Semen Quality

Trout production in Peru has export potential. However, there are no fry available to maintain production throughout the year and there is also a lack of egg production at certain times of the year. Therefore, the alternative is to cryopreserve semen for the non-reproductive season. The objective of the study was to determine the influence of freezing temperature on the quality of rainbow trout semen. The semen of 12 reproductive males was collected in the facilities of the Chucuito Research and Production Center of the National University of the Altiplano of Puno, which underwent a macroscopic, microscopic pre and post thaw seminal evaluation and the fertility rate was measured. Due to the effect of three freezing temperatures (-80 °C, -100 °C, -120 °C), cryopreservation had a decline curve of -20 °C / min. The fresh seminal parameters were similar to those reported by other researchers. While freezing had unfavorable effects on semen quality, the best results for activation time (...

The present study was conducted to determine the concentrations of heparin binding proteins (HBP) in seminal fluid of breeding buffalo bulls and establish their relationship with frozen-thawed semen characteristics and fertility. Both fresh and frozen semen were collected from same ejaculate of 30 breeding buffalo bulls. Based on HBP concentrations in seminal plasma obtained from affinity chromatography, all the bulls were divided into 2 groups, viz. high fertility bulls (HFB, 6.5 mg/ml; n=15) and low fertility bulls (LFB, < 6.5 mg/ml; n=15) for further comparisons. The frozen-thawed semen of same ejaculate was evaluated for per cent CASA-based sperm kinetics, viability, Hypo-osmotic swelling test (HOST), acrosome integrity, in vitro acrosome reaction and first service conception rate (FSCR). The overall HBP concentrations were significantly higher in seminal plasma (7.31±0.14 vs 5.33±0.19 mg/ml) and fresh (0.66±0.03 vs 0.59±0.02 mg/10 9 sperms) sperm extracts of HFB than LFB. The frozen-thawed semen characteristics, viz. total motility, per cent acrosome reaction and FSCR were also significantly higher in bulls with high fertility than in lower ones. No significant difference was observed in sperm viability, HOST and acrosome integrity in the 2 groups of bulls. Total 12 HBP bands in range of 11 to 135 kDa were recorded on SDS-PAGE. Higher levels of HBP in seminal plasma of HFB might be responsible for their better semen quality and fertility.

White rhinoceroses suffer from a low rate of reproduction in captivity. This study examines the role of male reproductive function as a contributing factor. We used ultrasonography to image accessory sex glands, testis and epididymis. Electroejaculation provided 36 ejaculates from 21 rhinoceroses. Based on the percentage of progressively motile spermatozoa, semen was categorized in three groups, high (I: >75%), intermediate (II: 50-70%) or low (III: <50%) quality. Only 52% of the males showed high semen quality. Ejaculates in the high motility category also had the highest proportion of morphologically intact spermatozoa. Both semen parameters, sperm motility and morphology, were found to positively correlate with size of the accessory sex glands. The semen category was associated with group size suggesting that the social status influenced functional reproductive parameters. Change of territorial status (n ¼ 1) improved semen quality. Testicular fibrosis was characterized as a sign of reproductive ageing in all males older than 15 years of age (n ¼ 13); although, this ageing process did not notably affect semen parameters. Furthermore, for the benefit of assisted-reproduction and genetic banking programs protocols for the storage of cooled semen and the cryopreservation of spermatozoa were designed using different cryodiluents. This report provides basic data for the evaluation of reproductive components and of breeding management in male

To increase the quality of cryopreserved sperm in white rhinoceros, the liquid nitrogen vapour (LN vapour) freezing and the multithermal gradient directional freezing methods were compared. Sixteen white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum sp.) were electroejaculated. Semen samples were diluted with cryoextender (Tris, lactose, egg-yolk, DMSO) and aliquoted into straws for LN vapour freezing, and glass hollow tubes for directional freezing. The sperm quality was evaluated before and after freezing by assessing the following parameters: motility, morphologic state, acrosomal integrity and plasma membrane function and integrity (i.e. sperm viability) as defined by the hypo-osmotic swelling. Directional freezing improved the sperm viability by 5.6% ( p < 0.005), progressive motility score by 34.7% and sperm motility index (SMI) by 8.1% ( p < 0.005) versus LN vapour freezing. When data was categorized into groups of low (<19%), moderate (20-39%) and high (>40%) percentages of morphologically normal, directional freezing (DF) resulted in 31.4% less abnormal acrosomes for the low quality group as well as 18.7% increase in intact acrosomes and 10.9% increase in motility for the high quality group compared to LN vapour freezing (LN) ( p < 0.01, p < 0.03, p < 0.01, respectively). LN showed a significant reduction in sperm head volume (5.7%, p < 0.05) compared to the prefreeze; whereas, no significant reduction in head volume was demonstrated after DF. Several additives (xanthenuric acid, cytochalasin D, potassium, EDTA) to the basic cryoextender provided no significant improvement in spermatozoal survival after directional freezing. In conclusion, directional freezing proved to facilitate higher gamete survival compared to LN vapour freezing. This is especially effective in ejaculates of low sperm quality and is important in endangered species where high quality semen donors are often not accessible. These results suggest that directional freezing could be valuable particularly for species with limited freezability of spermatozoa.

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels, body mass index (BMI), and the success or failure of in vitro fertilization (IVF), as well as pregnancy outcomes in women undergoing IVF/ICSI treatment. In this case-control study, data were collected from 278 infertile couples referred to infertility centers affiliated with Shiraz University of Medical Sciences between 2016 and 2023. Demographic variables, hormone levels, TSH, BMI, and additional factors such as infertility duration and varicocele status were analyzed. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS software. Results: Of the participants, 137 achieved successful IVF outcomes. BMI, TSH levels, and hypothyroidism were not significantly correlated with IVF/ICSI success or live birth rates. Secondary infertility cases demonstrated higher success rates, and men with untreated varicocele were linked to better IVF outcomes. BMI and TSH levels showed no significant association with IVF success or live birth outcomes. However, secondary infertility and untreated male varicocele were associated with improved pregnancy results. Further research with larger samples and detailed sub-categorization of infertility causes is recommended.

The objective of the study was to determination the biochemical changes and it's relationships in each of three infertile groups (Teratozoospermia, infertile normozoospermia compare with fertile normozoospermia). Methods: Samples were collected at the Fertility Center Laboratories in Sadr Medical City, Najaf ,Iraq. Seminal fluid analysis were carried out on the samples, and samples that taken were 37 of Teratozoospermia, 34 of unexplained infertility samples and 17 of control group samples. A serum was then taken for biochemical tests, where vitamin D, vitamin D receptor (VDR), Testosterone, parathyroid hormone (PTH),Protamin enzyame 1( PRM1) by ELISA method and Calcium, Zinc by spectrophotometer test was measured. Results: The result showed a significant decrease (p<0.05) of VD, Ca+2 and Zn+2 levels in both Teratozoospermia and infertile normospermia compared with control group, While significant increased (p<0.05) of PTH and PRM1 levels in both Teratozoospermia and infertile normospermia compared with control group. And the results showed non-significant (p<0.05) in both VDR and testosterone hormone. Conclusion: A significant decrease and increase in the levels of each of above biochemical markers may be causes problem in infertile patients .

A study was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary lipid sources on the reproductive performances of Hy-line Silver-Brown cockerels. Five different lipid sources namely fish oil, sunflower oil, high oleic acid sunflower oil, tallow and an equal (50:50) proportion of linseed and fish oil (representing the control diet), were used in formulating five isoenergetic and isonitrogenous diets (30g/kg inclusion level). The experimental cockerels (n = 10/treatment) were randomly allocated to the 5 experimental diets at 32 weeks of age, and measurements were taken from week 35 to 46 of age. The parameters recorded were: feed intake, body weight, semen volume, sperm concentration, sperm motility and sperm viability. Semen ejaculation rate was also calculated for the cockerels from which semen was collected. While a lower (P<0.05) feed intake (78.75g/bird/day), body weight (2499g), sperm motility (48.1%) and ejaculation rate (79.2%) was recorded in the cockerels fed a fish oil supplemented diet during this period, a higher (P<0.05) semen volume (0.42mL) was recorded in the tallow fed cockerels. Results indicate dietary fatty acid supplementation from the various sources to have distinct effects on certain semen quality (semen volume, sperm output, sperm motility) and reproductive (ejaculation rate) parameters in the cockerels tested.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of pST injections on metabolism, testicular size, and sperm characteristics in young boars. Sixty 22-day old piglets were divided into two groups: pST (n=30) and Control (n=30). The pST group was submitted to pST injections (90µg/kg body weight) every three days up to 330 days of age. Blood collections were performed weekly. Testicular weight was measures at 22, 82, 142, 202 and 365 days of age. Libido and fresh semen characteristics were evaluated between 150 and 210 days of age. Semen characteristics were also evaluated during a 72h storage period (15ºC). Testosterone, albumin, and phosphorus blood concentrations were higher in the pST group (P&lt;0.05). The pST group had a higher IGF-I concentration in seminal plasma (P=0.05) and higher testicular weight (P&lt;0.001) compared to the Control group. The pST group had higher ejaculate volume (P&lt;0.001), total sperm count (P=0.047) and number of inseminating doses/ejaculate (P=0.047)...

COVID-19 since its emergence in 2019 has become a global health challenge to deal with. Apart from other affected organs, the studies reporting presence of SARS-CoV-2 virus in male reproductive tract of Covid-19 patients has instigated a concern regarding its impact on male fertility. The high expression of Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor protein and TMPRSS2 in testis and other male accessory organs which facilitate the entry of virus in the human cells has increased the probability of viral invasion and its adversity in these organs. In this study we have systematical reviewed the current information available on different online portals to explore the possibility of direct and indirect effects if any of SARS-CoV-2 virus on male fertility organs following its clinical interpretations and consequences on male fertility outcome. The available literature showed disrupted hypothalamus-pituitary-testicular axis (hypogonadism), testicular orchitis and altered sperm parameters as major unavoidable risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection in male patients. However, with the limited clinical data, it is currently not appropriate to reach any conclusion and more follow-up studies on COVID-19 male survivors as well as in-depth studies for better understanding of molecular mechanism of SARS-CoV-2 virus inducing pathogenesis in male reproductive system affecting male reproductive health and fertility outcome are need to be conducted.

We used 550 Braford and 214 Brangus-Ibagé bulls to study the association between Y chromosome morphology and the evaluation of breeding-soundness, karyotyping and breeding records were used to assess Y chromosome morphology. In general, no direct association was detected between the individual type of Y chromosome and reproductive fitness as previously estimated through breeding soundness examination. The type of breeding strategy used to form the synthetic breeds was also analyzed. The Braford breed is about 3/8 Zebu (Bos taurus indicus) and 5/8 Hereford (Bos taurus taurus) but when the breeding strategy used 1/4 Zebu animals to produce Braford bulls which were 3/8 Zebu a greater percentage of the bulls had to be culled due to reproductive problems. Our study shows that certain interactions between genotypes can be detrimental to the reproductive efficiency of 3/8 Zebu animals and that breeding strategies avoiding or favoring certain genotypes can be used to reduce the percentage of bulls from synthetic breeds that are culled due to problems with semen quality.

The incidence of leukocytospermia ranges from 10% to 20% among infertile men. However, the role of leukocytospermia in the pathogenesis of male infertility remains highly controversial. Our study evaluated the relationship between leukocytospermia and standard semen parameters, levels of seminal reactive oxygen species (ROS), and the extent of sperm nuclear DNA damage. Prospective study examining the relationship between leukocytospermia and semen quality. Semen specimens from 48 men attending the male infertility clinic were examined according to the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria. Patients were classified into two groups, leukocytospermic (>1 x 10 6 leukocytes/mL) (n = 16) and non-leukocytospermic (≤1 x 10 6 leukocytes/mL) (n = 32). A group of normal donors (n = 13) served as a control. ROS production was determined by the chemiluminescence assay in the washed cell suspension (containing both sperm and leukocytes). Results were expressed as X 10 6 counted photons per minute (cpm)/20 X 10 6 sperm/mL. Sperm nuclear DNA damage was assessed by sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA) to determine the percentage of cells outside the main population (COMPαt) with abnormal chromatin structure. Leukocytospermia was associated with an abnormality in one or more of the standard semen parameters in 93% (15/16) of cases. Sperm motility (mean ± SD) was significantly lower in the leukocytospermic group (37.9 ± 15.2) compared to the non-leukocytospermic group (47.7 ± 15.3%; P <0.04) and the donor group (66.6 ± 10%; P <0.001). Patients with leukocytospermia had poor sperm morphology (16.9 ± 9.1%) compared to the donor group (36.7 ± 6.1%; P = 0.0003). Abnormal sperm morphology was observed in 88% of leukocytospermic samples versus 47% of non-leukocytospermic samples. ROS levels [median (25%, 75% interquartile range)] were significantly higher in the leukocytospermic group [177.9 (31.5, 430.1)], compared to the non-leukocytospermic group [2.7 (0.5, 12.2)] (P <0.0001) and the donor group [0.4 (0.1, 2.5)] (P <0.0001). Significantly higher levels of %COMPαt (mean ± SD) were observed in the leukocytospermic group (28.8 ± 9.3) versus non-leukocytospermic group (22.6 ± 10.8; P <0.02), and the donors (15.8 ± 6.8; P = 0.002). A COMPαt value of ≥27% was seen in 62% of leukocytospermic samples compared to 25% in non-leukocytospermic samples. A significant negative correlation was seen between leukocyte concentration in semen and sperm motility (r = 0.31, P = 0.01) and sperm morphology (r = 0.28, P = 0.03). Leukocytospermia was positively correlated with high ROS levels (r = 0.7, P <0.0001) and % COMPαt values (r = 0.32, P = 0.01). Our results show a strong correlation between leukocytospermia and poor semen quality, oxidative stress and increased sperm nuclear DNA damage. COMPαt values ≥ 27% have been recently reported to be an indicator of negative pregnancy outcome in assisted reproduction. Therefore, infertile men with leukocytospermia should be counseled concerning the potential negative effects of increased sperm DNA damage in their pregnancy outcome.

Unselected young college students (n ¼ 222). Intervention(s): A physical examination, blood and semen samples, and completion of a brief questionnaire. Main Outcome Measure(s): Semen parameters and serum reproductive hormone levels. Result(s): Subjects were aged 18-22 years (median age, 19.5 years), predominantly Caucasian (81%), and nonsmokers (79%), with a mean (SD) body mass index of 25.5 (4.2) kg/m 2 . Overall, median sperm concentration was 52 Â 10 6 /mL (5th-95th percentiles: 7-181 Â 10 6 /mL), median total sperm count was 158 Â 10 6 (14-587 Â 10 6 ), and 23.1% and 15.8% of men had a sperm concentration below 20 Â 10 6 /mL and 15 Â 10 6 /mL, respectively. Few men had serum hormones falling outside clinically normal ranges. Median sperm concentrations and reproductive hormone levels were comparable to those seen in young men in Denmark, Finland, and Japan. Conclusion(s): Our study provides the first data in 70 years on semen quality and reproductive hormones in young men in the United States with unknown fertility. These data suggest that, overall, reproductive parameters in our study population of young college students from the northeastern United States are similar to those of young European and Japanese men. (Fertil Steril Ò 2014;101:1064-71. Ó2014 by American Society for Reproductive Medicine.

Primary Bladder Neck Obstruction (PBNO) management provides medical and surgical treatment, such as transurethral incisions that can lead to retrograde ejaculation. The aim of this study was to investigate the maintenance of anterograde ejaculation and semen quality before and after this surgical procedure. A retrospective evaluation was carried out between 2011 and 2020. A total of 73 patients diagnosed with PBNO were recruited. Ejaculatory function, semen quality, and the fertility of recruited subjects were evaluated. Semen parameters—Baseline, 8.2% of patients were oligozoospermic and 12.3% had a semen volume below the WHO 2010 fifth percentile. Post-surgery, 20% of patients were oligozoospermic. We detected a significant decrease in total sperm number, a significant increase in the number of abnormal forms, and a reduction in the leukocyte concentration. Ejaculatory function—A total of 7.7% of patients reported anejaculation after transurethral incision of the bladder neck. Fer...

Male fertility assessment is crucial to reproductive management in livestock and companion animals. Traditional breeding soundness evaluations (BSE), which include semen analysis and reproductive tract examination, sometimes fail to detect reproductive dysfunction in its early stages. Advancements in Infrared Thermography (IRT) and Color Doppler Ultrasonography (CDU) have provided non-invasive, real-time, and objective tools to evaluate testicular function, thermoregulation, and blood flow dynamics. CDU enables the quantification of testicular blood perfusion (TBP) through Doppler indices such as Resistive Index (RI) and Pulsatility Index (PI), which are sensitive indicators of testicular function. Meanwhile, IRT assesses scrotal temperature gradients, which are critical for spermatogenesis and semen quality. The standardization of diagnostic thresholds and their cross-species applicability continue to be unsolved issues despite their increasing clinical significance. Additionally, male fertility is seriously threatened by climate change and heat stress, which calls for additional research on IRT and CDU in thermoregulatory responses. The widespread use of these technologies can increase reproductive success in companion and agricultural animals, decrease financial costs associated with subfertility, and improve breeding efficiency. This review comprehensively analyses these imaging modalities, compares their advantages and limitations, and explores their integration into routine andrological assessments.

Semen quality and levels of non-essential metals such as strontium (Sr), aluminum (Al), lead (Pb), nickel (Ni), and vanadium (V) were measured. Metals were determined by ICP-OES (inductively coupled plasma - optical emission spectrometry) in semen samples from 102 men who were recruited in a Reproduction Unit in the Canary Islands. The presence of each metal was as follows: Sr: 56.9%, Al: 73.5%, Pb: 45.1%, Ni: 15.7%, and V: 79.4% of the samples. No significant differences were found in the relationship between the spermiogram, the sperm motility, and the concentration of spermatozoa levels of non-essential metals. It is noteworthy that Ni levels tend to be lower in patients with oligozoospermia (t (46.4) = 1.84; p = 0.070). Between lifestyle and non-essential metals, there was a significant relationship between the level of occupational exposure to metals and Ni (χ2(2) = 13.91; p = 0.001). We did not find significant differences in non-essential seminal metal content and smoking status but, there were differences between drinkers and the concentration of V in semen (t (100) = -1.99; p = 0.050). The occupational exposure to metals and place of residence have effects on Al and V levels in semen. Regarding obesity, significant differences were found in Pb levels (t (18.0) = 2.34; p = 0.031). Obese patients have a lower Pb level, and the percentage of progressive sperm motility was lower in obese men (t (98) = 2.14; p = 0.035). The detection of metals in semen opens a new field in the study of male infertility with the possibility of performing treatments aimed at correcting these possible anomalies.

Background: Pantja is a dual purpose indigenous goat breed, reared in Tarai region of Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh. There is a lack of thorough study about the seminal characteristics of this goat breed. Hence, the present study was conducted to evaluate the level of certain biochemical constituents and their relationship with macroscopical and microscopical semen characteristics in Pantja buck. Methods: A total thirty two ejaculates from four sexually mature Pantja buck were analysed. The ejaculates were evaluated for volume (0.36±0.06 ml), mass activity (4.47±0.22), concentration (3.54±0.13  10 9 /ml), individual motility (85.28±1.17%), viability (88.28±0.78%), morphological abnormalities (4.70±0.17%), plasma membrane integrity (86.31±0.62%) and acrosome integrity (94.31±1.05%) by standard semen evaluation protocol. Seminal plasma ALT (18.10±0.45 U/L), AST (124.04±0.86 U/L), ALP (49.98±0.38 U/L), LDH (216.36±1.78 U/L), GSH-Px (10.90±0.21 U/ml), MDA (2.14±0.05 nmol/ml), albumin (2.29±0.03 gm/dl), globulin (2.52±0.02 gm/dl), total proteins (4.81±0.05 gm/dl), calcium (11.07±0.18 mg/dl) and phosphorus (12.34±0.20 mg/dl) were determined spectrophotometrically. Two tailed Pearson's correlation was applied to check the relationship among the above attributes. Result: A significant correlation was observed among the biochemical constituents of seminal plasma and seminal attributes of Pantja bucks. The selected biochemical constituents also showed significant correlation with each other.

She obtained her Biological Sciences degree in 2003 and her MSc in 2006 from the Universidad Autónoma of Madrid. She is currently investigating the dynamics of DNA fragmentation and its clinical implications. She is also involved in developing new and improved tests for the assessment of DNA damage especially in spermatozoa.

She obtained her Biological Sciences degree in 2003 and her MSc in 2006 from the Universidad Autónoma of Madrid. She is currently investigating the dynamics of DNA fragmentation and its clinical implications. She is also involved in developing new and improved tests for the assessment of DNA damage especially in spermatozoa.

Background and Objective: Male infertility is intended as a condition for men who are unable to impregnate their partners for at least one year after intercourse without using a protector. This research work statistically investigates the effects of paracetamol usage on hormonal profile and sperm count by modelling the impact of paracetamol and standard drug, same dosage of paracetamol combinations and the interactions on hormonal profile and sperm count and to determine the effect of consuming avocado on the parameters. Materials and Methods: Forty-two male Wistar rats weighing 100-105 g were used to determine the effect of acetaminophen on hormones and sperm count. The avocado leaves were air-dried and blended into powder, mixed with water (100 mL), stirred and mixed intermittently for 72 hrs. The water extract was filtered into a conical flask and stored until when used. The animals were humanely sacrificed after which a caudoventral mid-abdominal incision was made to access the internal organs. The testes were detached from the epididymis and harvested. The concentration was determined by the use of the improved Neubauer hemocytometer. Results: The LH and FSH hormones in the groups apart from the control increased significantly due to acetaminophen administration but the administration of standard dose, helped in reviving the damage to a significant level. However, long-term administration of acetaminophen doesn't reduce body weight, avocado extract reduces it to a significant level. However, an excessive increase in FSH concentration as observed in the 3000 mg/kg of acetaminophen treated rats may negatively affect reproduction due to its effect on spermatogenesis. As observed, testosterone levels in the lower doses increased but decreased in the high-dose group. Conclusion: The result showed that avocado had a negatively significant influence on semen, sperm motility and viability were reduced and the consumption of high amount of avocado leaf extract has a negative effect on the reproductive system in the male.

In this study, sperm characteristics of Black Sea trout (Salmo trutta labrax) and effects of ions, their concentrations and osmolality of the solution on sperm activation were evaluated. Two different activation solutions with ionic and non-ionic osmolality levels were investigated. After the definition of conditions where osmolality played a role, activation solutions containing calcium ion (Ca 2+ ) in different molarity levels were tested under single and combined solutions to determine their relations (Sperm motility percentage was determined by using computer-aided sperm analysis system (CASA) for each activation solution). It was found that Black Sea trout sperm motility is initiated with iso-osmolality and activation solution with non-ionic osmolality had no effect on motility whereas ionic osmolality was effective on motility. The best solution determined in this study for the Black Sea trout is proved to have the same osmolality as the seminal plasma of the handled fish prepared with NaCl containing 2-32 mM CaCl 2 .

Fertilizing potential of spermatozoa is pivotal for successful artificial insemination. Preservation of boar semen is associated with the production of reactive oxygen species which leads to decline of spermatozoa quality and decrease in fertilizing ability. The study aimed at investigating the effects of Ethanolic Allium sativum Extracts (EASE) as a cytoprotective agent on the quality and fertilizing potential of spermatozoa in extended boar semen. Semen was collected and aliquot portions were divided into 60 sample bottles comprising of five treatments with replicates. T1 served as the control (Beltsville Thawing Solution (BTS) + semen) in ratio 1:3 semen-extender, while other treatments T2 to T5 contained semen-extender at the same ratio, but supplemented with EASE at varying concentrations of 50, 75, 100 and 125 μg/L respectively stored at 17 °C and were evaluated at 0, 24, 48 and 72 hours for pH, normal spermatozoa (NS) (%), liveability (%), acrosome integrity (AI) (%) in a com...

Monthly semen ejaculates were collected from four Egyptian buffalo bulls for 12 months in order to study their semen characteristics and the influence of season and monthly climatic conditions on the investigated characters. The relationships between the characters were also investigated. Results indicated that buffalo bull libido was increased (P<0.05) during the winter season as compared to other seasons. A positive (P<0.05) correlation was found between temperature humidity index and reaction time. Variations in semen ejaculate volume between different seasons and months were not significant. Sperm progressive motility percentage was high (P<0.05) during summer and autumn seasons and during June, October and November months. Percentages of live sperm were lower (P<0.05) during spring season than during the other three seasons. The percentages of abnormal spermatozoa were lower (P<0.05) during autumn and winter seasons than during the other two seasons. Semen initial fructose concentration (mg/100ml) was highest during winter and lowest during summer compared with other seasons. Sperm progressive motility (%) had a positive (P<0.01) correlation with live sperm, but a negative correlation (P<0.01) with dead sperm percentages. Sperm concentration had a significant (P<0.05) negative correlation with percentage of sperm abnormalities.

The study investigated semen characteristics of two native pigeon breeds (African Owl and Rock) in Ganawuri, Plateau State. Ten sexually mature cocks were used, and semen was collected via abdominal massage. Parameters including volume, color, pH, concentration, motility, mass activity, viability, and sperm morphology were analyzed. Rock pigeons showed slightly higher semen volume (0.28 ml), concentration (3.20 × 10⁶/ml), motility (75%), viability (82%), and fewer abnormalities compared to African Owl pigeons (0.25 ml, 2.95 × 10⁶/ml, 72%, 79.5%). Abnormalities such as detached heads (6.2%) and midpiece defects (4.5%) were more common in African Owls. Though not statistically significant, results indicate Rock pigeons have superior reproductive potential. It is recommended they be prioritized in selective breeding and artificial insemination programs.

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of single layer centrifugation (SLC) using Androcoll-E-Large on donkey sperm quality parameters after 24 h of cool-storage. Ejaculates were collected from Andalusian donkeys and then cooled at 5°C. SLC was carried out after 24 h of cool-storage using Androcoll-E-Large. In the first experiment, all sperm parameters assessed (total and progressive sperm motility, viability, sperm morphology and sperm kinematics VCL, VSL, VAP, LIN, STR, WOB, ALH and BCF) were statistically compared between semen samples processed or not with Androcoll-E-Large. Significant differences (P&lt;0.05) were found between SLC-selected and unselected semen samples for all parameters assessed, obtaining better results after SLC. In the second experiment, semen samples were classified in two groups according to their sperm progressive motility (PM) before SLC. Then, the increments obtained in semen quality parameters after SLC were compared between groups. No sign...

Exposure to heavy metals such as cadmium (Cd) and iron (Fe) through contaminated water and feed poses significant risks to male reproductive health. This study investigated the effects of Cd and Fe, both individually and in combination, on testicular parameters and semen quality in adult male albino rats. Forty adult male rats were randomly assigned to four groups in a two-phase study: control (Cd- and Fe-free), Cd-exposed, Fe-exposed, and Cd+Fe-exposed. The metals were administered via tainted drinking water (0.229 mg/L Cd; 1.900 mg/L Fe) in the first phase and via tainted feed in the second phase for 4 weeks. Testicular weight, testes-body weight ratio, and semen quality parameters, including sperm motility, viability, count, volume, and morphology were evaluated. Data were subjected to one-way analysis of variance and p  ≤  0.05 followed by Tukey’s post-hoc test. Exposure of rats to Cd and Fe via feed significantly increased testes weight and the testes-body weight ratio compared to the control (p ≤ 0.05). Fe-exposed rats via water showed reduced sperm motility and count, whereas Fe-exposed rats via feed showed a contrasting effect. Cadmium-exposed rats, especially via water, caused notable sperm morphological abnormalities. The combined exposure of rats to Cd and Fe revealed similar effects of Fe on semen quality via both routes. Rats exposed to Cd and Fe, particularly via contaminated water, showed adverse effects on testicular function and semen quality, whereas Fe exposure showed adaptive effects via feed. This study highlights the differential impacts of exposure routes and underscores the need for environmental control of heavy metal contamination to safeguard reproductive health.

Bull contributes more than fifty percent towards the success of any herd improvement programme; they also contribute towards lower pregnancy rate equally as female. Appropriate and careful bull management is therefore essential, considering critical points step by step starting from collection phase of semen to their storage. Shifting of subjective to objective assessment of semen like computer assisted semen analysis (CASA) & flow cytometry at bull station is essential component which aids in quality semen production. More innovative techniques are used at artificial breeding center like hemi zona assay, comet assay, sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA), sperm fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis (FISH) etc. to aid quality semen production and processing in well organized unit. Researches reveal that selection of sperm and processing interventions like antioxidant fortification is crucial points in quality semen production. Moreover a complete protocol is required, which contain different critical points starting from health of bulls to handling, processing and packaging semen from bulls. Ensuring these stringent measures would of course require technical inputs to the existing system in form of complete package.

Folk medicine across various cultures has relied on medicinal plants for their distinctive therapeutic properties. Among these plants is Withania somnifera, which is reputed for its potential to enhance sexual health and improve semen quality and inhibit lipid peroxidation as well as its antiageing, and anti-inflammatory properties. The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the inherent protective role of W. somnifera against the effects of Levofloxacin, specifically focusing on DNA damage and sperm quality in a rat model. In order to achieve this objective, a total of thirty adult male rats were carefully assigned to five separate experimental groups, including the Control group (C) saline-treated for 60 days. Group (W) W. somnifera root extract was orally treated for 60 days. Group (L) Levofloxacin orally treated for 60 days. Group (W+L) Levofloxacin was orally co-administered and pre-treated with W. somnifera root extract for 60 days. Group (L+W) Levofloxacin was orally coadministered and post-treated with W. somnifera root extract for 60 days. The degree of protection was estimated using the oxidative stress biomarkers, sperm concentration, motility, viability, morphology, and comet assay. The administration of Levofloxacin resulted in a significant increase (P < 0.05) in various parameters, including Total Oxidative Status (TOS), sperm abnormality (Head and Tail abnormality), and the presence of immotile sperm. Additionally, significant damage to sperm DNA was observed, as confirmed by the comet assay. Furthermore, Levofloxacin treatment led to a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in Super Oxide Dismutase (SOD) levels and reductions in sperm concentration, motility, and viability. W. somnifera root extract treatment post and pre-Levofloxacin improved recovery of these biochemical changes and boosted sperm quality. In conclusion, W. somnifera root extract may protect against levofloxacin-induced sperm damage in rats.

Apoptosis is a crucial process in spermatogenesis, responsible for the elimination of abnormal sperm cells and testicular regression out of breeding season. The aim of this study was to assess if the expression of apoptosis-related genes in testicular tissue of domestic cats differed: (1) between normozoospermic and teratozoospermic donors, and (2) between reproductive and non-reproductive season. The expression of genes: BCL2L1, BCL2, BAX, BAD, FAS, FASLG, and caspases (CASP3, CASP8, CASP9, and CASP10) was analyzed by qRT-PCR in testicular tissue samples. During non-reproductive season significantly higher expression of two anti-apoptotic genes (BCL2L1 and BCL2) was observed. Additionally, there was a significant higher expression of CASP10 in teratozoospermic cats during non-reproductive than during reproductive season. No differences were noted between normozoospermic and teratozoospermic groups. Upregulation of some genes during the non-reproductive season indicates engagement o...

Apoptosis is a crucial process in spermatogenesis, responsible for the elimination of abnormal sperm cells and testicular regression out of breeding season. The aim of this study was to assess if the expression of apoptosis-related genes in testicular tissue of domestic cats differed: (1) between normozoospermic and teratozoospermic donors, and (2) between reproductive and non-reproductive season. The expression of genes: BCL2L1, BCL2, BAX, BAD, FAS, FASLG, and caspases (CASP3, CASP8, CASP9, and CASP10) was analyzed by qRT-PCR in testicular tissue samples. During non-reproductive season significantly higher expression of two anti-apoptotic genes (BCL2L1 and BCL2) was observed. Additionally, there was a significant higher expression of CASP10 in teratozoospermic cats during non-reproductive than during reproductive season. No differences were noted between normozoospermic and teratozoospermic groups. Upregulation of some genes during the non-reproductive season indicates engagement o...

This research examined the effect of ethanolic extract of black pepper (Piper nigrum) on the reproductive
capabilities of rabbit bucks when used as a feed additive. The study utilized twenty (20) composite-breed of rabbit bucks
aged 18-20 weeks in a completely randomized design, divided into five groups (A - E) of four bucks each, with four replicates
per group. Group A (control) received standard pelleted feed, while group B – E were supplemented with 100, 150, 200 and
250 mg/kg black pepper extract respectively. Diets were provided for 90 days, within which semen quality (macro- and
microscopic traits) and hormonal levels were assessed in the animals.
Results from this study revealed that black pepper extract (BPE) at 100 – 200 mg/kg positively influenced both
macroscopic and microscopic semen quality characteristics as well as hormonal profiles of rabbit bucks. However, Inclusion
levels at 250mg/kg BPE adversely impacted semen quality characteristics and reduced circulating levels of reproductive
hormones (FSH, LH and testosterone) due to its toxicity.
The optimal inclusion rate for best reproductive outcomes was determined to be 200mg/kg and therefore considered
the recommended dosage.

Livestock production requires Sapudi rams, a breed native to Indonesia, to meet meat demand and food security. In artificial high-quality frozen semen is needed to spread Sapudi rams. To maximize the survival of spermatozoa during cryopreservation, semen should be stored in an extender. Green tea leaf extract (GTLE) and skim milk-goat egg yolk (SM-GEY) may be a good cryoprotectants due to their antioxidant properties. This study aimed to determine the effect of adding GTLE to the SM-GEY extender on the quality of Sapudi ram spermatozoa stored at 5°C. The fresh semen sample was divided into four different GTLE treatment groups, which each contained a 0.1 mL semen sample and a 25-mL extender of SM-GEY. Group T0: no GTLE added to SM-GEY; Groups T1, T2, and T3: 0.1 mL semen diluted in 25 mL SM-GEY with 0.05, 0.10, and 0.15 mg GTLE. Extended semen was then stored at 5°C, and its quality was evaluated daily for five days. The variables observed included spermatozoa motility, viability, and membrane integrity. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance followed by Duncan's test using Statistical Program and Service Solution version 23. The result of this study was that adding 0.05 mg GTLE to 25 mL of SM-GEY extender significantly maintained the spermatozoa motility, viability, and plasma membrane integrity of Sapudi ram spermatozoa for three days at 5°C (p <0.05). Therefore, it could be concluded that adding 0.05 mg of GTLE to the SM-GEY extender preserved Sapudi ram spermatozoa's motility, viability, and membrane integrity for three days at 5°C.

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a common endocrine disrupting chemical that is utilized in the manufacturing of plastic products, shows adverse effects on reproductive health of male. This study investigates the toxic impacts of BPA on reproductive health of male Swiss albino mice. For this research work, adult male mice weighing about 30±5 grams were divided into three groups (Group I-control, Group II-55 mg and Group III-110 mg/ kg body weight) and after the completion of 35 days of treatment, animals were sacrificed and results were made. The findings suggests that both lower and higher dosage of BPA significantly (p<0.001) reduced the sperm count, testicular weight and seminal weight in a dose dependent manner and a significant increase were recorded in the percentage of sperm abnormalities as compared to the control group. Treated group of mice represented remarkable morphological abnormalities such as hookless heads, banana shaped head, round head, broken tail and coiled tails. Thus, the present Original Research Article

This study evaluated the relationship between body weight, testicular biometry, and semen characteristics in Sirohi and Barbari bucks. Six bucks (three per breed) were assessed for body weight, scrotal circumference, testicular dimensions, ejaculate volume, and sperm concentration. Sirohi bucks exhibited higher body weight and semen volume, while Barbari bucks showed greater sperm concentration. A strong positive correlation was observed between body weight, scrotal circumference, and semen volume (r = 0.876 and r = 0.635, respectively; P = .01), while a significant negative correlation was found between ejaculate volume and sperm concentration (r = –0.763; P = .01). Notably, left testicular dimensions exceeded right-sided measurements across both breeds. These findings suggest that testicular biometry and scrotal circumference are reliable indicators for selecting breeding bucks, with potential applications in improving reproductive efficiency in small ruminants.