Semen Concentration Research Articles

Determining the Fertility Characteristics of Iraqi Local Chickens by Studying the Variance in the Characteristics of Semen

The Iraqi local chicken is national wealth, so it is necessary to work on increasing knowledge of its fertilization capabilities. The current research aims to identify the local breeds that have fertility characteristics by studying the variance in semen quality and comparing it with some characteristics of the semen of other local breeds. Replicates of white breeds W, Black B, and striped BW were adopted at 60 weeks of age. Semen values according to the characteristics of colour, the volume of semen, number and concentration of sperm, percentage of abnormalities, live and dead sperm, and individual and collective motility. Semen colour for all breeds was pearly white, and there had been no big differences in the characteristics of semen size, sperm count, concentration, individual and collective motility, and percentage of dead sperm. While, the white and striped breeds significantly outperformed the black breed (P≤0.05) in the proportion of stay sperms. Black breed significantly outperformed the rest of the study breeds in the percentage of sperm abnormalities, as it turned out that the study breeds had good fertility characteristics compared to other local breeds.

Machine learning-based clustering to identify the combined effect of the DNA fragmentation index and conventional semen parameters on in vitro fertilization outcomes

BackgroundPrevious studies have demonstrated an association between male sperm quality and assisted reproduction outcomes, focusing on the effects of individual parameters and reaching controversial conclusions. The WHO 6th edition manual highlights a new semen assay, the sperm DNA fragmentation index, for use after routine semen examination. However, the combined effect of the sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI) and routine semen parameters remains largely unknown.MethodsWe assessed the combined effect of the sperm DFI and conventional semen parameters on single fresh conventional IVF outcomes for infertile couples from January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2020. IVF outcomes were obtained from the cohort database follow-up records of the Clinical Reproductive Medicine Management System of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University. An unsupervised K-means clustering method was applied to classify participants into several coexposure pattern groups. A multivariate logistic regression model was used for statistical analysis.ResultsA total of 549 live births among 1258 couples occurred during the follow-up period. A linear exposure–response relationship was observed among the sperm DFI, sperm motility, and IVF outcomes. In multivariable adjustment, increased sperm DFI values and decreased sperm motility and semen concentration levels were associated with reduced odds of favourable IVF outcomes. Four coexposure patterns were generated based on the sperm DFI and the studied semen parameters, as follows: Cluster 1 (low sperm DFI values and high sperm motility and semen concentration levels), Cluster 2 (low sperm DFI values and moderate sperm motility and semen concentration levels), Cluster 3 (low sperm DFI values and low sperm motility and semen concentration levels) and Cluster 4 (high sperm DFI values and low sperm motility and semen concentration levels). Compared with those in Cluster 1, participants in Cluster 3 and Cluster 4 had lower odds of a live birth outcome, with odds ratios (95% confidence intervals [CIs]) of 0.733 (0.537, 0.998) and 0.620 (0.394, 0.967), respectively.ConclusionsWhen combined with low sperm DFI values, there was no significant difference between high or moderate sperm concentration and motility levels, and both were associated with favourable IVF outcomes. Low sperm parameter levels, even when DFI values remain low, may still lead to poor IVF outcomes. Participants with high sperm DFI values and low sperm motility and semen concentration levels had the worst outcomes. Our findings offer a novel perspective for exploring the joint effects of sperm DFI and routine semen parameter values.

Effect of Non-Genetic Factors on Seminal Traits of Indigenous and Crossbred Bulls under Semi-arid Climatic Conditions

The study was conducted at Post Graduate Institute of Veterinary Education and Research (PGIVER), Jaipur, Rajasthan, India during July–December 2020 to evaluate the effects of non-genetic factors on semen characteristics of bulls. The data of 4608 ejaculates during the period of 2017–2020 from Tharparkar and its cross with Holstein, Jersey and its cross with Sahiwal cows was maintained at Frozen Semen Bank (FSB), India. The Semen characteristics were recorded and stored in Information Network for Animal Productivity & Health (INAPH) application maintained at FSB and National Dairy Development Board (NDDB). The average semen volumes were estimated as 4.18±0.02 ml. Non-genetic factors viz. season, period, breed, ejaculation order and age of bulls showed significant effects on various semen parameters. Higher estimates of semen concentration, motility, Total Ejaculation Volume (TEV) and Post-thaw Motility (PTM) were recorded in Jersey Sahiwal crossbred bull whereas semen motility was observed as higher for Tharparkar bull. Seasonal analysis revealed that winter and autumn were favorable seasons for higher quantity and quality semen production. Age wise analysis presented significantly increased values with the increasing age except semen motility. Non-genetic factors under semi-arid climatic conditions revealed significant effects on semen characteristics of exotic, crossbred and indigenous genotypes and need to be accounted for quality semen production in a semen production centre. Present findings indicate that Jersey Sahiwal cross bulls were found better for quality semen production under semi-arid climatic condition than exotic and other crossbreed bulls.

Decrease of air pollution during lockdown in Tuscany (Italy): An effect on sperm DNA fragmentation?

In March 2020, the Italian government imposed a national lockdown which was almost completely removed in June 2020. Due to the abrupt stop of human activities, emissions of air pollutants decreased. Air pollution is an environmental risk factor for noncommunicable disease and mortality. Emerging evidence also suggests a role in male infertility. In this study, we compared sperm DNA fragmentation (sDF) levels and conventional semen parameters between subjects undergoing sDF determination and routine semen analysis in a single Italian centre, during about 6 months before (N = 119) and after lockdown (N = 105). After lockdown, we found an improvement of sperm progressive motility (48.00[38.50-58.00]% vs. 42.00[33.00-53.00]%) and sDF levels (as total: 24.79[18.33-33.97]% vs. 35.02[25.04-45.73]%, p < .001; brighter: 14.02[10.69-17.93]% vs 18.54[13.58-25.82]%, p < .001 and dimmer sDF: 9.24[5.64-15.78]% vs. 12.24[8.08-19.10]%, p < .01), mirrored by a decrease of leukocyte semen concentration (p < .01). The improvement of sperm motility and DNA quality was maintained after adjusting for leukocyte concentration and several conditions known to affect sperm motility and/or sDF levels. With a significant decrease in air pollution observed in Tuscany during and after lockdown, associated improvement in sperm motility and DNA quality in patients referred to the infertility clinic is suggestive of the potential role of air pollution in male infertility.

Age-dependent genetic and environmental variance of semen quality in Nordic Holstein bulls

The aim of this study was to estimate genetic and environmental parameters, across bull's age, for semen quality traits including pre- and postcryopreservation semen concentration, sperm motility, and sperm viability as well as ejaculate volume and number of doses per ejaculate. A data set on 96,595 ejaculates from 2,831 Nordic Holstein bulls collected between 2006 and 2019 was used. Genetic and environmental parameters were estimated using a random regression model and applying the average-information REML approach. Spline functions were chosen to fit the additive genetic and permanent environmental effects across bull's age, and the optimal number of knots was chosen using cross validation. Residual variance heterogeneity was assumed in different bull age classes. The estimated repeatabilities of semen quality traits ranged from 0.16 to 0.85 across different ages of bulls. The estimated heritabilities of semen quality traits ranged from 0.02 to 0.56 across different ages of bulls. The results indicate possibilities for genetic improvement of semen quality traits through selective breeding.

Semen Quality Traits of Two Thai Native Chickens Producing a High and a Low of Semen Volumes

Semen quality traits such as semen volume, sperm motility, sperm concentration, pH, and color are very important, since they can determine the fertility potential of the semen. The objective of this study was to compare the semen quality traits of Thai Native chickens (Pradu Hang Dam and Chee) producing high and low semen volume. Semen was collected from 24 roosters (12 reps) and divided into two groups of roosters producing high semen volume (>0.3 mL) and those producing a low amount of semen (<0.3 mL). Fresh semen quality parameters (semen volume, sperm motility, viability, concentration, and pH) were measured and compared between groups. It was found that semen volume showed a positive correlation with sperm concentration, mass movement, motility, viability, and pH of fresh semen. There was no significant difference in fresh semen parameters between Pradu Hang Dam and Chee roosters with either high or low ejaculate semen, except for sperm concentration. Sperm concentration was significantly higher in Chee compared with Pradu Hang Dam in both high and low ejaculate semen. The semen quality parameters between groups of chickens producing high and low ejaculate semen were significantly different except for sperm viability. In conclusion, it was found that chickens producing high volumes of semen have better sperm quality than those producing a low semen volume. Therefore, these results provide a possible consideration that the amount of semen production among chickens can be used as a tool in selecting Thai native roosters for breeding.

Varicocelectomy's Impact on Semen Analysis in Infertile Patients

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of open subinguinal varicocelectomy on sperm parameters in infertile men. Results: The study included 70 patients with varicocele who underwent the surgery, and significant improvements were observed in semen parameters, including volume, concentration, count, motility, and morphology. Additionally, there was an increase in the likelihood of achieving pregnancy after surgery. Unilateral varicocelectomy had a greater impact on improving these parameters than bilateral varicocelectomy. Furthermore, undergoing the surgery at a younger age had a more significant impact. The mean age of patients was 27 years old, with all being married; unilateral varicocele was found in 71% of cases, while the remaining cases presented as bilateral; duration of infertility averaged around one year for all participants, with primary infertility accounting for most cases (87%). Varicocele grade II occurred among approximately one-third (34%) of participants, while grade III occurred among two-thirds (66%) of participants. No intra-operative complications were reported during or after surgeries that involved routine preoperative investigations such as physical examination and color Doppler ultrasound, along with hormonal profile analysis, before scheduling open subinguinal conventional varicocelectomies. In conclusion, this prospective descriptive study showed that subinguinal varicocelectomy improves patients' semen quality by increasing volume, concentration, count, motility, and morphology. All differences mean an increase in all parameters (volume = 0.7 ml, count = 13 million/mL, motility = 12%, and achievement of pregnancy (no = 16, 22.9%), leading to higher chances of achieving pregnancy. This effect is greater when performed unilaterally (n = 45,64.3%) than bilaterally (n = 18,25.7%), especially if done at younger ages, but further studies are needed to confirm these findings using larger sample sizes.

Collection and evaluation of semen collected from jaguarundi (Puma yagouaroundi) through urethral catheterization and electroejaculation

Urethral catheterization (Zambelli method) is an alternative technique used for semen collection through electroejaculation. Results recorded for wild felids have shown its efficacy in ten felid species, despite the considerable variation between individuals and small number of samples in some studies. Given the innovative potential of the urethral catheterization technique, the aim of the present study was to evaluate this semen collection protocol followed by electroejaculation, applied to jaguarundi (Puma yagouaroundi) and to compare it to electroejaculation, alone. Semen collections (n = 5) were carried out in males (n = 7). Semen was collected through urethral catheterization (UC), which was followed by electroejaculation (UC-EEJ, n = 3), or alternatively by electroejaculation (EEJ, n = 2) collections. The UC technique was effective in semen collection in 57 % of animals (n = 4, but none of the animals was able to provide semen in all collections. Results are expressed as mean± SD. Six semen samples were collected by UC within 18 collection trials-mean volume of 3.53 ± 0.69 µL was reached, but only one sample showed the necessary quality for the freezing procedure (vigor 3, 80 % motility and 88 % vitality). The other samples showed 1.86 ± 0.86 vigor, 21.32 ± 12.59 % motility and 27.6 ± 13.05 % vitality. It was not possible assessing samples’ semen concentrations due to their low volume. UC-EEJ and EEJ samples recorded vigor 3 ± 0.93 and 3.13 ± 0.67; motility 52.50 ± 25.36 % and 54.09 ± 20.47 %; and vitality 58.50 ± 24.50 % and 62.78 ± 16.28 %, respectively. These samples accounted for better qualitative parameters than UC samples, but they did not differ from each other. In conclusion, the UC technique was effective in semen collection, but the quality of samples collected through it did not meet the standards for cryopreservation; their values were lower than those of the two tested electroejaculation modalities.

Japon Bıldırcınlarında Yumurtlama Döneminde Yeme Rezene (Foeniculum Vulgare Mill.) İlavesinin Yumurta Verimi, Kesim ve Karkas Özellikleri, Bağırsaklarda Parazit Oluşumu ve Spermatolojik Kalite Üzerine Etkisi

This study was carried out to determine the effects of supplementation of ground fennel to quail rations on egg production, slaughter, intestinal parasites, and semen quality. For this purpose, 48 female and 24 male quails were used in the study. The experimental groups consisted of the control group with basal feed + 0% ground fennel, and the GF1, GF2, and GF4 groups with ground fennel-supplemented basal feed by 1%, 2%, and 4% respectively, also each group was designed in pairs. The weekly live weight values were found to be numerically higher in the groups with fennel-supplemented rations than in the control group. In addition, the live weight values of female and male quails were also numerically higher in the groups with fennel-supplemented rations. Egg weight, egg production, and feed intake of female quails were high, especially in the GF2 group. Furthermore, the feed conversion ratio was superior in the GF2 group. Regarding the slaughter and carcass parts, the fennel-supplemented groups were numerically higher than the control group. It was observed that the oviduct weight increased with the growing fennel ratio. In addition, the fennel supplementation increased the semen concentration in male quails. The increasing fennel addition enhanced the abnormal and dead spermatozoa rates and decreased semen motility. As a result of the macroscopic examination of the intestinal lumen of the quails in the control and fennel-supplemented groups, no adult helminths were detected; however, Giardia spp.-like cysts were observed. As a result, the usage of ground fennel as a feed additive by 2% had a positive effect on yield characteristics of female quails, and the use by 1% had a positive effect on male quails. Consequently, the usage of ground fennel as a feed additive would be beneficial in quail farming.

Effect of Organic Zinc Supplementation on Semen Production and Quality in Kankrej Bulls

Background: Zinc is found in very high concentration in semen and male reproductive tract and acts as a hormone receptor modulator for testosterone production in Leydig cells. Thus, it plays a very important role in male reproduction. Moreover, Indian soils are very deficient in zinc as per earlier reports and recent studies have shown that supplementation of zinc has improved qualitative as well as the quantitative aspects of semen quality in bulls. So, a study has been planned to study the effect of organic zinc supplementation on semen production and quality in kankrej bulls. Methods: A total of 8 healthy Kankrej bulls under semen collection were selected for the study. Basal diet (concentrate mixture, green and dry fodder) was fed during pre-supplementation and zinc propionate @ 100 ppm/bull was supplemented to the basal diet during post-supplementation for a period of 60 days to complete one spermatogenic cycle. A total of 128 ejaculates (64 pre-supplementation and 64 post-supplementation) were collected. Result: Mean semen volume was non-significant (P greater than 0.05) between the treatment groups. Mean sperm concentration was 1325.68±80.08 and 2162.36±112.0 million/ml pre- and post-supplementation, respectively. Feeding of zinc propionate significantly (P less than 0.01) increased semen sperm concentration. The average mass motility of sperms was significantly (P less than 0.01) higher during post-supplementation (3.92%) than the pre-supplementation (3.78%). The overall live sperms were significantly (P less than 0.01) higher during post-supplementation (73.33±0.91%) than the pre-supplementation (63.53±1.03%). It may be concluded that supplementation of 100 ppm of zinc propionate in the diet of Kankrej bulls improved semen quality in terms of quantitative and qualitative characteristics of semen.

Maternal fever during pregnancy and male offspring reproductive health: A longitudinal cohort study in young Danish males.

Maternal fever during pregnancy has been associated with an increased risk of genital malformations, but the implication for long-term reproductive health in the offspring is unknown. To investigate associations between timing, duration, and temperature of fetal exposure to maternal fever and sons' semen quality, testicular volume, and levels of reproductive hormones in early adulthood. Further, to examine whether concurrent use of antipyretics and/or antibiotics modified the effect. We used the Fetal Programming of Semen Quality cohort consisting of men born to women enrolled in the Danish National Birth Cohort. Self-reported information on maternal fever was collected twice during pregnancy (median 16 and 31 pregnancy weeks) and categorized as any fever during pregnancy, fever during early pregnancy (weeks 1-15), and fever exclusively during late pregnancy (weeks 16-42). Semen quality and concentrations of reproductive hormones were measured at a clinical examination at the age of 18.9 years. We used negative binomial regression to examine the associations, adjusting for maternal age at birth, maternal smoking, family occupational status, and precision variables related to semen quality and hormonal levels, for example, abstinence time. 986 men were included in the study, of which 23% had mothers reporting at least one episode of fever. We found no strong indications of associations between maternal fever during pregnancy and male reproductive health in young men. Concurrent use of antipyretics and antibiotics did not modify the association. Strengths include the large sample size, prospectively collected data, and the adjustment for maternal factors during pregnancy and important precision variables. A limitation is the crude self-reported information on maternal fever. We found no evidence to support that timing, duration, or temperature of maternal fever during pregnancy has a long-term impact on semen characteristics, testicular volume, or level of reproductive hormones in male offspring.

Effects of Jinkui Shenqi and Wuzi Yanzong pill on sperm motility and sperm DNA fragmentation rate in asthenospermia

This study was designed to compare the effects of Jinkui Shenqi and Wuzi Yanzong pill on sperm motility and sperm DNA fragmentation rate in patients with asthenospermia. 130 cases were randomly divided into an observation and control group (n=65). The control group was treated with the Wuzi Yanzong pill while the observation group with the Jinkui Shenqi pill. The sperm motility parameters rate (PR), semen concentration, sperm motility, DFI and α-glucosidase, fructose, seminal plasma zinc (Zn), acid phosphatase (ACP) in seminal plasma biochemistry and other indexes of were observed. The biochemical indexes of seminal plasma of α-glucosidase, fructose, Zn, ACP in two groups were significantly (p&lt;0.05) improved after treatment. Compared with the control group, the indexes of the observation group improved more obviously after treatment. Pearson correlation analysis of DFI and PR indexes in 130 patients before treatment showed that sperm DFI and PR percentage were negatively correlated in asthenospermia patients (r =-0.572, P&lt;0.05). There was no significant difference in DFI, semen concentration, PR, and sperm motility between the two groups before treatment. The DFI, semen concentration, PR and sperm viability of the two groups showed a tendency to improve after treatment, and the effect of the observation group was less significant than that of the control group (p&lt;0.05). Two groups of patients have completed treatment successfully, no adverse events occurred during treatment. Jinkui Shenqi pill can effectively treat asthenospermia, which can effectively improve the effect of sperm motility in patients. It has less adverse reactions, safe and reliable, and is worthy of promotion.

Do phthalates and their metabolites cause poor semen quality? A systematic review and meta-analysis of epidemiological studies on risk of decline in sperm quality.

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to understand the association of phthalates and their metabolites with sperm quality in humans. By June 30, 2022, relevant literature on the effects of phthalates and their metabolites on sperm quality were searched and collected using three English-language databases including PubMed, EMbase, and Web of Science. Two researchers independently screened literature, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias. Stata 11 and RevMan 5.3 were used to conduct meta-analysis, test publication bias, and sensitivity analysis. A total of 12 literature were included for meta-analysis, excluding literature with different effect sizes. The results of meta-analysis indicated that monobutyl phthalate (MBP) and monobenzyl phthalate (MBzP) in urine were negatively correlated with semen concentration, and the results were statistically significant (MBP, pooled odds ratio (OR), 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.186 (1.471, 3.248), P < 0.05) and (MBzP, pooled OR (95%CI): 1.882 (1.471, 3.248), P < 0.05). Furthermore, the level of Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) in semen was negatively correlated with semen concentration and the combined effect size was (pooled correlation coefficients (r) (95%CI): -0.225 (-0.319, -0.192), P < 0.05). However, the associations between MBP and MBzP with sperm motility and sperm morphology were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). And there was also no significant correlation between monoethyl phthalate (MEP), monomethyl phthalate (MMP), and mono-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP) and semen parameters, including semen concentration, sperm motility, and sperm morphology (P > 0.05). In summary, this current study provides moderate-certainty evidence for the data demonstrated that is a negative correlation between urine MBP levels, urine MBzP levels, and semen DEHP levels with semen concentration. In the future, more longitudinal cohort studies are needed to help elucidate the overall association.

The Influence of Body Weight on Semen Parameters in Apis mellifera Drones.

The quantity and quality of the honey bee drone semen have a significant determination on the performance of bee colonies. The existence of a smaller number of mature drones to participate in the mating of queens, as well as a sufficient number of drones but with poor quality semen can have serious implications for the productivity of bee colonies. Our study aimed to investigate the correlation between two body weight ranges of drones and semen parameters in the Buckfast honey bee, data that could be integrated into the optimization of instrumental insemination in been queens. Semen was collected from two groups of drones with different body weights (200-240 mg and 240-280 mg). Semen volume, semen concentration, motility, morphology and membrane integrity of spermatozoa were analyzed. The phenotype indicator related to body weight in correlation with the main semen parameters studied gives a weak influence or causality ratio. In drones with 240-280 mg body weight, a higher percentage of spermatozoa with abnormal morphology (&gt;9.60%) was recorded, compared to drones with 200-240 mg body weight. The study reveals that a higher weight of honey bee drones is correlated with higher sperm concentration and total number of spermatozoa/ejaculate, with an increase in the percentage of spermatozoa with abnormal morphology.

ProAKAP4 Concentration Is Related to Sperm Motility and Motile Sperm Subpopulations in Frozen-Thawed Horse Semen.

ProAKAP4 is the precursor of AKAP4 (A-kinase Anchor protein 4), the main structural protein of the fibrous sheath of sperm. The amount of proAKAP4 reflects the ability of spermatozoa to maintain the flagellum activity and functionality up to the site of fertilization and is positively correlated with progressive motility in several mammalian species. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between proAKAP4 concentration with horse sperm motility descriptors and spermatic motile subpopulations. For this purpose, a total of 48 ejaculates from 13 different stallions were analyzed. Spermatic motility descriptors were obtained by the CASA system, and four motile subpopulations (SP) with specific motility patterns were statistically identified. ProAKAP4 concentrations were evaluated by ELISA. The relationship between motility descriptors of sperm subpopulations and proAKAP4 concentrations was evaluated. Following a hierarchical cluster statistical analysis, ejaculates were divided into two groups according to their proAKAP4 concentrations, either having low proAKAP4 concentrations (5.06−35.61 ng/10M spz; n = 23) or high (39.92−82.23 ng/10M spz; n = 25) proAKAP4 concentrations (p < 0.001). ProAKAP4 concentrations were positively correlated (p < 0.05) with total and progressive motility, as well as with parameters of velocity. ProAKAP4 amount also showed a negative correlation (p < 0.05) with sperm motile subpopulation number 3, which was the subpopulation with the lowest velocity parameters. In conclusion, proAKAP4 concentration in stallion semen positively reflects sperm progressive motility with the functional velocity kinematic descriptors. Concentrations of proAKAP4 higher than 37.77 ng/10M spz were correlated with a very good quality frozen/thawed stallion semen.

Age Effects on Semen Quality and Sperm Kinematics of Red Chittagong Cattle (RCC) Bull in Bangladesh

Semen quality may be affected by several genetic and environmental factors. This study was designed to evaluate the effects of age on semen quality, kinematic properties, and frozen semen production potentialities of Red Chittagong Cattle (RCC) bulls. Eighty-eight (88) ejaculates from 12 breeding bulls (4 bull/group) of RCC breed were used in this experiment. The bulls were categorized into three groups based on their age (Group 1: 2.5-4.0 years, Group 2: 4.0-6.0 years, Group 3: 6.0- 8.0 years). Semen was collected once/week regularly in the early morning (6-6.30 AM) with an AV set. Different motility, morphology, and kinematic properties of sperm were evaluated by Computer Assisted Sperm Analyzer (CASA). One-way ANOVA followed by Duncan's multiple range post-test was used to assess differences among the mean using SPSS (25.0) software. Bull age has no significant effects on semen volume and concentration. Although a higher volume was found for group 3 (4.36±1.00) followed by group 2 (4.13±1.28) and group 1 (4.02±1.00). Sperm concentration increases with the increase of bull age. There were no significant differences found (p&gt;0.05) for none of the motility parameters in fresh and frozen RCC bull semen irrespective of age. Significantly higher distal droplet (%) was observed for older bulls followed by group 2 and group 1 bulls. All breeding bulls irrespective of their age have more than two folds higher proximal droplet % than the normal value. Bull age has no significant difference in sperm kinematics and dose/ejaculates (p&gt;0.05). With the increasing age of the bull, the number of dose/ejaculates (418.91±166.11 in group-3 vs. 384.75±137.33 in group-1) increases. In this experimental condition, RCC breeding bulls can be used for breeding purposes for up to 8 years with similar efficiency as a younger bull if the bulls have proper physical fitness for mounting and semen collection.

Effects of whole cottonseed supplementation on performance, semen quality, and manganese superoxide dismutase concentrations in blood and semen of beef bulls

This research aimed to determine the effects of whole cottonseed on performance, semen quality, and manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) concentrations in the blood and semen of beef bulls. In a completely randomized design, 46 (BW = 457 ± 12 kg; 16–18 mo old) Angus bulls were stratified by BW and randomly assigned to 1 of 3 treatments: DD (n = 14, control; 3.18 kg/d dried distillers grain), WD [n = 16; 1.59 kg/d whole cottonseed (0.56 and 0.82% free gossypol in yr 1 and 2, respectively) and 1.59 kg/d dried distillers grain], or WW (n = 16; 3.18 kg/d whole cottonseed). Bulls were weighed and blood and semen were sampled on d 0, 30, and 60. Body weights and morphological characteristics of spermatozoa were measured in both years, and MnSOD concentrations of blood and semen were measured in yr 1. There was a treatment effect for ADG (P = 0.002) as bulls fed WW had a decreased (P < 0.03) ADG compared with bulls fed WD and DD. A time effect was observed for scrotal circumference (P < 0.001). Scrotal circumference measurements increased on d 60 compared with d 0 and 28 (P ≤ 0.02). There was no time main effect for percentage of spermatozoa with other abnormalities (P = 0.87); however, there was a treatment effect (P = 0.04). Bulls in the WW treatment had fewer other abnormalities than bulls in DD (P = 0.01) but were not different than WD (P = 0.27). Whole cottonseed did not affect reproductive parameters measured in this study or blood and semen concentrations of MnSOD. According to these results, WCS supplemented to beef bulls at 0.7% of BW for 60 d may not negatively affect semen quality or MnSOD concentrations in the blood or semen.

The impact of low-intensity extracorporeal shock waves on testicular spermatogenesis demonstrated in a rat model.

In rodent models, low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy has been shown to negatively impact semen concentration after treatment on the penis, implying that the reproductive system in close proximity may be indirectly affected by this modality. We hypothesized that shock waves are detrimental to spermatogenesis, and the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of shock waves on spermatogenesis after direct shockwave treatment on testes using different energy settings. Twenty-five male Sprague Dawley rats, 8 weeks old, were divided into five groups, including one control group and four treatment groups each treated using shock waves of different intensities. All rats in the treatment groups received 2000 shocks on the left testis twice a week for 4 weeks, with shock wave intensity and frequency varied by treatment group: 0.1 mJ/mm 2 at 4 Hz for Group A, 0.15 mJ/mm 2 at 4 Hz for Group B, 0.35 mJ/mm 2 at 4 Hz for Group C, and 0.55mJ/mm 2 at 3 Hz for Group D. At the end of the experiment, sperm collected from the epididymis was evaluated for concentration and motility. Testicular spermatogenesis, the apoptotic index of germ cells, and the expression of a meiotic-specific gene were also analyzed. The treatment group receiving shock wave intensity at 0.55 mJ/mm 2 showed a significant decrease in sperm concentration, motility, and Johnsen score as compared to other groups. The apoptotic index of spermatogenic cells increased as the intensity of the shock wave treatment escalated, and reach a statistically significant difference at 4 weeks posttreatment. Treating testes with intensity levels of 0.55 mJ/mm 2 at 3 Hz interfere with the quality or quantity of spermatogenesis and also increases in spermatogenic cell apoptosis, whereas the expression of the SYCP3 gene significantly decreased after treatment with intensity levels of 0.10 mJ/mm 2 , 0.15 mJ/mm 2 , and 0.35 mJ/mm 2 at 4 Hz. Treating testes with intensity levels of 0.55 mJ/mm 2 at 3 Hz interfere with the quality or quantity of spermatogenesis and also increases spermatogenic cell apoptosis, whereas the expression of the SYCP3 gene significantly decreased after treatment with intensity levels of 0.10 mJ/mm 2 , 0.15 mJ/mm 2 , and 0.35 mJ/mm 2 at 4 Hz.

ODP429 Treatment of high-normal TSH levels in women with unexplained infertility is associated with an increased conception rate

Abstract Unexplained infertility (UI), defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of unprotected intercourse with no identified cause, affects up to 30% of infertile couples. Women with UI are significantly more likely to have a TSH level in the high-normal range (TSH between 2.5-5 mIU/L) as compared to a control population of women with infertility secondary to a partner with severe oligospermia. It is not known whether treating high-normal TSH levels with levothyroxine results in a higher rate of conception. We performed a cross-sectional study at a large academic health system in women with infertility and TSH levels between 2.5-5 mIU/L to compare rates of conception in women who were treated with levothyroxine versus those who were not treated with levothyroxine. We hypothesized that treatment with levothyroxine would result in a higher conception rate. We identified 126 women who presented for evaluation of infertility between 1/1/2000-6/30/2017 who met our inclusion criteria of a TSH in the high-normal range (2.5 mIU/L &amp;lt; TSH &amp;lt; 5 mIU/L) and either UI (80%, n=101) or infertility due to a severely oligospermic (semen concentration &amp;lt;1 million/mL) partner (20%, n=25). All subjects (n=126) had a normal prolactin level (&amp;lt; 20 ng/mL), regular menstrual cycles every 21-35 days with &amp;lt;5 days of inter-cycle variability, a day 3 follicle stimulating hormone (FSH)&amp;lt; 10 and no other identified cause of infertility. Male partners of women with unexplained infertility had a semen concentration of &amp;gt;15 million/mL, motility &amp;gt;40% and morphology &amp;gt;4% based on 2010 WHO criteria. Thirty-one percent (n=39) were treated with levothyroxine (LT+) by their primary providers, whereas 69% (n=87) were not treated with levothyroxine (LT-). Women treated with levothyroxine were older than those not treated (mean + SD, LT+: 32.5 + 2.4 years vs LT-: 31. 0 + 3. 0 years, p=0. 005) but were of similar BMI (median (interquartile range), LT+: 24.1 [21.7, 28.3] kg/m2 vs LT-: 23.6 [20.9, 27. 0] kg/m2, p=0.38). Baseline TSH was significantly higher in the group treated with levothyroxine (3.55 [3. 07, 4.19] mIU/L compared to the untreated group (2.93 [2.66, 3.40] mIU/L, p&amp;lt; 0. 0001). In women for whom follow-up data was available (n=105), a significantly higher percentage of women treated with levothyroxine (100%) achieved pregnancy compared to those not treated with levothyroxine (92%, p value 0. 027) and this was also true when only evaluating women with UI (n=86) (LT+: 100% versus LT-: 89.5%, p=0. 02). There was no significant difference in time to conception between the two groups (p=0.85). Women with high normal TSH levels (TSH between 2.5-5 mIU/L) treated with levothyroxine had a higher rate of conception compared to those not treated. Prospective, randomized studies are needed to determine whether treatment with levothyroxine could improve conception rates in patients with high-normal TSH levels. Presentation: No date and time listed

Correlation of DNA fragments with routine semen parameters and lifestyle and their impact on assisted reproductive outcomes

ObjectiveThis study investigated the correlation between sperm DNA integrity and routine semen evaluation parameters in male infertile patients, the influencing factors, and the impact of the DNA fragmentation index (DFI) on embryo quality and clinical outcomes in in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET). MethodsSperm DFI and semen routine parameters of 6160 infertile men admitted between June 2017 and June 2018 were analyzed. Patients were divided into three groups according to their DFI: low-DFI (DFI<15%), medium-DFI (15%<DFI≤30%), and high-DFI (DFI>30%). The correlations of DFI with patients’ age, sperm concentration, sperm percentage of forward movement and sperm percentage of normal shape were analyzed. The clinical data of 5040 infertile couples who received IVF treatment between June 2016 and 2021 and had embryos transferred in a fresh cycle were reviewed. The fertilization rate, cleavage rate, blastocyst rate, and pregnancy rate in different DFI groups were compared. ResultsSemen evaluation parameters (concentration, spermatozoa with progressive motility, and the normal morphology rate), the high-quality embryo rate, blastocyst development rate, and pregnancy rate in the high-DFI group were significantly lower than those in the other two groups. The correlation analysis revealed that sperm DFI was negatively correlated with semen concentration, sperm motility, and normal sperm morphology and positively correlated with the man's age, BMI, and unhealthy habits (smoking and drinking). There was no significant difference in the number of mature eggs and normal fertilization rate among groups. ConclusionA strong correlation exists between sperm DFI and semen evaluation parameters. Smoking, drinking, and other unhealthy habits lead to an increase in DFI, reducing the high-quality embryo rate and blastocyst development rate and affecting pregnancy outcomes.