Percentage Of Normal Sperm Morphology Research Articles

Novel insights into necrozoospermia from a single-center study: reference ranges, possible etiology, and impact on male fertility.

Necrozoospermia is a poorly documented condition with a low incidence, and its definition and clinical significance are unclear. Herein, we provide a reference range for necrozoospermia and discuss its possible etiology and impact on male fertility and assisted reproductive outcomes. We extracted relevant information from 650 Chinese male partners of infertile couples and statistically analyzed sperm vitality. Necrozoospermia was present in 3.4% (22/650) of our study population, and the lower cut-off value for sperm vitality was 75.3%. We compared two methods for assessing sperm vitality (eosin-nigrosin head staining and hypo-osmotic swelling test [HOST]), for which the percentage in the eosin-nigrosin group (mean ± standard deviation [s.d.]: 77.5% ± 10.5%) was significantly higher than that in the HOST group (mean ± s.d.: 58.1% ± 6.7% [5-10 min after incubation] and 55.6% ± 8.2% [25-30 min after incubation]; both P < 0.001). The incidence of necrozoospermia increased with age (odds ratio [OR] = 1.116, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.048-1.189, P = 0.001), while the percentage of normal sperm morphology and DNA fragmentation index (DFI) were significantly associated with necrozoospermia, with ORs of 0.691 (95% CI: 0.511-0.935, P = 0.017) and 1.281 (95% CI: 1.180-1.390, P < 0.001), respectively. In the following 6 months, we recruited 166 patients in the nonnecrozoospermia group and 87 patients in the necrozoospermia group to compare intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and pregnancy outcomes between the two groups. The necrozoospermia group had a significantly lower normal fertilization rate (74.7% vs 78.2%, P = 0.041; OR = 0.822; 95% CI: 0.682-0.992) than that in the nonnecrozoospermia group. This study presents substantial information on necrozoospermia to establish comprehensive and applicable reference values for sperm vitality for spontaneous conception and artificially assisted reproductive management.

Onset of reproductive capacity in unowned free-roaming cats

Purpose was to investigate if an underlying biological cause exists for the reproductive success in unowned free-roaming (UFR) cats. These cats were presented for surgical sterilization during late summer/early fall. After castration of UFR toms, presence of penile spines was recorded, slides were made from vas deferens secretions for sperm morphology analyses, and testes were hemi-sectioned, formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded, sectioned, stained with hematoxylin and eosin, and seminiferous tubule diameters were measured. After ovariohysterectomy of UFR queens, total ovarian-uterine weights were recorded. Ovaries were hemi-sectioned, formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded, sectioned, stained, and follicles were counted. Presence of penile spines did not differ (p = 0.07) between toms 2 - 6 (n = 13) and &gt; 6 months (n = 16). Percentage of normal sperm morphology did not differ (p = 0.39) between toms 2 - 6 (n = 11; 77 ± 11%) and &gt; 6 months (n = 9; 81 ± 13%). Seminiferous tubular diameter increased (p &lt; 0.01) in toms 2 - 2.5 (n = 6; 88.1 ± 10.9 µm), 3 - 4 (n = 6; 109.8 ± 8.9 µm), 5 - 6 (n = 6; 142.2 ± 16.9 µm), and &gt; 6 months (n = 6; 237.9 ± 52.5 µm). There was no association (R2 = 0.20; p = 0.07) between age and total ovarian-uterine weight of queens. Number of primary, secondary, and tertiary follicles recorded did not differ (p = 0.08) between queens 2 - 4 (n = 13) and 5 - 6 (n = 4) months. The largest follicle diameter did not differ (p = 0.14) between queens 2 - 4 (581.6 ± 53.7 µm) and 5 - 6 months (469.4 ± 113.9 µm). Results may explain why UFR cat populations continue to increase despite investments in extensive trap-neuter-return efforts. Selective pressure responses to shortened lifespans may contribute to onset of earlier reproductive capacity in UFR cats.

Analysis of Semen Parameters of Recovered Patients after COVID-19

Aim: The COVID-19 has spread rapidly around the world. Apart from primarily targeting the lungs and causing acute respiratory distress syndrome with severe respiratory symptoms and high risk of death, the disease can also cause damage to other organs such as the heart, kidney, and testis. Studies have shown that men are more likely to get infected by the disease than women and the death rate due to the disease is found to be higher in men. We aimed to show the effects of COVID-19 on sperm parameters. Materials and Methods: In the study, semen analyzes of COVID-19 patients and healthy control groups were compared according to the presence or absence of PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 positivity in hospital records. Patients with COVID-19 (+) were the patients who had mild disease. A total of 510 participants, 53 COVID-19 patients and 457 healthy control groups. After positivity confirmation of recovered COVID-19 patients using PCR, semen analysis was performed after an average of 157 (24-355) days. Also, in order to evaluate the short-term and long-term effects of the disease, patients were grouped as those with less than 90 days and more than 90 days after receiving the positive PCR result. Results: While the mean progressive motility of sperm was 41.45 (19.21) in the recovered COVID-19 patients, it was 38.35 (21.74) in the control group. The mean total motility was 55.74 (19.34) in recovered COVID-19 patients, where as it was 51.84 (22.45) in control group. The percentage of normal sperm morphology was 11.45 (5.97) in recovered COVID-19 patients, however it was 11.19 (8.08) in control group. The sperm concentration was found to be 68.60 (56.22) x 106/ml in recovered COVID-19 patients, but it was 74.10 (61.72) x 106/ml in control group. Finally, the mean sperm immobility was 44.26 (19.34) in recovered COVID-19 group, however it was 48.16 (22.45) in control group. Conclusion: In the study, when the semen analysis results of patients who recovered after COVID-19 and healthy control groups were compared in terms of semen parameters according to the recovery time period, no statistically significant difference was found. More studies are needed to fully understand the effects of COVID-19 on the reproductive system.

The reversible effects of gossypol toxicity on male pigeons' reproductive performance.

Gossypol, a cotton seed derivative, is well known for its reversible antifertility in male reproduction across species. Its antifertility and reversibility effects on male reproductive function vary among species in dose-and time-dependent manners. In this study, the antifertility potential of gossypol in pigeons was evaluated for the first time to determine whether it might be used as a dietary supplement for pigeon population control. Male pigeons were assigned into three experimental groups: The gossypol-treated group (n = 12), the sham control group (n = 6), and the negative control group (n = 6). There were two experimental periods: A gossypol-feeding period of 28 days and a gossypol-free period of 28 days. During the gossypol-feeding period, birds in the gossypol-treated group were fed 4 mg of gossypol extract per day. Birds in the sham control group were fed 0.5 mL of mixed ethanol and sunflower oil, while those in the negative control group were fed 0.5 mL of phosphate buffer saline. After the gossypol-feeding phase was completed, all remaining pigeons in all groups continued to receive their regular diet for an additional 28 days (gossypol-free phase). The body weight and semen quality of the birds in the experimental groups were compared to evaluate gossypol's antifertility effect. In the gossypol-treated group as compared to the control groups, the percentages of sperm motility and viability were significantly lower at 21 days, and the percentage of normal sperm morphology was significantly lower at 28 days during the gossypol-feeding period. After gossypol withdrawal, these antifertility effects were resumed and reached a comparable semen quality to the control groups within 14 days. Gossypol supplementation (4 mg/day for 28 days) could lower male pigeons' reproductive performance in terms of sperm motility, viability, and sperm morphology. Such infertility was, however, reversible within 14 days after gossypol withdrawal without any side effects on the pigeons, suggesting its application as a safe contraceptive feeding for male pigeons.

One-layer macroscopic verus two-layer microscopic vasovasostomy: Our experience in two referral hospitals.

Vasovasostomy is the most common surgery to restore the fertility of vasectomized men. This study aimed to compare the outcomes of one-layer macroscopic VV (MOLVV) or two-layer microscopic VV (TLMVV). This study was performed on the medical records of 100 patients who underwent VV surgery in two tertiary hospitals from 2014 to 2017. All patient information, including demographic and sperm analysis, was collected. The chi-square test, independent t-test, and survival analysis using Kaplan-Meyer test and Cox regression were performed to analyze the data using SPSS software version 25, and the significance level was considered 0.05. The fertility rate in patients of both groups was 15%. The findings showed a statistically significant difference between the mean percentage of normal sperm morphology according to the type of surgery (p = 0.045). There was no statistically significant difference between the mean sperm count, sperm motility percentage, and mean hospital costs according to the type of surgical procedure (p > 0.05). The incidence of spouse pregnancy in the TLMVV method after 15 and 24 months was 87.5% and 58.3%, respectively. In patients with unilateral anastomosis, the incidence of pregnancy at 13 and 15 months after surgery was 98.7% and 95.8%, respectively. The mean and median time of pregnancy in the spouses of patients with each surgical shower were 24 and 25 months. Other variables had no significant effect on spouse pregnancy. Vasovasostomy with the one and two-layer methods had equal results. The number, movement, and normal morphology of sperm after surgery were low. Therefore, these people will need assisted reproductive techniques.

Chronic exposure to air pollution and semen quality in an Asian population

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Evidence concerning the association between air pollution and semen quality is sparse, and findings in previous studies remain inconsistent. This study aims to investigate the associations between exposure to ambient air pollution and semen quality in Asia. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 7,658 male participants (aged &amp;#x2265;15 years) who participated in a standard medical examination program in Taiwan and Hong Kong between 2000 and 2018. The 2-year average concentration of PM₂.₅, NO₂, and O₃ was estimated at each participant’s address using satellite-based spatial-temporal models. Semen quality was assessed according to the WHO 1999 guidelines, including sperm concentration, total motility, progressive motility, and morphology. Generalized linear mixed models were used to examine the association between air pollution and sperm quality, with a region-level random intercept used in all models to control within-region clustering effects. RESULTS: Every 10 ug/m³ increase in NO₂ was associated with a decrease of -1.72% [95% confidence interval (CI): -2.68% to -0.75%] in sperm concentration. However, each 10 ug/m³ increase in PM₂.₅ and O₃ was associated with an increase of 3.13% (95%CI: 0.76% to 5.55%] and 2.88% (95%CI: 0.75% to 5.05%) in sperm concentration, respectively. In addition, each 10 ug/m³ increase in PM₂.₅ was associated with a lower percentage of normal sperm morphology, with a coefficient of -1.54 (95%CI: -2.41 to -0.68). There were no consistent associations between air pollution and other semen parameters. CONCLUSIONS: We found that exposure to ambient NO₂ was associated with a lower level of sperm concentration and exposure to ambient PM₂.₅ was associated with a lower level of normal sperm morphology. Further studies are warranted to validate our findings. KEYWORDS: Air pollution, ozone, male infertility, semen quality

Mitochondrial metabolism determines the functional status of human sperm and correlates with semen parameters

The diagnosis of male infertility is based essentially on the patient’s medical history and a standard semen analysis. However, the latter rarely provides information on the causes of a possible infertility, emphasizing the need to extend the analysis of the sperm function. Mitochondrial function has been associated with sperm function and dysfunction, the latter primarily through the production of excessive amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS). We hypothesized that analysis of sperm mitochondrial metabolism together with sperm ROS production could be an additional tool to improve routine semen analysis, after appropriate validations. To test our hypothesis, we performed several experiments using a non-routine method (high-resolution respirometry, HRR) to access mitochondrial function. First, we investigated whether mitochondrial function is related to human sperm motility and morphology. When mitochondrial metabolism was challenged, sperm motility decreased significantly. Additionally, morphological abnormalities in the sperm mid-piece and mitochondria were associated with global sperm defects evaluated by routine methods. Subsequently, sperm mitochondrial function was assessed by HRR. Respiratory control ratio (RCR) was determined and evaluated in the context of classical sperm analysis. In parallel, sperm hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production and seminal plasma (SP) antioxidant capacity were measured. The percentage of sperm with progressive motility correlated positively with RCR, SP antioxidant capacity, and negatively with the concentration of extracellular H2O2 production ([H2O2]). The percentage of normal sperm morphology correlated positively with RCR and negatively with [H2O2]. Sperm morphology did not correlate with seminal plasma antioxidant capacity. Furthermore, Receiver Operating Characteristic curves were used for the first time to test the diagnostic ability of RCR, [H2O2], and SP antioxidant capacity as binary classifiers. An RCR cut off value of 3.2 was established with a sensitivity of 73% and a specificity of 61%, using reference values considered normal or abnormal in routine semen analysis. The cut off value for [H2O2] was 0.2 μM/106 sperm (sensitivity = 65%, specificity = 60%). There were no reference values for SP antioxidant capacity that distinguished between abnormal and normal sperm samples. We conclude that sperm mitochondrial function indices in combination with [H2O2] may be useful tools to complement the routine semen analysis.

SERPINA5 Protein in Cumulus-Oocyte Complexes Increases the Fertilisation Ability of Mouse Sperm.

Obtaining high-quality sperm is key to improving the success rate of assisted reproductive technology (ART). Although cytokines secreted by cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) bind to sperm surface receptors to improve sperm quality, the effects of adding mouse COCs to human tubal fluid (HTF) medium on sperm capacitation have not yet been explored. Eight-week-old ICR mouse COCs were added to HTF medium and crushed to obtain the post-modified HTF medium. Compared with using HTF medium, the fertilisation rate and number of sperm combined with the zona pellucida significantly increased after in vitro capacitation using the post-modified HTF medium (P < 0.01). Proteomic and Western blotting analyses showed that the level of SERPINA5 in sperm increased significantly following in vitro capacitation with the post-modified HTF medium (P < 0.05). Immunohistochemical staining analysis demonstrated that SERPINA5 protein was expressed in mouse cumulus cells. A SERPINA5 antibody was added in the post-modified HTF medium to block the effects of SERPINA5 after in vitro capacitation, which significantly decreased the fertilisation rate and the number of sperm combined with the zona pellucida (P < 0.05). Recombinant mouse SERPINA5 protein (1 ~ 2μg/ml) was added to HTF medium and the fertilisation rate and the number of sperm combined with the zona pellucida significantly increased (P < 0.01). Moreover, recombinant human SERPINA5 protein (5μg/ml) was added before human semen freezing. Compared with adding no SERPINA5 protein, the percentage of normal sperm morphology and the intact acrosome significantly increased (P < 0.05). Our study provides a reference method for optimising sperm quality in the process of in vitro capacitation.

Tamoxifen as Empirical Treatment in Males with Primary Infertility and Normal Gonadotropic Hormonal Levels: A Prospective Study

Background: One of the most commonly employed medical therapies for idiopathic male infertility are antiestrogens. Tamoxifen as estrogen receptor blockers have been used as empiric treatments for male infertility, acting through blocking estrogen receptor at the hypothalamus and pituitary levels and so preventing the important negative feedback of estrogens to the pituitary and hypothalamus as a result that leading to gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) stimulation and pulsatile release of luteinizing hormone (LH)/follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Objective: To assess tamoxifen role in the treatment of men with primary infertility who are normogonadotropic. as it is widely prescribed drug for that purpose as well as to evaluate possible patient’s criteria for a better response to tamoxifen. Methods: One hundred twenty-three patients with idiopathic primary infertility and normal FSH, LH, and testosterone serum levels were enrolled in this prospective study. All patients received 20 mg tamoxifen daily as a single dose for at least 3 months, and semen analysis (total sperm concentration, total number of progressive motile sperms and percentage of normal sperm morphology) as well hormones levels were evaluated, with the values being compared with those before treatment. Results: Overall, there was no statistically-significant improvement in semen parameters 3 months after treatment (P&gt;0.05); however, patients with pretreatment lower normal FSH level of (1.7-6.85 mIU/ml) and those with pretreatment sperm concentration of (five to ten million per ml) showed statistically significant improvement in sperm concentration after tamoxifen therapy (p=0.044 and p=0.012 respectively). Conclusion: Tamoxifen is an acceptable treatment for idiopathic male infertility. A better response can be expected in patients with pretreatment lower normal FSH level of (1.7-6.85 miu/ml) and sperm concentration of 5-10 million per ml. It might be used as first line treatment to enhance sperm concentration, giving its availability and lower cost in comparison to other hormonal therapies. Keywords: Male Infertility, tamoxifen, empirical treatment Citation: Al-Anbary LA. Tamoxifen as empirical treatment in males with primary infertility and normal gonadotropic hormonal levels: A prospective study. Iraqi JMS. 2021; 19(2): 230-236. doi: 10.22578/IJMS.19.2.12

Semen parameters on the intracytoplasmic sperm injection day: Predictive values and cutoff thresholds of success

ObjectiveThis study was conducted to investigate the relationship of semen parameters in samples used for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) with fertilization and pregnancy rates in infertile couples.MethodsIn this prospective study of Infertile couples with male factor infertility that had undergone ICSI, fractions of the same semen samples obtained for microinjection (to ensure the best predictability) were evaluated to determine the semen parameters and sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI) on the day of oocyte recovery.ResultsIn total, 120 couples completed the study and were subdivided into fertilized (n=87) and non-fertilized couples (n=33). The fertilized couples were further classified into pregnant (n=48) and non-pregnant (n=39) couples. Compared to non-fertilized and non-pregnant couples, fertilized and pregnant couples showed statistically significantly higher sperm viability and percentage of normal sperm morphology, as well as significantly lower sperm DFI values. A receiver operating characteristic curve analysis of data from the 120 ICSI cycles showed that sperm viability, normal sperm morphology percentages, and sperm DFI were significant prognostic indicators of fertilization at cutoff values of 40%, 7%, and 46%, respectively. A sperm DFI of 46% showed sensitivity and specificity of 95% and 90%, respectively, for predicting fertilization, and no clinical pregnancies occurred in couples with a sperm DFI above 46%.ConclusionSemen parameters from the ICSI day sample, especially sperm viability, normal morphology, and DFI, had an impact on fertilization and pregnancy outcomes in ICSI cycles.

Effects of Sperm Parameters on Pregnancy Rate in Patients Undergoing Intrauterine Insemination

OBJECTIVE: In this study, the effects of sperm parameters on the success of intrauterine insemination were investigated. STUDY DESIGN: The data from 309 infertile couples who were admitted between 2012-2018 without a female factor were analyzed retrospectively and included in the study. After the administration of gonadotropin and hCG (5000-10000 IU), single insemination was performed in 36-40 hours in all cycles. All couples underwent routine infertility screening. The relationship between sperm parameters (motility, morphology, sperm count), patient age, duration of infertility with intrauterine insemination success was evaluated.RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of mean age and age related-parity. There was no statistically significant difference between male ages, liquefaction, and sperm volumes between the two groups (p=0.898, p=0.448, p=0.651). Before washing; There was a statistically significant difference between the sperm concentration, percentage of total motile sperm, percentage of progressive motility sperm, percentage of normal sperm morphology, and total sperm count between the two groups (p=0.0001, p=0.0001, p=0.0001, p=0.0001, p=0.0001). After sperm washing; the results were similar to those obtained before washing. While statistically significant difference was observed between sperm volume and sperm concentrations (p=0.023, p=0.018), no significant difference was observed between the two groups in total sperm count (p=0.612).CONCLUSION: As a result, during the application of intrauterine insemination to infertile couples, total motile sperm count, progressive motility sperm count ratio and high sperm ratio with normal morphology used in order to increase pregnancy success can be considered as criteria that increase the chances of success.

Diagnostic performance of discontinuous density gradient centrifugation for estimating human semen quality.

Semen analysis plays an important role in the diagnosis of male infertility. However, many studies have demonstrated that the current methods of semen analysis are inefficient for assessing male fertility. To test whether prior discontinuous density gradient centrifugation (DDCG) improves the performance of semen analysis in diagnosing male infertility. Infertile men and fertile men were recruited from the clinic. Pre- and post-DDGC values for the semen parameters of sperm concentration, total sperm number, percent total motility, percent progressive motility, percent normal sperm morphology, and sperm DNA fragmentation rate were compared. A total of 528 men (252 infertile men and 276 fertile men) were enrolled in the present study. After DDGC, sensitivity was significantly increased for sperm concentration, total sperm number, and sperm morphology (P<.01); specificity was significantly increased for progressive motility and sperm morphology (P<.01); and diagnostic accuracy was significantly improved for all of these parameters (area under the curve (AUC): P<.01). Total motility and sperm DNA fragmentation rate exhibited no obvious change in sensitivity, specificity or accuracy after DDGC (all P>.01). For the combination of all these semen parameters, diagnostic accuracy improved significantly after DDGC (AUC: P<.01). In a multiple regression analysis, only sperm morphology and sperm DNA fragmentation rate had P values less than 0.05 before DDGC, whereas all parameters except total sperm number contributed to the equation after DDGC. DDGC is a mature, standardized procedure for clinical commonly used to optimize spermatozoa. The diagnostic accuracy of semen analysis was significantly improved after DDGC, which indicated that assessing "functional spermatozoa" might be a more suitable method for semen analysis than the WHO 2010 criteria. Assessing semen parameters after DDGC might improve their diagnostic accuracy for male infertility.

Effect of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels on sperm quality and assisted reproductive technology outcomes for men of infertile Chinese couples.

Vitamin D insufficiency/deficiency is highly prevalent in China, but its effect on sperm quality and outcomes of assisted reproductive technology (ART) in men from infertile couples is not clear. This study aimed to explore the association of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) levels and semen parameters, as well as ART outcomes for men from infertile couples. This study recruited 1308 men from infertile couples who attended the Reproductive Medicine Center of Peking University Third Hospital for first time from February to August 2019 (NCT03804294). Reproductive hormones levels, semen parameters, and clinical outcomes of ART were compared between vitamin D-deficient group (serum 25OHD≤10ng/mL), insufficient group (serum 25OHD 10-20ng/mL), and sufficient group (serum 25OHD≥20ng/mL). We found 27.7% of participants were vitamin D sufficient, suggesting high prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency/deficiency in China. Reproductive hormone levels were similar between the three groups. The total number of morphologically normal spermatozoa was significantly different between the three groups in all participants, impaired semen quality subgroup, and normozoospermia subgroup (P<.05) with the adjustment of confounders (age, BMI, alcohol consumption, cigarette smoking, and physical exercise). The percentage of normal sperm morphology significantly increased with elevated serum 25OHD levels in all participants and the participants with impaired semen quality (P<.05), and the total sperm count showed significant difference in participants with impaired semen quality (P=.026). For routine in vitro fertilization and intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles, there were no differences in fertilization rate, top-quality embryo rate, biochemical pregnancy rate, and clinical pregnancy rate between serum 25OHD<20ng/mL and serum 25OHD≥20ng/mL groups. Males of infertile couples with higher serum 25OHD levels exhibit better results in sperm morphology, and serum 25OHD levels may contribute to total sperm number in participants with impaired semen quality, but show no effects on the ART outcomes.

The association between ambient temperature and sperm quality in Wuhan, China

BackgroundFew epidemiological investigations have focused on the influence of environmental temperature on human sperm quality. Here, we evaluated the potential association between ambient temperature and human sperm quality in Wuhan, China, and examined the interactive effect of particulate matter (PM2.5) and temperature.Methods1780 males who had been living in Wuhan for no less than three months and received semen analysis at the Department of Reproductive Medicine in Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University between April 8, 2013 and June 30, 2015 were recruited. Daily mean meteorological data and air pollution data (PM2.5, O3 and NO2) in Wuhan between 2013 and 2015 were collected. A generalized linear model was used to explore the associations between ambient temperature and sperm quality (including sperm concentration, percentage of normal sperm morphology, and progressive motility) at 0–9, 10–14, 15–69, 70–90, and 0–90 days before semen examination, and the interaction between temperature and PM2.5.ResultsThe associations between ambient temperature and sperm quality were an inverted U-shape at five exposure windows, except for a lag of 0–9 days for sperm concentration. A 1 °C increase in ambient temperature above the thresholds was associated with a 2.038 (1.292 ~ 2.783), 1.814 (1.217 ~ 2.411), 1.458 (1.138 ~ 1.777), 0.934(0.617 ~ 1.251) and 1.604 (1.258 ~ 1.951) decrease in the percentage of normal sperm morphology at lag 0–9, lag 10–14, lag 15–69, lag 70–90, and lag 0–90 days, respectively. The interaction p-values of PM2.5 and temperature were mostly less than 0.05 at five exposure windows. When ambient temperature exposure levels were above the thresholds, a 0.979 (0.659–1.299) and 3.559 (0.251 ~ 6.867) decrease in percentage of normal sperm morphology per 1 °C increase in temperature at lag 0–90 days was observed in the PM2.5 ≤ P50 group and PM2.5 > P50 group, respectively.ConclusionsOur results indicate that exposure to ambient temperature has a threshold effect on sperm quality, and PM2.5 enhances the effect of temperature on sperm quality when temperatures are above the threshold.

Maternal exposure to ibuprofen can affect the programming of the hypothalamus of the male offspring

Ibuprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, inhibits the activity of cyclooxygenase enzyme, leading to reduction in Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production. Due to the importance of PGE2 in promoting the brain masculinization in male fetus, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of in utero and lactational exposure to ibuprofen and their late repercussions on reproductive parameters in male rats. Pregnant rats were exposed to ibuprofen (10, 30 or 60 mg/kg) or vehicle (control group) per gavage daily from gestational day 15 to day 21 after birth, and late reproductive effects were assessed during the sexual development and in the reproductive adult life in the male offspring. Males exposed to ibuprofen had a decrease in body weight and anogenital distance, as well as a delay in the ages of testicular descent and preputial separation. In adulthood, there was a decrease in the Leydig cells nuclei volume, testosterone levels and percentage of normal sperm morphology. All animals exposed to ibuprofen presented male copulatory behavior, however, in the presence of another male, they also presented a female-typical behavior. Maternal exposure to ibuprofen during the sensitive windows of brain development adversely impacted the reproductive parameters of male rats, suggesting an incomplete masculinization of the hypothalamus.

Heavy metal exposure, oxidative stress and semen quality: Exploring associations and mediation effects in reproductive-aged men.

Heavy metal exposure induces oxidative stress, which is critical for adverse male reproductive health. To explore the mediating effect of oxidative stress on the relationship of heavy metal exposure with semen quality. Urinary levels of three oxidative stress markers, semen quality, and urinary arsenic, cadmium and lead were examined among 1020 men. Multivariate linear regression was applied to explore cross-sectional associations, and the role of oxidative stress as mediators was investigated. Quartiles of metals showed significant dose-dependent relationships with increasing levels of 8-hydroxy-2deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α (8-isoPGF2α) and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal-mercapturic acid (HNE-MA). Significant or suggestive associations were also found between urinary 8-OHdG levels and the percentage of normal sperm morphology (ptrend<0.001), between urinary 8-isoPGF2α levels and total motility (ptrend=0.052), progressive motility (ptrend=0.050) respectively. The mediation analysis showed that about 14.59%, 18.06%, 15.35% or 16.49% of the association between arsenic/cadmium exposure and the decreased total motility/progressive motility was mediated by 8-isoPGF2α, respectively. In addition, about 16.47% of the relationship between lead exposure and the decreased percentage of normal sperm morphology was mediated by 8-OHdG. Our findings suggest that higher urinary arsenic, cadmium and lead levels were associated with increased oxidative stress markers, which also related with altered semen quality. 8-isoPGF2α and 8-OHdG might be the possible mediators of the associations between urinary heavy metals and total motility, progressive motility or the proportion of normal sperm morphology.

Impact of hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus infection on sperm parameters of infertile men.

BackgroundViral hepatitis is one of the health problems which have the effects on the health issues. It seems that hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection have negative impacts on the semen quality and male infertility rate.ObjectiveIn this study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of HBV and HCV on sperm quality among Iranian infertile men referred to Royan Institute Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center between 2003 and 2014.Materials and MethodsThis retrospective case-control study included 112 HBV positive infertile men and 47 HCV positive infertile men as case group and 112 HBV negative and HCV negative matched infertile men as a control group. All semen analysis and viral parameters assessment was performed in the central laboratory with the same method and instruments.ResultsSperm count among infertile men with HBV and HCV infection was significantly lower than control group [the mean of the total sperm count 100.95░±░118.59, 118.22░±░141.18, 166.27░±░151.25 (p░<░0.001)]. Sperm motility was significantly decreased in HBV and HCV positive men in comparison to the control group [30.97░±░25.88, 31.09░±░28.72, 40.87░±░23.37, respectively (p░<░0.007)]. The percentage of normal sperm morphology was significantly higher in control group in comparison to HBV and HCV infected group [the mean of the normal semen morphology 3.23░±░3.27, 3.70░±░3.83, 4.51░±░3.15 p░<░0.015]. Although there is a significant decline in liquefaction time in the case group but the viscosity, semen volume, and PH of semen samples were similar in the both case and control groups.ConclusionOur results suggest that HBV and HCV infection are associated with poor sperm quality.

Association of advanced oxidation protein products in seminal plasma with teratospermia and outcome parameters of in vitro fertilization

To study the association of the level of advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs) in seminal plasma with teratospermia and the outcome parameters of in vitro fertilization (IVF). We conducted a cross-sectional study among 272 male patients receiving assisted reproduction treatment in the Center for Reproductive Medicine of our hospital between October, 2018 and March, 2019. The levels of seminal AOPPs and reactive oxygen species (ROS), demographic data, sperm parameters and IVF outcome parameters were analyzed for all the patients. According to the percentage of sperms with normal morphology, the patients were divided before IVF into teratozoospermia group and normal sperm morphology group, and those in teratozoospermia group were further divided into 3 subgroups with mild, moderate and severe teratozoospermia. The patients were also divided on the day oocyte retrieval into 2 groups with fertilizing rates lower (group Ⅰ) and higher (group Ⅱ) than the median rate. We found a significant negative correlation of seminal AOPP level before treatment with the percentage of normal sperm morphology (P=0.003) and seminal ROS level (P=0.013). The seminal levels of AOPPs (P= 0.027) and ROS (P=0.036) were significantly elevated in patients with teratospermia, and seminal AOPP level was significantly higher in severe teratospermia group than in mild (P=0.019) and moderate (P=0.015) teratospermia groups. The seminal levels of AOPPs (P=0.003) and ROS (P=0.017) on the day of oocyte retrieval were negatively correlated with the fertilization rate in IVF cycles, and the levels of AOPPs (P=0.049) and ROS (P=0.036) were significantly higher in group Ⅰ than in group Ⅱ. An elevated level of seminal AOPPs may indicate an increased risk of severe teratospermia and a lower fertilization rate in IVF.

Significant Correlation between High-Risk HPV DNA in Semen and Impairment of Sperm Quality in Infertile Men.

BackgroundHuman papillomavirus (HPV) is a DNA virus that causes sexually transmitted infections (STI). Recent reports suggest that HPV may affect sperm parameters and lead to male infertility. This study aims to evaluate the cor- relation between seminal high-risk HPV infection and impairment of sperm quality in infertile Iranian men.Materials and MethodsIn this case-control study, we collected fresh semen samples from 70 fertile men and 70 confirmed infertile men who referred to Yazd Infertility Centre in 2015. Semen analyses were performed according to the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. High-risk HPV DNA was detected by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR).ResultsA total of 140 subjects participated in the current study. Among 70 confirmed infertile males, only 8 (11.43%) cases tested positive for high-risk HPV and all fertile men were HPV-negative. This data revealed a significant asso- ciation between high-risk HPV and male infertility (P=0.03). The percentage of normal sperm morphology and sperm motility rate significantly declined in men infected with HPV (P<0.001).ConclusionThere was a significantly higher prevalence of high-risk HPV in infertile men than fertile men. HPV infection seemed to be a risk factor for male infertility. Additional, larger studies should be conducted to confirm the impact of HPV on male infertility.

Combined effects of varicocele and cell phones on semen and hormonal parameters.

The objective of this study was to evaluate if there is acombined effect of varicocele and cell phone storage in trousers pockets on semen and hormonal parameters. Aretrospective analysis of 468 men attending an infertility clinic from 1993-2007 was performed. Varicoceles were determined by clinical examination and patients were questioned on cell phone usage and storage fashion. Semen samples were analyzed according to the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines of 1999. Serum testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) were assessed. There was asignificant effect of cell phone storage in trousers pockets and varicocele in multivariate analysis (both p< 0.001). Varicocele showed an effect on sperm concentration (p= 0.003), LH (p= 0.014) and testosterone (p= 0.003). Compared to grade1, grade2 varicoceles showed adifference in sperm concentration (p= 0.004). Regarding testosterone differences were shown for grade3 versus grade1 (p= 0.002) and grade3 compared to grade2 (p= 0.003). Cell phone storage in trousers pockets showed an influence on the percentage of normal sperm morphology and LH (both p< 0.001). Varicocele and cell phone storage in trousers pockets did not show acombined effect (p= 0.76). This analysis showed an inverse relation between sperm concentration and degree of varicocele, with lower concentrations in higher grade varicoceles. Testosterone was significantly higher in higher grade varicoceles, which could reflect acompensatory mechanism to the impaired testicular function. Cell phone storage in trousers pockets showed an effect on LH and sperm morphology. Acombined effect of varicocele and cell phone storage in trousers pockets was not detected.