovulation for hormonal analysis. Antral follicle count (AFC) was recorded on the blood sampling days. Data were analysed via mixed model ANOVA. Intrauterine ISO administration significantly increased the pulse rate (PR) in the ovaries (89.4 vs. 65.5bpm, p<0.0001) and uterus (90.6 vs. 64.2bpm, p<0.0001). Early AFC (1-2.9mm) decreased, whereas small AFC (3-4.9mm) increased in the ISO groups. The weighted average antral follicle size (WAAFS) significantly increased in the ISO group but remained unchanged in the controls. Hormonal analysis revealed elevated levels of FSH (626 vs. 468mIU/mL), AMH (61.3 vs. 46.4ng/L), E2 (138 vs. 122ng/L), P4 (15.3 vs. 10.6ng/mL), IGF-1 (62.6 vs. 25.1ng/mL) and IGFBP-3 (28.4 vs. 16.5ng/mL) in the ISO groups (p<0.0001). The findings indicate that intrauterine administration of ISO on Day 1 post-ovulation could be a promising 'adjunct technique' for future research focussed on minimizing dependence on exogenous hormones or improving the sensitivity of follicles to endogenous hormonal signals, thereby potentially enhancing oocyte yield.

Antibiogram and Bacterial Profiling of Reproductive Tract Infections in Female Cattle and Buffaloes

Antibiogram and Bacterial Profiling of Reproductive Tract Infections in Female Cattle and Buffaloes

Seroprevalence of and Associated Risk Factors for Bovine Viral Diarrhea in Dairy Cattle in and Around Nekemte Town, East Wallaga, Oromiya Regional State, Ethiopia.

Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) is an important pathogen affecting dairy cattle all over the world by causing significant economic losses due to reproductive and respiratory problems, immunosuppressive effects, increased risk of morbidity, and calf mortality. A cross-sectional study was conducted from February 2021 to August 2021 to determine the seroprevalence of bovine viral diarrhea (BVD) and identify risk factors associated with its occurrence in and around Nekemte Town of Ethiopia. Blood samples were collected from 305 dairy cattle of 41 herds by using cluster-sampling method. All sampled animals were identified by their age, breeds, origin, parity, pregnancy status, and history of reproductive and respiratory problems. Competitive ELISA was used in the laboratory to detect the presence of antibodies in the serum. At the animal and herd level, descriptive statistics were utilized to assess the amount of BVDV viral antibody circulation, and multivariable logistic regression analysis was employed to detect potential risk variables. The result demonstrates 9.84% (95% confidence interval (CI): 6.49-13.18) and 28.52% (95% CI: 23.46-33.59) seroprevalence of BVDV antibody at individual and herd level, respectively. Abortion (odds ratio (OR) = 2.75; p = 0.019), retention of fetal membrane (OR = 3.33; p = 0.011), purchasing of animals (OR = 2.98; p = 0.017), and pregnancy (OR = 3.16; p = 0.019) were variables significantly associated with the seropositivity of BVDV. Herd size was found to be substantially linked with BVDV infection at the herd level (p = 0.009). These moderate seroprevalence of BVDV results indicate that the virus is widely spread among dairy cattle at various farms in and around Nekemte Town, hurting dairy farm production and productivity. To reduce the seroprevalence of this infectious agent, cows with a history of reproductive disorders should be tested, and new animals should be quarantined before being introduced into herds, and more research should be done to assess the impact of reproductive failure and other effects associated with this virus.

Infertility following trisomic pregnancies: A nationwide cohort study.

To study whether gynecologic or reproductive disorders show association with trisomic conceptions. This nationwide cohort study utilized the Registry of Congenital Malformations to identify women who had a trisomic pregnancy (n = 5784), either with trisomy 13 (T13; n = 351), trisomy 18 (T18; n = 1065) or trisomy 21 (T21; n = 4369) from 1987 to 2018. We used the Finnish Maternity cohort to match the cases to population controls (n = 34 422) on the age, residence, and timing of pregnancy. These data were cross-linked to the ICD-10 diagnoses of the national Care Registry for Health Care data on specialized health care in Finland during 1996 to 2019. Both inflammatory (ICD-10 diagnoses: N70-N77) and noninflammatory disorders of the genital tract (N80-N98) were studied. Crude odds ratios (ORs) with 95% CIs were calculated for associations between diagnoses and trisomic conceptions. The diagnosis of female infertility (N97) at any time was associated with trisomic conceptions (OR: 1.19, 95% CI: 1.08-1.32). In the subgroup analysis, this association was found for T18 (OR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.03-1.61) and T21 (OR: 1.17, 95% CI: 1.04-1.32), but not for T13 (OR: 1.15, 95% CI: 0.75-1.72). When restricting the timing of the diagnosis of female infertility, an elevated OR was found only after the index pregnancy (OR: 1.81, 95% CI: 1.56-2.09). These increased odds for infertility after trisomic conceptions were observed both in women <35 years (T18 OR: 1.91, 95% CI: 1.21-3.00; T21 OR: 1.68, 95% CI: 1.31-2.14) and in women ≥35 years (T18 OR: 2.17, 95% CI: 1.40-3.33; T21 OR: 1.87; 95% CI: 1.47-2.39), but not after T13 conceptions. Our observational data suggest a link between trisomic conceptions and subsequent diagnoses of infertility but do not demonstrate causality. These data implicate that partially similar mechanisms might predispose to trisomy and infertility, regardless of maternal age.

Insights into organophosphorus insecticide malathion induced reproductive toxicity and intergenerational effect in zebrafish (Danio rerio).

The reproductive and transgenerational effects of malathion, a widely utilized low-toxicity organophosphorus insecticide, were explored using zebrafish as model animal. Adult zebrafish (F0) were exposed to malathion at 0.1-1.0mg/L for 60days for exploring the reproductive toxicity in sex differences and the potential mechanisms, and development and transcription levels in F1 offspring were assessed. Malathion significantly suppressed the fertility of zebrafish as evidenced by reduced spawning and lower fertilization rates in F1 offspring. Abnormal gonadal development and steroid hormone disorders were observed in F0 zebrafish, which was associated with the alterations in the transcription of core genes (such as cyp11a, cyp19a, vtg1, era) along the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonad-liver (HPGL) axis. The expression level of vtg1 played a key role in the malathion-induced sex dependence on E2 and VTG levels. The reduction of E2 and VTG could disrupt ovarian capability in females. E2 excess would cause feminization in males. Molecular docking indicated that reproductive disorders induced by malathion in zebrafish mainly through estrogen-like effects and CYP11A antagonism. Parental exposure to malathion abnormalized embryonic development in F1 offspring, comprising heartbeats decrease, deformities and body length reduction. Transcriptomics suggested that malathion-induced reproductive toxicity could be transmitted across generations, which may adversely affect fish populations.

Effect of timing of antibiotic use on premature rupture of membranes and its impact on reproductive tract infection and fetal membrane cell scorching indicators.

The study was designed to appraise the effects of early antibiotic administration on reproductive tract infections and fetal membrane cell scorching in instances of premature rupture of membranes (PROM). A total of 107 pregnant women diagnosed with PROM between July 2020 and June 2022 were randomly assigned to two groups: the Intervention (n=54), where ampicillin were administered within 24 hours of PROM onset, and the control group (n=53), where ampicillin were given 24-48 hours after PROM. Maternal and neonatal outcomes, incidence of reproductive tract infections, and fetal membrane cell scorching indicators (Caspase-1, Caspase -3, Caspase-9 and IL-β) were compared. The intervention group had significantly fewer adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes (p<0.05). Post-treatment, rates of Chlamydia trachomatis, Mycoplasma solium, and genital tract infections decreased in both groups, with lower rates in the intervention group (p<0.05). Positive expression rates of Caspase-1, -3, -9, and IL-β in placental tissues were also lower in the intervention group (p<0.05). We conclude that administering antibiotics within 12 hours of PROM reduces reproductive tract infections, lowers fetal membrane cell scorching, and improves maternal and neonatal outcomes, supporting early antibiotic use in the management of PROM.