Semen Analysis Parameters Research Articles

Male subfertility effects of sub-chronic ethanol exposure during stress in a rat model.

Stressful conditions increase alcohol consumption in men. Clinical studies link disruption of the neuroendocrine stress system with alcoholism, but the effect of alcohol in a stress condition on male fertility is still relatively poorly understood. This project was undertaken to evaluate the effect of sub-chronic alcohol in a stress condition on male fertility in a rat model. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into a control group, a stress group that was exposed to restraint stress, an ethanol group that was injected with ethanol daily, and a stress+ethanol group that was injected with ethanol daily and was exposed to restraint stress, simultaneously. Furthermore, testis tissue was evaluated histomorphometrically and immunohistochemically for apoptosis using a TUNEL assay after 12 days. Epididymis sperm analysis was done. Blood cortisol and testosterone were measured and expression of hypothalamic kisspeptin (Kiss1), RFRP-3, and MC4R mRNA were evaluated. Ethanol exposure during restraint stress did not alter body weight. Ethanol exposure decreased the cellular diameter and area, and stress increased the cellular diameter and area, in comparison with the control group. In the stress group, in comparison with the other groups, the number of seminiferous tubules decreased and the numerical density of seminiferous tubules increased. In addition, ethanol exposure and/or stress reduced semen analysis parameters (sperm viability and motility), but did not change serum testosterone concentrations. Apoptosis increased in spermatogonia with ethanol exposure, but spermatocytes were not affected. Our data present the novel finding that ethanol and stress reduced hypothalamic Kiss1 mRNA expression, while ethanol exposure decreased hypothalamic RFRP-3 and MC4R mRNA expression. Ethanol decreased cortisol hormone level during the restraint stress condition and attenuated hypothalamic reproductive-related gene expressions. Therefore, ethanol exposure may induce reduction of sperm viability, increased sperm mortality, and increased apoptosis, with long-term effects, and may induce permanent male subfertility.

The impact of zinc and folic acid supplementation on sperm DNA methylation: results from the folic acid and zinc supplementation randomized clinical trial (FAZST)

To determine if 6-month folic acid (5 mg) and zinc (30 mg) supplementation impacts sperm DNA methylation patterns. A multicenter, double-blind, block randomized, placebo-controlled trial titled "The Folic Acid and Zinc Supplementation Trial (FAZST)." Infertility care centers. Male partners (18 years and older) from heterosexual couples (female partners aged 18-45 years) seeking fertility treatment were recruited. Men were randomized 1:1 to receive folic acid (5 mg) and elemental zinc (30 mg) (n = 713) or a matching placebo (n=757) daily for 6 months. Sperm DNA methylation was analyzed using the EPIC methylation array (Illumina) at 6 months. Differential sperm DNA methylation was assessed at multiple levels (regional, single cytosine phosphate guanine, etc.). We additionally assessed the impact of supplementation on epigenetic age. No significant differences were identified between the treatment and placebo groups although some trends appeared to be present. To determine if these trends were noteworthy, we implemented various permutations and found that the patterns we identified were no more than would be expected by random chance. The data presented here strongly suggest that this supplementation regimen is not effective at altering sperm DNA methylation. These data comport well with previous findings from the FAZST study that found no impact of supplementation on basic semen analysis parameters or live birth. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01857310.

Does mRNA SARS-CoV-2 vaccine detrimentally affect male fertility, as reflected by semen analysis?

Research questionDoes Pfizer's coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination detrimentally affect semen analysis parameters? DesignA prospective cohort study was conducted at a single large tertiary centre in Israel between February and March of 2021. Semen samples from 75 fertile men were analysed 1–2 months following their second dose of Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine. The semen parameters were compared with the World Health Organization (WHO) reference ranges. The primary outcome was the percentage of abnormal semen parameters in those who were vaccinated, i.e. the rates of oligozoospermia, reduced percentage of motile spermatozoa and abnormal sperm morphology. ResultsThe interval from the time of the second vaccination to the date of participation was on average 37 days, with most subjects describing either mild or no side effects after the first or second dose. The mean sperm concentration was 63.2 ± 33.6 × 106/ml, with only a single participant (1.3%) with a sperm count of 12.5 × 106/ml, considered by the WHO to be oligozoospermic. The mean sperm motility percentage was 64.5 ± 16.7%, with only a single man (1.3%) displaying reduced motility. No notable morphological abnormalities were observed. This constituted a lower percentage of abnormal semen parameters compared with the 5% rates reported in fertile men by the WHO. ConclusionsThe semen parameters following COVID-19 vaccination were predominantly within the normal reference ranges as set by the WHO and do not reflect any causative detrimental effect from COVID-19 vaccination. The results strengthen the notion that the Pfizer's severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccine is safe and should be recommended to men wishing to conceive.

Outcome of Extended Varicocelectomy in Case of High Grade Varicocele

Abstract Background Varicocele is defined as abnormal dilation and tourtousity of the internal spermatic veins within the pampiniform plexus. It is common among adolescents and may contribute significantly to the risk of subfertility in adulthood. Objective To evaluate the outcome of extended varicocelectomy in case of high grade varicocele. Patients and methods In all, 30 varicocele cases including 12 left sided and 18 bilateral, comprising 48 spermatic cord units with clinically palpable varicocele and affected semen analysis underwent extended varicocele ligation. Testicular delivery was done in all the cases and assessment of the gubernacular veins was reported. The patients underwent clinical evaluation, scrotal doppler ultrasonography, as well as semen analysis to detect varicocele recurrence, hydrocele formation and early changes in semen parameters. The postoperative evaluation period was 3 months. Results No varicocele recurrences were clinically detectable after our surgical approach, No hydrocele formation, and There was improvement in the parameters of semen analysis in the entire patients presented with infertility associated with varicocele as regard improvement in the count, motility, and decrease in the abnormal forms 3 months after varicocelectomy. Conclusion Extended varicocele ligation with delivery of the testis achieve good surgical outcome with minimal varicocele recurrence and hydrocele formation, and offer beneficial effect on semen parameters.

Предикторы восстановления репродуктивной функции у субфертильных мужчин после варикоцелэктомии

INTRODUCTION Varicocelectomy does not always lead to semen improvement and male fertility recovery. OBJECTIVES Analysis of total progressive motile sperm count (TPMSC) predictive role in fertility recovery of subfertile man after varicocelectomy in combination with other predictors. MATERIALS AND METHODS This prospective, open, multi-center study comprises 93 men from infertile couples with clinical varicocele who underwent microsurgical (inguinal or subinguinal) varicocelectomy. The changes in the standard semen analysis studied according to WHO 2010 Standards. We also evaluated spontaneous pregnancy rates. A discriminant analysis was carried out with step-by-step selection to identify reliable predictors of pregnancy after varicocelectomy. An increase in TPMSC by at least 12.5 million was considered as a good effect of varicocele repair (reference values for the number and progressive sperm motility according to WHO 2010: 39 million x 0.32 (32%) progressively motile). Patients were divided into 3 groups in regards of direction and degree of semen changes: group I included 48 patients with increase of TPMSC more or equal 12.5 million, group II comprised 20 patients with mild increase in TPMSC (0.1 - 12.5 million) and the III group comprised patients without any effect (TPMSC did not change, or became less than preoperative one) after varicocelectomy. The initial clinical characteristics of patients in the groups were compared. RESULTS A significant effect was observed in 52% of cases (n=48), a mild favorable effect in 21% (n=20), and no effect in 27% (n=25). Spontaneous pregnancy rates (in 1 year after varicocele repair) were higher in patients of group I than that of groups II and III: 46%, 10% and 12%, respectively (p 0.05). In group I, the initial semen analysis parameters were significantly better than in group II and worse than in group III: the median and 25% -75% of the quartiles for TPMSC were 15 (1-44), 0 (0-8) and 54 (19-100) million, respectively (for all p<0.001). According to discriminant analysis significant predictors of pregnancy after varicocelectomy were an increase of TPMSC, male age and the initial total sperm motility. The predictive accuracy of the prognostic model with these three predictors was 84%, specificity was 87%, and sensitivity was 76%. CONCLUSIONS The odds of fertility recovery after varicocelectomy has a U-shaped relationship: it is higher in patients with moderate semen quality impairment and it decreases in patients with initially low, and, conversely, high sperm count and motility. An increase in TPMSC by 12.5 million or more is a highly significant indicator of fertility recovery, because in this case the odds of spontaneous pregnancy can reach 50%. Predictors of fertility recovery after varicocelectomy are an increase of TPMSC, male age and the preoperative total motility.

MP31-16 GONADOTROPIN CONCENTRATION THRESHOLDS TO PREDICT IMPROVEMENTS IN TESTOSTERONE AND SEMEN PARAMETERS WITH CLOMIPHENE CITRATE

You have accessJournal of UrologyInfertility: Therapy (MP31)1 Sep 2021MP31-16 GONADOTROPIN CONCENTRATION THRESHOLDS TO PREDICT IMPROVEMENTS IN TESTOSTERONE AND SEMEN PARAMETERS WITH CLOMIPHENE CITRATE Tommy Jiang, Alvaro Santamaria, Neilufar Modiri, Michael Zheng, Vadim Osadchiy, John Sigalos, Jesse Mills, and Sriram Eleswarapu Tommy JiangTommy Jiang More articles by this author , Alvaro SantamariaAlvaro Santamaria More articles by this author , Neilufar ModiriNeilufar Modiri More articles by this author , Michael ZhengMichael Zheng More articles by this author , Vadim OsadchiyVadim Osadchiy More articles by this author , John SigalosJohn Sigalos More articles by this author , Jesse MillsJesse Mills More articles by this author , and Sriram EleswarapuSriram Eleswarapu More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000002035.16AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Due to its indirect ability to increase pituitary gonadotropins, clomiphene citrate is prescribed off-label to men with hypogonadism or impaired sperm counts. However, threshold values for pre-treatment LH and FSH that predict response remain unknown. We sought to identify pre-treatment thresholds to guide clomiphene use in men with hypogonadism or subfertility. METHODS: Using an IRB approved database, we retrospectively extracted LH, FSH, testosterone (T), and semen analysis (SA) data in men pre- and 3 months post-treatment with clomiphene (25 mg daily). Patients with prior hormone therapy or genitourinary surgery were excluded. We determined efficacy thresholds by identifying the highest LH or FSH level at which a significant difference in initial and final values for each outcome (T and each SA parameter) could be observed, based on Student t-tests with α=0.05. A representative FSH threshold curve measuring fluctuation in P-value for effect on sperm concentration is provided in Figure 1. Men whose partners achieved pregnancy while taking clomiphene were used to contextualize the computed LH and FSH thresholds. RESULTS: Threshold determinations were made from data on 137 men; 28 had partners achieve pregnancy; 25 of these had pre-treatment LH and FSH levels. Table 1 reports thresholds for either LH or FSH for each outcome. For each given threshold, pregnancy rates are listed. For example, the highest FSH at which to achieve a significant improvement in sperm concentration with clomiphene is a level of 9.9 miU/mL, and this translated to a pregnancy rate of 80% in our cohort. Similar data are presented in Table 1 for each outcome. CONCLUSIONS: Threshold values of gonadotropins were identified, below which statistically significant improvements in testosterone, sperm concentration, total sperm count, and total motile sperm count occurred. These thresholds may be useful in guiding clomiphene use in men contending with hypogonadism or subfertility. Further prospective evaluation is needed to validate these thresholds. Source of Funding: N/A © 2021 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 206Issue Supplement 3September 2021Page: e561-e561 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2021 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Tommy Jiang More articles by this author Alvaro Santamaria More articles by this author Neilufar Modiri More articles by this author Michael Zheng More articles by this author Vadim Osadchiy More articles by this author John Sigalos More articles by this author Jesse Mills More articles by this author Sriram Eleswarapu More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement Loading ...

SEMEN ANALYSIS PARAMETERS DO NOT CHANGE DURING ACTIVE COVID INFECTION IN KNOWN SPERM DONORS

The effects of SARS-CoV-2 were initially studied in the respiratory system, but research has now shown manifestations in multiple organ systems. SARS-CoV-2 is known to enter target cells through the ACE-2 receptor, which is expressed in the testes. Due to this, the testes has been purported to be a potential target for SARS-CoV-2 infection. To date, studies have suggested that there is only a minor risk for shedding of SARS-CoV-2 into the semen.1 The objective of this study is to compare semen analysis parameters in a subset of healthy sperm donors prior to, during, and after testing positive for COVID-19.

MP21-09 TOPIC MODELING AND SENTIMENT ANALYSIS OF SOCIAL MEDIA MALE INFERTILITY DISCUSSIONS

You have accessJournal of UrologyInfertility: Epidemiology & Evaluation I (MP21)1 Sep 2021MP21-09 TOPIC MODELING AND SENTIMENT ANALYSIS OF SOCIAL MEDIA MALE INFERTILITY DISCUSSIONS Krishna Ravivarapu, Alexander Small, Evan Garden, Micah Levy, Osama Al-Alao, and Michael Palese Krishna RavivarapuKrishna Ravivarapu More articles by this author , Alexander SmallAlexander Small More articles by this author , Evan GardenEvan Garden More articles by this author , Micah LevyMicah Levy More articles by this author , Osama Al-AlaoOsama Al-Alao More articles by this author , and Michael PaleseMichael Palese More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000002006.09AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Anonymous social media forums allow uninhibited and unbiased patient expression of prevailing concerns, attitudes, and experiences. For a sensitive condition like male-factor infertility, insights into online discussions can augment understanding of patient concerns. We used quantitative natural language processing (NLP) methods to identify key themes on one of the internet’s largest male infertility forums. METHODS: We extracted three years of posts (08/2016-08/2019) and comments (01/2017-12/2019) from the 3,063 member Reddit community r/maleinfertility. We employed a meaning extraction method followed by principal component analysis (MEM/PCA) to computationally distill major themes of discussion and compare the relative prevalence of discussion topics. Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin Measure of Sampling Adequacy (KMO>0.60) and Bartlett’s test of sphericity (p<0.001) indicated that the data is suitable for MEM/PCA. Furthermore, we calculated a sentiment score using the Valence Aware Dictionary for Sentiment Reasoning (VADER) model. RESULTS: 4,609 posts and comments were analyzed with MEM/PCA to generate five major themes of discussion ranked by prevalence (Figure 1). Posts are made to clarify specific semen analysis parameters (count 11.3%, motility 8.2%, morphology 6.4%). IVF 13.1% is mentioned more frequently than ICSI 5.4% or IUI 5.3% (p<0.001). Treatment effectiveness (chance 5.2%, luck 7.9%) and cost (expensive 1.7%) are discussed concurrently. Low testosterone (7.1%) is a major concern, leading to discussion of Clomid (4.6%), HCG (2.2%) and TRT (1.2%). Infertility also takes a toll on mental health with frequent mentions of concern 6.7%, worry 3.0%, and stress 2.1%. Suggestions for increasing fertility include lifestyle changes (vitamins 3.8%, diet 2.3%, exercise 2.0%, weight 2.0%), using ice (2.1%) to cool testicles and wearing loose clothes (1.2%). VADER sentiment analysis revealed that there were more positive-sentiment entries than negative-sentiment (3,675 vs. 934, p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: This quantitative analysis of anonymous male infertility internet discussion is a step towards increased understanding of the complete patient experience. Providers can use this knowledge to better engage with patients in clinic and online. Source of Funding: None © 2021 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 206Issue Supplement 3September 2021Page: e349-e349 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2021 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Krishna Ravivarapu More articles by this author Alexander Small More articles by this author Evan Garden More articles by this author Micah Levy More articles by this author Osama Al-Alao More articles by this author Michael Palese More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement Loading ...

Do SARS-CoV-2 Infection (COVID-19) and the Medications Administered for Its Treatment Impair Testicular Functions?

Purpose: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is transmitted primarily via respiratory droplets and enters host cells through angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2) receptors. ACE-2 receptors have been identified in many tissues including testes. The aim of the study has been to investigate the long-term effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection (COVID-19) and its relative treatment on male reproductive health. Methods: Cross-sectional analysis has been performed on 49 recovered COVID-19 patients who had semen analysis prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Those who had a recovery time lag of at least 3 months have been re-examined, and 29 eligible patients with no andrological problems have been enrolled in the study. Following a detailed physical examination and retrieval of medical history, the values of semen analysis and serum sex hormone parameters have been collected and compared before and after COVID-19 infection. The p value of <0.05 has been considered significant. Results: The average age of the 29 patients has been 31.21 ± 5.48 (range: 18–41) years. Favipiravir has been co-administered with hydroxychloroquine in 17 patients, while the remaining 12 received favipiravir treatment without hydroxychloroquine. The average time between clinical recovery from COVID-19 and collection of semen has been 4.52 ± 1.36 (range: 3–8) months. Before and after COVID-19, serum follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, total testosterone, and prolactin levels, as well as all semen parameters, have been comparable. Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that COVID-19 and its treatment with favipiravir and hydroxychloroquine did not affect spermatogenesis and serum androgen levels in the long-term period. Further clinical studies with larger sample size are needed to confirm and support our findings.

P–034 Social distancing protocol changes during the COVID–19 pandemic; the effect of at-home semen collection on intrauterine insemination outcomes

Study questionHow have the coronavirus 2019 (COVID–19)-driven changes in semen collection protocols, from on-site to at-home collection, impacted intrauterine insemination (IUI) cycle outcomes?Summary answerOur data suggest that at-home semen collection within 2 hours of processing does not negatively impact semen parameters and IUI pregnancy outcomes. What is known already: There are mixed reports regarding the effect of at-home semen collection on IUI outcomes. In a study of 633 cycles, no differences in semen parameters or pregnancy rates were observed between home and clinic collections1. Conversely, in a smaller cohort, at-home collection was associated with worse pregnancy outcomes when IUI was coupled with gonadotropin stimulation, but not when coupled with clomiphene2. We previously reported no differences in semen parameters and in-vitro fertilization (IVF) embryo transfer outcomes, when cycles using semen collected at-home were compared to cycles with on-site collection3. However, such findings cannot necessarily be extended to the IUI setting.Study design, size, durationThis is a retrospective cohort study of all 529 IUI cycles that took place in 2020 at an academic fertility center. Semen collected at the “clinic” was used for 143 cycles before the COVID–19 pandemic, and “at-home” collected specimens were used for the 386 cycles following the revised semen collection protocol. Participants/materials, setting, methods: Prior to the COVID–19 pandemic, semen was collected at our “clinic” and processed within ∼30 minutes. Post-COVID, in order to maintain social distancing, semen was collected “at-home”, at an IUI-approved cup, and transported to our center within 2 hours, while maintained to room temperature. Logistic regression models were performed to evaluate the effect of “at-home” collection on achieving pregnancy (positive pregnancy test-PPT) and clinical pregnancy (sonographic confirmation-CP), adjusting for age and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH).Main results and the role of chanceThe mean age (SD) (years) of the female partner was 35.4 (4.2) vs. 35.4 (4.4) (p = 0.978) and of the male partner 36.6 (4.4) vs. 37.1 (p = 0.328) for the “clinic” vs. “at-home” groups, respectively. There were no significant differences in day–3 follicle stimulating hormone and AMH. In both groups the most common diagnoses were idiopathic and combined factors infertility (27.3% and 18.9% & 24.1% and 25.1%, respectively for the “clinic” & “at-home” groups, p = 0.376). Similarly, there were no differences regarding ovarian stimulation, and gonadotropins were the most common medication used in both groups (“clinic”: 44.1% vs. “at-home”: 39.4%, p = 0.775). Semen analysis parameters (volume, motility, forward progression, total motile count) were comparable between the 2 groups, with the exception of concentration (mil/ml) which was higher with “at-home” collection [66.1 (45.0) vs. 81.1 (63.0), p = 0.009].In unadjusted models, “at-home” collection had no significant effect on the odds for a PPT [OR (95%CI): 0.691 (0.427–1.119), p = 0.133] or CP [0.751 (0.447–1.263), p = 0.281]. These results persisted even when adjusting for maternal age and AMH: PPT [0.708 (0.435–1.153), p = 0.165] and CP [0.773 (0.455–1.312), p = 0.340]. When sub-analysis was performed within the different medication groups, the above findings persisted for both gonadotropin and oral medication cycles.Limitations, reasons for cautionThe limitations of the study include its retrospective design and the absence of livebirth data, given the limited follow up period. However, regarding the latter, one can use the ongoing clinical pregnancy rate as an accurate estimate of livebirth.Wider implications of the findings: At-home semen collection within 2 hours of processing did not negatively impact semen analysis parameters or pregnancy outcomes following IUI. These data constitute an important addition to the current limited literature on the subject and provides an additional level of safety for our patients and staff during the COVID–19 crisis.Trial registration numberNot applicable

Aniline Blue Staining Method for Sperm DNA Fragmentation Index

Background: Infertility rate all over the globe is on the rise and semen analysis forms the only basic investigation for male infertility. The success of infertility treatment depends on many semen parameters. In this study, we focus on sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) by the aniline blue staining method. The DNA fragmentation index (DFI) was correlated with other semen parameters. The semen parameters in low DFI and high DFI (HDFI) groups were compared to highlight the importance of DFI in infertility management. Methodology: The sample size was 60. The semen parameters were studied. The sperm chromatin integrity and DFI were calculated. Statistical analysis was performed by calculating mean, standard deviation, Spearman's correlation coefficient, and unpaired t-test. Results: DFI showed a significant negative correlation with sperm count, progressive motility of sperms, sperm vitality, and a positive correlation with sperm deformity index (SDI). The cases were grouped according to DFI and showed statistically significant differences in the two groups with respect to sperm count, motility, sperm vitality, and SDI indicating poor sperm quality. HDFI group underwent prolonged infertility treatment. Conclusion: Acidic aniline blue staining method is a feasible screening test for sperm DFI which correlates well with semen analysis parameters such as low sperm counts, low progressive motility, low sperm vitality, and high SDI. A high SDF has a negative impact on infertility management.

THE COMPARISON OF CIGARETTE CONSUMPTION TOWARDS SEMEN ANALYSIS IN ANDROLOGY POLYCLINIC OF DR. SOETOMO GENERAL ACADEMIC HOSPITAL, SURABAYA, INDONESIA IN 2017

Background: The habit of smoking tobacco is a lifestyle that has become a necessity for some people. Sometimes, social needs is the main reason for someone to have a smoking habit. Based on this problem, the level of cigarette consumption in the community has increased. Nowadays, the total number of couples visiting an infertility clinic is on the rise. This have led to an assumption among the community that smoking tobacco is one of the main factors causing male infertility. Objective: to compare light smokers and heavy smokers towards the results of semen analysis in infertile male patients. Materials and Methods: This study was an observational analytics, with a retrospective-cross sectional. The instrument used in this study was taken from medical records of the patients who visited the Andrology Clinic of Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia, for the period from January to December 2017. The observed semen analysis parameters were concentration, motility, and morphology for microscopic examination and liquefaction, pH, and volume for macroscopic examination, by following the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: Ninety-two samples of infertile male participants (50 light smokers and 42 heavy smokers) were included in this study. Semen analysis on its concentration, motility, spermatozoa morphology, as well as liquefaction, pH, and volume) towards the number of cigarette consumption showed no significant difference (p&gt;0.05) between light smokers and moderate smokers. Conclusion: There was no significant difference between the light smoker and heavy smoker groups on the results of the semen analysis.

Lack of Association between CYP1A1 3801T &amp;gt; C Polymorphism and Idiopathic Male Infertility in Algerian Population

&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background and Objective:&lt;/strong&gt; Ongoing research suggests that cytochrome P4501A1 (CYP1A1) 3801T &amp;gt; C polymorphism may be correlated with human male infertility but the reported results are conflicting. Hence, this case-control study was conducted in Algerian population to determine the frequency of this polymorphism and its relationship to male infertility.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Methods:&lt;/strong&gt; This study included 173 subjects grouped into two categories: controls (84) and patients (89) with abnormal semen analysis parameters. Genomic DNA from the patients and controls was extracted and PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism was used to genotype the 3801T &amp;gt; C CYP1A1 polymorphism.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Results:&lt;/strong&gt; In the control group, the frequency of homozygous wild-type TT, heterozygous TC, and mutant homozygous CC genotypes of the CYP1A1 T &amp;gt; C polymorphism was 84.52%, 13.10%, and 2.38%, respectively, while infertile men had 77.53%, 20.22%, and 2.25%, respectively. There was no correlation between the 3801T &amp;gt; C CYP1A1 variant and male infertility. Furthermore, the rs4646903 C allele was not a risk factor in the dominant genetic model.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conclusion:&lt;/strong&gt; The 3801T &amp;gt; C polymorphism cannot be considered as a risk factor for male infertility in Algerian population. Our results need to be validated and confirmed through prospective studies with a larger number of patients.&lt;/p&gt;&#x0D; &lt;p&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;

The effect of anabolic androgenic steroid abuse on male fertility: Review Study

Introduction: Young people's interest in strength exercises has led to the high use of anabolic steroids (AAS) regardless of its long-term side effects. Therefore, this review study was conducted with aim to investigate the effect of AAS drugs on male fertility. Methods: In line with the aim of the present review study, search was performed in the databases of Scopus, Pubmed, Proquest, Science Direct, ISC, Irandoc, Magiran and Google Scholar with the keywords of energy drugs, male fertility, spermatogenesis, androgenic anabolic steroid drugs and AAS without time restrictions. Among a total of 8453 articles extracted, after reviewing the title, abstract and inclusion and exclusion criteria, finally 33 articles were reviewed. Results: AAS drugs have long-term effects on the male reproductive system and disrupt spermatogenesis through four primary mechanisms including direct effects on gametes, hypothalamic axis change, pituitary and testis, erectile dysfunction or ejaculation, and decreased libido. It also reduces testosterone production and suppresses spermatogenesis by inhibiting negative feedback at LH and FSH levels. Most side effects are reversible after discontinuation, but long-term use during the reproductive ages and testicular developmental stages disrupts semen analysis and sperm function parameters, and there is no possibility of responding to alternative therapy. Not enough information has been reported about the time required to return male fertility after drug discontinuation. Conclusion: Excessive use of AAS drugs has long-term adverse effects on male reproductive health, so, existence of various and unknown items of drugs in the market, advertising in clubs and cyberspace and high consumption of drugs regardless of its side effects, require management measures to solve this global health problem and maintain male reproductive health. Therefore, education is recommended to the community, athletes, coaches and health care providers.

14 Opening the Black Box of Fertility Prediction

Abstract Analysis of the U.S. swine herd shows variation in pregnancy rate is more attributable to male-factor subfertility than the dam. To date, a limited degree of correlations has been observed between conventional semen analysis parameters and actual fertility after standard quality cutoffs are met. Thus, a clear ability to predict male-factor fertility is lacking. Knowledge of what makes fertilization competent spermatozoa has been long sought after for centuries. It was only in the last half-century that we understood spermatozoa undergo a biological process after ejaculation to acquire the capacity to fertilize. Since then, work has been done to elucidate the molecular pathways involved in sperm capacitation. Recent technological advances in flow cytometry, namely image-based flow cytometry, allows for high-throughput, single-cell phenotyping. Single-cell phenotyping with biomarkers reflecting significant sperm capacitation events, mitochondrial status, cell health, and more, allows multi-million bioimage data sets to be easily attained. These datasets can then be analyzed utilizing machine and deep learning analytic methods and correlated with single sire field fertility data to open the black box of boar fertility prediction. Our findings establish a new paradigm in sperm function and pave the way for accurate fertility prediction in future precision agriculture applications. This work was supported by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) award number 2019-67012-29714.

A new open-source hardware device to measure vertical sperm motility and concentration.

Sperm motility and concentration are commonly evaluated parameters in semen analysis. Those parameters are assessed objectively with commercial instrumentation such as computer-assisted sperm analysis systems (CASA) and hemocytometer. In CASA systems, sperm motility is assessed in the horizontal plane imposed by the stage of the microscope. Thus, there is lack of measurement of the vertical velocity of sperm. The female reproductive tract is a tridimensional space which the sperm traverse to reach the ovum, and there is a need for instruments measuring parameters more relevant to this real-world situation. In this report we describe the design, construction and use of an open-source hardware (OSH) device for evaluation of the vertical velocity of sperm, called UPSPERM. This device was also used to measure sperm concentration, and agreement with hemocytometer was evaluated. Bland-Altman analysis shows good agreement between these two methods of sperm counting. As a first application of UPSPERM, we evaluated the changes in boar sperm motility at distinct pH values between 7.0 and 8.0. The UPSPERM results showed that the vertical velocity of sperm was highest at pH7.6 and 7.8. We propose that our UPSPERM offers a reliable and affordable option for obtaining measurements of vertical velocity and sperm concentration.

Assessment of an iPad-based sperm motility analyzer for determination of canine sperm motility.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the repeatability and accuracy of canine sperm motility (total and progressive) assessment with a tablet-based Canine iSperm instrument compared to computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA). The experiment used fresh and frozen/thawed canine semen samples for comparisons of semen analysis parameters (concentration, total motility, and progressive motility) between a CASA system, iSperm, and NucleoCounter SP-100 (concentration) instruments. Spearman’s Rho correlational analysis was used to identify significant associations between motility assessment methods. Significant positive correlations were found between CASA assessment and iSperm for both progressive and total motility measurements. We also determined the coefficient of variation (CV) for repeatability of sample analysis for iSperm and CASA for fresh sperm, wherein each sample was assessed 10 times on both devices. For fresh and frozen-thawed samples, concentration assessment by iSperm showed high variability (CV= 19.9 ± 1.5%). For iSperm assessment of total and progressive motility, the CVs were 6.3 ± 0.5% and 10.7 ± 0.8%, respectively. The results indicate that the iSperm application offers an accurate and alternative measurement of motility to traditional CASA analysis, though caution should be taken when assessing concentration due to the high CV observed in this study.

The Prevalence and Components of Metabolic Syndrome in Men from Infertile Couples and Its Relation on Semen Analysis.

PurposeMetabolic syndrome (MetS) has been reported as a deleterious factor in male fertility potential, associated with hypogonadism, impaired spermatogenesis, decreased sperm concentration and motility, and increased sperm DNA damage. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of MetS in men from infertile couples and evaluate its effect on semen analysis (SA).Participants and MethodsA cross-sectional descriptive study was performed in men from infertile couples diagnosed based on the World Health Organization 2010 criteria and treated at the Hue Center for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Vietnam. General information included medical history, lifestyle, MetS factors, SA, and sperm DNA fragmentation test were collected. Based on the diagnostic criteria of the American Heart Association and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute for Asian men, the study population was divided into two groups: MetS and non-MetS groups. The outcomes were analyzed for any relationship between MetS and the SA index and the DNA fragmentation index (DFI).ResultsA total of 534 men from infertile couples were included in this study. The prevalence of MetS was 23.4%, and abnormal semen analysis accounted for 93.8%. Age, body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), hepatitis B and total cholesterol were related to the occurrence of MetS in infertile men (p <0.05). MetS did not reveal any impact on the parameters of SA. There was a positive correlation between waist circumference (WC), WHR, WHtR, and systolic blood pressure (BP) with abnormal sperm head and DFI (p <0.05).ConclusionAlthough the prevalence of MetS was remarkable in men from infertile couples, there was no association between MetS and semen quality. However, WC, WHR, WHtR, and systolic BP were found to be significantly associated with abnormal sperm head and DFI.

Development and validation of a novel mail-in semen analysis system and the correlation between one hour and delayed semen analysis testing

To develop and validate a novel, mail-in semen analysis (SA) system. Prospective cohort. Not applicable. Ejaculates from normospermic men. One-hour SA, then repeat SAs (on same ejaculate) over 52 hours using a novel technique for maintaining sperm viability. World Health Organization SA parameters. One-hour SA on 104 ejaculates in the validation phase of the study demonstrated normal semen parameters. With up to 52 hours of observation and four subsequent SA measurements/ejaculate, concentration remained stable, motility decreased by 0.39%/h, and normal morphology decreased by 0.1%/h. Measured 1-hour and calculated motility (correlation coefficients 0.87) and morphology (correlation coefficients 0.82) strongly were correlated. This novel, mail-in, Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments-approved SA testing system demonstrates a strong degree of correlation between 1-hour and delayed SA testing. Given the linear motility and morphology decrease and stability of sperm concentration, this test may be used in clinical practice to evaluate semen quality for fertility evaluations. Furthermore, this approach significantly improves the ease, comfort, and efficiency of obtaining a SA, likely breaking down early barriers to accessing successfully a male fertility evaluation.

Abnormal fertilization in ICSI and its association with abnormal semen parameters: a retrospective observational study on 1855 cases.

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) efficiently addresses male factor infertility. However, the occurrence of abnormal fertilization, mainly characterized by abnormal pronuclei (PN) patterns, merits investigation. To investigate abnormal fertilization patterns following ICSI and identify their respective associations with abnormal parameters in semen analysis (SA), a retrospective observational study including 1855 cycles was performed. Male infertility diagnosis relied on the 2010 WHO criteria. The population was divided into groups based on their SA results. The presence of 2PNs and extrusion of the second polar body (PB) indicated normal fertilization. A Kruskal–Wallis test along with a Wilcoxon post hoc evaluation and Bonferroni correction was employed for comparison among the groups. For the pregnancy rate, logistic regression was employed. No correlation was established between the SA abnormalities and the 1PN or 3PN formation rates. The highest and lowest 0PN rates were reported for the oligoasthenoteratozoospermic and normal groups, respectively. The lowest cleavage formation rates were identified in the oligoasthenozoospermic and oligoasthenoteratozoospermic groups. The aforementioned groups along with the oligoteratozoospermic group similarly presented the lowest blastocyst formation rates. For the clinical pregnancy rate, no statistically significant difference was observed. In conclusion, the incidence of two or more abnormal SA parameters – with the common denominator being oligozoospermia – may jeopardize normal fertilization, cleavage, and blastocyst rates. Once the developmental milestone of achieving blastocyst stage status was achieved, only oligoasthenozoospermia and oligoasthenoteratozoospermia were associated with lower rates. Interestingly, following adjustment for the number of blastocysts, no statistically significant differences were observed.