Spinosyn α4, a potential insecticide against Plutella xylostella from Saccharopolyspora sp. AN150100.

Quantitative trait loci identification reveals cell-wall invertase 4 as a new candidate gene controlling tiller number in orchardgrass.

Ecological impacts and sustainable development of offshore wind farm pile foundations in the Bodhi Island area.

miR-34c regulates the proliferation, apoptosis, and testosterone synthesis of bovine leydig cells by targeted ATG5 gene.

Exploration of the reproductive potential of Bidens pilosa during bisphenol a exposure in male mice

Effects of climate change on the metabolic ecology of small yellow croaker (Larimichthys polyactis) based on dynamic energy budget (DEB) model.

SPG360° and SpermoMAP: a functional and stratified interpretation model for human semen analysis in frontline fertility care.

Mites are known to attach to and parasitize sand flies, potentially affecting host survival, development and reproductive capacity. In this study, we aimed to identify and report two mite species found on the field collected sandflies during a comprehensive seasonal activity study carried out in two provinces of Türkiye. A total of 43 mite specimens were recovered from 25 individual sand flies. Two mite species Eustigmaeus johnstoni Zhang & Gerson (Stigmaeidae) and Biskratrombium aff. coineaui Fain & Izri (Microtrombidiidae) were identified. This represents the first record on the presence of ectoparasitic B. aff. coineaui on adult females of Phlebotomus alexandri and P. sergenti, and the first to report of this mite species from Türkiye. Although the effects of parasitic mites on sand fly populations remain unclear, it is likely that they utilize the host’s limited resources, thereby potentially compromising the host’s reproductive potential. Further experimental investigation into these specific host-parasite dynamics is essential to fully elucidate the ecological interactions and their potential implications for vector management.

Male fertility can be influenced by environmental factors, including seasonal variation, which may cause fluctuations in semen quality. However, studies to date have reported inconsistent findings, limiting our understanding of how seasonality affects reproductive potential. A clearer picture of these patterns is essential for optimizing the timing and interpretation of fertility evaluations. To systematically review and meta-analyze existing data on seasonal differences in semen analysis parameters. We searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus up to March 18, 2025 using the key search terms of "semen parameter" and "seasonality," along with their related terms. Initial search yielded 641 studies. The inclusion criteria were original articles or conference abstracts that investigated any human semen parameters across different seasons. After screening, 21 studies were included for meta-analysis. We calculated the pooled weighted mean differences in semen parameters across different seasons using the random-effects models. Meta-analyses of 21 studies with high methodological quality showed that winter and spring had better semen quality than summer and fall, in that they had higher sperm concentration of 3.24-6.07 million/mL, higher total sperm count of 14.63-19.74 million, and lower slow motility of 5.17%-11.75%. Additionally, winter had greater normal morphology of 1.30% than both fall and summer. Spring also had greater total motile sperm count of 4.34-4.38 million compared with fall and summer and greater normal morphology of 0.88% than summer. Summer had lower slow motility of 5.05% than fall. This meta-analysis showed seasonal variations in semen parameters, with generally better semen quality in winter and spring compared with summer and fall. Specifically, these seasons were associated with higher sperm concentration, greater total sperm count, and reduced slow motility compared with summer and fall.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation with organic zinc (zinc methionine with 12% of Zn) at levels exceeding standard nutritional recommendations on sexual behaviour (reaction time to ejaculation), semen quality and quantity, and sperm production in rabbit bucks. Five months old New Zealand White rabbits (n=33) were randomly assigned to three treatments: T1) basal diet (BD) or control, without the addition of zinc, considering only the provision of the ingredients included in the diet (25 mg Zn kg–1); T2) 150 Zn: BD+150 mg of organic Zn; T3) 200 Zn: BD+200 mg of organic Zn. A completely randomised design was employed, with 11 replicates per treatment. Each buck constituted an experimental unit. Six semen collection sessions were carried out with two ejaculations per buck, one collection per week. The dietary Zn concentration in the diet was shown to affect curvilinear sperm velocity (VCL; P=0.026), curvilinear sperm distance (DCL; P=0.007) and the percentage of normal sperm (PNS; P=0.02). The VCL, DCL and PNS in rabbits with 200 Zn were higher than those in the 150 Zn and the control group. First ejaculates showed greater (P<0.05) reproduction potential due to: 27% less reaction time, 87.4% more presence of gel and increased seminal volume (42.7%), sperm concentration per ejaculate (41.7%), straightness of track (2.8%) and number of seminal doses (8.3), whereas the amplitude of lateral head displacement and curvilinear distance were higher (P<0.05) than in the second ejaculate. The BD bucks and those with 150 mg Zn kg–1 in their diet improved sperm kinematics, seminal quality and reproductive potential. The diet with 200 mg Zn kg–1 (T3) may have adverse effects on the reproductive performance of male rabbits, which may impact the doe’s prolificacy and fertility levels.

The prevalence of infertility represents one of the most pressing medical and social challenges, with direct implications for global birth rates. Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) have emerged as a key branch of medicine that enables the overcoming of various forms of infertility and the realisation of the right to parenthood. Although high efficacy is observed, the application of ART may be associated with certain complications, including increased risks of multiple pregnancy, pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus, preterm birth, and the requirement for caesarean section. Improvements in techniques and appropriate medical management, however, substantially decrease the incidence of these risks and enhance perinatal outcomes. In recent years, digital technologies and artificial intelligence have been increasingly integrated into reproductive medicine, facilitating optimised embryo selection, prediction of implantation success, and personalised treatment protocols. These developments offer new prospects for enhancing the efficacy, safety, and accessibility of ART. Thus, ART holds a prominent position in contemporary medicine, integrating scientific advances with humanistic principles aimed at addressing infertility and upholding the right to parenthood. The purpose of the study: to analyse, based on contemporary medical literature, current issues related to fertility and the specific aspects of care for children born through assisted reproductive technologies, as well as to assess the medical and social implications of ART application. Conclusions: Given the rising prevalence of infertility among women of reproductive age, the utilisation of ART is gaining increasing significance in preserving societal reproductive potential. ART not only facilitates the realisation of the right to parenthood but also serves as an important factor in stabilising demographic trends. Concurrent with the advancement of these technologies, various medical, ethical, and legal concerns arise regarding the safety of both mother and child.

The maternal gut microbiota can modulate host physiological homeostasis through metabolites. Maternal reproductive potential hinges on placental angiogenesis and nutrient transport efficiency, directly determining fetal developmental outcomes. However, the specific molecular mechanisms by which microbial metabolites influence reproductive potential remain to be elucidated. This study aimed to clarify the mechanisms by which maternal gut microbiota affects reproductive potential. We initially analyzed the metabolic profiles by untargeted metabolomics and the fecal microbiota by 16S rRNA sequencing in sows with different reproductive potential. Sows with high reproductive potential exhibited elevated plasma arginine and fecal thiamine levels. Meanwhile, Lactococcus was enriched in the feces of sows with high reproductive potential. Subsequently, we evaluated the effects of thiamine (a signature metabolite identified) on maternal reproductive potential, gut microbiota, placental angiogenesis, and nutrient transport capacity using a rat model. The results showed that thiamine supplementation in pregnant rats effectively promoted offspring growth and enhanced transplacental thiamine metabolism. Moreover, thiamine modulated maternal gut microbiota composition, increased the abundance of Prevotellaceae Ga6A1 group and Bacteroidale RF16 group unclassified, and promoted butyrate production. We found that thiamine improved placental function by enhancing thiamine-related metabolic enzymes and acetyl-CoA content. It also promoted the migratory capacity of pTr cells. Importantly, thiamine facilitated placental angiogenesis by activating Notch signal transduction, which in turn initiated the PI3K/AKT signaling cascade. Ultimately, this cascade regulated the efficiency of placental nutrient metabolism and the expression of nutrient transporters. Cumulatively, the gut microbiota regulates early offspring development through metabolite-mediated host interactions. This study provides new evidence that maternal gut microbiota-derived thiamine activates placental Notch signaling to coordinate angiogenesis and nutrient transport, thereby improving pregnancy outcomes. These findings provide novel perspectives and potential actionable strategies for maternal microbial regulation of maternal-fetal health during gestation.

The search for methods to preserve reproductive potential in women with ovarianendometriomas remains one of the most controversial topics in modern gynecology. Theurgency of the study is caused by the need to minimize the negative impact oflaparoscopic cystectomy on the ovarian reserve, which is often reduced as a result ofsurgical trauma. Particular attention deserves the study of concomitant vitamin Ddeficiency role which may act as an additional pathogenetic factor in the progression ofendometriosis and reduced fertility.The aim – to compare the features of hormonal homeostasis and vitamin D levelsaccording to a retrospective analysis in patients of reproductive age with ovarianendometriomas with and without surgical treatment and in the control group.Materials and methods. A retrospective analysis of medical records of inpatients at the“Innomed” Medical Center from 2019 to 2025 was conducted.The study was conducted in accordance with the provisions of the Helsinki Declarationadopted by the General Assembly of the World Medical Association (1964-2008), theCouncil of Europe Convention on Human Rights and Biomedicine (1977), relevantprovisions of the WHO, the International Council of Medical Science Societies, theInternational Code of Medical Ethics (1983), and Order No. 690 of the Ministry ofHealth of Ukraine dated September 23, 2009 (as amended by No. 523 dated July 12,2012). By decision of the Bioethics Committee of Pirogov National Memorial MedicalUniversity, Vinnitsia (Minutes No. 1 of January 16, 2025), the study was approved.The study included 140 women of reproductive age (25-37 years) who were treated forovarian endometriomas. Four groups were formed: the first (n=41) group included 41patients with ovarian endometriomas who underwent laparoscopic cystectomy with theappointment of releasing hormone agonists, the second group included 37 patientswithout the appointment of a-GnRH after laparoscopic cystectomy. The third group wasformed by 32 patients with ovarian endometriomas without surgical treatment. Thefourth group was the control group (30 women of reproductive age with infertility oftubal origin). Hormonal background and vitamin D levels were studied, and acomparison was made between groups of patients with ovarian endometriomas with andwithout surgical treatment, and the control group. The results were processed usingMicrosoft Excel and Statistica. The Shapiro-Wilk test was used to check the normalityof the distribution, intergroup differences were assessed using the Kruskal-Wallis test,and the dynamics of indicators within groups was assessed using the Wilcoxon test. Thelevel of statistical significance was set at p<0.05.Results. Analysis of the hormonal background of women included in the study showedthat in all main groups a significant decrease in ovarian reserve was recorded: the AMHlevel was minimal in the first group (0.95 ± 0.15) ng/ml and slightly higher in the second(1.11 ± 0.19) ng/ml and the third (1.29 ± 0.11) ng/ml compared to the control (2.37 ±0.11) ng/ml. The FSH level was statistically significantly higher than the control (7.15± 1.35) IU/l and was (11.01 ± 1.75); (10.93 ± 1.51) and (10.15 ± 1.49) IU/l, respectively,demonstrating a weak inverse correlation with AMH. The LH concentration tended todecrease (4.94 ± 2.08); (5.34 ± 1.79) and (5.41 ± 1.73) IU/l versus (5.95 ± 1.57) IU/l inthe control, which led to a decrease in the LH/FSH index.Also, in patients of the main groups, a significant increase in the levels of: estradiol:(48.7 ± 6.9); (54.9 ± 5.8) and (58.75 ± 4.7) pg/ml (control - (35.1 ± 21.9) pg/ml);prolactin: indicators reached the upper limit of normal (16.95 ± 3.8); (18.79 ± 3.51)and (17.31 ± 3.16) μg/l versus (10.99 ± 2.31) μg/l in the control (p < 0.05);progesterone: (1.21 ± 0.18); (1.17 ± 0.16) and (1.14 ± 0.17) ng/ml (control - (0.95 ± 0.17) ng/ml). In contrast, the level of total testosterone was significantly reduced (0.37± 0.19); (0.45 ± 0.18) and (0.49 ± 0.17) ng/ml compared to (1.55 ± 0.37) ng/ml in thecontrol. The content of vitamin D (25(OH)D) in the main groups corresponded to thedeficiency (20.16 ± 4.8); (23.79 ± 5.1) and (24.35 ± 4.7) ng/ml, while in the controlgroup its concentration was significantly higher - (51.19 ± 5.7) ng/ml.Conclusions. The results of the study confirm the negative impact of laparoscopiccystectomy on ovarian reserve and hormonal imbalance in patients with ovarianendometriomas: decreased levels of AMH, LH, and testosterone against the backgroundof increased FSH, estradiol, prolactin, and progesterone, as well as demonstratingconcomitant vitamin D deficiency in these patients.

Temperature strongly influences the growth and reproductive potential of entomopathogenic fungi used in biological pest control. This study examined the effects of four temperatures (22, 26, 30, and 34 °C) on radial growth and spore production of two Beauveria bassiana isolates and two Metarhizium anisopliae isolates under in vitro conditions. Fungal cultures were grown on PDA media, and radial growth was measured at 3, 7, and 14 days, while spore production was quantified on day 15. The experimental findings revealed that temperature significantly affected both parameters, with 26 °C supporting the highest mycelial expansion and spore yield, followed by 22 °C. Higher temperatures (30–34 °C) caused substantial reductions due to thermal stress. Among isolates, B. bassiana local showed superior performance, while M. anisopliae MTCC-984 was least responsive. Overall, the findings show that moderate temperatures optimize fungal growth and conidiation, with B. bassiana demonstrating greater thermal tolerance.

Urethral reconstruction remains a complex challenge in contemporary urology, particularly in patients with long-segment defects, recurrent strictures, or significant systemic comorbidities. Conventional techniques such as buccal mucosa graft urethroplasty provide reliable functional outcomes but are limited by donor-site morbidity and variable long-term durability. Advances in tissue engineering have introduced regenerative strategies aimed at restoring urethral structure while preserving physiological function, sexual health, and reproductive potential. This review synthesizes current experimental and clinical evidence on tissue-engineered urethral reconstruction, integrating a clinical urology perspective with considerations relevant to internal medicine. A structured narrative analysis of peer-reviewed studies was performed, focusing on scaffold design, cellularization strategies, functional urinary outcomes, complication profiles, reintervention burden, and patient-centered sexual and reproductive outcomes. The available evidence indicates that tissue-engineered urethral constructs are clinically feasible and capable of achieving sustained urethral patency in selected patients. Cell-seeded tubular scaffolds demonstrate favorable durability in carefully selected cohorts, while tissue-engineered buccal mucosa grafts reduce donor-site morbidity but show greater variability in long-term outcomes. Across all reconstructive strategies, reintervention rates increase with extended follow-up, reflecting the chronic nature of urethral stricture disease. Sexual and reproductive function is generally preserved, with trends favoring regenerative approaches, although these outcomes remain inconsistently reported. Overall, tissue-engineered urethral reconstruction represents a promising complementary strategy to conventional techniques, with its optimal application dependent on construct design, patient selection, and systemic health factors. Continued refinement and standardized outcome reporting are essential to support broader clinical adoption.

ABSRACT Introduction. In recent years, increasing attention has been paid to the issue of male reproductive health. The WHO guidelines state that the primary assessment of male fertility is reduced to a “basic semen examination” (concentration, morphology assessment, etc. of sperm). The study of DNA fragmentation, on the other hand, falls under the “expanded” list of tests. At the same time, a thorough evaluation of the antioxidant system’s activity and, in particular, the amount of oxidative modification products of macromolecules, is not included in this list. Sperm are sensitive cells to the effects of reactive oxygen species. Current research focuses on their condition and microenvironment, aimed at detecting the relationship between sperm quality and the development of oxidative stress. However, the question of whether to conduct an expanded and in-depth analysis in cases of normal sperm motility remains unresolved. Objective. The aim of this study was to evaluate the parameters of the antioxidant system and products of oxidative modifications of proteins and DNA of seminal plasma and spermatozoa at a normal level of their mobility and varying DNA fragmentation. Material and methods. This selective pilot single-center cross-sectional study included healthy men with different DNA fragmentation and normal sperm motility. We assessed the oxidative modifications of macromolecules (8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine; nitrotyrosine) and components of the antioxidant system (total antioxidant activity, catalase activity, superoxide dismutase activity, uric acid, and zinc ions) in seminal plasma and the cellular fraction of the ejaculate. Differences were considered significant at p<0.050. Results. Using the exclusion criteria, we selected 37 patients. In the seminal plasma of men with TUNEL>15, a decrease in superoxide dismutase activity (p<0.010), zinc ion levels (p<0.050) and uric acid content (p<0.050) was observed, while an increase in nitrotyrosine content (p<0.050) was observed only in the cellular fraction of the ejaculate. Conclusions. The obtained data indicate that in men, despite normal sperm motility, a high degree of DNA fragmentation is associated with abnormal head morphology, highlighting the necessity of conducting an “expanded” semen examination. Changes in the components of the antioxidant system are found not within the cells themselves but in their microenvironment, which may likely lead to an increased formation of oxidative modification products of macromolecules in sperm. This is important to consider when collecting samples for ART protocols, as well as in relation to the overall quality and reproductive potential of sperm, which is crucial when planning for pregnancy.

Introduction. Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a heterogeneous and multifactorial disease characterized by secondary amenorrhea, hypergonadotropic hypogonadism, and decreased levels of estradiol and anti-Müllerian hormone. The etiology of POF involves a complex interaction of genetic, autoimmune (4-30% of cases), iatrogenic, and environmental factors. The autoimmune pathogenesis of POI, associated with the formation of antibodies to steroidogenic enzymes and often combined with autoimmune diseases, requires special attention in the diagnosis and selection of personalized management strategies for patients. Objective. To identify new diagnostic markers of the autoimmune form of premature ovarian insufficiency based on the study of the clinical and immunological characteristics of the disease and the determination of the profile of autoimmune autoantibodies. Materials and Methods. Using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) with recombinant human steroidogenic enzymes — 21-hydroxylase (CYP21A2), 20.22-desmolase (CYP11A1), and aromatase (CYP19A1) — we examined serum autoantibody (IgM and IgG) profiles in 46 patients with POI (Group 1) and 25 women with normal ovarian function (Group 2). Autoantibody levels were also assessed before and 1—2 months after surgical ovarian activation. Results. A detailed medical history, hormonal and ultrasound examinations, and surgical treatment aimed at restoring ovarian function were performed on 46 patients with POI. Using new variants of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, the profile of autoantibodies to steroidogenic enzymes (CYP21A2, CYP11A1, CYP19A1) was studied in 46 patients with POI (the main group) and 25 women with normal ovarian function (the comparison group). The dynamics of the level of autoantibodies were studied before and 1—2 months after surgical treatment. Conclusion. The study confirms the high diagnostic and prognostic significance of determining antibodies to steroidogenic enzymes (CYP21A2, CYP11A1, CYP19A1) as reliable serological markers of the autoimmune form of PCOS. The combined use of these biomarkers allows for increased diagnostic accuracy, early identification of risk groups, and the development of personalized approaches to preserving reproductive potential.

Ovarian tissue cryopreservation followed by transplantation after cancer remission is a fertility preservation strategy available for certain patient groups, such as pre-pubertal and adolescent girls, as well as adult females requiring urgent gonadotoxic therapy. Quantitative assessment of follicular density in cryopreserved cortical tissue is critical for evaluating tissue quality and estimating its reproductive potential. Conventional analysis, based on manual follicle counts in serial histological sections, is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and prone to variability from uneven follicle distribution and inconsistent tissue orientation. To address these limitations, we developed a high-throughput, automated method combining micro-CT, machine learning, and morphological analysis to quantify oocyte density and other morphological features throughout entire ovarian cortical tissue samples. Three-dimensional segmentation analysis enabled quantification of oocyte density in the samples within the cortical region 1mm below the surface epithelium. Oocytes in pediatric samples were located significantly closer to the surface compared to those in adult tissue, with median distances of 139.4μm and 370.2μm, respectively (P < 0.0001) and exhibited markedly higher local oocyte neighbor counts, with median values of 6 and 2 in pediatric and adult tissues, respectively (P < 0.0001), consistent with higher oocyte density and clustered spatial organization in younger individuals. Simulated histology using every 10th virtual sections -corresponding to 40μm separated histology slices- closely approximated full-volume micro-CT estimates of oocyte density. Analysis based on only five virtual sections aligned with micro-CT data exclusively in pediatric samples with high oocyte density, whereas in adult samples it led to substantial inaccuracies in oocyte density estimation. Micro-CT scanning combined with machine learning analysis represents a novel high-throughput and automated approach for estimating oocyte count in cryopreserved ovarian cortical samples. In addition, three-dimensional analysis offers valuable insights into oocyte localization and spatial distribution within the ovarian cortex, presenting a promising alternative to conventional histology for future clinical and research applications.

Female infertility is a complex health concern with a multitude of risk factors and aetiologies. This current narrative review was planned to highlight the various significant contributors to female infertility, including age-related decline in fertility, ovulatory dysfunctions, endometriosis, uterine abnormalities, pelvic and tubal adhesions, and lifestyle factors, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, caffeine intake, exercise, psychological stress and drug abuse. While advanced age and some medical conditions undeniably lower reproductive potential, modifiable lifestyle choices also play a vital role. Early diagnosis, prompt and appropriate management, and awareness of these factors are imperative for optimising fertility outcomes. Public health strategies should emphasise education and awareness of lifestyle choices that impact fertility, alongside advocating timely interventions for those at risk. There is a critical need for robust research to augment the present understanding of female infertility and its complex interplay with these factors. Key Words: Female infertility, Risk factors, Ovulatory disorders, Endometriosis, Lifestyle factors, Pelvic adhesions, Tubal blockage, Uterine abnormalities, Age-related decline, Nutrition and fertility.

Objectives In the investigations of infertile couples, the contribution of male partners has recently caught the attention of researchers, and more and more investigations like DNA fragmentation tests, microfluidics, physiological intracytoplasmic sperm injection, and intracytoplasmic morphological sperm injection are being resorted to for better Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) results. Male fertility is intrinsically linked to overall health, with a growing body of evidence indicating that medical comorbidities and conditions detrimental to men’s health are consistently associated with compromised reproductive function. Considering the fact that 15% of the male human genome is dedicated to reproductive functions, it is plausible that other health disorders may also be associated with impairments in fertility. This study was planned to look into factors which are causing such a rise in male infertility and its association with various semen parameters. Material and Methods A cross-sectional study was undertaken over an 18-month period at the infertility clinic of a tertiary care centre, enrolling 151 infertile males exhibiting abnormal semen parameters in accordance with the WHO 2010 guidelines. A comprehensive evaluation of their biochemical and endocrinological profiles was performed, and the correlation between these parameters and semen abnormalities was systematically examined. Results A significant negative correlation was observed between various semen parameters and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), prolactin, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and oestrogen. DBP (mmHg) correlated negatively with sperm concentration (million/ml) (R = −0.161). CRP (mg/l) correlated with sperm concentration and total sperm count (×10 6 /ejaculate) (R = −0.180 and −0.208, respectively). ESR (mm/hour) correlated with sperm concentration and total sperm count (R = −0.214 and −0.198, respectively). FSH (IU/l) correlated with sperm concentration and total sperm count (R = −0.216 and −0.206, respectively). Prolactin (μg/l) correlated with sperm concentration, total sperm count, and total motile sperm count (TMSC) (R = −0.210, −0.264, and −0.191, respectively). Oestrogen (pg/ml) showed the strongest negative correlation with sperm concentration, total sperm count, and TMSC (R = −0.387, −0.357, and −0.171, respectively). Conversely, significant positive correlations were observed between semen parameters and both uric acid and lipid profile. Serum uric acid (mg/dl) correlated positively with sperm morphology (%) (R = 0.203). Low-density lipoprotein (mg/dl) correlated with sperm concentration and total sperm count (R = 0.231 and 0.259, respectively), while triglycerides (mg/dl) correlated with sperm concentration and total sperm count (R = 0.197 and 0.204, respectively). However, triglycerides also showed a significant negative correlation with total motility (%) and progressive motility (%) (R = −0.186 and −0.180, respectively). Conclusion Our findings demonstrated that DBP, prolactin, ESR, CRP, FSH, and oestrogen exhibited significant negative correlations with various semen parameters, whereas uric acid and lipid profile parameters showed significant positive correlations. These results suggest that systemic health factors exert a considerable influence on male reproductive potential, highlighting the importance of evaluating overall health status in the assessment and management of male infertility.