Quantitative identification on spatial mismatch characteristics between supply and demand of carbon sequestration services.

Exploring the mismatch between supply and demand (SD) for carbon sequestration services (CSS) is essential for achieving the "double carbon" goal. However, more studies are needed on the traits of the spatial mismatch between SD in mountainous cities. We used the CASA model and the IPCC emission factor approach to address this issue and quantify the SD of CSS in Chongqing. Second, we established a matching relationship model for the SD of CSS in Chongqing. Finally, we applied the Structural Equation Model with the Partial Dependence Plots model to reveal the influencing factors and internal mechanisms of spatial mismatch between the SD of CSS in Chongqing. The outcomes confirmed a decrease in fashion in the total supply of CSS in Chongqing and growth in fashion in general demand from 2000 to 2020. The SD mismatch was mainly concentrated inside the central city and other built-up areas. The SD mismatch area had increased by 390%, indicating a continuous upward trend. In exploring the factors influencing the mismatch between the SD of CSS in Chongqing, supply is mainly positively influenced by NDVI, and demand and supply-demand relationships are influenced by population density and LUCC. We proposed policy suggestions to alleviate the spatial mismatch and practical significance for achieving the "double carbon" goal and promoting sustainable development.

In vitro impact of ethanolic extract of Bryonia laciniosa seed on Gir bull spermatozoa: a comprehensive evaluation through transcriptome profiling.

Aim/objectives: This study examines the in vitro impact of an ethanolic extract derived from Bryonia laciniosa seeds on the Gir bull (Bos indicus) spermatozoa. The objective is to thoroughly assess the effects of the seed extract on the physiological parameters of bull spermatozoa, followed by evaluating its effects on X and Y-bearing spermatozoa and its impact on gene expression through transcriptome profiling. Material method: For this study, one Gir bull was selected, and 12 ejaculates were collected at one-week time intervals. Sperm cells were isolated from each ejaculate and incubated with varying concentrations of the ethanolic extract. The physiological parameters of the spermatozoa were assessed using Computer Assisted Semen Analysis (CASA) and compared with control groups to evaluate the extract's effects on sperm quality and motility. Results and discussion: At a concentration of 18 mg/mL B. laciniosa extract, we noticed a statistically significant 16.4% increase in sperm motility (p = 0.0065). In order to understand the specific effect on X and Y-bearing spermatozoa, motile and non-motile sperm separated by glass wool column method and further evaluated for quantification of X and Y-bearing sperm in all samples by ddPCR. To understand the effect of B. laciniosa extract on spermatozoa at the molecular level, whole transcriptome profiling was carried out using Illumina MiSeq. Transcriptome profiling revealed 81 genes that were expressed differently between the group treated with the extract and the control group. The current investigation revealed an increase in the expression of TLX1, CRYGB, KLF13, and ZAR1 transcripts, which play a role in embryonic development. In addition, several genes have been identified that are involved in sperm motility, such GSK3B, LAPRS, MAPK1, CAMK2B, and AQP7. The findings exhibited the therapeutic effectiveness of B. laciniosa seeds in augmenting fertility through a synergistic blend of activities, including enhanced sperm motility and positive influence on embryogenesis.

Influence of incorporating L-carnitine or Moringa oleifera leaves extract into semen diluent on cryosurvival and in vitro fertilization competence of buck sperm.

This study aimed at scrutinizing efficiency of incorporating L-carnitine or M. oleifera leaves extract into semen diluent on improving cryopreservation capacity and in vitro fertilization ability of buck spermatozoa. Ejaculates (n=48) were collected by an artificial vagina from six adult Damascus bucks twice weekly during the breeding season (September-October). Following initial evaluation, ejaculates of each collection session from the same bucks were pooled, diluted (1:10) with glycerolized (3 % glycerol, v/v) tris-citric acid egg yolk diluent and were split into three aliquots. The first aliquot served as control, whereas the second and third aliquots were supplemented with 4 µL/mL L-carnitine and 400 µL/mL moringa leaves extract (v/v), respectively. Thereafter, all specimens were processed for cryopreservation and were stored in liquid nitrogen (-196 °C) for 12 months before post-thaw sperm criteria were analyzed by a computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) system. Integrity of sperm DNA post thawing was visualized in all semen groups by fluorescence imaging, and in vitro fertilization ability of spermatozoa was also determined. Inclusion of L-carnitine or moringa leaves extract into the diluent improved (P<0.05) post-thaw sperm physical, morphofunctional and kinematic attributes, whilst maintaining (P<0.05) integrity of sperm DNA throughout the freezing and thawing cycle. Consequently, both supplemented groups yielded higher (P<0.05) in vitro fertilization rates compared to control. These results accentuate the protective roles of these antioxidants on buck sperm against consequences of cryopreservation-induced oxidative stress, hence ameliorating post-thaw sperm quality and fertilization competence. This is crucial for successful application of AI and IVF in goat selective breeding programs.

Effect of different sizes of nanocopper particles on rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss W.) spermatozoa motility kinematics.

In recent years, nanocopper (Cu NPs) has gained attention due to its antimicrobial properties and potential for industrial, agricultural, and consumer applications. But it also has several effects on the aquatic environment. Widespread use of various nanoproducts has raised concerns about impacts of different nanoparticle size on environment and biological objects. Spermatozoa is a model for studying the ecotoxic effects of pollutants on cells and organisms. This study aimed to investigate the effects of different sizes of copper nanoparticles on rainbow trout spermatozoa motility, and to compare their effects with copper ionic solution. Computer assisted sperm analysis (CASA) was used to detect movement parameters at activation of gametes (direct effect) with milieu containing nanocopper of primary particle size of 40-60, 60-80 and 100 nm. The effect of the elements ions was also tested using copper sulfate solution. All products was prepared in concentration of 0, 1, 5, 50, 125, 250, 350, 500, 750, and 1000 mg Cu L-1. Six motility parameters were selected for analysis. The harmful effect of Cu NPS nanoparticle was lower than ionic form of copper but the effect depends on the motility parameters. Ionic form caused complete immobilization (MOT = 0 %, IC100) at 350 mg Cu L-1 whilst Cu NPs solution only decreased the percentage of motile sperm (MOT) up to 76.4 % at highest concentration tested of 1000 mg Cu L-1 of 40-60 nm NPs. Cu NPs of smaller particles size had more deleterious effect than the bigger one particularly in percentage of MOT and for curvilinear velocity (VCL). Moreover, nanoparticles decrease motility duration (MD). This may influence fertility because the first two parameters positively correlate with fertilization rate. However, the ionic form of copper has deleterious effect on the percentage of MOT and linearity (LIN), but in some concentrations it slightly increases VCL and MD.

Evaluation of the testicular artery Doppler velocimetry and its correlation with sperm defects in domestic cats.

Several studies have demonstrated the correlation between Doppler velocimetric parameters of testicular artery and semen quality in domestic species, but in felines data are scarce. This study aimed to correlate the Doppler velocimetry of the testicular artery with sperm kinetics and sperm defects, in sedated and non-sedated cats. Forty tomcats were divided into two groups: sedated (SG; n=20) with dexmedetomidine (10 µm/kg) and ketamine (12 mg/kg), and non-sedated (NSG; n=20). The animals were subjected to ultrasound Doppler velocimetry of the distal supratesticular and marginal region of the testicular artery and subsequently orchiectomized. Epididymal tail spermatozoa were recovered and analyzed using a CASA system for motility, and morphology took place. Animals of SG presented a significantly higher velocity in the marginal region of the cat's testicular artery [peak systolic velocity (PSV) 11.51 cm/s; end-diastolic velocity (EDV) 7.72 cm/s] compared to NSG (PSV 7.72 cm/s, P < 0.001; EDV 4.93 cm/s, P < 0.001). Sedated cats presented higher pulsatility and resistivity indexes than non-sedated cats. The supratesticular PSV of NSG was moderately correlated with major (rs = 0621; P < 0.001) and total sperm defects (rs = 0614; P < 0001). Doppler velocimetry was fairly correlated with minor, major, and total sperm defects. In conclusion, Doppler velocimetric evaluation emerges as an important possibility in the reproductive evaluation of tomcats, once the testicular artery hemodynamics were associated with sperm defects. However, it is advisable to carry out this evaluation in non-sedated animals. If sedation is necessary, peripheral vasoconstriction should be considered.

Recent decline in sperm motility among donor candidates at a sperm bank in Denmark.

STUDY QUESTION: Has there been variation in semen quality among men applying to be sperm donors (i.e. donor candidates) in Denmark in recent years (2017-2022)? SUMMARY ANSWER: The motile sperm concentration and total motile sperm count (TMSC) in ejaculates-both measures of sperm quality-declined by as much as 22% from 2019 to 2022. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY: Questions remain about whether human semen quality has declined in recent years. Whilst some studies provide evidence for a decline in human semen quality, these findings have been disputed owing to potential biases in the populations studied or in the methods used to measure semen quality. Resolution of this issue has important implications for human fertility, as well as for those involved in the recruitment of sperm donors for use in medically assisted reproduction. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION: We obtained data on the semen quality of ejaculates previously collected from 2017 to 2022 at sperm bank locations in four cities in Denmark: Aarhus, Aalborg, Copenhagen, and Odense. Our study focuses on the single semen samples provided by 6758 donor candidates aged between 18 and 45 years old to determine whether their sperm quality met a minimum criterion for them to be accepted as sperm donors. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS: All ejaculates were analyzed within 1 hour of production. Semen volume (ml) was estimated by weight and both the concentration (106/ml) of sperm as well as the concentration of motile sperm (World Health Organization grades a and b) were measured using the same protocols and computer-assisted semen analysis system across all years at each site. Statistical analyses of the semen variables were controlled for age and donation site, as well as the average monthly high temperature when the ejaculate was produced. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE: From 2017 to 2019, semen volume, sperm concentration, and total sperm count in the ejaculates of donor candidates increased by 2-12%. Then, from 2019 to 2022, sperm concentration and total sperm count changed by 0.1-5% from year to year, but none of those changes were statistically significant. In contrast, both motile sperm concentration and TMSC declined significantly, by 16% and 22%, respectively, between 2019 and 2022. Thus, the concentration of motile sperm in donor candidates declined from 18.4 [95% CL: 17.0, 20.0] million/ml in 2019 to 15.5 [14.4, 16.7] million/ml in 2022, and TMSC declined from 61.4 [55.8, 67.5] million per ejaculate in 2019 to 48.1 [44.1, 52.4] million in 2022. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION: We cannot determine from the available data the causes of the decline in semen quality of donor candidates from 2019 to 2022. However, as this period coincides with lockdowns and changes in work patterns during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, it is possible that changes in motile sperm concentration and TMSC were the result of changes in the lifestyles of the men whose semen was analyzed. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS: Men providing initial semen samples at sperm banks, when applying to be sperm donors, are a useful population in which to monitor changes in human semen quality over time. Our results have implications for human fertility and the recruitment of sperm donors for medically assisted reproduction, where motile sperm concentration is an essential selection criterion because it influences fertility. We suggest that gathering health and lifestyle data on donor candidates at sperm banks might help to identify causal factors for the decline of sperm quality that could be addressed and intervention, if desired, could be personalized for each accepted donor. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S): No external funding was obtained for this study. E.L. and A.-B.S. are employees of Cryos International. AP reports paid consultancy for Cryos International, Cytoswim Ltd, Exceed Health, and Merck Serono in the last 2 years of this study, but all monies were paid to the University of Sheffield (former employer). AP is also an unpaid trustee of the Progress Educational Trust (Charity Number 1139856). RM declares support from Cryos International to present results of this research at ESHRE 2023. None of the authors were directly involved in the collection or physical analysis of semen samples. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: N/A.

Investigating net primary production in climate regions of Khuzestan Province, Iran using CASA model.

This study aimed to investigate the vegetation production changes in Khuzestan province, Iran using MODIS data production, meteorological data, vegetation maps as well as topographic and field monitoring data in CASA model. The study area was divided into different climatic classes based on multivariate statistical method, so the vegetation of each climatic region was examined separately for changes in NPP values. Production changes due to degradation were calculated using the Miami model and subsequently, the rain use efficiency (RUE) and the light use efficiency (LUE) and correlation indices between the CASA model and ground data were determined. The results of this study (R2) showed that the accuracy of this model varies depending on the type of climatic regions (R2 = 0.80 to R2 = 0.15). In different climatic regions, the rate of NPP changes (very humid 68 gC/m2 to ultra-dry 15 gC/m2) varies in rangeland types. The highest rate of vegetation production is observed seasonally in May. Degradation conditions also reduced RUE and LUE. However, in hyper-arid regions, adaptations of plants in some different species (Hammada Spp.) increase their efficiency compared to other vegetation types. The results showed the importance of vegetation and climate classification in vegetation production studies.

The Impact of Microorganisms on Canine Semen Quality.

Various microorganisms, including Mycoplasma spp., have been reported in canine ejaculate. The impact of these microorganisms on semen quality remains unclear. This study included 63 male intact healthy dogs aged 1-8 years. One dog exhibited azoospermia, indicating a relatively low incidence of this condition. Interestingly, 36.5% of the examined dogs tested negative for both aerobic bacteria and mycoplasmas, while 12.7% tested positive for bacterial presence. Additionally, 60.3% of the dogs tested positive for Mycoplasma spp. using PCR, with most carrying 1-2 Mycoplasma species. We found no significant difference in semen characteristics between Mycoplasma-positive and -negative dogs. The detection of Mycoplasma was not significantly linked to the presence of bacteria in semen. All the microorganisms identified were classified as saprophytic flora. Our findings indicate that Mycoplasma spp. is common in canine ejaculate. Semen quality parameters were not correlated with the presence of Mycoplasma spp. in semen. Mycoplasma HRC689 was the most common species. Some dogs exhibited no presence of aerobic bacteria or mycoplasmas in their semen. Our study highlights the common presence of Mycoplasma spp. in canine ejaculate. Semen quality shows no correlation with Mycoplasma presence. Some canine ejaculate is sterile. Our findings suggest the existence of undescribed species of canine mycoplasmas, necessitating advanced diagnostic techniques like NGS for their identification.

Quercetin in semen extender improves frozen-thawed spermatozoa quality and in-vivo fertility in crossbred Kamori goats.

This study investigated the antioxidant effect of quercetin-treated semen on frozen-thawed spermatozoa quality and in-vivo fertility in crossbred Kamori goats. In total, 32 ejaculates from four fertile bucks were diluted in Tris-based egg yolk extender with varying levels of quercetin (0, 1, 5, 10, and 15 µM). Qualified semen samples were pooled and frozen in French straws. The results revealed that the addition of quercetin in the semen extender increased (p < 0.05) frozen-thawed sperm total motility (TM), progressive motility (PM), rapid velocity (RV), average path velocity (VAP), straight line velocity (VSL), curvilinear velocity (VCL), and amplitude of lateral head (ALH) displacement in contrast to the control group. Quercetin supplementation had no effect on beat cross frequency (BCF), straightness (STR), and linearity (LIN) (p > 0.05). Quercetin showed significantly higher (p < 0.05) plasma membrane and acrosome integrity and viability (p < 0.05) of spermatozoa in contrast to the control group. Quercetin in the semen extender significantly increased (p < 0.05) superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) levels while reduced (p < 0.05) the contents of total oxidant status (TOS) and malondialdehyde (MDA), which were in contrast to the control group. Ultrasound results revealed that 24 out of 30 (80%) goats were found pregnant when semen was treated with 5 µM quercetin while the control group showed 18 out of 30 (60%) animals were pregnant. Thus, the study concluded that 5 µM quercetin-treated semen was found to be efficient, showed increased antioxidant status, and reduced oxidant production, leading to improved spermatozoa quality and in-vivo fertility in goats.

Evaluating net primary productivity dynamics and their response to land-use change in the loess plateau after the 'Grain for Green' program.

Assessing net primary productivity (NPP) dynamics and the contribution of land-use change (LUC) to NPP can help guide scientific policy to better restore and control the ecological environment. Since 1999, the "Green for Grain" Program (GGP) has strongly affected the spatial and temporal pattern of NPP on the Loess Plateau (LP); however, the multifaceted impact of phased vegetation engineering measures on NPP dynamics remains unclear. In this study, the Carnegie-Ames-Stanford Approach (CASA) model was used to simulate NPP dynamics and quantify the relative contributions of LUC and climate change (CC) to NPP under two different scenarios. The results showed that the average NPP on the LP increased from 240.7 gC·m-2 to 422.5 gC·m-2 from 2001 to 2020, with 67.43% of the areas showing a significant increasing trend. LUC was the main contributor to NPP increases during the study period, and precipitation was the most important climatic factor affecting NPP dynamics. The cumulative amount of NPP change caused by LUC (ΔNPPLUC) showed a fluctuating growth trend (from 46.23 gC·m-2 to 127.25 gC·m-2), with a higher growth rate in period ΙΙ (2010-2020) than in period Ι (2001-2010), which may be related to the accumulation of vegetation biomass and the delayed effect of the GGP on NPP. The contribution rate of LUC to increased NPP in periods Ι and ΙΙ was 101.2% and 51.2%, respectively. Regarding the transformation mode, the transformation of grassland to forest had the greatest influence on ΔNPPLUC. Regarding land-use type, the increased efficiency of NPP was improved in cropland, grassland, and forest. This study provides a scientific basis for the scientific management and development of vegetation engineering measures and regional sustainable development.

Nocturnal vestibular stimulation using a rocking bed improves a severe sleep disorder in a patient with mitochondrial disease.

Mitochondrial diseases are rare genetic disorders often accompanied by severe sleep disorders. We present the case of a 12-year-old boy diagnosed with a severe primary mitochondrial disease, exhibiting ataxia, spasticity, progressive external ophthalmoplegia, cardiomyopathy and severely disrupted sleep, but no cognitive impairment. Interestingly, his parents reported improved sleep during night train rides. Based on this observation, we installed a rocking bed in the patient's bedroom and performed different interventions, including immersive multimodal vestibular, kinesthetic and auditory stimuli, reminiscent of the sensory experiences encountered during train rides. Over a 5-month period, we conducted four 2-week nocturnal interventions, separated by 1-week washout phases, to determine the subjectively best-perceived stimulation parameters, followed by a final 4-week intervention using the optimal parameters. We assessed sleep duration and quality using the Mini Sleep Questionnaire, monitored pulse rate changes and used videography to document nocturnal interactions between the patient and caregivers. Patient-reported outcome measures, clinical examinations and personal outcomes of specific interests were used to document daytime sleepiness, restlessness, anxiety, fatigue, cognitive performance and physical posture. In the final 4-week intervention, sleep duration increased by 25%, required caregiver interactions reduced by 75%, and caregiving time decreased by 40%. Subjective fatigue, assessed by the Checklist Individual Strength, decreased by 40%, falling below the threshold of severe fatigue. Our study suggests that rocking beds could provide a promising treatment regime for selected patients with persistent severe sleep disorders. Further research is required to validate these findings in larger patient populations with sleep disorders and other conditions.

Comparison of the CASA and InVEST models' effects for estimating spatiotemporal differences in carbon storage of green spaces in megacities.

Urban green space is a direct way to improve the carbon sink capacity of urban ecosystems. The carbon storage assessment of megacity green spaces is of great significance to the service function of urban ecosystems and the management of urban carbon zoning in the future. Based on multi-period remote sensing image data, this paper used the CASA model and the InVEST model to analyze the spatio-temporal variation and driving mechanism of carbon storage in Shenzhen green space and discussed the applicability of the two models to the estimation of carbon storage in urban green space. The research results showed that, from 2008 to 2022, in addition to the rapid expansion of construction land, the area of green space and other land types in Shenzhen showed a significant decrease trend. The estimation results of the carbon storage model showed that the carbon storage of green space shows a significant trend of reduction from 2008 to 2022, and the reduction amounts are 0.8 × 106 t (CASA model) and 0.64 × 106 t (InVEST model), respectively. The evaluation results of the model show that, in megacities, the spatial applicability of InVEST model is lower than that of CASA model, and the CASA model is more accurate in estimating the carbon storage of urban green space. The research results can provide a scientific basis for the assessment of the carbon sink capacity of megacity ecosystems with the goal of "dual carbon".

"A rua é nóis": sobre a saudade da partilha do comum / "We are the streetz": about missing the sharing of common things / "La calle somos nosotros": sobre echar de menos una vida compartida

Com base em uma experiência de atendimento psicológico on-line a mulheres negras quilombolas, no contexto da pandemia, pretendemos: 1) refletir sobre casa e rua na realidade da população negra, guiados pelas noções de "forma social escravista" e de "reterritorialização", ambas de Muniz Sodré, destacando, do interior dessas reflexões e a partir das elaborações teóricas de Carl Gustav Jung (no campo da psicologia analítica), e de Achille Mbembe e Muniz Sodré (no campo das relações étnico-raciais), dois conceitos em construção para a compreensão do sofrimento sociorracial: trauma racial e sombra branca; 2) refletir sobre o lugar da "partilha do comum" no cuidado à saúde mental da população negra de zonas rurais e urbanas. Do ponto de vista teórico-metodológico, trabalhamos ao modo de uma comunicação rapsódica, no sentido grego da palavra (raptein = coser): costurando história de caso e proposições conceituais.

Based on an online psychological care experience for black quilombola women in the context of the pandemic, we intend to: 1) reflect upon home and street in the reality of the black population, guided by the notions of "slavery social form" and "re-territorialization", both by Muniz Sodré, highlighting, from within these reflections and from the theoretical elaborations of Carl Gustav Jung (in the field of analytical psychology), and of Achille Mbembe and Muniz Sodré (in the field of ethnic-racial relations), two concepts under construction to understand socio-racial suffering: racial trauma and white shadow; 2) reflect on the place of "sharing of common things" in mental health care for the black population in rural and urban areas. From a theoretical-methodological point of view, we worked in the form of a rhapsodic communication, in the Greek sense of the word (raptein = to sew): weaving together case histories and conceptual propositions.

Con base en una experiencia de atención psicológica en línea con mujeres negras quilombolas en la pandemia, pretendemos: 1) reflexionar sobre hogar y calle en la realidad de la población negra, guiándonos por nociones de "forma social esclavista" y "reterritorialización", de Muniz Sodré, destacando, en de esas reflexiones y a partir de las elaboraciones teóricas de Carl Gustav Jung (en el campo de la psicología analítica), y de Achille Mbembe y Muniz Sodré (en el campo de las relaciones étnico-raciales), conceptos en construcción para comprender el sufrimiento socio-racial: trauma racial y sombra blanca; 2) reflexionar sobre el lugar de "vida compartida" en el cuidado de la salud mental de la población negra de zonas rurales y urbanas. Desde el punto de vista teórico-metodológico, trabajamos sobre la base de una comunicación rapsódica, en el sentido griego de la palabra (raptein = coser): tejiendo el relato del caso y proposiciones conceptuales.

The lack of the influence of various species of Mycoplasma spp. on canine semen quality.

Mycoplasmas colonize fish, reptiles, birds and mammals, being commensals or causing diseases, sometimes severe in ruminants, swine, poultry, or wildlife animals. So far, 15 species of canine Mycoplasma spp. have been described. Conflicting results have been presented regarding the pathogenicity of Mycoplasma spp. Although many virulence factors of these bacteria have been described, they still require attention. The main aim of our study was to evaluate the presence of known canine Mycoplasmas in the male reproductive tract of clinically healthy dogs. The second aim was to check if Mycoplasma spp. cause any abnormalities in semen quality that could have further consequences and to propose the schemes for managing the carriers. 83.3% of examined dogs were Mycoplasma spp. -positive dogs, and most of them were the carriers of more than one species. Six dogs had azoospermic ejaculates. The total spermatozoa numbers were similar in Mycoplasma -positive and negative groups. Motility was slightly higher in Mycoplasma spp.-negative group, but the difference was not statistically significant. There was no significant difference in semen characteristics between the carriers and Mycoplasma spp.-negative dogs. Neither the individual species nor the number of species strains had a significant effect on sperm morphological parameters as well as viability. Semen quality parameters are not correlated with the species found on the prepuce. Over 70% Mycoplasma spp.- positive dogs have more than one species of this bacteria. Despite finding mycoplasmas in azoospermic dogs, we suggest that they were not the cause of infertility. Mycoplasma spp. could be a part of normal microbiota in canine prepuce in individuals without any clinical signs.

Evaluation of Cryopreserved Ram Sperm with Nano-Ozone Solution and Post-Thaw Life Span by Flow Cytometric Analysis.

Ozone has been used as a therapy tool in medical science for conditions such as ulcers, peritonitis, wounds, and mostly joint problems. Ozone therapy strengthens the resistance to infections by kick-starting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune modulation systems. Ozone creates a defensive response against oxidative stress in membranes and protects metabolism against reactive oxygen species (ROS). Sperm membranes are one of ROS's main targets; therefore, the cells' cryopreservation process requires more defensive elements for better results. This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of nano-ozone solution (NOS) on ram sperm cryopreservation and the influence of the process on various sperm parameters for post-thaw (0 hour) and postincubation (6 hours) time points. Samples were collected from six Merino rams in the breeding season by electroejaculation five times at 3-day intervals. The study was conducted by cryopreservation of the samples using a tris citric acid-egg yolk-based extender. The samples were subjected to freezing in control and NOS (0.5, 1, and 2 µg/mL nano-ozone supplemented). Post-thaw motility, hypo-osmotic swelling test, acrosome (fluorescein isothiocyanate-conjugated Pisum sativum agglutinin [PSA-FITC]), and DNA integrities (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling [TUNEL]) were evaluated with a phase-contrast microscope. Mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) assessments were conducted by JC1-PI dual staining with a flow cytometer. Malondialdehyde and glutathione (GSH) levels were measured by a spectrophotometer. Sperm kinematics were investigated by a computer-assisted sperm analyzer (CASA) at the post-thaw time point. Compared with the control, relatively low doses of NOS (0.5 and 1 µg/mL) yielded better results in many parameters (motility, membrane and acrosomal integrities, MMP, various sperm kinematics, and GSH levels) (p < 0.05). The addition of low ozone doses to cryopreservation extenders improved the results compared with the control group at post-thaw and postincubation time points. Despite the valuable potential of nano-ozone supplementation in ram sperm cryopreservation, this subject requires further investigations with fertility trials soon.

Oxidative phosphorylation rather than glycolysis is the primary energy source for sperm motility in the mussels Mytilus edulis.

Broadcast-spawning marine mussels rely on high sperm motility for successful fertilization in the dynamic seawater environment. Mitochondria are typically considered the primary source of ATP generation via oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS); however, the ATP generation pathways of mussel sperm have not been fully characterized. To better understand the importance of both OXPHOS and glycolysis for mussel sperm function, we conducted experiments inhibiting these pathways in sperm from Mytilus edulis. Our results indicate that oligomycin, an inhibitor of the mitochondrial ATP synthase, immediately decreased sperm motility rate, velocity, and ATP content, while 2-deoxy-d-glucose, a glycolysis inhibitor, had no effect. The OXPHOS inhibitor rotenone also partially reduced sperm motility rate and velocity. Interestingly, no evidence was found for the inhibitors' effects on the content of energy-rich compounds (lipids, carbohydrates, and proteins) in the mussels' sperm, indicating only modest energy demand to fuel sperm motility. Based on these findings, we conclude that OXPHOS is the primary energy source for sperm motility in marine mussels. Our study sheds light on the intricacies of mussel sperm physiology and highlights the importance of understanding the energy requirements for successful fertilization in broadcast-spawning marine invertebrates.

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

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

Bioclimatic thermal stress indices and their relationships with andrological characteristics in hair rams.

This study evaluated relationships among reproductive parameters and the bioclimatic indices: temperature and humidity index (THI), equivalent temperature index (ETI), black globe temperature and humidity index (BGTHI), and thermal comfort index (TCI), during the first 45 days of spermatogenesis (SP-45) and during the 15 days of sperm transit through the epididymis (STP-15) that preceded the reproductive assessments (ReA). Such information is useful in determining the optimal breeding season in Northeast Brazil. Santa Inês rams (n = 25) underwent two ReA in three periods of the year (D-P = dry; R-P = rainy and RD-P = rainy/dry transition), and the bioclimatic indices were calculated at the corresponding SP-45 and STP-15 timepoints prior to each ReA. Sperm kinetic parameters in D-P were depressed compared to R-P and RD-P (P < 0.05). The index values had an antagonistic relationship with most parameters and regression analysis demonstrated that the BGTHI and the TCI had a negative association with the progressive motility, curvilinear, straight line, and average path velocities, and a positive association with slow sperm in the ejaculate in SP-45 and STP-15 phases (P < 0.01). Semen quality kinetics is affected throughout the year by the environment and it is apparent that it is impaired in D-P and better in R-P and RD-P seasons. The BGTHI and TCI measured in the sperm production phase classified the environment most coherently and presented better association with the behavior of sperm kinetics.

Pyruvate enhances stallion sperm function in high glucose media improving overall metabolic efficiency.

If a mechanism of more efficient glycolysis depending on pyruvate is present in stallion spermatozoa, detrimental effects of higher glucose concentrations that are common in current commercial extenders could be counteracted. To test this hypothesis, spermatozoa were incubated in a 67 mM Glucose modified Tyrode's media in the presence of 1- or 10-mM pyruvate and in the Tyrode's basal media which contains 5 mM glucose. Spermatozoa incubated for 3 h at 37 °C in 67 mM Tyrode's media with 10 mM pyruvate showed increased motility in comparison with aliquots incubated in Tyrode's 5 mM glucose and Tyrode's 67 mM glucose (57.1 ± 3.5 and 58.1 ± 1.9 to 73.0 ± 1.1 %; P < 0.01). Spermatozoa incubated in Tyrode's with 67 mM glucose 10 mM pyruvate maintained the viability along the incubation (64.03 ± 15.4 vs 61.3 ± 10.2), while spermatozoa incubated in 67 mM Glucose-Tyrode's showed a decrease in viability (38.01 ± 11.2, P < 0.01). 40 mM oxamate, an inhibitor of the lactate dehydrogenase LDH, reduced sperm viability (P < 0.05, from 76 ± 5 in 67 mM Glucose/10 mM pyruvate to 68.0 ± 4.3 %, P < 0.05). Apoptotic markers increased in the presence of oxamate. (P < 0.01). UHPLC/MS/MS showed that 10 mM pyruvate increased pyruvate, lactate, ATP and NAD+ while phosphoenolpyruvate decreased. The mechanisms that explain the improvement of in presence of 10 mM pyruvate involve the conversion of lactate to pyruvate and increased NAD+ enhancing the efficiency of the glycolysis.

Improving the science and practice of using artificial roosts for bats.

Worldwide, artificial bat roosts (e.g., bat boxes, bark mimics, bat condos) are routinely deployed for conservation, mitigation, and community engagement. However, scant attention has been paid to developing best practices for the use of artificial roosts as conservation tools. Although bats readily occupy artificial roosts, occupancy and abundance data are misleading indicators of habitat quality. Lacking information on bat behavior, health, and fitness in artificial roosts, their conservation efficacy cannot be adequately validated. We considered the proximal and ultimate factors, such as evolutionarily reliable cues, that may prompt bats to preferentially use and show fidelity to suboptimal artificial roosts even when high-quality alternatives are available. Possible negative health and fitness consequences for artificial roost inhabitants include exposure to unstable and extreme microclimates in poorly designed roosts, and vulnerability to larger numbers of ectoparasites in longer lasting artificial roosts that house larger bat colonies than in natural roosts. Bats using artificial roosts may have lower survival rates if predators have easy access to roosts placed in conspicuous locations. Bats may be lured into occupying low-quality habitats if attractive artificial roosts are deployed on polluted urban and agricultural landscapes. To advance the science behind artificial bat roosts, we present testable research hypotheses and suggestions to improve the quality of artificial roosts for bats and decrease risks to occupants. Because continued loss of natural roosts may increase reliance on alternatives, such as artificial roosts, it is imperative that this conservation practice be improved.

Mejoras en la ciencia y práctica del uso de perchas artificiales para murciélagos Resumen Las perchas artificiales para murciélagos (cajas, imitaciones de corteza, condominios) se usan en todo el mundo para la conservación, mitigación y participación de la comunidad. Sin embargo, se ha prestado poca atención al desarrollo de las mejores prácticas en cuanto al uso de perchas artificiales como herramientas de conservación. Aunque los murciélagos ocupan fácilmente las perchas artificiales, los datos de su abundancia y ocupación son indicadores engañosos de la calidad del hábitat. La falta de información sobre el comportamiento, salud y adaptabilidad de los murciélagos en las perchas artificiales causa que no pueda validarse adecuadamente la eficiencia de conservación de las perchas. Consideramos los factores proximales y finales, como las pautas de confianza evolutiva, que pueden llevar a los murciélagos a usar con preferencia y mostrar fidelidad a las perchas artificiales subóptimas cuando existen alternativas de gran calidad. Las posibles consecuencias negativas para la salud y adaptabilidad de los habitantes de los nidos artificiales incluyen la exposición a microclimas inestables y extremos en perchas mal diseñadas y la vulnerabilidad a un mayor número de ectoparásitos en perchas artificiales de mayor duración que albergan colonias mayores a las perchas naturales. Los murciélagos que usan perchas artificiales pueden tener tasas menores de supervivencia si los depredadores tienen acceso fácil a las perchas colocadas en ubicaciones conspicuas. Puede que los murciélagos terminen ocupando hábitats de baja calidad si se construyen perchas artificiales atractivas sobre terrenos agrícolas y urbanos contaminados. Presentamos hipótesis comprobables de investigación y sugerencias para mejorar la calidad de las perchas artificiales y reducir los riesgos para sus habitantes y así avanzar la ciencia detrás de las perchas artificiales para murciélagos. Ya que la pérdida continua de perchas naturales puede incrementar la dependencia de alternativas, como las perchas artificiales, es imprescindible que se mejore esta práctica de conservación.