Phase angle at bioelectric impedance analysis is associated with detrimental sperm quality in idiopathic male infertility: a preliminary clinical study.

Background: In 2020, 38% of adults were affected by obesity, while infertility globally affected 1 in 6 people at some stage of their lives.Body mass index (BMI) provides an easy but occasionally inaccurate estimation of body composition. To achieve a more precise assessment, bioelectric impedance analysis serves as a validated tool that administers electrical energy through surface electrodes. Phase angle as a function of the relationship between tissues resistance and reactance, is a trustworthy predictor of body composition and cell membrane integrity. Objectives: We aim to assess whether there is an association between phase angle and seminal parameters, as well as sperm DNA fragmentation percentage. Design: Semen samples of 520 idiopathic infertile patients were analyzed according to 2021 World Health Organization guidelines and evaluated for sperm DNA fragmentation rate. Each participants underwent bioelectric impedance analysis. Results: Median age was 40 years old, median BMI was 26.3 kg/m2, median phase angle was 6.2°. In the logistic regression analysis adjusted for age and total intracorporeal water, phase angle (continuous) was significantly associated with oligozoospermia (odds ratio [OR]:0.4; p<0.01) and sperm morphology (OR: 0.65; p=0.05) and slightly with sperm DNA fragmentation (OR: 0.98; p=0.07). In subgroup analysis, the logistic regression analysis adjusted for the mentioned parameters showed that a phase angle between 6.2 and 7 (°) (OR: 0.63; p=0.02) and >7 (°) (OR: 0.12; p<0.01) were associated with a reduced risk of oligozoospermia compared to values <6.2 (°). Similarly, a phase angle between 6.2 and 7 (°) (OR: 0.57; p< 0.01 and OR: 0.58; p= 0.01) and PA > 7 (°) (OR: 0.12; p= 0.03 and OR: 0.21; p< 0.01) were associated with a reduced risk of lower sperm concentration and lower total sperm count, respectively, compared to a phase angle < 6.2 (°). Conclusion: Our study suggests a negative association between phase angle and detrimental sperm parameters in male idiopathic infertility.

Oral supplementation with Scabiosa artropurperea L. aqueous extract improves the in vivo sexual behaviour, sperm quality and androgen level in rams.

The effects of an aqueous extract of Scabiosa atropurpurea L. (AES) on the reproduction potential of Queue Fine de l'Ouest rams were evaluated over 9 weeks. Eighteen mature (4-6 years old) rams (52.8 ± 2.6 kg) were divided into three groups. The control (C) group was fed oat hay ad libitum with 700 g of concentrate and the other two groups were fed the same diet supplemented with AES at 1 and 2 mg/kg body weight (AES1 and AES2, respectively). Ram sperm was collected with an artificial vagina (2 × 2 days/week) to evaluate sperm production and quality, antioxidant activity, the adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and calcium concentrations. Sexual behaviour and plasma testosterone concentrations were also investigated. The administration of AES improved sexual behaviour (the duration of contact and the number of lateral approaches). The addition of AES also improved individual spermatozoa motility (C: 71.7% ± 6.3%; AES1: 78.3% ± 4.9%; AES2: 83.8% ± 4.4%), the sperm concentration (C: 5.6 ± 0.36; AES1: 6.4 ± 0.81; AES2: 6.7 ± 0.52 × 109 spermatozoa/mL), the ATP ratio (C: 1 ± 0.08; AES1: 2.1 ± 0.08; AES2: 3.3 ± 0.08) and the calcium concentration (C: 5.6 ± 0.24; AES1: 7.7 ± 0.21; AES2: 8.1 ± 0.24 mmol/L). AES treatment decreased the percentage of abnormal sperm (C: 18.5% ± 1.2%; AES1: 16.2% ± 1.1%; AES2: 14.8% ± 0.94%) and DNA damage (C: 62%; AES1: 27%; AES2: 33%) and was associated with elevated seminal fluid antioxidant activity (C: 22 ± 0.27; AES1: 27.1 ± 1.08 and AES2: 27.5 ± 0.36 mmol Trolox equivalents/L) and plasma testosterone (C: 8.3 ± 0.7; AES1: 11.7 ± 0.4; AES2: 15 ± 0.7 ng/L). In conclusion, our study suggests that S. atropurpurea may be potentially useful to enhance libido and sperm production and quality in ram.

[Association between long-term exposure to ambient ozone and sperm quality in Shandong Province].

Objective: To evaluate the association between long-term exposure to ambient ozone (O3) and sperm quality. Methods: From January 1, 2014, to December 31, 2019, healthy sperm donors were recruited through the Human Sperm Bank of Shandong University Affiliated Reproductive Hospital. A total of 37 977 sperm donation data from 2 971 healthy volunteers were analyzed. The average annual O3 concentration (0.01°× 0.01°) was matched according to household address. A multivariate mixed-effect model was used to analyze the exposure-response relationship between the average O3 exposure concentration and sperm quality in the previous year, with each donor as a random intercept. All results were presented as % changes with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for all sperm parameters associated with 10 µg/m3 increases in O3. The effects of individual characteristics on the association between O3 and sperm quality were evaluated by stratified analysis. Results: The average O3 concentration in the year before semen collection was (107.09±7.50) µg/m3. Each 10 µg/m3 increase in O3 was associated with declined sperm concentration (-3.12%, 95%CI:-4.55%, -1.67%), total sperm count (-5.21%, 95%CI:-7.28%, -3.09%), total sperm motility (-1.49%, 95%CI:-2.37%, -0.61%), progressive motility (-2.53%, 95%CI:-3.78%, -1.26%), total motile sperm count (-5.82%, 95%CI:-8.17%, -3.41%), and progressively motile sperm count (-6.22%, 95%CI:-8.73%, -3.64%). Men aged 30 and above, obese, and with lower education levels might be more susceptible to the influence of O3 on sperm quality, but the difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05). Conclusion: Long-term exposure to O3 in Shandong Province is associated with a decrease in sperm quality.

Zinc alleviates high fat diet-induced spermatogenic dysfunction in Wistar rats: role of oxidative stress, HMGB1 and inflammasome.

Whether chronic inflammation in the genital tract induced by obesity shares in spermatogenic dysfunction is not clearly known. We aimed to study the effect of high fat diet (HFD) on spermatogenesis, seminal oxidative stress (malondialdehyde (MDA)) and inflammatory markers (high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain, leucine rich repeat and pyrin-3 domain containing (NLRP3)) in the rat testes and the role of zinc on testicular dysfunction and chronic inflammation in high fat diet (HFD) fed rat testes. This parallel group comparative experimental study included 36 male wistar rats divided into 3 groups: group A (fed on normal control diet); group B (fed on high fat diet (HFD) only); and group C (fed on HFD with zinc supplementation 3.2 mg/kg/day orally). At the end of the 12th week, sperm count, viability and motility were assessed by computer-assisted seemen analysis (CASA), seminal malondialdehyde measured by calorimetry and histopathological examination of testicular sections was done. Immunohistochemical staining was done for HMGB1 and NLRP3 evaluation. Sperm count was lowest in group B. Groups A and C showed statistically significant higher mean sperm vitality, total and progressive motility scores (p < 0.001), while no difference was found between the groups A and C (p > 0.05). Seminal malondialdehyde level was significantly highest in group B. Tubular diameter, epithelial height and Johnsen score were significantly lowest in group B. Significantly higher HMGB1 and NLRP3 levels were demonstrated in group B (p < 0.001). Obesity is associated with testicular dysfunction, testicular oxidative stress and increased testicular HMGB1 and NLRP3. We suggest a beneficial effect of zinc on testicular function in HFD-rats.

Intracerebroventricular PROK2 infusion could increase the secretion of male reproductive hormones by stimulating the HPG axis.

BACKGROUND: Prokineticin 2 (PROK2), an important neuropeptide that plays a key role in the neuronal migration of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) in the hypothalamus, is known to have regulatory effects on the gonads. In the present study, the impact of intracerebroventricular (icv) PROK2 infusion on hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis (HPG) hormones, testicular tissues, and sperm concentration was investigated. METHODS AND RESULTS: Rats were randomly divided into four groups: control, sham, PROK2 1.5 and PROK2 4.5. Rats in the PROK2 1.5 and PROK2 4.5 groups were administered 1.5 nmol and 4.5 nmol PROK2 intracerebroventricularly for 7 days via an osmotic mini pump (1 µl/h), respectively. Rat blood serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone hormone levels were determined with the ELISA method in the blood samples after 7 days of infusion. GnRH mRNA expression was determined with the RT-PCR in hypothalamus tissues. analyze Sperm concentration was determined, and testicular tissue was examined histologically with the hematoxylin-eosin staining method. It was observed that GnRH mRNA expression increased in both PROK2 infusion groups. Serum FSH, LH and testosterone hormone levels also increased in these groups. Although sperm concentration increased in PROK2 infusion groups when compared to the control and sham, the differences were not statistically significant. Testicular tissue seminiferous epithelial thickness was higher in the PROK2 groups when compared to the control and sham groups. CONCLUSION: The present study findings demonstrated that icv PROK2 infusion induced the HPG axis. It could be suggested that PROK2 could be a potential agent in the treatment of male infertility induced by endocrinological defects.

Determinant Factors for Ongoing Pregnancy in Homologous Intrauterine Insemination Cycles - A Prospective Study.

BACKGROUND/AIM: Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is the most common assisted-reproduction treatment. However, it has lower success rate in comparison to other treatments. Therefore, determining factors that contribute to IUI success is of particular interest and this was the purpose of this prospective study. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In this study, only homologous inseminations with fresh semen samples were included. All women received mild ovarian stimulation with clomiphene citrate and gonadotropins. Before IUI, basic semen analysis, evaluation of DNA fragmentation index (DFI), as well as measurement of sperm redox potential, were performed on each semen sample. Semen was processed with density-gradient centrifugation and 500 µl of processed sperm was used for insemination. RESULTS: In 200 cycles, there were 36 pregnancies, six of them ectopic. Cycles with ongoing pregnancies were characterized by younger male and female age and higher number of follicles. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that only female age was significantly associated with ongoing pregnancy. DFI was positively correlated with male age and negatively correlated with sperm concentration and progressive motility. Semen redox potential showed a strong negative correlation with sperm concentration and positive correlation with DFI. CONCLUSION: Female age seems to be the most important determinant factor for the achievement of an ongoing pregnancy in homologous IUI cycles with fresh semen.

Phoenix dactylifera L. pollen versus pentoxifylline on improvement of sperm parameters in idiopathic male infertility: A randomized clinical trial.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Phoenix dactylifera L. pollen is the male reproductive dust of palm flowers known as a natural product that is considered a strong stimulant of sexual potency and fertility in Iranian traditional medicine (ITM). In this regard, no evidence-based medications are empirically prescribed to treat IMI. However, applying traditional medicine for the treatment of male infertility has attracted more attention in recent years. AIM OF THE STUDY: Phoenix dactylifera L. pollen was compared with pentoxifylline (PTX) to evaluate its efficacy on sperm parameters. MATERIALS AND METHODS: During this parallel randomized controlled trial, 80 adult men with asthenozoospermia, oligozoospermia, or teratozoospermia (age 20-35 years) were enrolled. In two separate groups of participants with a 1:1 ratio, participants received either 6 g of Phoenix dactylifera L. pollen powder daily or 400 mg of PTX tablets daily for 90 days. We measured the sperm parameters as well as the serum sex hormones in the sample. ANCOVA and t-tests were used to compare groups. RESULTS: There was no significant difference between the study groups in terms of baseline characteristics or demographic characteristics. According to the results, participants who took Phoenix dactylifera L. pollen powder had significantly improved sperm concentration (p = 0.016), morphology (p = 0.029), sperm counts (p = 0.012), progressive motility (p = 0.016), total motility (p = 0.018), and reduced immotile sperms (p = 0.014) compared to those who took PTX. CONCLUSIONS: In light of these results, Phoenix dactylifera L. pollen is recommended as a treatment factor for ameliorating IMI by enhancing sperm functional capacity and semen parameters.

Systematic analyses of the factors influencing sperm quality in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection.

To figure out how does SARS-CoV-2 affect sperm parameters and what influencing factors affect the recovery of sperm quality after infection? We conducted a prospective cohort study and initially included 122 men with SARS-CoV-2 infection. The longest time to track semen quality after infection is 112 days and 58 eligible patients were included in our study eventually. We subsequently exploited a linear mixed-effects model to statistically analyze their semen parameters at different time points before and after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Semen parameters were significantly reduced after SARS-CoV-2 infection, including total sperm count (211 [147; 347] to 167 [65.0; 258], P < 0.001), sperm concentration (69.0 [38.8; 97.0] to 51.0 [25.5; 71.5], P < 0.001), total sperm motility (57.5 [52.3; 65.0] to 51.0 [38.5; 56.8], P < 0.001), progressive motility (50.0 [46.2; 58.0] to 45.0 [31.5; 52.8], P < 0.001). The parameters displayed the greatest diminution within 30 days after SARS-CoV-2 infection, gradually recovered thereafter, and exhibited no significant difference after 90 days compared with prior to COVID-19 infection. In addition, the patients in the group with a low-grade fever showed a declining tendency in semen parameters, but not to a significant degree, whereas those men with a moderate or high fever produced a significant drop in the same parameters. Semen parameters were significantly reduced after SARS-CoV-2 infection, and fever severity during SARS-CoV-2 infection may constitute the main influencing factor in reducing semen parameters in patients after recovery, but the effect is reversible and the semen parameters gradually return to normal with the realization of a new spermatogenic cycle.

Prevalence of Abnormal Semen Parameters among the Infertile Couples Seeking Infertility Treatment.

Infertility, affecting 60 to 80 million couples globally, is clinically defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of unprotected sexual contact. Male factors contribute significantly, comprising 40.0% to 50.0% of infertility cases. While the prevalence ranges from 5.0% to 30.0% in developing countries, the exact global prevalence remains unknown. The study, conducted at CMH and Ibn Sina Hospital, Jashore from October 2020 to September 2023, utilized a cross-sectional approach; examining 4173 samples aged 21 to 41. Exclusion criteria considered known female reproductive abnormalities or medications impacting male fertility. Standardized procedures, in-depth questionnaires and SPSS software version 15.0 were employed, adhering to World Health Organization Guidelines. In a study of 4173 seeking infertility treatment, 63.0% had abnormal semen parameters, with 45.0% aged 31-40 years. Addiction patterns: 76.0% used tobacco, 14.0% reported alcohol and tobacco. Occupations: 43.0% government workers, 41.0% private workers. Marriage duration: 44.0% married 5-10 years, infertility duration: 64.0% less than 6 years. Semen analysis showed 40% with sperm count above 65 million, 46.0% with 60.0-90.0% motile sperm, and 78.0% with sperm morphology below 15.0%. The most prevalent abnormality is asthenozoospermia 59%, with oligozoospermia and azoospermia observed in 31% and 3% of cases, respectively. This study highlights the global complexity of male infertility, emphasizing genetic factors in infertile couples. Addressing sample bias and the lack of national epidemiological data underscores the ongoing need for comprehensive research to advance global infertility diagnosis and treatment.

Effect of Aqueous Extract of Unripe Musa Paradisiaca Linn on Parameters Affecting Reproduction in Rats.

OBJECTIVE: Aqueous extract of unripe Musa paradisiaca fruit is commonly used for the treatment of ulcers in eastern Nigeria. This study aimed to assess the acute and subacute effects of an aqueous extract of unripe fruit on male and female fertility in rats. METHODS: Aqueous extracts obtained by maceration were analyzed for acute and subacute toxicity and for the presence of phytochemical constituents using standard procedures. The extract (100, 500, and 1000 mg/kg) was administered daily to rats of both sexes for 28 d. Blood samples collected on days 0 and 28 were assessed for follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA). Testes and ovaries were harvested for histopathological analysis. Sperm were also collected to determine the sperm count and motility. RESULTS: Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of saponins, tannins, alkaloids, and resins. After an oral dose of up to 5000 mg/kg, there were no deaths in the acute toxicity test. The extract (500 mg/kg) significantly (P < .05) enhanced sperm count and motility relative to the untreated control; significantly (P < .05) reduced SOD, CAT, and glutathione levels, while significantly (P < .05) elevated LH, FSH, and MDA levels in male and female rats. Histological examination revealed significant structural damage to the ovaries. CONCLUSION: Unripe Musa paradisiaca fruit exhibited an adverse toxicological profile following prolonged administration and caused oxidative stress in rodents.

Agreement and internal quality assurance of the Neubauer hemocytometer and Makler chamber for human sperm concentration determination.

OBJECTIVE: The Neubauer hemocytometer, as well as the Makler chamber, are devices commonly used in andrology laboratories. The present study aimed to verify if both methods yield comparable results, and whether they can be used interchangeably to determine sperm concentration. METHODS: Sperm and latex beads concentration measurements were performed with the Neubauer hemocytometer and the Makler chamber. Fixed and proportional biases were estimated, and the method agreement was determined by assessing sperm concentration results with the Bland and Altman plot. The Coefficient of Variation (CV) and relative bias were calculated as an index of precision and accuracy, respectively, by measuring latex beads target concentrations in both chambers. RESULTS: The Makler chamber systematically overestimated the Neubauer hemocytometer concentration measurements by a mean of -7.99%, with limits of agreement (LOA) between -41% to 25.61% (p<0.001). The fixed bias was found for concentration values inferior to 40 x 106/ml range (p<0.001), but not higher concentration results (p>0.05). Measurements with the Neubauer hemocytometer showed the greatest consistency in the study with the CV ranging from 3.01% to 6.67%; while the CV with the Makler chamber ranged from 8.46% to 25.64%. The relative bias for the Neubauer hemocytometer determinations varied from 0.12% to 8.40%, while for the Makler chamber varied from 7.6% to an overestimation of 38.0%. CONCLUSIONS: Measurements made with the Makler chamber demonstrated more variability and a higher degree of overestimation. The Makler chamber is a poor substitute to the Neubauer hemocytometer for evaluation of oligozoospermic samples, although both chambers render similar results for highly concentrated samples.

Apilarnil ameliorates Bisphenol A-induced testicular toxicity in adult male rats via improving antioxidant potency and PCNA expression.

Apilarnil, a bee-derived product originating from drone larvae, offers a range of advantageous properties for both humans and animals. It functions as an antioxidant, provides neuroprotection, boosts fertility, and has antiviral capabilities. Additionally, it is a provider of androgenic hormones. These beneficial functions are supported by its chemical composition, which comprises mineral salts, vitamins, carbs, lipids, hormones, and amino acids. The current study aimed to evaluate the ameliorative effect of apilarnil against Bisphenol A (BPA)-induced testicular toxicity in male adult rats. Forty-eight Wistar albino rats were randomly classified into six groups. The first, second, and third received olive oil, BPA at a dose of 50 mg/kg body weight (bwt), and apilarnil at a dose of 0.6 g/kg bwt, respectively. The fourth, fifth, and sixth groups received apilarnil with, before, or after BPA administration, respectively. Phytochemical analysis using included linear ion trap-ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LTQ-UPLC-MS/MS) and global natural products social molecular networking (GNPS) revealed the presence of lysine, 10-hydroxy-(E)-2-dodecenoic acid, apigenin7-glucoside, testosterone, progesterone, and campesterol. BPA administration decreased serum level of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone, glutathione (GSH) concentration, total sperm count, motility, and vitality. Additionally, BPA increased sperm abnormalities, malondialdehyde concentration (MDA), and decreased proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) expression. The treatment with apilarnil ameliorated BPA reproductive toxicity in rats which was indicated by increased serum testosterone levels, normalized serum levels of FSH and LH, and concentration of MDA and GSH activity. Moreover, apilarnil improved sperm count, motility, morphology, and PCNA expression. Apilarnil was found to enhance reproductive hormones, MDA levels, antioxidant activity, and PCNA expression.

Effect of the technical variability of counting chambers upon the interpretation of sperm concentration results.

RESEARCH QUESTION: Does the choice of sperm-counting chamber affect the proportion of samples generating results with an erroneous interpretation? DESIGN: Laboratories in an external quality assurance programme were sent 141 semen samples over a 12-year period and asked to return the sperm concentration and whether or not the result was abnormal. Only those using 5th edition of the World Health Organization manual (WHO5) interpretation criteria were included. Submissions from specialist fertility laboratories were used to calculate assigned values for each sample. Laboratory50 values determined the sperm concentration at which the laboratories reported a majority transition from abnormal to normal interpretations, i.e. the tipping point, which should coincide with the lower reference limit. RESULTS: The median and range of bias from the assigned values of each sample were determined for the Makler (-3.3%; -88.6% to +332.8%), haemocytometer (10.6%; -93.3% to +645.5%), Kova (+65.3%; -71.7% to +581.8%) and Vetriplast (+72.4%; -100.0% to +709.1) chambers. Laboratory50 values for the Makler (17.3  ×  106/ml), haemocytometer (13.6  ×  106/ml), Kova (10.0  ×  106/ml) and Vetriplast chambers (8.8  ×  106/ml) reflected the under- and overestimation of the chambers and confirmed a shift in the adjusted lower reference limit then used. The proportion of laboratories reporting erroneous interpretations of the four chambers for oligozoospermic samples were 10.9%, 15.1.%, 40.1% and 44.0%, respectively, and rose as the adjusted lower reference limit decreased. CONCLUSIONS: The between-laboratory and within-sample variation for all the chambers was high and remains a concern. The main impact of an increasing bias of the chambers was a lowering of the laboratory50 tipping point, resulting in an under-reporting of abnormal semen samples.

Reduced sperm number of murrah (Bubalus bubalis) bull semen in french mini-straw affects kinetic and functional competence after cryopreservation.

BACKGROUND: Extensive dilution of cattle semen with tris-based extender compromises certain sperm kinetic and functional traits following cryopreservation. OBJECTIVE: To study sperm functions of buffalo bulls under high dilution rates. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-four ejaculates were harvested twice a week from four buffalo bulls, and diluted to sperm concentrations of 80, 60, 40 and 20 million/mL. Diluted samples were filled in straws, equilibrated at refrigeration temperature for 4 h, and frozen in liquid nitrogen. Frozen sperm samples were thawed for evaluation of kinetic and functional attributes. RESULTS: Compared to 20 million/mL (million/mL) sperm sample, the total motility, progressive motility and rapid motility were reduced (P < 0.05) in 5 million/mL sample. The proportion of live sperm were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in 10, 15 and 20 million/mL samples than in 5 million/mL sample. The percentage of moribund sperm, dead sperm, and sperm with lipid per oxidation increased significantly (P < 0.05) in 5 million/mL sample. CONCLUSION: The reduction of sperm concentrations to < 10 million/mL affects post-thaw Buffalo sperm kinetic and functional attributes.. https://doi.org/10.54680/fr24110110712.

Impact of Season Variation on Semen Quality: A Comprehensive Retrospective Analysis of Data From Patients at an Eastern Iranian Tertiary Care Fertility Center Over a Decade.

Seasonal changes are assumed to affect various sperm characteristics based on photoperiods, temperature, and air pollution. According to the literature, most studies were performed on populations of Western countries, and there are limited studies performed in the Middle East with variable results. This study evaluated the seasonality of sperm characteristics among men of reproductive age in an andrology center in Kerman, Iran, where the seasonal temperature varies significantly, with average temperatures ranging from 50 °F (10 °C) to 75.2 °F (24 °C). We retrospectively evaluated the sperm analysis test record. Sperm samples were obtained from 2,948 men during 10 years, excluding those with azoospermia. Samples were assessed for volume, concentration, motility, and morphology according to the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria. We performed a comprehensive comparative literature review of the studies investigating the association between seasonal variation and sperm quality. The mean semen volume was higher in the summer compared with other seasons (p = .04). The mean percentage of sperm motility was higher in the spring and less in winter (p = .03). Sperm morphology-related parameters, measured by the percent of normal morphology, were significantly better in winter (p = .03). Our findings suggest seasonality of sperm characteristics among men of fertility age. Semen volume, motility, and morphology were affected by the photoperiod of reproductive seasons. Results might support the influential role of seasonal variations in the possibility of fertility, especially among those using assisted reproductive technologies and those with oligospermia.

Effects of nanotubes on semen quality and fertility in humans: A systematic review of literature.

BACKGROUND: In the medical field, it is increasingly common to observe the use of nanotubes, for example, in the administration of drugs. However, nanotubes raise concerns for male fertility due to potential effects on hormone levels and sperm quality observed in animal studies. In addition, animal exposure to multi-walled carbon nanotube models found alterations in hormone levels, sperm motility, and sperm count. Limited evidence in humans suggests no adverse effects, but further research is needed. This study aimed to perform a systematic review to assess the in vitro effects of nanotubes on semen and fertility in humans. METHODS: We included all published in vitro studies about semen or sperm or male fertility and nanotubes in humans. A search was conducted in LILACS, PubMed, and SCOPUS as of May 2023. The risk of bias was assessed using the QUIN tool. RESULTS: Four studies using nanotubes on human sperm were included, nanotubes exposure appears not to affect sperm viability; however, some alterations to motility, velocity and production of reactive oxygen species were reported. Limited evidence is provided because of the small quantity of publications. CONCLUSIONS: Nanotubes appear to have no adverse effects on human sperm.

Chlorpyrifos impairs sperm parameters and number of Sertoli and Leydig cells in rats after exposure during the peripubertal period.

Chlorpyrifos is an organophosphate insecticide used to control pests in crops. Thus, humans are constantly exposed through ingestion of contaminated food or water, inhalation of contaminated air, and through the skin. The juvenile and peripubertal periods comprise a window of development of the reproductive system, sensitive to toxic agents. Considering the scarcity of data on exposure to the insecticide during these periods, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of chlorpyrifos on the testis during the juvenile and peripubertal periods. Thirty Wistar rats with an initial age of 25 days were distributed into 3 groups: control, which received corn oil (vehicle); CPS5, which received 5 mg/Kg b.w. of chlorpyrifos; and CPS15, which received 15 mg/Kg b.w. of chlorpyrifos. The groups were treated via gavage daily for 40 days and on the 41st experimental day, the animals were anesthetized and submitted to euthanasia to collect the organs. Blood was collected to obtain plasma and testosterone measurement. The testicles were removed, weighed and used for sperm count analyses, histopathological and morphometric analyzes and for oxidative stress analyses. Spermatozoa from the vas deferens were collected for analyzes of sperm morphology and acrosome integrity. The results showed that the two concentrations of chlorpyrifos caused a decrease in the number of Leydig and Sertoli cells and germ cells and increased the number of morphologically abnormal sperm and sperm with acrosomal damage. Furthermore, a decrease in lipid peroxidation was observed in the CPS5 and CPS15 groups, and a decrease in glutathione-S-transferase activity in the CPS5 group. We conclude that exposure to chlorpyrifos harms the daily production of sperm, as well as their quality, in addition to causing an imbalance in the oxidoreductive balance of the testicle.

Changes in Sperm Parameters with Time in Men with Normal and Abnormal Baseline Semen Analysis.

The association between paternal age and sperm quality in the population level has been previously studied. Only limited data exists regarding the intra-personal variations in semen parameters among fertile and infertile men over time. We aimed to assess trends over time in semen parameters among men with normal and abnormal baseline sperm parameters and investigate potential risk factors for sperm quality deterioration. This retrospective cohort study was conducted at a university-affiliated medical center in vitro fertilization (IVF) unit. Patients with at least two semen analyses (SA) performed > 1 year apart, with the last SA done between 2017 and 2021, were included. The study consisted of two main analyses-comparison of intra-patient's sperm parameters changes in men with normal and abnormal baseline SA (BSA) and analysis of risk factors for developing abnormal semen parameters over time in men who had normal BSA parameters. This study included a total of 902 men assessed for infertility with normal and abnormal BSA. The average time interval between tests was 1015 days (range 366-7709 days). Among individuals with normal BSA, there was a mild decline in most parameters-concentration (- 6.53 M/ml), motility (- 7.74%), and total motile count (TMC) (- 21.80 M) (p < 0.05 for all parameters). In contrast, a slight improvement in most parameters, except for concentration, was noted in men with abnormal BSA-volume (+ 0.21 ml), motility (+ 8.72%), and TMC (+ 14.38 M) (p < 0.05 for all parameters). Focusing on men with normal BSA, 33.5% of individuals developed abnormality in one or more of their sperm parameters over time, within a mean time of 1013 ± 661 days. We also found that only time between tests emerged as an independent prognostic factor for the development of abnormal SA later. Interestingly, sperm deterioration in participants in their third, fourth, and fifth decades of life with normal initial semen analysis was similar. Our study provides evidence of a decline in semen quality over time in individuals with normal BSA, in contrast to men with abnormal BSA. Longer time intervals between tests independently increase the risk of sperm abnormalities.

Identification of two hidden clinical subgroups among men with idiopathic cryptozoospermia.

STUDY QUESTION: Are there subgroups among patients with cryptozoospermia pointing to distinct etiologies? SUMMARY ANSWER: We reveal two distinct subgroups of cryptozoospermic (Crypto) patients based on testicular tissue composition, testicular volume, and FSH levels. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY: Cryptozoospermic patients present with a sperm concentration below 0.1 million/ml. While the etiology of the severely impaired spermatogenesis remains largely unknown, alterations of the spermatogonial compartment have been reported including a reduction of the reserve stem cells in these patients. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION: To assess whether there are distinct subgroups among cryptozoospermic patients, we applied the statistical method of cluster analysis. For this, we retrospectively selected 132 cryptozoospermic patients from a clinical database who underwent a testicular biopsy in the frame of fertility treatment at a university hospital. As controls (Control), we selected 160 patients with obstructive azoospermia and full spermatogenesis. All 292 patients underwent routine evaluation for endocrine, semen, and histological parameters (i.e. the percentage of tubules with elongated spermatids). Moreover, outcome of medically assisted reproduction (MAR) was assessed for cryptozoospermic (n = 73) and Control patients (n = 87), respectively. For in-depth immunohistochemical and histomorphometrical analyses, representative tissue samples from cryptozoospermic (n = 27) and Control patients (n = 12) were selected based on cluster analysis results and histological parameters. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS: This study included two parts: firstly using clinical parameters of the entire cohort of 292 patients, we performed principal component analysis (PCA) followed by hierarchical clustering on principal components (i.e. considering hormonal values, ejaculate parameters, and histological information). Secondly, for histological analyses seminiferous tubules were categorized according to the most advanced germ cell type present in sections stained with Periodic acid Schif. On the selected cohort of 39 patients (12 Control, 27 cryptozoospermic), we performed immunohistochemistry for spermatogonial markers melanoma-associated antigen 4 (MAGEA4) and piwi like RNA-mediated gene silencing 4 (PIWIL4) followed by quantitative analyses. Moreover, the morphologically defined Adark spermatogonia, which are considered to be the reserve stem cells, were quantified. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE: The PCA and hierarchical clustering revealed three different clusters, one of them containing all Control samples. The main factors driving the sorting of patients to the clusters were the percentage of tubules with elongated spermatids (Cluster 1, all Control patients and two cryptozoospermic patients), the percentage of tubules with spermatocytes (Cluster 2, cryptozoospermic patients), and tubules showing a Sertoli cells only phenotype (Cluster 3, cryptozoospermic patients). Importantly, the percentage of tubules containing elongated spermatids was comparable between Clusters 2 and 3. Additional differences were higher FSH levels (P < 0.001) and lower testicular volumes (P < 0.001) in Cluster 3 compared to Cluster 2. In the spermatogonial compartment of both cryptozoospermic Clusters, we found lower numbers of MAGEA4+ and Adark spermatogonia but higher proportions of PIWIL4+ spermatogonia, which were significantly correlated with a lower percentage of tubules containing elongated spermatids. In line with this common alteration, the outcome of MAR was comparable between Controls as well as both cryptozoospermic Clusters. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION: While we have uncovered the existence of subgroups within the cohort of cryptozoospermic patients, comprehensive genetic analyses remain to be performed to unravel potentially distinct etiologies. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS: The novel insight that cryptozoospermic patients can be divided into two subgroups will facilitate the strategic search for underlying genetic etiologies. Moreover, the shared alterations of the spermatogonial stem cell compartment between the two cryptozoospermic subgroups could represent a general response mechanism to the reduced output of sperm, which may be associated with a progressive phenotype. This study therefore offers novel approaches towards the understanding of the etiology underlying the reduced sperm formation in cryptozoospermic patients. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S): German research foundation CRU 326 (grants to: SDP, NN). Moreover, we thank the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Münster for the financial support of Lena Charlotte Schülke through the MedK-program. We acknowledge support from the Open Access Publication Fund of the University of Münster. The authors have no potential conflicts of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: N/A.

Microsurgical varicocelectomy efficacy in treatment of men with primary and secondary infertility (retrospective study).

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Varicocele is the most common treatable cause of male infertility. The study aimed to compare varicocelectomy efficacy in men with primary (PI) and secondary infertility (SI). PATIENTS AND METHODS: Medical records of 100 men suffering from PI and SI and having varicocelectomy at the Republican Specialized Scientific-Practical Medical Center of Urology were retrospectively selected and analyzed. Patients were divided into 2 groups. Group I included 58 men with PI and Group II 42 men with SI. Preoperative clinical characteristics and semen parameters before and after varicocelectomy were analyzed and compared between groups. RESULTS: Analysis revealed that the mean age of patients of group I was significantly lower (p<0.001) and the duration of infertility was accurately shorter (p<0.01) than those of group II. Main semen parameters increased significantly in group I (e.g., sperm concentration increased by 50%, from 62.2 ± 8.7 to 93.5 ± 10.0 M/ml, and total motile sperm count increased by 113%, from 76.7±17.1 to 163.4±27.8 M p<0.05), while in group II only rate of progressive motile sperm increased significantly (by 107%, from 13.5± .6 to 28.0±5.2% p<0.05). We identified a significant difference in varicocelectomy efficacy between group I and group II in change of total motile sperm count (by 113% vs 74% respectively, p<0.01). We also revealed a discrepancy between groups in correlation ratio (r) between initial and post-surgical percent of progressive motile sperm. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with SI were older and had longer infertility period. Varicocelectomy resulted in significant semen parameters improvement in patients with PI. In patients with SI, only a percent of progressively motile sperm improved significantly. It indicates that advanced male age and long infertility duration may have a negative impact on varicocelectomy success.