Differences In Sperm Parameters Research Articles

Correlation of mediterranean diet pattern and lifestyle factors with semen quality of men attending fertility clinics: A cross-sectional study

BackgroundWhile numerous studies have examined the impact of individual or combined nutrients on semen quality, research on the correlation between overall dietary patterns and semen quality remains limited. This cross-sectional study investigates the relationship between adherence to the alternative Mediterranean diet (aMED) and semen quality. MethodsA total of 274 men, presenting with both normal and abnormal semen parameters, participated in this study. Dietary data were collected using a 147-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Participants were divided into three groups based on their adherence to the Mediterranean diet (T1, T2, and T3). Statistical analyses, including ANOVA for numerical data and Chi-square tests for categorical data, were conducted. Multivariable logistic regression models were employed to estimate the association between aMED scores and abnormal semen parameters. ResultsParticipants in the highest adherence group (T3) were younger and had lower BMI compared to those in the other tertiles. Significant differences in sperm parameters were observed across the tertiles. T3 recorded the highest levels of sperm concentration, total sperm count, motility, progressive motility, and normal morphology (57.53 ± 36.16, 213.8 ± 158.9, 73.4 ± 25.9, 61.2 ± 24.6, and 6.42 ± 1.51, respectively), whereas T1 had the lowest values (11.92 ± 22.29, 43.3 ± 73.8, 36.7 ± 33.8, 4.6 ± 5.7, respectively). No significant differences were found in semen volume and viscosity. The regression analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between aMED scores and sperm concentration (B = 1.32, P = 0.001), total sperm count (B = 1.12, P = 0.001), and total motility (B = 0.71, P = 0.001). ConclusionAdherence to a high-quality Mediterranean diet is positively associated with improved semen quality and increased male fertility potential. Promoting healthy dietary patterns may be an effective strategy to enhance sperm motility and overall male reproductive health.

Investigating the Anogenital Distance as a Predictive Factor for Improvement in Semen Analysis Parameters After Varicocele Surgery

Background: A varicocele is an unusual enlargement and twisting of veins within the pampiniform plexus, contributing to male infertility. Varicoceles are prevalent in approximately 11 to 15 percent of adult males and can impact testicular function. Varicocelectomy is recommended for non-azoospermic infertile men with abnormal seminal parameters, although uncertainties exist regarding the specific parameters indicating the need for surgery. This study investigates the potential relationship between anogenital distance (AGD) and semen analysis factors before and after varicocelectomy. Methods: The study enrolled 35 males with primary varicocele, excluding those with certain conditions. AGD measurements were taken before surgery, and patients subsequently underwent varicocelectomy. Comprehensive assessments and laboratory examinations were conducted preoperatively, and follow-up semen analyses were performed six months postoperatively. Results: Preoperative and postoperative semen analyses revealed no significant differences in sperm parameters. Statistical analyses indicated no significant correlation between AGD and sperm concentration before or after surgery. Despite these findings, the study contributes valuable information to the ongoing debate on the impact of varicocelectomy on male fertility. Conclusions: This study, while highlighting the limitations and uncertainties, suggests that AGD may not be a significant predictive factor for improvements in semen analysis after varicocelectomy. The nuanced nature of varicocele-associated male infertility underscores the ongoing need for comprehensive research to clarify the true effects of varicocelectomy. Individual patient factors and careful evaluation of available evidence remain crucial in managing varicocele-associated male infertility.

The effect of calcium oxalate stones and uric acid stones on male sexual function.

This study compared the effects of calcium oxalate stones and uric acid stones on male sexual function. We enrolled 100 patients with ureteral stones. According to the composition of the stones, they were divided into the calcium oxalate stone group and the uric acid stone group. All patients underwent ureteroscopic holmium laser lithotripsy. General data such as age, body mass index, course of disease, stone diameter, and degree of renal hydronephrosis were compared. Sperm parameters, including sperm density, sperm viability, and sperm deformity rate, as well as International Index of Erectile Function-5 questionnaire (IIEF-5) scores, and Quality of Life (QOL) scores, were measured and compared before and 6weeks after the surgery. There were no statistically significant differences in general data and sperm parameters between the two groups before the surgery (P > 0.05). However, there were significantly lower IIEF scores but significantly higher QOL scores in the uric acid stone group. In the calcium oxalate stone group, there were no statistically significant differences in sperm parameters, IIEF score, and QOL score before and after the surgery (P > 0.05). In the uric acid stone group, there were no statistically significant differences in sperm parameters before and after surgery (P > 0.05), whereas there were significantly higher IIEF scores but significantly lower QOL scores after the surgery (P < 0.05). The prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) in the uric acid stone group was 38.18% (21/55), which was significantly higher compared to 20.00% (9/45) in the calcium oxalate stone group (P < 0.05). The multivariate binary logistic regression analysis showed that the independent risk factor related to ED was uric acid stones (odds ratio: 2.637, 95% confidence interval 1.040-6.689, P = 0.041). No statistically significant differences were found in sperm parameters between patients with and without ED. Compared with the calcium oxalate stone group, patients with uric acid stones had a higher prevalence of ED and poorer sexual performance.

Urine microbes and predictive metagenomic profiles associate with abnormalities in sperm parameters: implications for male subfertility

To explore the taxonomic and predicted functional relationship between the urine microbiome and alterations of semen analysis (SA) parameters. Cross-sectional study. Academic medical center. Men presenting for fertility evaluation or men presenting for vasectomy consultation with proven biological paternity were recruited and stratified on the basis of alterations, or lack thereof, in SA parameters. Changes in the functional and taxonomic urine microbiome profiles of participants with or without alterations in SA parameters. Seventy-three participants were included in our study. Men with abnormal sperm motility (N = 27) showed a nearly 50-fold higher abundance of Dialister micraerophilus compared with those with normal sperm motility (N = 46). This relationship persisted on canonical correlational analysis (r = 0.439). Men with abnormal sperm concentration (N = 20) showed a lower abundance of Enterococcus faecalis and Staphylococcus aureus, compared with those with normal sperm concentration (N = 53). The urine of participants with impaired sperm motility demonstrated dramatic differences in predictive functional profiles in pathways involved in oxidation-reduction balance and cell longevity. Our findings underscore differences in the urinary microbiome and abnormalities in semen parameters, especially sperm motility. By incorporating predictive functional profiling, we also highlight possible mechanisms that may drive the observed differences in sperm parameters.

A comparative study of canine epididymal sperm collection techniques and cryopreservation

IntroductionAn optimized collection method and freezing protocol for preservation of epididymal spermatozoa remains a topic of interest to many scientists. The current study focused on the collection and preservation of canine epididymal spermatozoa. During the process of collection of canine epididymal spermatozoa, blood content can occur, which may affect sperm cryopreservation in a negative way. Here, we compared first two epididymal sperm collection techniques [epididymal mincing (EM) and single incision epididymal sperm aspiration (SESA)]; and next we tried to solve the issue of blood content using an erythrocyte lysis buffer (ELB).MethodsHence spermatozoa were collected after weighing the epididymides, either by EM or SESA, and sperm quality assessed prior to and post freezing (concentration, total sperm output (TSO), motility, viability and morphology). Next, new sperm samples were collected from eight epididymides by EM and subjected either to a standard freezing protocol or to an ELB treatment freezing protocol. Post-thaw sperm parameters (concentration, TSO, motility, viability and morphology), including intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation were assessed. The correlation between the weight of the epididymis and the TSO was evaluated based on the collection technique, and differences in sperm parameters were detected both within different collection techniques and between different pre-freezing treatment protocols.ResultsThere was a very strong correlation between the weight of the epididymis and the TSO for the EM technique (p = 0.002, R2 = 0.6), along with an increased sperm motility with EM compared to SESA (median 80%, inter-quartile range (IQR) 88–65 and median 67.5%, IQR 72.5–52.5, respectively; (p = 0.002). Post-thaw samples subjected to ELB treatment freezing protocol had lower motility and higher intracellular ROS compared to the standard freezing protocol (motility: median 56.25%, IQR 60–48.75 and median 70%, IQR 72.5–63, respectively; p = 0.01; ROS: median 78.5%, IQR 81.25–75.5 and median 70%, IQR 70.5–68.75, respectively; (p = 0.04).DiscussionThe results indicated that EM is a better technique to harvest epididymal spermatozoa despite the presence of some blood content. Furthermore, the ELB treatment should not be implemented to remove those red blood cells prior to cryopreservation of epididymal spermatozoa in dogs.

The effect of COVID-19 vaccines on sperm parameters: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Published data were gathered for a meta-analysis to determine the difference in sperm parameters before and after administration of different types of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines, because the reproductive toxicity of COVID-19 vaccines has not yet been evaluated in clinical trials and COVID-19 has been associated with decreases in sperm quality. The preferred procedures for systematic reviews and meta-analyses were followed in the conduct and reporting of this study. The average sperm parameters of all sperm donors' multiple sperm donations were compared before and after receiving various COVID-19 vaccinations. Semen volume, total sperm motility, total sperm count, morphological change, and sperm concentration were the primary outcome measures. We compiled and analyzed the results of six studies on total sperm motility, six studies on semen volume, six studies on sperm concentration, two studies on morphological change, and two studies on total sperm count. Parameter comparisons with patients who had and had not been vaccinated were only reported in one of the included studies. When different types of COVID-19 vaccine injections were compared, no discernible differences in parameters were observed. According to the available data, the parameters of semen are unaffected by inactivated or messenger RNA (mRNA) COVID-19 vaccinations. To support these findings, additional prospectively designed research is required.

"Seminal testosterone", rising viewpoint of local spermatogenesis in nonobstructive azoospermia: One center long-term bidirectional cohort study.

Reproductive hormones are a traditional good method to evaluate spermatogenesis but might not accurately represent local spermatogenesis. To find a more accurate method, seminal reproductive hormones were studied. A bidirectional cohort study was performed. A total of 126 infertile men from 2018 to 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. They were divided into nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA), oligozoospermia (OLZ) and normal (NOR) groups. A prospective study was conducted on patients in the NOA and OLZ groups for 2 years. Microscopic testicular sperm extraction was performed for NOA patients, who were divided into a focal spermatogenesis group (FS) and an idiopathic azoospermia group (IA). Drug treatment was for OLZ patients, who were divided into a valid group (VA) and an invalid group (IN). The differences in sperm parameters and reproductive hormones were compared. ANOSIM analysis was used between and within groups. Pearson correlation analysis, CO inertia analysis and Proctor's analysis were for relationships. ROC curve for the specificity and sensitivity. Time series analysis was for the trends between hormones and time. The b-FSH, b-LH, s-T and ΔT in the NOA group were significantly higher than those in the OLZ and NOR groups. However, the s-FSH, s-E2, s-P, ΔFSH, ΔLH, ΔP and ΔE2 were lower. Thirty-one NOA patients underwent MTSE, of whom 12 had sperm (FS) and 19 had no sperm (IA). The s-FSH and s-E2 of the FS group were higher than those of the IA group. Twenty-six OLZ patients completed 30 days of treatment, of which 11 had an improved sperm count (VA) and 15 had no (IN). The ΔT of the VA group was higher than that of the IN group. After follow-up for 2 years, 18 patients' results showed that b-FSH, b-LH and s-T were different over time, with delays of 19, 3 and -19 days. SC is closely related to pH, s-FSH, s-LH, s-E2, s-P, s-T, b-FSH, b-LH, ΔFSH, ΔLH, ΔP, ΔE2 and ΔT. There were complex common trends and relationships between different kinds of hormones. s-FSH, s-LH, s-E2, s-P, s-T, b-FSH and b-LH were useful to judge spermatogenesis, of which s-T, b-FSH and b-LH were more sensitive. If s-T, b-FSH and b-LH reached 64.4, 9.4 and 4.7, respectively, their prediction performance was the strongest. Seminal testosterone is sensitive for judging local spermatogenesis in nonobstructive azoospermia patients, which may be the direction of local spermatogenesis in nonobstructive azoospermia. http://www.chictr.org.cn/index.aspx, identifier ChiCTR2200060463.

O-263 Sperm parameters in cancer patients: the role of cancer and cancer diagnoses

Abstract Study question How do sperm parameters compare in various oncologic conditions when compared with controls? Is there an association between severity of the disease and sperm parameters? Summary answer Most cancer types appear to affect sperm parameters. Motility is reduced in all cancers, while sperm concentration is strongly diminished in testicular cancer. What is known already There is no actual consensus whether cancer is negatively associated with semen quality. Some studies have reported poorer sperm parameters in men with cancer, especially testicular cancer. Others have reported no differences in semen parameters of cancer patients when compared with patients with benign diseases. Furthermore, small studies have shown conflicting differences in sperm parameters when comparing across different cancer types. Study design, size, duration Academic single-centered, retrospective cohort study with men banking sperm for fertility preservation prior to undergoing chemotherapy. A total 965 patients with various cancer types, recently diagnosed, produced at least one sample for sperm cryopreservation between 2004 and 2020. Concentration and progressive motility were analyzed for each sample at the time of cryopreservation, before beginning the chemotherapy treatments. Participants/materials, setting, methods The first sample of each patient was kept for data analysis (n = 965). The control group were unselected homosexual male couples planning parenthood, without any known fertility impairment (n = 39). Cancers were grouped as: testis (n = 297), lymphoma (n = 285), leukemia (n = 79), sarcoma (n = 85), brain (n = 61), gastro-intestinal (GI) (n = 73), ear-nose-throat (ENT) (n = 24), and other (n = 52). The last group included cancers of such as kidney, prostate, melanoma, or lung cancer. T-test and Fisher-test were used for statistical analyses. Main results and the role of chance Patients with testicular cancer had significantly lower mean sperm concentration when compared to controls (30.5 vs 69.9 M/ml; p &amp;lt; 0.01). Other groups showed similar concentration values when compared to controls. Furthermore 47% testicular cancer patients had oligospermia (as determined by WHO criteria) compared with 10% unselected controls (p &amp;lt; 0.001) However, sperm from patients with almost all types of cancer showed lower motility rates when compared to controls (31.5 to 35.0% vs 49.0%; p &amp;lt; 0.001). The only group showing similar motility with controls was ENT cancers (41.1% vs 49%, p = 0.2). Similarly, sperm samples from all cancer groups showed higher proportions with asthenospermia (as determined by WHO criteria) when compared with controls (39.1%-54.7% vs 18%, p &amp;lt; 0.01) For individual cancer groups, comparing sperm parameters between patients who survived and those who died, there were no significant differences, suggesting the severity or stage does not modulate the effect of the cancer itself on the sperm. Patients in the testis, lymphoma, leukemia, sarcoma and brain cancer groups were significantly younger than controls (25.3-29.1 vs 37.3 years old), while GI and ENT groups were similar to controls (37.4 and 36.5 vs 37.3). In the “other cancers” group, patients were significantly older than controls (44.4 vs 37.3). Limitations, reasons for caution The interpretation of the findings of this study is limited by the retrospective nature of the analysis and the potential for unmeasured confounding variables. Wider implications of the findings There is an association between abnormal sperm parameters in samples for pre-chemotherapy cryopreservation and all cancer types. This may affect the future likelihood of pregnancy. Young men with cancer need to be counselled that ICSI may be recommended should they need or choose to use their cryopreserved sperm. Trial registration number Not applicable

O-133 Association between normal-range paternal serum free thyroxine concentrations and outcomes of assisted reproductive technologies

Abstract Study question Are paternal serum free thyroxine (FT4) concentrations within the reference range associated with outcomes of assisted reproductive technologies (ART)? Summary answer Men of older reproductive age (≥ 35 years old) with low FT4 concentrations within the reference range are associated with a decreased live birth rate. What is known already The impact of maternal thyroid dysfunction on ART outcomes has been widely elucidated. However, few studies have investigated the impact of paternal thyroid dysfunction on ART outcomes. Our previous study showed a detrimental impact of paternal subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) on the clinical outcomes of ART. Patients with SCH had relatively lower concentrations of FT4 compared to those with euthyroidism. Therefore, it remains to be determined whether the detrimental impacts of paternal SCH on ART outcomes arise from low concentrations of FT4. Study design, size, duration This retrospective cohort study included 4,066 couples who received 4,894 ART treatment cycles in our clinic between 1 April 2016 and 31 August 2021. Participants/materials, setting, methods The differences in sperm parameters and ART outcomes across the paternal FT4 tertiles were compared using generalised linear models or generalised estimation equation models. The primary outcomes were the clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) and live birth rate (LBR), and the secondary outcomes were sperm parameters, fertilisation rate, good-quality embryo rate, blastocyst formation rate, and implantation rate. Main results and the role of chance The mean ages of the males and their female partners were 33.0 and 31.0 years, respectively. No significant differences are observed in the sperm parameters and ART outcomes across the paternal FT4 tertiles in the overall population. However, stratified analysis of men aged ≥ 35 shows a non-significantly lower CPR in the lower paternal FT4 tertile (adjusted rate: 0.36, 95% CI: 0.27–0.45) relative to the middle (adjusted rate: 0.45, 95% CI: 0.38–0.53) and upper (adjusted rate: 0.43, 95% CI: 0.36–0.51) tertiles. The adjusted LBR is 0.21 (95% CI: 0.15–0.30) for men aged ≥ 35 in the lower FT4 tertile (p = 0.024, with reference to the upper tertile), 0.27 (95% CI: 0.21–0.35) for those in the middle tertile and 0.30 (95% CI: 0.23–0.38) for those in the upper tertile. No differences in these outcomes are seen among men aged &amp;lt; 35. The nonlinear smoothing curve obtained by using FT4 as a continuous variable further supports these findings. Limitations, reasons for caution Due to the retrospective design of the study, a causal relationship between paternal FT4 concentrations and ART outcomes could not be established. In addition, the study participants were patients who sought fertility treatment, which may have biased the results when we analysed the associations between FT4 concentrations and sperm parameters. Wider implications of the findings These results suggest that in older men, low paternal FT4 concentrations, although within the reference range, are associated with worse ART outcomes, especially LBR. Future prospective studies are warranted to confirm the detrimental effects of low paternal FT4 concentrations on ART outcomes. Trial registration number Not applicable

Geographic variation in semen parameters from data used for the World Health Organization semen analysis reference ranges

To study geographic variations in sperm parameters using data from the trials that defined the reference ranges of the World Health Organization 2021 manual. Retrospective evaluation of the data used to define the World Health Organization reference ranges. Not applicable. Data from 11 studies, including 3,484 participants across 5 continents. The data were divided according to geographic locations. Differences in sperm parameters. The semen volume was significantly lower in samples from Asia and Africa than in other regions. The sperm concentration was the lowest in Africa and highest in Australia. The total motile sperm count (TMSC) and total motile progressive sperm count (TMPS) were significantly lower in Africa than in other regions. The TMSC and TMPS in Asia and the United States were significantly lower than in Europe and Australia. The 5th percentile of the sperm concentration was lowest in the United States (12.5 × 106/mL). The 5th percentile for the normal sperm morphology was lowest in the United States (3%) and highest in Asia (5%). The 5th percentile for the TMSC and TMPS were lowest in Africa (TMSC, 15.08 million; TMPS, 12.06 million) and the United States (TMSC, 18.05 million; TMPS, 16.86 million) and highest in Australia (TMSC, 29.61 million; TMPS, 25.80 million). Significant geographic differences in sperm parameters exist, and regional fertility societies should consider adding their own reference ranges on the basis of local experience and treatment outcomes.

Normal-Range Paternal Serum-Free Thyroxine Concentrations and Outcomes of Assisted Reproductive Technologies

Background: A recent study showed that paternal subclinical hypothyroidism adversely affects the clinical outcomes of assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs). The aim of this study was to determine whether paternal serum-free thyroxine (fT4) concentrations within the reference range are associated with ART outcomes. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included 4066 couples who received 4894 ART treatment cycles in our clinic between April 1, 2016 and August 31, 2021. The differences in sperm parameters and ART outcomes across the paternal fT4 concentration tertiles were compared by using generalized linear models or generalized estimation equation models. The primary outcomes were clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) and live birth rate (LBR) per oocyte retrieval after the first embryo transfer cycle. Results: The mean ages of the males and their female partners were 32.8 (standard deviation, 5.0) and 30.7 (standard deviation, 4.1) years, respectively. No significant differences were observed in the sperm parameters or ART outcomes between the paternal fT4 concentration tertiles of the overall population. However, a stratified analysis of men aged ≥35 showed an adjusted CPR of 0.36 [confidence interval, CI: 0.27-0.45] for the lower paternal fT4 concentration tertile relative to the middle (adjusted rate: 0.45, CI: 0.38-0.53) and upper (adjusted rate: 0.43, CI: 0.36-0.51) tertiles (p for trend >0.05). The adjusted LBRs were 0.21 [CI: 0.15-0.30] for men aged ≥35 in the lower fT4 concentration tertile (p = 0.024, with reference to the upper tertile), 0.27 [CI: 0.21-0.35] for those in the middle tertile, and 0.30 [CI: 0.23-0.38] for those in the upper tertile. No differences in these outcomes were observed in men aged <35. The nonlinear smoothing curve obtained by using fT4 concentration as a continuous variable further supported these findings. Conclusions: Men of older reproductive age (≥35 years old) with low-normal fT4 concentrations within the reference range are associated with a decreased LBR. Future prospective studies are warranted to confirm the detrimental effects of low-normal paternal fT4 concentrations on ART outcomes.

BLASTOCYST FORMATION IS NOT AFFECTED BY FEMALE OBESITY: A MORPHOKINETIC STUDY

To determine whether the embryo cleavage pattern and the rate of blastocyst formation differs between normal weight and obese women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) with ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection). This is a retrospective cohort study performed from January 2016 to May 2020 in IVIRMA-Valencia. A total of 3,316 ICSI cycles from 2,822 women were included, with 1,251 cycles belonging to the Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) program. Patients were grouped according to their body mass index (BMI).Underweight was defined as a BMI < 18.5 kg/m2 (n = 173 cycles from 140 women), normal weight as a BMI of 18.5–24.9 kg/m2 (n= 2,339 cycles from 1,989 women), overweight as a BMI of 25–29.9 kg/m2(n = 643 cycles from 548 women) and obesity as a BMI of >30 kg/m2 (n =161 cycles from 145 women).All embryos were grown in vitro until the fifth or sixth day in a time-lapse system - EmbryoScope, EmbryoScope Plus (Vitrolife) and Geri Plus (GeneaBiomedx) - and its development was assessed on an external computer with a specific software for the purpose. There were no differences in sperm parameters or male age among the four BMI groups. Underweight women were l year or less younger than the other three groups. The percentage of women with polycystic ovary syndrome was higher but not significantly different in the obese group. Indications for PGT do not differ among groups .The number of oocytes retrieved or mature oocytes microinjected was significantly higher in the obese group than in the normal weight group. However, fertilization rates and number of embryos transferred were similar in the four BMI groups. A higher percentage of surplus embryos for freezing was observed in the underweight group when compared to normal weight women. All the embryos were transferred or frozen in blastocyst stage. Despite an initial slower pattern of embryo development, the final blastocyst formation rate in day 5 or in day 5 plus day 6 did not differ in obese women when compared to the other BMI groups. Moreover, embryo quality, based on the evaluation of inner cell mass and trophectoderm in both days of blastocyst development was similar across BMI groups. The same was observed with respect to the pattern of development and arrest up to blastocyst formation and the different categories of full, expanded and hatching blastocysts. Blastocyst formation is not affected by female BMI.

Sperm parameters and anti-M\xfcllerian hormone remain stable with Helicobacter pylori infection: a cross-sectional study

Background and aimsIt has been reported that Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection was more prevalent in infertile populations. HP infection could lead to decreased sperm parameters, and treating the HP infection could improve the quality of sperm. However, studies investigating the relationship between infertility and HP infection are still limited, and more evidence is required. Therefore, we performed the present study to investigate the impact of HP infection on sperm quality in males and on ovarian reserve in females.MethodsA total of 16,522 patients who visited the Second Hospital of Zhejiang University from January 2016 to June 2019 due to abdominal discomfort and underwent a 13/14C-urea breath HP test were included in this retrospective cross-sectional study. Among them, 565 had performed sperm analysis or ovarian reserve tests in the past three months and were involved for further analyses. Sperm parameters were examined with a computer-assisted sperm analysis system, and serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and sex hormones were tested with an electrochemiluminescence method.ResultsAmong 363 patients who underwent the sperm test, 136 (37.47%) had HP infection. Among 202 patients who underwent the AMH test, 55 (27.23%) had HP infection. There was no difference in sperm concentration and motility between the HP+ and HP− groups (P > 0.05). Further subgroup analyses stratified into 5-year age groups confirmed that there was no significant difference in sperm parameters (P > 0.05). When pooled with previously published data, no significant difference in sperm concentration or motility was found (P > 0.05). Meanwhile, this study found that the serum AMH level was similar between the HP+ and HP− groups (P > 0.05). Further subgroup analyses confirmed that there was no significant difference in serum AMH level (P > 0.05).ConclusionsThere were no differences in sperm parameters and AMH levels based on history of HP infection among Chinese patients.

High or Low Body Fat Deposition in the Presence of a Normal Oral Sugar Test is Not Associated With Postthaw Semen Parameters in Stallions

This study compared the postthaw semen parameters of stallions with high and low body condition score (BCS) and evaluated associations between body morphometric parameters and postthaw semen parameters. Twenty stallions were split into Low BCS (BCS<7, n = 11) and High BCS (BCS ≥7, n = 9) groups, and underwent a complete morphometric analysis (e.g., neck scores and circumference, crest neck height, body weight, and height), and subcutaneous body fat thickness (SFT) at the tail head, withers, shoulders, and retroperitoneal space. A fasted oral sugar test (OST) was conducted on all stallions. One ejaculate from each stallion was frozen with a commercial egg yolk-based extender. Postthaw sperm motility parameters, plasma membrane integrity, mitochondrial membrane potential, hydrogen peroxide and intracellular superoxide production, and lipid peroxidation were analyzed for all stallions. The circumference at 25% and 50% of the neck’s length were larger for High-BCS stallions (P < .05). There were no differences between groups for the neck crest height (P > .05). Stallions with High BCS had greater SFT at the tail head than stallions with Low BCS (P < .05); however, there were no differences between groups in the SFT at the shoulders and withers (P > .05). All stallions had resting blood glucose below the cutoff for equine metabolic syndrome. There were no differences between groups for resting glucose concentrations or for a peak at 30 or 60 minutes after initiation of the OST (P > .05). There were no differences in sperm parameters between groups (P > .05). Collectively, the findings of the present study suggest that High BCS or Low BCS in the presence of normal OST do not explain post-thaw semen parameters.

Preservation of the spermatozoa of the dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius) by chilling and freezing: The effects of cooling time, extender composition and catalase supplementation

This study sought to determine the characteristics of dromedary camel sperm following 24 h chilling and cryopreservation, testing two different buffers and cryoprotectants and the presence of catalase (500 IU/mL). Ejaculates were liquefied in Tris-Citric acid-Fructose buffer, and centrifuged through a colloid. For Experiment 1 (n = 5) sperm were cooled 24 h in Green Buffer or INRA-96® containing 0 or 3% glycerol or ethylene glycol. Experiment 2 (n = 5) used the same six treatments to evaluate sperm cryopreserved after 24 h cooling. A test of fertility was run (n = 12 recipients) with split ejaculates of fresh semen cooled 24 h in Green Buffer with and without glycerol. Experiment 3 (n = 7) cryopreserved sperm cooled 2 and 24 h in Green Buffer without cryoprotectant and with and without catalase. Sperm parameters measured before and after treatments included motility, viability and acrosome integrity. Experiment 1 showed no reduction in all sperm parameters after 24 h and no differences between buffers or presence or not of either cryoprotectant. Experiment 2 showed Green Buffer to be better than INRA for supporting sperm frozen after 24 h cooling while, for both buffers, there were few differences in sperm parameters if cryoprotectant was present or absent. Pregnancies were confirmed in 4/6 animals (67%) while no recipients receiving sperm chilled with glycerol were pregnant. In Experiment 3, catalase-supplemented sperm had maintained better motility 2 h post thaw; there were no differences between 2 or 24 h cooled sperm parameters for presence or absence of catalase. There was neither advantage nor disadvantage to coooling sperm 24 h prior to cryopreservation. We concluded that dromedary sperm can be chilled (24 h) and then either inseminated or cryopreserved. While glycerol presence in Green Buffer during chilling did not interfere with cryosurvival it may be toxic to the fertility of fresh chilled sperm. Catalase supplementation during cooling helps maintain sperm motility post thaw.

Long-Term Effect of Aspartame on Male Reproductive System: Evidence for Testicular Histomorphometrics, Hsp70-2 Protein Expression and Biochemical Status.

BackgroundAspartame is one of the most commonly consumed artificial sweeteners that is widely used in foodstuffs. There are many debatable reports about aspartame toxicity in different tissues; however, on the subject of its effects on the reproductive system, few literatures are available. The present study was carried out for evaluating effects of aspartame on the reproductive system in male mice.Materials and MethodsIn this experimental study, a total of 36 adult male mice were randomly divided into four groups of nine animals each. Three groups received aspartame at doses of 40, 80 and 160 mg/kg (gavage) for 90 days; also, a control group was considered. Twenty-four hours after the last treatment, animals were sacrificed. Then, body and testis weights, sperm parameters, serum testosterone concentration, total antioxidant capacity, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, antioxidant enzymes [superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px)] activities in blood, histomorphometrical indices and histochemical changes in testis were evaluated; also, mRNA and immunohistochemical expression of Hsp70-2 was measured in testis tissue.ResultsThe results revealed remarkable differences in sperm parameters, testosterone and oxidative stress biomarkers levels, and histomorphometrical indices, between the control and treatment groups. Also, in 80 and 160 mg/kg aspartametreated groups, expression of Hsp70-2 was decreased. Besides, in the aspartame receiving groups, some histochemical changes in testicular tissue were observed.ConclusionThe findings of the present study elucidated that long-term consumption of aspartame resulted in reproductive damages in male mice through induction of oxidative stress.

Effect of Hydroxyurea Exposure before Puberty on Sperm Parameters in Males with Sickle Cell Disease

Background: Sperm parameters alteration is documented in untreated men with sickle cell disease (SCD). An aggravating effect of hydroxyurea (HU) on sperm parameters is also well established: HU, at current doses, causes significant, rapid, and unpredictable impairment of spermatogenesis. Reversal of its effect when treatment is stopped has also been documented, albeit in patients given very low doses of treatment (10 mg/kg/d). In France, sperm banking is free of charge and recommended whenever possible before initiation of HU treatment. While recent guidelines have broadened the indication of HU for asymptomatic infantssuch banking is impossible in younger boys before puberty. In addition, little is known on the effect of HU on sperm parameters when given at this specific period. Objectives and Methods: The main objective of this study was to compare sperm parameters after treatment resolution in young males treated by HU prior to puberty with sperm parameters of untreated males. Secondary objective was to analyze longitudinally sperm parameters during HU washout in those treated prior to puberty.Data regarding indication of HU, dosage, date of initiation and stop, clinical profile including vaso occlusive events (VOE) transfusion episodes and date of puberty was collected. Alternative treatment before or during semen analysis was also documented. A period of 3 months of HU wash out was required prior to semen analysis in treated patients. Results: A total of 26 patients (43 semen samples) were studied, with 16 patients treated with HU prior to puberty (HU-PP) and 10 untreated (HU-naive). Characteristics of patients are presented in Table 1. Indication of HU was cerebral vasculopathy (n=3), VOE (n=5), severe anemia (n=1) or combined (n= 7). The median stopping of the HU before CECOS is 4.5 years [0.5-11.0]. An alternative treatment based on a transfusion program was initiated in 14 patients (87.5%) at the time of sperm analysis in the HU-PP group versus 5 patients (50%) in the HU-naive group. Duration of transfusion program was 126 months [3-188] in HU-PP versus 13 [7-100] in the HU naive group. We compared the fraction of abnormal values in semen samples in both groups (25 samples in the HU-PP group and 18 in the HU-naive). No significant difference was observed regarding volume of ejaculate, spermatozoid concentration, total sperm count, spermatozoid motility, morphology and vitality, and sexual abstinence before sampling in both groups (Table 1). In the HU-PP group, there was a trend in improvement of sperm parameters with the duration of transfusion program. In addition, a kinetic analysis of sperm parameters during the period of HU wash out was performed in 3 patients exposed to HU prior to puberty, demonstrating reversibility of HU toxicity in all. All 26 patients were offered semen cryopreservation. For 22 of them, semen parameters after thawing indicated a possible use for assisted reproductive technologies, mostly in vitro fertilization with intracytoplasmic sperm injection. In the remaining 4 (3 in HU-PP group and 1 in HU naïve), there was serious concern about the possible use because of a very low initial sperm concentration and the absence of motile spermatozoids after thawing. Discussion/Conclusion: Toxicity of HU upon spermatogenesis has been well documented in animal studies and in adult males. In many settings, such issues may be a drawback for parents and/or caregivers to treat young boys before semen banking can be performed, given the lack of robust information on reversibility after treatment resolution. Abnormalities of sperm count are also common in non-treated males so that demonstrating the specific effect of HU may be complex. Oseggbe et al. and Berthaud et al. showed that 91% of untreated SCD males have at least one abnormal sperm parameter. Here, we show that after treatment resolution, there are no differences in sperm parameters in patients exposed to HU before puberty compared to untreated males. Because a majority of patients benefitted from transfusion therapy at the time of analysis, we were however unable to demonstrate whether reversal of toxicity occurs spontaneously or requires transfusion. Notwithstanding possible limitations due to small sample size, this study shows that in boys with severe disease requiring HU treatment before puberty, toxicity of HU on sperm parameters should not be a major drawback. Disclosures Bernaudin: AddMedica: Honoraria, Other: Help for travel; GBT: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; BlueBirdBio: Consultancy. De Montalembert:Novartis: Consultancy, Honoraria; Addmedica: Consultancy, Honoraria; Bluebird Bio: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Brousse:bluebird bio: Consultancy; Add medica: Consultancy.

Low-density lipoproteins and milk serum proteins improve the quality of stallion sperm after vitrification in straws.

Lipids and proteins can be used for sperm vitrification to preserve the integrity of sperm membranes or to increase the viscosity of the medium. This study evaluated the effect of low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and milk serum proteins (Pronexcell) for stallion sperm vitrification. Hippex extender (Barex Biochemical Products, The Netherlands), plus 1% of bovine serum albumin and 100mM of trehalose, was used as control for sperm vitrification. In experiment 1, different concentrations of LDL (L1=0.25, L2=0.5, L3=1%) and in experiment 2 of Pronexcell (P1=1, P2=5, P3=10%) were added to control extender. Vitrification was performed in 0.25-ml straws directly plunged into liquid nitrogen. Total motility (TM, %) and progressive motility (PM, %) were analysed by CASA, and plasma membrane (IMS, %) and acrosome membrane integrity (AIS, %) were assessed under epifluorescence microscopy. Post-warmed sperm parameters were compared between treatments by ANOVA. Results were expressed as mean±SEM. In both experiments, the minimum concentration of LDL and Pronexcell obtained significantly higher values (p<0.01) than the control extender for TM (L1=52.95±4.4; P1=58.99±4.6; C=30.88±3.0), PM (L1=36.79±5.5; P1=47.25±4.3; C=19.20±2.4), IMS (L1=68.88±3.6; P1=47.25±4.3; C=52.81±2.6) and AIS (L1=45.88±3.6; P1=47.25±4.3; C=26.00±2.1). No differences in sperm parameters were found among different concentrations of LDL or Pronexcell. In conclusion, the addition of 0.25% LDL and 1% Pronexcell to the vitrification extender is recommended to improve the quality of stallion sperm after vitrification.

The effect of Myo-inositol on sperm parameters and pregnancy rate in oligoasthenospermic men treated with IUI: A randomized clinical trial.

BackgroundIn about 40% of the couples, the cause of infertility problems is attributed to men because of low sperm production and disturbed motility of sperm. Pieces of evidence show that Myo-inositol has a potential role for the treatment of sperm morphology and male fertility.ObjectiveThis study aimed to determine the effect of Myo-inositol on the sperm parameters and fertility rate in patients with oligoasthenospermia treated by intrauterine insemination (IUI).Materials and MethodsThis study was a randomized clinical trial conducted on 37 patients with oligoasthenospermia treated by IUI during 2016-2017. In this study, the patients were randomly divided into two groups of oligoasthenospermia treated with (Case group) and without Myo-inositol (Control group). The case group received 0.5 ml of Myo-inositol with a concentration of 2 mg/ml and incubated at 37°C incubator for 2 hr, but the control group had no interventions.ResultsThe results of this study showed that although there was no significant difference in sperm parameters including sperm motility and concentration before processing with Myo-inositol in the case group, but there was a significant increase in sperm motility during the treatment with Myo-inositol. The therapeutic effect of this method was confirmed on induction of pregnancy in 18% of the treated patients, in such a way that was about twice greater than those who did not receive the drug.ConclusionAccording to the results of this study, the use of Myo-inositol is efficient enough to change sperm parameters to increase the chance of fertility.

The Impact of Obesity on Serum Testosterone Levels and Semen Quality in a Population of Infertile Men

Introduction: Multiple factors contribute to male infertility, with hypogonadism and low testosterone levels possibly affecting fertility in different aspects. This study focused on factors for low testosterone in infertile male patients. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively collected data of patients who were diagnosed with infertility and visited the National Taiwan University Hospital from January 2015 to October 2017. Patients' weight and height, basic blood test results, sperm analysis, and sex hormone profile were recorded. Patients diagnosed with obstructive azoospermia, particularly absence of bilateral vas deferens, those who received a vasectomy or orchiectomy, and patients diagnosed with cancer undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy were excluded. Pearson's correlation test was applied for detecting associating factors for serum testosterone. Multivariate linear regression was used for detecting independent factors predicting serum testosterone. An independent t-test was used to analyze continuous variables, and the Chi-square test was used for categorical variables. Results: Two hundred and forty-seven patients had serum sex hormone profile and semen profile recorded. The mean age was 36.48 ± 8.68 years. Pearson's correlation test showed that serum testosterone was correlated with serum triglyceride, total cholesterol, fasting blood sugar, and body mass index (BMI). However, multivariate linear regression showed BMI (P = 0.001) and smoking (P = 0.029) to be independent factors predicting serum testosterone. On comparing sex hormone profile and semen profile between obese (BMI ≥30), overweight patient (BMI ≥25, &lt;30), and nonoverweight patients (BMI &lt;25), (i) serum testosterone was significantly lower in the obese and overweight group comparing to nonoverweight group (nonoverweight: 3.61 ± 1.63 ng/ml vs. overweight: 2.87 ± 1.27, P = 0.001; nonoverweight: 3.61 ± 1.63 vs. obese 2.89 ± 1.59, P = 0.035). Follicle stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and prolactin did not differ significantly between the groups. No significant difference in sperm parameters, namely the total sperm count, sperm concentration, total sperm motility, and morphology, was observed between the groups. Conclusion: In the infertile Taiwanese male population, obese patients (BMI ≥ 30) and overweight patients (BMI ≥25) had a significant lower serum testosterone than the nonoverweight patients. Body weight control and treatment of metabolic syndrome, and diabetes could improve serum testosterone levels.