Percentage Of Motile Spermatozoa Research Articles

238 Effect of electronically controlled floor cooling pad on semen performance of Duroc boars during the summer heat stress

Abstract The objective of the study was to evaluate the effects of using electronically controlled floor cooling pad (ECP) on boar semen production during the summer season in a boar stud in Scottsville, Kentucky. Sixty boars (526.26 ± 188.69 d old) were placed in two rows of pens (2.06 x 0.66 m) in a 350 head tunnel ventilated boar barn and were randomly assigned to either CONTROL (n = 30; no ECP) or PAD (n = 30) treatments. The ECP had 4.25 L cold water flushed through a group of 5 pads connected to each other, when temperature sensors reached 27°C or every 4 mins for sensors placed on 5th pad and 24°C or every 4 mins for sensors placed on 1st pad. Boars experienced natural summer heat stress (daily temperature, humidity and dewpoint: Mean = 24.03°C, 87.9%, 21.7°C, hourly mean high = 28.9°C, 83.4%, 25.8°C) for a period of 30 d from July 15, 2023 to August 14, 2023 wherein the cooling pad remained on and were flushing based on the set points mentioned above. Semen was collected from each boar at least once each week and semen samples were diluted in a commercial semen extender and analyzed for motility using a CASA system, volume using a gram scale, and concentration using a spermiodensimeter. A semen sample was also stained using Hancock stain and evaluated at 100x oil immersion to assess sperm morphology (100 sperm cells analyzed as normal or having retained cytoplasmic droplets, distal midpiece reflex or other head/tail abnormalities). Total sperm production, percentage of morphologically normal sperm, percentage of motile sperm were calculated and used to determine whether the ejaculate met threshold for use in an artificial insemination program or whether the ejaculate was trashed. Data were evaluated using PROC MIXED for repeated measures in SAS (v.9.4) with the main effects of treatment and week, using the age of the boar, and the number of days between collections as covariates, and boar nested within treatment as a random effect. There were no differences between CONTROL and PAD boars for semen production measures (P > 0.05). PAD boars had greater morphologically normal sperm compared with CONTROL boars using Hancock stain (P = 0.0362); however, this effect was lost when the percentage of total normal sperm for the entire ejaculate was calculated (P = 0.56). Overall, maintaining boars on floor cooling pads during the summer months had minimal impacts on semen production and reduced the presence of morphologically abnormal sperm.

20 Effects of a stabilized fish oil on boar semen quality when fed during summer months

Abstract The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of feeding a stabilized fish oil source to different genetic lines on boar semen quality. A total of 127 boars representing three genetic lines (PIC 337, PIC 800, and PIC L03; Hendersonville, TN) at a commercial boar stud were balanced by age, body condition, and previous semen quality and randomly allotted to one of two dietary treatments within genetic line. Boars were assigned to either receive Control; a daily top dress of 32g of corn starch; or Fish oil; a daily top dress of 32g of Salmate DHA+ (The Ballard Group, 2407 Ashland Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45206 USA) to provide 2.38 g of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The top-dress supplementation was provided by placing it on top of the daily ration of feed for each individual boar on the floor once each day immediately after their feed has been delivered to them. Supplementation lasted for 16 wk from June-September, 2023 during which weekly semen collection was performed. Semen was evaluated at the stud for concentration and motility parameters using computer assisted semen analysis. Data was analyzed using generalized linear mixed models with the lmer and glmer functions of R. Boar was the experimental unit, with dietary treatment, genetic line, and their interaction tested as fixed effects while age at collection served as a covariate. Boar nested within treatment combinations was used as a random effect to account for repeated measurements within the same boar. There was no evidence (P > 0.10) for dietary treatment by genetic line interaction for any response criteria (Table 1). There was no evidence of fish oil supplementation effects (P > 0.10) on semen volume, concentration, total sperm cells per ejaculate, percentage of accepted ejaculates, or number of doses produced per accepted ejaculate. There was no evidence of fish oil supplementation effects (P > 0.10) on percentage motile sperm cells, or percentage of proximal and distal droplets and abnormal tails. Line 800 boars had the least (P < 0.05) semen volume, but greatest (P < 0.05) sperm concentration, resulting in no evidence for differences (P > 0.10) between the three genetic lines in total sperm cells per ejaculate. Line 03 boars had increased (P < 0.05) percentage of rejected ejaculates as well as decreased number of doses produced per accepted ejaculate (P < 0.05) compared with lines 337 and 800 boars. There was no evidence for differences (P > 0.10) in sperm motility, proximal and distal droplets, or abnormal tails between the three genetic lines. In summary, maternal line boars had an increased proportion of rejected ejaculates per boar and a decreased number of doses produced compared with terminal line boars. Feeding a stabilized fish oil to provide 2.38 g of DHA did not improve semen during summer months.

Enhancement of cryopreserved rooster semen and fertility potential after oral administration of Thai ginger (Kaempferia parviflora) extract in Thai native chickens.

Semen cryopreservation is an effective method of preserving genetic material, particularly in native chicken breeds facing a substantial decline. In this study, we evaluated the quality of frozen/thawed rooster semen treated with different concentrations of oral administrations of black ginger (Kaempferia parviflora: KP) extract and determined its fertility. Thirty-two Thai native roosters (Pradu Hang Dum, 42 weeks old) were used in this study. The treatments were classified into four groups according to the concentration of KP extract administered to the roosters: 0, 100, 150, and 200 mg/kg body weight. The quality of fresh semen was analyzed before cryopreservation. Post-thaw sperm quality and fertility potential were determined. Also, lipid peroxidation was determined. The results showed that sperm concentration and movement increased in roosters treated with 200 mg/kg of KP extract (P<0.05). The malondialdehyde (MDA) in the rooster receiving 200 mg/kg KP extract was lower than that in the other but had an insignificant difference within the KP treatment groups (P>0.05). The highest MDA levels were observed in the control group (P<0.05). The percentage of motile sperm (total motility and progressive motility) after semen thawing was higher in roosters that received 150 and 200 mg/kg KP extract than in those that received 100 mg/kg KP extract and the control (P<0.05). MDA levels decreased significantly in roosters that received 150 and 200 mg/kg KP extract than in those that received 100 mg/kg KP extract and the control (P<0.05). Fertility and hatchability were greater in the KP150 and KP200 groups than in the KP100 and control groups (P<0.05). The optimal amount of KP extract influencing initial sperm quality was determined to be 200 mg/kg. However, 150 mg/kg was the optimal low dosage of KP extract administration that maintained sperm quality and fertility following semen cryopreservation.

Introducing a New Smartphone Applied Semen Analyzer, SpermCell™: A Cross-Sectional Validation Study with a Comparative Analysis and a Mini Patient Questionnaire on a Large Sample Cohort.

(1) Background: Standard semen analysis methods may exhibit variability between observers and/or human error; therefore, additional methods are needed to overcome these handicaps. We aimed to present a new smartphone-applied semen analyzer, Sperm Cell™, investigate its diagnostic efficacy by comparing it with the standard analysis method, and determine its user-friendly nature. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a large sample cohort, including 102 men. Three semen analyses were performed for each semen sample. The first employed the standard manual method, whereas the others were smartphone-based analyses performed by technicians and patients. We compared major semen parameters between the three semen analyses. The user-friendly nature of the analyzer was also evaluated with a mini-questionnaire completed by the participants. (3) Results: The determined median sperm count, motile sperm count, and percentage of motile sperms, on standard manual semen analysis, were 50.00 × 106/mL (0-160 × 106/mL), 23.94 × 106/mL (0-108 × 106/mL) and 50.00% (0-73.00%), respectively. Median sperm count and motile sperm count were 50.52 × 106/mL (<1-150 × 106/mL) vs. 55.77 × 106/mL (<1-160 × 106/mL) and 23.34 × 106/mL (0-105 × 106/mL) vs. 23.53 × 106/mL (0-104 × 106/mL) for SpermCell™-based semen analysis performed by a technician and patients themselves, respectively. The percentages of motile sperms were 47.40% (0-67.00%) vs. 47.61% (0-80.20%), respectively. All the parameters were statistically similar between the three semen analysis methods (p > 0.05 for each). The SpermCell™ analysis results were correlated with the standard manual method with up to 0.85 correlation coefficients. Moreover, substantial diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity and specificity were obtained in determining the oligospermia and asthenozoospermia via the device-based analyses performed by technician and patients. The mini-questionnaire results revealed that the analyzer is useful. (4) Conclusions: The novel smartphone-applied semen analyzer is a helpful tool with acceptable diagnostic accuracy in determining the major semen parameters. It can be used as an efficient at-home point-of-care testing method in the initial assessment of couples with infertility concerns.

The deleterious effects of sofosbuvir and ribavirin (antiviral drugs against hepatitis C virus) on different body systems in male albino rats regarding reproductive, hematological, biochemical, hepatic, and renal profiles and histopathological changes

Sofosbuvir is one of the crucial drugs used in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) in adults and children with compensated liver disease, including cirrhosis. It may be used alone or with other drugs. Ribavirin is an antiviral medication used to treat HCV infection. It is not effective when used alone and must be used in combination with other medications, such as sofosbuvir. This study pertains to a comprehensive assessment of the deleterious effects of sofosbuvir (an antiviral drug against chronic HCV) or sofosbuvir combined with ribavirin (an antiviral drug against RNA and DNA viruses) on several biological activities of the body, including hematological, hormonal, biochemical, histological, and immunohistochemical examinations during a long-standing period on male healthy rats. In addition, fertility assessments were performed, including sperm collections and semen parameter investigations. This study was conducted on 21 male rats divided into three equal groups. Group I (control group) received distilled water; group II (sofosbuvir group) received sofosbuvir (4 mg/kg); and group III (sofosbuvir + ribavirin) received sofosbuvir (4 mg/kg) plus ribavirin (30 ml/kg). All groups received the specific drug for six months. Blood and tissue samples were collected for hematological, hormonal, biochemical, histological, and immunohistochemical examinations. In addition, sperm collection and assessments of semen parameters were performed. Results revealed that sofosbuvir causes a highly significant decrease in the mean of most hematological, immunological, hormonal, and biochemical parameters, except for a few numbers of parameters such as neutrophils, monocytes, basophils, cortisol, GOT, and lipase, which exhibit a significant increase. The same occurred in the sofosbuvir + ribavirin group, but at much higher levels, as most hematological, immunological, hormonal, and biochemical parameters exhibit a highly significant decrease except for monocytes, triglyceride, and lipase, which exhibit a significant increase. When compared to the sofosbuvir group alone, the sofosbuvir + ribavirin group demonstrated a highly significant decline in the mean of most hematological, immunological, hormonal, and biochemical parameters except lymphocytes and triglycerides, which exhibit a substantial increase. For the reproductive parameters, both groups exhibit a significant decrease in the total sperm motility percentage. Finally, it can be concluded that sofosbuvir causes acute pancreatitis and combined immunodeficiency. Ribavirin is associated with hormonal deficiency, which indicates the occurrence of hypopituitarism. Moreover, sofosbuvir and ribavirin synergistically affect myelosuppression and cause iron-deficiency anemia. However, sofosbuvir, or its combination with ribavirin, is associated with a reduced risk of hepatocellular carcinoma. Besides, adding ribavirin to be combined with sofosbuvir improved the immunodeficiency caused by sofosbuvir; this confirms that using ribavirin with sofosbuvir reduces the side effects of both alone.

Effect of Different Natural Extenders in Maintaining the Quality of Sperm Fish (Cyprinus carpio)

High demand on   as consume fish nor as decorative fish, causes an increasing production. But, an obstacle occurs on production, due to reproductive characteristic of Common Carp fish. Different time on sperm and eggs production from male and female fish cause difficulties in breeding. Hence, it needed sperm preservation so the breeding could be done in whole year. Natural extenders are the solution to preserve fish sperm without side effect. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of different types of extenders and different doses on the percentage of sperm motility and viability of carp (Cyprinus carpio) after storage This research was conducted at the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Universitas Brawijaya and the Freshwater Cultivation Installation (IBAT Punten), Batu, East Java. The method in this study was Complete Random Design (CRD) with 6 treatments, K (100ml lactate ringer); A (1ml cider + 99ml lactate ringer); B (1ml coconut + 99ml lactate ringer); C (1ml date juice + 99ml lactate ringer); D (1ml honey + 99ml lactate ringer); E (1ml sugar cane + 99ml lactate ringer). The results showed that the highest motility was obtained in the treatment of using date extract extender with a motility percentage rate of 77.66%; highest viability was obtained in the honey extract with 80.71%; and the highest fertility rate was obtained in the honey extract treatment with 72.67 %.

SOME BIOCHEMICAL ATTRIBUTES IN SEMINAL PLASMA OF IRAQI BUFFALO BULLS AND THEIR RELATION TO THE SEMEN QUALITY

This study was undertaken to figure out the relationship between some biochemical characteristics in seminal plasma with the semen quality of Iraqi buffalo bulls (Bubalus bubalis). Semen was diluted with the Tris extender and divided based on the sperm cell's individual motility into two groups. The first group included good-semen quality (GS; n=3), whereas, the second group included poor-semen quality (PS; n=5). The differences between GS and BS groups in all seminal biochemical attributes lacked significance.  A negative and significant (P≤0.05) correlation coefficient was noticed between cholesterol concentration and both principal and terminal sperms abnormality (r= -0.52), and total abnormalities (r= -0.53). A positive and significant (P≤0.05) correlation coefficient was shown between cholesterol concentration and normal sperm percentage (r= 0.53). Moreover, there was a negative and significant correlation (P≤0.05) between the triglyceride concentration and each of the percentages of individual sperm motility (r = -0.50) and of live sperm (r = -0.51).  It can be concluded that some biochemical characteristics of seminal plasma can be used to predict the semen quality and fertility of Iraqi buffalo bulls.

Effect of selenium nanoparticles on the quality and fertility of short-term preserved boar semen.

This study was carried out to investigate the effect of different concentrations of selenium nanoparticles (Se-NPs) in the Beltsville Thawing Solution (BTS) extender on the semen quality and fertility of Hampshire crossbred pigs. For the study, semen was collected from four boars (10 ejaculates/boar) by the gloved hand method. Each ejaculate was extended @ 1:2 with the BTS extender and split into four aliquots. The control (C) samples were without the supplementation of Se-NPs, whereas the other three were supplemented with 0.5 (T1), 1 (T2), and 2 μg ml-1 of Se-NPs (T3) and stored at 15°C in a BOD incubator. Extended semen was evaluated at 0 (immediately after dilution), 24, 48, 72, and 96 h of storage for sperm motility, live sperm, plasma membrane integrity, acrosome integrity, DNA integrity, and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). The mean percentage of sperm motility, live sperm, and sperm with intact plasma membrane and acrosome, and MMPs were significantly (p < 0.01) higher in all treated groups in comparison to control at 24, 48, 72, and 96 h of storage. Sperm with intact DNA in all treated groups increased significantly at 48 (p < 0.05), and 72 and 96 (p < 0.01) h of storage in comparison to the control group. The concentration of 1 μg ml-1 of Se-NPs was found to be the best among other concentrations. In each group, 10 sows were artificially inseminated with the liquid semen preserved for 72 h at 15°C. Supplementation of 1 μg ml-1 of Se-NPs yielded the highest conception rate in comparison to other groups. In conclusion, supplementation of 1 μg ml-1 of Se-NPs in the BTS extender resulted in the best semen quality and conception rate during the short-time liquid preservation of boar semen.

Impact of depression and the potential effect of its treatment on semen parameters

BackgroundUp to 30% of male infertility may be idiopathic. Researchers are looking into psychological problems, particularly depression, as possible risk factors for such idiopathic etiology. We aimed to assess how depression affects Egyptian patients’ semen parameters and its indicators for male fertility and to evaluate the potential positive influence of improving the score of depression on these parameters. A prospective observational pilot clinical study included twenty-one male patients with moderate, severe, or very severe depression. They were subjected to baseline semen analysis. All patients were treated by serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Those who showed improvement in their depression, within the following 6 months, were eligible for a second evaluation of their semen. We compared baseline semen parameters of all patients to 2021-WHO lower normal limit as well as post-improvement values.ResultsOnly 16 patients showed improvement in their depression after treatment with SNRIs and were candidates for the 2nd assessment of semen analysis. No significant improvements could be detected except for volume. Yet, on repeating the comparisons including only patients with abnormal baseline semen parameters, significant improvements were observed in most semen parameters, including semen volume, sperm count per ejaculate, and percentage of sperm motility either progressive or total.ConclusionThe results addressed the potential impact of depression on male fertility in a sample of Egyptian patients through a negative effect on semen parameters. This effect is neither sole nor direct and may require either predisposed individuals or the existence of other co-factors to be manifested. However, the appropriate treatment of depression may reverse such effects and help in the management of male infertility.

Short-Term Storage of Japanese Koi (Cyprinus carpio var. koi) Sperm on the Egg Fertilization Performance

Lack of mature male broodfish, insufficient sperm, and non-synchronized maturation times have always been a hindrance to the breeding program of Japanese koi (Cyprinus carpio var. koi) raised indoors. Therefore, it is believed that the preservation of Japanese koi sperm by short-term storage and cryopreservation could solve this problem. In this study, the appropriate diluent solution, sperm-to-diluent ratio, and storage temperature for short-term storage of Japanese koi sperm were determined, and the efficacy of the short-term stored sperm in fertilizing eggs was evaluated. Milt samples collected from sexually mature males were pooled and tested in modified calcium-free Hank's Balanced Salt Solution (CF-HBSS), modified Mahseer extender, and modified Kurokura extender at 1:1 and 1:5 ratios of sperm to diluent, respectively. Storage temperatures were tested at 4 °C and room temperature. Milt sample without diluent solution served as a control. The percentage of sperm motility was measured daily for one week. For the egg fertilization experiment, Japanese koi eggs were fertilized with sperm on the second day of short-term storage, while a freshly collected sperm sample served as a control. We found that sperm diluted 1:1 with a modified Kurokura extender and stored at 4 °C had a mean sperm motility of 76.00 ± 3.06% on the third day, compared with 54.67 ± 2.91% in the control treatment (P&lt;0.05). Short-term stored spermatozoa showed equivalent egg fertilization ability compared to fresh spermatozoa (control) (P&gt;0.05). In conclusion, the use of a modified Kurokura extender at a 1:1 ratio of sperm to diluent and storage at 4 °C was optimal for short-term storage of Japanese koi sperm, and these sperm still showed equivalent egg fertilization ability to freshly collected sperm after two days of storage. In addition, the current study also determined the appropriate extender solution for cryopreservation of Japanese koi sperm.

Effect of Medicago sativa seed powder (Plus vitamin E vs. vitamin E alone) on semen analysis in men with idiopathic infertility: A double blind randomized clinical trial

Ethnopharmacological relevanceDifferent parts of the alfalfa plant (Medicago sativa L.), especially its seeds, have been introduced as a semen quality enhancer in the folk medicine of different regions of Iran as well as in the traditional Persian medicine (PM) books. The seeds of this plant are also used in many combined medicines to treat male infertility in PM. Aim of the studyThis study was designed to investigate the effect of M. sativa seed powder plus vitamin E vs. vitamin E alone on semen analysis of men with idiopathic infertility. Materials and methodsIn this randomized clinical trial, 60 participants were randomly divided into two groups and then received M. sativa seed powder (6 g daily) or placebo for three months, as add-on to vitamin E (100 U). Results of semen analysis (sperm total count, motility, and morphology as well as semen volume) of these two groups and their changes were compared before and after treatment as the primary outcome. The number of pregnancies after one month and probable side effects were also assessed. ResultsAfter 12 weeks, sperm total count changed from 36.2 ± 21.8 × 106/ml to 48.5 ± 19.1 × 106/ml in M. sativa and from 39.5 ± 23.5 × 106/ml to 41.2 ± 20.9 × 106/ml in placebo, percentage of normal morphology changed from 1.8 ± 0.8% to 2.6 ± 1.2 % in M. sativa and from 2.0 ± 0.9% to 2.6 ± 1.2% in placebo and percentage of motile sperm changed from 36.5 ± 11.8 % to 39.7 ± 12.0% in M. sativa and from 39.3 ± 10.1 % to 38.1 ± 12.1% in placebo. The improvements in M. sativa group are significantly better than placebo group (P = 0.00, 0.01 and 0.04, respectively). However, semen volume decreased in both groups, but its changes were not significant. The number of pregnancies was four in the intervention and zero in placebo group. One case with abdominal bloating and one with respiratory allergy withdrew from the intervention group. No other adverse effect was reported. ConclusionsIn this study, significant improvement was detected in sperm parameters (except semen volume) of men with idiopathic infertility in M. sativa plus vitamin E group in compare to vitamin E alone after 12 weeks. These findings suggest that the M. sativa, as a complementary therapy, may have a beneficial effect on semen quality. More clinical trials with larger sample size are needed.

Low-Fat, High-Carbohydrate Diets Reduce Body Weight and Sperm Count but Increase Sperm Motility in Mice

BackgroundMale reproduction is impacted by both over- and under-nutrition, demonstrated by animal studies using high-fat and low-protein dietary interventions. Little is known about the impacts of low-fat, high-carb diets and types of dietary carbohydrates on sperm traits. ObjectivesUsing a nutritional geometry approach, we investigated the effects of partially or completely substituting glucose for fructose in isocaloric diets containing either 10%, 20%, or 30% fat (by energy) on sperm traits in mice. MethodsMale C57BL/6J mice were fed 1 of 15 experimental diets for 18 wk starting from 8 wk of age. Reproductive organs were then harvested, and sperm concentration, motility, and velocity were measured using Computer-Assisted Sperm Analysis. ResultsIncreasing dietary fat from 10% to 30% while maintaining energy density at 14.3 kJ/g and protein content at 20% resulted in increased body weight and sperm production but reduced the percentage of motile sperm. Body weight and seminal vesicle weight were maximized on diets containing a 50:50 mix of fructose and glucose, but carbohydrate type had few significant impacts on epididymal sperm traits. ConclusionsThe opposing impacts of dietary fat on mouse sperm quantity and quality observed suggest that male fertility may not be optimized by a single diet; rather, context-specific dietary guidelines targeted to specific concerns in semen quality may prove useful in treating male infertility.

Changes in sperm metabolome during carp sperm short-term storage in different media: In search of sperm quality and storage capability markers

Although short-term hypothermic storage of sperm is already widely used in artificial fish reproduction and is considered very useful for resolving multiple problems related to logistics and broodstock maintenance, this approach continues to be explored and developed. In the present study, targeted and global metabolome LC/MS analyses of common carp sperm during refrigerated storage in undiluted and diluted (in a buffer: NaCl 55 mmol/L, KCl 40 mmol/L, CaCl2 1 mmol/L, MgSO4 0.5 mmol/L, sucrose 87.5 mmol/L, Tris 10 mmol/L, pH 8, with or without 5% methanol) conditions were used to find potential metabolic markers of fish sperm quality and storage capability evaluated by sperm motility parameters. Sperm motility percentage started to decline from the 6th day of the storage, followed by a significant drop in ATP content in all studied groups, ADP content in undiluted sperm, and creatine phosphate content in sperm diluted by the methanol-containing buffer. Correlation analysis of whole metabolome and sperm motility data allowed us to suggest several potential markers belonging to different chemical classes (mainly nucleotides and their components). Considering motility preservation and changes in the content of proposed markers of sperm quality/storage ability, sperm storage in the methanol-containing buffer is more promising for further application. At the same time, further searches for reliable markers and their validation remain necessary.

Morphometric features, seminal profile and diluters effect on post-thaw semen quality of Munshiganj cattle in Bangladesh

The study investigates morphometric features, seminal profile and post-thaw semen quality of Munshiganj cattle. Morphometric features were measured using measuring tape from 20 Munshiganj cattle while coat color was measured by observing in naked eye. Fresh and post thaw semen quality parameters were analyzed using Computer Assisted semen analyzer (CASA). Coat color of Munshiganj male cattle were creamy white to dull pinkish and female were white to creamy. The mean body weight, body length, hearth girth, height at wither, head length, head width, ear length, ear width, fore leg length, hind leg length, tail length, tail doc circumference, horn length, horn diameter and mouth circumference were 362.80 kg, 137.31 cm, 160.66 cm, 135.21 cm, 50.97 cm, 20.58 cm, 19.75 cm, 9.88 cm, 73.02 cm, 74.84 cm, 106.10 cm, 20.75 cm, 13.60 cm, 16.12 cm and 43.00 cm, respectively. There was significant difference (p < 0.05) between male and female in terms of body weight (418.00 vs 307.60 kg), heart girth (173.74 vs 147.57 cm), head width (22.50 vs 18.67 cm), horn diameter (18.58 vs 13.66 cm) and mouth circumference (46.60 vs 39.40 cm). Average scrotal length was 16.76 cm while scrotal circumference was 32.70 cm. Age had significant effect (p < 0.05) on morphometric characteristics of Munshiganj male and female cattle. On the other hand, season had no significant effect on semen quality. Mean semen volume, sperm concentration, total motile, progressive, static, slow and live spermatozoa were 5.83 ± 0.88 ml, 1510.27 ± 844.07 million/ml, 91.9 ± 2.17 %, 63.80 ± 12.53 %, 8.10 ± 2.17 %, 0.10 ± 0.10 %, 91.38 ± 0.25 %, respectively. On the other hand, sperm head length and width, sperm tail length of Munshiganj cattle were 10.39 ± 0.16 μm, 4.26 ± 0.07 μm, 21.5 ± 0.52 μm, respectively. Individual breeding bull had a significant (p < 0.05) effect on post-thawed motile sperm percentage. Four different diluters (Triladyl, Steridyl, Tris-egg yolk-Citrate and Andromed) were used to compare the effects of diluter on post-thaw semen quality of Munshiganj cattle and found that diluter had no significant effect (p > 0.05) on post thaw semen quality except slow motility and proximal droplet percentages. Munshiganj cattle had a distinctive phenotypic feature with standard quality semen and had no effect of egg yolk free and egg yolk based diluters on post thaw semen quality.

The Effect of Phenolic Extract of Mint (Mentha spicata) in the Fertility of Male Laboratory Mice.

The current study was conducted to investigate the effect of the phenolic extract of the Mentha spicata plant on the fertility of laboratory mice. The phenolic compounds were extracted using the Reflex condenser from the leaves of the Mentha spicata plant, and it was chemically detected. In the current study,)Albino Mice of the musculus Mus type was used at an age ranging between (12-11) months. The group was randomly divided into three groups. The control group was injected with a physiological solution (0.9% NaCl), the second group was injected with the phenolic extract of the Mentha spicata plant at (100 mg/kg) concentration, and the third group was injected by concentration (200 mg/kg) from the phenolic extract of the Mentha spicata. The phenols were dissolved in a physiological solution (0.9% NaCl), and all individuals of these groups were injected through the peritoneal membrane I.P. at a rate of 0.5 ml per animal per day for 30 days. The phenolic extract of Mentha spicata leaves caused a significant decrease (P&lt;0.05) in the level of Testosterone and Luteinizing hormone (ng/ml) in the blood serum of the first and second treatment group when compared with the control group. The study also indicates a significant decrease (P&lt;0.05) in the concentration of Follicle-Stimulating Hormone in the third treatment group compared with its level in the control group. At the same time, there were no significant changes (P&lt;0.05) for the second treatment group compared with the control group. The average concentration of sperms taken from the caudal epididymis did not change significantly (P&lt;0.05) for both treatments compared to the control group. The percentage of motile sperm decreased significantly (P&lt;0.05) as a result of treatment with the phenolic extract of Mentha spicata leaves, and this percentage is directly proportional to the increase in the doses used of the extract. Sperm vitality compared to the control group, as for the percentage leading to abnormal sperms, the results showed a significant increase (P&lt;0.05) in the average percentage of abnormal sperms in the caudal epididymis of the second treatment animals when compared with the rates of the first and control groups, while there was no There were no significant changes (P&lt;0.05) in the rate of the first treatment compared to the control. Histologically, the results indicate that treatment with phenolic extract of Mentha spicata leaves caused simple histological changes, represented by a simple vacuole of the interstitial layer between the tubules, slight congestion and partial detachment of the germ cells from the basement membrane with a thick fibrous capsule surrounding the epididymis tubes and congestion of blood vessels. In contrast, the seminal tubules and seminal lumen remained normal. This compared to the control group, which showed the semi- Bionatura http://dx.doi.org/10.21931/RB/CSS/2023.08.03.48 2 niferous tubules, seminal cavity and germ layers commonly with normal spermatozoa stages. Keywords: Phenolic extract, Mentha spicata, Fertility

Оптимизация состава криопротектора для сохранения репродуктивных клеток африканского сома

The article presents a study on the selection of the optimal composition of the protective medium for cryopres-ervation of the reproductive cells of male African catfish. Glycerol, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) at concentrations of 3, 5 and 10% were studied as the main cryoprotective additives. The influence of these compounds on the quality indicators of catfish sperm (the percentage and time of sperm movement after activation), the level of sperm lipid peroxidation, and the activity of the antioxidant enzyme catalase before and after the cryopreservation process was assessed. A decrease in fish breeding indicators of the quality of African catfish sperm (the proportion of living cells, motility time) was established when DMSO was added to the basic cryomedium. The greatest decrease in the percentage of sperm motility before freezing is observed when DMSO is added at a concentration of 10%. A dose-dependent effect of a decrease in sperm activity after freezing was noted with an increase in the addition of DMSO to the cryogenic medium from 3 to 10%. It has been shown that 3% glycerol in a cryogenic medium does not contribute to the preservation of cells during freezing, cryodamage caused by the formation of ice crystals leads to a significant decrease in the motility of catfish sperm. The best indicators of sperm quality were obtained when using glycerol, the most effective concentration is 5% (40% of mobile reproductive cells within 53 s). The addition of 5% glycerol to the cryomedium contributes to the greatest decrease in the level of peroxidation of sperm lipids and an increase in catalase activity, which is fully consistent with the results on sperm motility. The calculated correlation coefficients confirm the dependence of the reproductive qualities of gametes on the antioxidant status of cells. The results indicate the importance of using antioxidants as cryoprotective additives to improve the quality of African catfish sperm breeding and indicate the need for more research to evaluate the effect of adding new potentially effective and safe antioxidants as cryoprotective additives.

Relative Abundance of Spermadhesin-1 in the Seminal Plasma of Young Nellore Bulls Is in Agreement with Reproductive Parameters.

This study aimed to evaluate the proteomic profile of seminal plasma from young Nellore bulls. We used 20 bulls aged between 19.8 and 22.7 months, divided into two groups according to the results of the Breeding Soundness Evaluation (BSE): approved (FIT n = 10) and not approved (UNFIT n = 10). The scrotal perimeter was measured and a semen collection was performed through electroejaculation. The percentage of sperm motility, mass motility, and sperm vigor were calculated using conventional microscopy, and the percentage of sperm abnormalities was calculated using phase-contrast microscopy of all ejaculates. Seminal plasma was separated from spermatozoa using centrifugation and processed for proteomic analysis by LC-MS/MS. Seminal plasma proteins were identified using MASCOT Daemon software v.2.4.0 and label-free quantification analysis was carried out by SCAFFOLD Q+ software v.4.0 using the Exponentially Modified Protein Abundance Index (emPAI) method. Functional classification of proteins was performed based on their genetic ontology terms using KOG. Functional cluster analysis was performed on DAVID. There were no differences in scrotal perimeter and physical semen characteristics between FIT and UNFIT groups of bulls. The percentage of sperm abnormalities was higher (p < 0.05) in the UNFIT group of bulls. A total of 297 proteins were identified for the two groups. There were a total of 11 differentially abundant proteins (p < 0.05), two of them more abundant in FIT bulls (Spermadhesin-1 and Ig gamma-1 chain C region) and nine in UNFIT bulls (Vasoactive intestinal peptide, Metalloproteinase inhibitor 2, Ig lambda-1 chain C regions, Protein FAM3C, Hemoglobin beta, Seminal ribonuclease, Spermadhesin 2, Seminal plasma protein BSP-30kDa, and Spermadhesin Z13). Spermadhesin-1 was the protein with the highest relative abundance (36.7%) in the seminal plasma among all bulls, corresponding to 47.7% for the FIT bulls and 25,7% for the UNFIT bulls. Posttranslational modification, protein turnover, and chaperones were the functional categories with the highest number of classified proteins. Protein functional annotation clusters were related to Phospholipid efflux, ATP binding, and chaperonin-containing T-complex. The differentially abundant proteins in the group of FIT bulls were related to sperm capacitation and protection against reactive species of oxygen. In contrast, differentially expressed proteins in the group of UNFIT bulls were related to motility inhibition, intramembrane cholesterol removal and oxidative stress. In conclusion, the proteomic profile of the seminal plasma of FIT bulls presents proteins with participation in several biological processes favorable to fertilization, while the proteins of the seminal plasma of UNFIT bulls indicate a series of alterations that can compromise the fertilizing capacity of the spermatozoa. In addition, the relative abundance of spermadhesin-1 found in the seminal plasma of young Nellore bulls could be studied as a reproductive parameter for selection.

Effect of semen extenders, dilution rates and storage periods on spermatozoa quality of Horasi chicken ecotype

Numerous semen extenders have been recommended for storing poultry semen. This study was conducted to assess a suitable extender, storage period and dilution rate for semen collected from the Horasi chicken ecotype. To accomplish the objectives, a 4 x 4 x 4 factorial experiment in a completely randomized design employing four extenders (BPSE, LAKE, CARI and garlic extract mixture), four dilution rates (1:2, 1:3, 1:4 and 1:5) and four storage periods (0, 12, 24 and 48 hours) was used. Semen samples were collected from ten Horasi cockerels using the abdominal massage technique, kept at 4°C and subsequently examined for semen motility, viability and normalcy after extension with specific diluent, each dilution rate and storage period. Sperm motility and viability were significantly (p&lt;0.05) reduced across all extenders and dilution rates examined, while defective spermatozoa increased with storage period. The Beltsville Poultry Semen Extender (BPSE) maintained high spermatozoa motility, viability, and normalcy at all dilution rates and storage periods tested, followed by the CARI and LAKE extenders, whereas the Garlic extender performed worse at all dilution rates and storage periods than the other extenders, especially at a 1:5 dilution rate and 48 hours of storage. Based on our findings, a high percentage of sperm motility, viability, and normalcy for Horasi chicken ecotype semen were observed while using BPSE at a dilution rate of 1:2, and the quality was maintained throughout the storage period tested. Thus, it is concluded that BPSE extender at a 1:2 dilution rate is a suitable extender for Horasi chicken ecotype semen.

The Molecular Prevalence of Varicella-Zoster Virus and Human Herpesvirus Types 6 and 7 in Sperm Samples of Infertile Men

Background and Aims: Human herpes virus types 6 and 7 (HHV-6, HHV-7) can remain latent in the urogenital tract epithelial cells. Varicella-Zoster virus (VZV) is among the Alphaherpesviruses infecting most people during childhood. This virus can remain latent in the ganglionic neurons. The latent infection can reactivate through weakness, suppression of the immune system, and aging. Therefore, this study investigated the molecular prevalence of HHV-6, HHV-7, and Varicella-Zoster virus in sperm samples from infertile men.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: Sperm samples from 82 infertile patients were collected from infertility centers in Tehran. Chromatin health levels and sperm DNA examinations were carried out using sperm DNA fragmentation index kits. Viral nucleic acids were extracted from the samples. The presence of VZV, HHV-6, and HHV-7 genomes was examined through the conventional polymerase chain reaction assay.&#x0D; Results: The average age was 37.3 ± 6.1 years. The mean sperm motility percentage was 33.6 ± 2%. Infertile men's mean DNA fragmentation index was 27.2 ± 1.2. This study shows a 7.3% and 4.9% prevalence for HHV-6 and VZV, respectively, and the absence of HHV-7 in sperm specimens.&#x0D; Conclusion: Although the infection rates of these herpesviruses seem relatively low, more comprehensive and multi-center studies are required to obtain more accurate results.

The Effect of SARS-Cov2 Infection on The Spermogram: A Prospective Study.

During the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, there was always concern about damage to different organs of the body. In this study, we aimed to determine if coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) could influence the sperm parameters in inpatient adult men with COVID-19. In this prospective study during 2021, 22 patients with COVID-19 diagnosed with polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test and clinical symptoms and history of admission and 19 volunteer healthy men as the control group participated. They were asked to provide semen samples at 2 and 6 months after hospital discharge and the same time for the control group. The following parameters were measured in all semen samples and beside the demographic data, they compared between the two groups: volume (mL), sperm concentration (106/mL), total motile sperm percentage, progressive percentage, normal morphology percentage, and DNA fragmentation index (DFI). The mean ± SD age of the participants in the COVID and control groups was 46.36 ± 9.94 and 45.84 ± 10.21 years, respectively (P=0.869). The mean ± SD body mass index (BMIs) of the participants in the COVID and control groups were 28.6 ± 5.460 and 29.6 ± 6.092, respectively (P=0.579). The mean ± SD number of children was 1.41 ± 1.054 in the COVID group and 1.47 ± 1.073 in the control group (P=0.847). All the sperm parameters were significantly impaired after 2 months in the COVID group in comparison with the control group (P<0.05). After 4 months from first sampling, all the parameters were improved significantly (except normal morphology) but had not yet reached the level of the control group. SARS-CoV-2 affected semen parameters in patients admitted because of COVID-19, in the short term. It is expected that this will improve with time.