Sperm Count

Objective: To predict the chance of total fertilization failure (TFF) before the day of ovum pickup with known semen and female variables. Design: A statistical model was constructed to predict TFF by retrospective analysis (2,366 couples) and subsequently tested on a new IVF population (917 couples). Setting: Academic tertiary referral center. Patient(s): Three thousand three hundred eighty-three couples who underwent an IVF-ET treatment. Intervention(s): None. Main Outcome Measure(s): The ability to predict the probability of TFF in IVF. Result(s): Two variables-postwash total progressively motile sperm cell count (postwash TPMC) and number of follicles-were found to be significant. Taking a probability of 25% as an acceptable risk of TFF, we calculated that a postwash TPMC of Ͻ1.1 ϫ 10 6 cells results in a risk of TFF of Ͼ25%. Low responders (Ͻ4 follicles) needed a postwash TPMC of Ͼ2.2 ϫ 10 6 cells to reduce the risk of TFF to Ͻ25%. High responders (Ͼ15 follicles) needed only 0.35 ϫ 10 6 postwash progressively motile spermatozoa. When postwash TPMC and number of follicles are known and an unacceptable TFF outcome is expected, one can propose an ICSI procedure a few days before the day of ovum pickup. (Fertil Steril

Background: This study was aimed at examining bacteria diversity in the semen and mouth ofinfertile men.Method: This was a case-control study of male (n=43) participants including infertile men (n=30)as test and fertile men (n=13) as control within 30-50 years of age. Semen, mouth swab and bloodsamples were collected and processed by standard practice. Semen and mouth swab samples werescreened to determine microbial presence. The semen qualitative and quantitative characteristicswere determined using standard methods. Blood serum samples were evaluated to determinehormonal and lipid profiles as well as liver and kidney function biomarkers using standard kits.Results: The frequency of bacterial occurrence or growth from the semen and mouth swab ofinfertile men was higher in comparison to the fertile group. Notably, the frequency ofStaphylococcus aureus (36.7%) isolated from infertile men semen was higher as compared to fertilemen with Staphylococcus aureus (15.4%). Moraxella catarrha...

The D-galactose (D-gal)-injected animal model, which is typically established by administering consecutive subcutaneous D-gal injections to animals for approximately six or eight weeks, has been frequently used for aging research. In addition, this animal model has been demonstrated to accelerate aging in the brain, kidneys, liver and blood cells. However, studies on aging in male reproductive organs that have used this animal model remain few. Therefore, the current study aimed to optimize a model of male reproductive aging by administering D-gal injections to male mice and to determine the possible mechanism expediting senescence processes during spermatogenesis. In this study, C57Bl/6 mice were randomized into five groups (each containing 8-10 mice according to the daily intraperitoneal injection of vehicle control or 100 or 200 mg/kg dosages of D-gal for a period of six or eight weeks). First, mice subjected to D-gal injections for six or eight weeks demonstrated considerably decreased superoxide dismutase activity in the serum and testis lysates compared to those in the control group. The lipid peroxidation in testis also increased in the D-gal-injected groups. Furthermore, the D-gal-injected groups exhibited a decreased ratio of testis weight/body weight and sperm count compared to the control group. The percentages of both immotile sperm and abnormal sperm increased considerably in the D-gal-injected groups compared to those of the control group. To determine the genes influenced by the D-gal injection during murine spermatogenesis, a c-DNA microarray was conducted to compare testicular RNA samples between the treated groups and the control group. The D-gal-injected groups exhibited RNA transcripts of nine spermatogenesis-related genes (Cycl2, Hk1, Pltp, Utp3, Cabyr, Zpbp2, Speer2, Csnka2ip and Katnb1) that were up-or down-regulated by at least two-fold compared to the control group. Several of these genes are critical for forming sperm-head morphologies or maintaining

Background: Infertility is a global problem that brings with serious sexual and social consequences that strain the health sector and society. The expansion of CAG & GGC repeats in androgen receptor (AR) gene Ensembl number; ENSG00000169083 may leads to reduced fertility. Our objective was to determine association of CAG and GGC repeats with altered sperm parameters in male infertile subjects. It was a cross sectional study conducted at Aga Khan University, Karachi Pakistan. A total of 376 males were recruited, out of which group A (N=208) and group B (N=168) comprised of subjects with normal and altered sperm parameters respectively from 18 to 60 years. Numbers of CAG and GGC repeats were determined by using PCR amplification and sequence analysis using Molecular Evolutionary Genetic Analysis (MEGA) software version 6.0. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 20 and p-value of < 0.05 were considered significant. The mean androgen receptor gene CAG repeats were significantly longer in males with altered sperm parameters as compared to male subjects with normal sperm parameters (p< 0.001). There was no significant difference found for GGC repeats for subjects with altered sperm parameters. Longer CAG length corresponded to greater severity of spermatogenic defect and may lead to subfertility recommendations.

In the present study, we aimed to assess the influence of different social contexts on the seminal coagulation and sperm quality in captive tufted capuchin monkeys. For this, males were housed either individually, in mixed-sex groups (with females), or in male-only groups. Monkeys were housed in cages and each cage type (i.e., individual or group cage) was placed in a different room. Forty-one males were subjected to semen collection by rectal electroejaculation. The degree of seminal coagulation was determined on a scale of I-IV. Seminal volume, sperm concentration, sperm motility, vigor, and plasma membrane integrity were evaluated for all ejaculate samples. All ejaculates collected showed degrees of coagulation between II and IV, where the majority presented coagulation degree IV, when collected from animals housed in groups. No statistical differences among percentages of coagula degree when samples were collected from males housed individually. Animals housed in group cages (ma...

An adult, intact male alpaca was presented with an acute onset of unilateral scrotal swelling. Following complete physical and ultrasonographic examination, the most likely differential diagnoses were orchitis, hematoma, and testicular torsion. The animal was castrated and histopathologic evaluation revealed unilateral orchitis. Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus was cultured.

The sperm mobility assay used in the present study measures the rate of sperm penetration in a biologically inert cell-separation solution (Accudenz). When a sample of sperm is overlaid in a cuvette containing Accudenz, sperm penetrate the solution and absorbance of the sample can be measured with a spectrophotometer. This assay has been successfully used to select chicken and turkey semen donors. We validated this assay for semen from boars and stallions. Absorbance was measured after overlaying fresh semen from each species in prefilled cuvettes for 1, 5, 10, 15, 20, and 40 min. There were no significant differences when sperm were incubated in prewarmed cuvettes at 37, 39, or 41 8C. However, a minimum concentration of 5 Â 10 7 viable sperm/mL was needed to evaluate the rate of sperm penetration in boars. Absorbance was half-maximal at 5.4 and 14.1 min for boar and stallion sperm, respectively. Frequency analysis suggested a normal distribution of mobility values for boar sperm. There were positive correlations between mobility values and several computer-aided sperm analysis (CASA) parameters. In addition, there was medium repeatability for multiple ejaculates from single males. We concluded that the mobility assay can be used for mammalian sperm and there seemed to be phenotypic variation among boars in mobility estimates.

observed, a fertilization rate comparable to that with ICSI of the other male factor can be expected. KS is a heterogeneous group of disorders with similar clinical presentations, and treatment should be individualized depending on sperm motility.

This study evaluated the effects of chronic treatment with cabergoline (CAB), a new, potent and long-lasting ergoline-derived dopamine agonist, on seminal fluid parameters and sexual and gonadal function in hyperprolactinemic males in comparison with the effect of bromocriptine (BRC) treatment. Seventeen males with macroprolactinoma were treated with CAB at a dose of 0.5-1.5 mg/week (n = 7), or BRC at a dose of 5-15 mg/day (n = 10) for 6 months. Baseline prolactin (PRL) was 925.7 +/- 522.6 microg/l in the CAB-treated group and 1059.4 +/- 297.6 microg/l in the BRC-treated group. All the patients suffered from libido impairment, ten from reduced sexual potency, and six had infertility. In five patients provocative bilateral galactorrhea was found. Seminal fluid analysis, functional seminal tests and penis rigidity and tumescence, measured by nocturnal penile tumescence (NPT) using Rigiscan equipment, were assessed before and after 1, 3 and 6 months of CAB or BRC treatment. Hormone pro...

Prostaglandins (PGs) are derived from arachidonic acid by action of the cyclooxygenase (COX) isoenzymes COX1 and COX2. The development of mice deficient in COX1 and/or COX2 has shown that COX2-null female mice are infertile. In contrast, male fertility is not affected in COX1-or COX2-mutant mice from knock-out experiments, suggesting that PGs may not be important for the functioning of the testis. This early general view is being challenged by recent observations. We have reported that whereas COX2 is not detected in normal human testes, it is expressed in testicular biopsies of men with impaired spermatogenesis and male infertility. Moreover, COX is up-regulated in testicular cancer, and COX2 expression is induced in Brown-Norway rat Leydig cells during aging. Several reports describe actions of COX and PGs on steroid hormone production, expression of PGs and their receptors in Sertoli cells, and inhibitory effects of some PGs on spermatogenesis and sperm counts. In brief, this review summarizes the results obtained in the last decades by our laboratory and other groups that point out the impact of COX and PGs in the regulation of testicular function and male fertility.

Simulated drought influences reproduction in male prairie voles. PHYSIOL BEHAV 46(5) 849-852, 1989.--The environmental factors that arrest breeding in prairie voles during the middle of the breeding season are unknown. The role of water availability on reproductive function was examined by limiting water intake to 50% of ad lib water consumption for 10 weeks. At autopsy, testicular, epididymal and seminal vesicle masses were reduced in water restricted males as compared to animals with ad lib access to water. Body mass was also reduced in water restricted males. Plasma testosterone levels and the number of testicular and epididymal sperm were significantly reduced in water restricted voles as compared to animals drinking water ad lib, but plasma levels of luteinizing hormone were unaffected. Taken together, these data suggest that reduced water availability can inhibit male prairie vole breeding.

Background Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major global health issue, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. Chronic HBV infection is associated with various systemic health complications, including liver disease with its impact on reproductive health in male fertility. Methods This study investigated the impact of HBV on sperm quality in a cohort of 1566 male infertile patients undergoing assisted reproductive treatment from 2021 to 2024. Patients aged 23 to 40 years (mean age 34.2 ± 3.62 years) were categorized into HBV-positive (783 cases) and HBV-negative (783 cases) groups based on serological tests for hepatitis B surface antigen (Hbs Ag). Results HBV-positive and HBV-negative groups exhibited significantly lower progressive motility (41.3% vs. 43.0%; P = 0.006), sperm concentration (53.6 vs. 59.8 × 10 6 /mL; P = 0.009), and normal morphology (4.5% vs. 5.0%; P < 0.001), with reduced viability (P = 0.027). No differences were observed in semen volume (P = 0.807) or DNA fragmentation index (P = 0.970). Conclusion HBV infection is associated with impaired sperm motility, concentration, and morphology in infertile men.
Highlights • HBV seropositivity exhibits negative associations with progressive motility, sperm concentration, and normal morphology in infertile men. • The absence of association with DNA fragmentation indicates that HBV may impair spermatogenesis through pathways independent of direct genetic damage. • HBV exhibits associations with poorer sperm quality.

The study aims to evaluate the phytochemical constituents, acute oral noxiousness, and reproductive properties of Cinnamomum cassia methanol stem bark extract (CAMSBE) in male Wistar rats. Using Lorke's procedure, the acute oral median lethal dosage (LD50) was calculated. Sixty (60) adult Wistar male rats were arbitrarily allocated into 4 groups AD (n-15). Group A received 1 mL/kg of distilled water (Control), and groups B, C, and D were given scaled dosages of 300, 500, and 700 mg/kg of CAMSBE, respectively. All treatments were administered orally once daily. Five rats were randomly selected from each group on days 10, 20, and 30 for reproductive studies. After the rats had been sacrificed, blood specimens were drawn and processed for serum testosterone assay. Right, testes and epididymides were exteriorised, separated, homogenised, and counted using a light microscope. Left testes and epididymis were removed and subjected to histological processing and histomorphological evaluation. The results were used to compare control and treated rats. CAMSBE contains cardiac glycosides, terpenoids, saponins, cardenolides, tannins, and flavonoids, though anthraquinones and alkaloids remained absent. The LD50 is above 5000 mg/kg. The treatment groups showed a substantial (p<0.05) upsurge in serum testosterone levels and testicular and epididymal sperm counts compared to the control group. The histomorphological sections of the testes showed apparently normal architecture with a complete spermatogenic series, clumps of Leydig cells, and an increase in the population of spermatids in the treatment groups. The study confirmed that CAMSBE enhances male reproductive parameters without affecting testicular architecture.

Activities of total lactate dehydrogenase, which plays an important role in providing energy for cell metabolism, lactate dehydrogenase-X, an isoenzyme of lactate dehydrogenase supposed to be specific for germinal epithelium activity, diluted semen absorbance and some other properties have been measured in 51 seminal plasma samples. Aiming to study its clinical use as a marker of seminiferous epithelium activity, determination of isoenzyme-X and investigation of correlation between it and the spermiogram properties were carried out. Besides lactate dehydrogenase and lactate dehydrogenase-X activity, their ratio and diluted semen absorbance were correlated with the different properties of the spermiogram, the best correlation of the enzymes being obtained with the total sperm count and motile sperm count. Correlation of diluted semen absorbance with the total sperm count and motile sperm count was also noted, whereas it did not correlate with sperm concentration and motility rate. The data suggests the clinical utility of these properties as reliable markers for both germinal activity and spermatozoid quality when "total sperm count" and "motile sperm count" are used to define sperm properties instead of just sperm concentration and motility rate.

Iatrogenic obstruction of the vas deferens within the inguinal canal can be managed by direct onsite vasovasostomy. However, in cases with large defect of the vas, the anastomosis may be under tension. Dissecting through the site of a previous hernia repair is tedious, and may lead to recurrence of the hernia. The present work reports an, first of a kind, alternative technique that avoids the latter drawbacks. Fifteen cases were operated upon. Under laparoscopic vision, the pelvic vas was dissected and the lateral-most end was clipped, cut and extruded from the abdomen through a port in the external inguinal ring. End-to-end vasovasostomy and microsurgical anastomosis for the vasal vessels were performed, bridging the retrieved stump of the pelvic vas with the scrotal vas. There were positive results in the form of sperm count ranging from 1.5 to 15 million ml )1 , an average of 7.25 (SD 5.44) in nine of 15 cases (60%), within the first 6 months following surgery. ÔPelvi-scrotal vaso-vasostomyÕ can be offered as a cost-effective and successful alternative or supplement to intracytoplasmic sperm injection, for cases with iatrogenic large defects of the vas deferens within the inguinal canal.

Oct4 is involved in regulation of pluripotency during normal development and is down-regulated during formation of postnatal reservoir of germ cells. We propose thatOct4/GFP transgenic mouse, which mimics the endogenous expression pattern of Oct4, could be used as a mammalian model to study the effects of environmental estrogens on the development of male germ cells. Oct4/GFP maturation profile was assessed during postnatal days -PND-3, 5, 7, 10, 14 and 80, using flow cytometry. Then, we exposed pregnant mothers to 17a-ethinylestradiol (EE2) from day post coitum (dpc) 5 to PND7. Percentage of Oct4/GFP-expressing cells and levels of expression of Oct4/GPF were increased in PND7 after EE2 exposure. These observations were confirmed by analysis of GFP and endogenous Oct4 protein in the seminiferous tubules and by a reduction in epididymal sperm count in adult mice. We introduced Oct4/ GFP mouse together with flow cytometry as a tool to evaluate changes in male germ cells development.

В данной статье предлагается гипотеза о том, что опухоль может рассматриваться не только как патологический процесс, но и как альтернативная программа развития организма. Анализ закономерностей онкогенеза показывает, что опухоль проходит стадии, сходные с эмбриогенезом: рост, ангиогенез, формирование иерархии клеток и создание собственной микросреды. В отличие от эмбриона, который развивается по жёстко закодированной программе органогенеза, опухоль следует гибкой стратегии выживания. Предполагается, что при искусственном поддержании жизни носителя опухоль могла бы развиться в автономное образование — «дикий зародыш», потенциально способный к отделению. Эта гипотеза рассматривается не только в биологическом, но и в философско-культурном контексте, включая анализ библейского мифа о создании Евы из ребра Адама.
This article proposes the hypothesis that a tumor can be considered not only as a pathological process but also as an alternative developmental program of the organism. An analysis of oncogenesis patterns shows that tumors undergo stages similar to embryogenesis: growth, angiogenesis, cellular hierarchy formation, and creation of their own microenvironment. Unlike the embryo, which follows a rigidly encoded organogenesis program, the tumor follows a flexible survival strategy. It is hypothesized that, under artificial life support of the host, a tumor could develop into an autonomous entity — a “wild embryo,” potentially capable of separation. This hypothesis is considered not only in a biological but also in a philosophical and cultural context, including an analysis of the biblical myth of Eve’s creation from Adam’s rib.

The aim of the present study was to study the effect of seeds of Asteracantha longifolia on the sexual behaviour of male albino rats. The ethanolic extract of seeds of A. longifolia was administered to groups of rats in 100, 150 and 200 mg kg⁻¹ doses for a period of 28 days, and the action compared with control rats. The changes in body and organ weight, sexual behaviour, histo-architecture and fructose levels of seminal vesicles were observed. The sexual behaviour was assessed by determining parameters such as mount frequency (MF), intromission latency, mount latency (ML) and post-ejaculatory latency. The ethanolic extract exhibited pronounced anabolic effects in treated animals, as evidenced by gains in the body and reproductive organ weights. Increased spermatogenesis due to treatment with extracts was also witnessed in transverse section. The treatment further markedly affected sexual behaviour of the animals, as reflected by the reduction of ML, increase in MF and enhanced attr...

HE present work investigated the effect of corn, triticale, and oat silages on the growth performance, puberty, and semen quality of male lamb. At the age of 4-5 months, twentyfour crossbred male lambs (half Finnish Landrace and half Rahmani) weighing22.09±0.37 kg live body weight were allocated into three groups, each with eight lambs. Male lambs were fed concentrate feed mixture (CFM) plus silages of corn (R1), triticale (R2), and oat (R3) for five months in each of the different groups. The quantity of CFM at the beginning of the experiment was 500 g/day, with an increase of 100 g every month, whereas silages were given ad-libtum. According to the findings, R1 consumed much less CP than R2 and R3, but R2 and R3 consumed significantly more DM and TDN. For lambs fed by R3, compared to R1 and R2, the final body weight, total weight increase, and average daily gain were all considerably (P0.05) greater. Feed conversion improved significantly (P<0.05) with feeding R2 and R3. Male lambs of R3 expressed first ejaculate (puberty) at 35.6 days earlier, which was significantly earlier than those of the control (R1). Also, scrotal circumference and testes volume of R2 and R3 were significantly (P<0.05) increased compared with R1. Semen quality of R3 and R2 was improved (P<0.05) compared to R1. Finally, the addition of triticale or oat silages had an economic to be advantage, puberty at an earlier age, improved the growth performance and reproductive ability of male lambs compared to corn silage. We concluded that, the addition of triticale or oat silage had an economic advantage compared to corn silage. Also, male lambs fed on triticale or oat silage had puberty at an earlier age and improved their growth performance and reproductive ability.

The effect of a novel combination of oral etonogestrel (ENG) and im testosterone decanoate (TD) on suppression of gonadotropins and spermatogenesis as a potential lead for male contraception was investigated. Healthy male volunteers were randomized into two groups receiving 300 g ENG daily and 400 mg TD every 4 (n ‫؍‬ 55) or 6 (n ‫؍‬ 57) wk for 48 wk. At wk 48, all men except one in the 6-wk group suppressed sperm concentration to less than 1 million/ml. Faster suppression occurred in the 4-wk group. Gonadotropins were suppressed in both groups and most consistently in the 4-wk group. During treatment, trough testosterone levels increased into the normal range in the 4-wk group but remained just below nor-mal in the 6-wk group. All peak levels were within the normal range. After treatment cessation, recovery of sperm counts and gonadotropins to normal levels occurred in both groups. Minor effects on weight and cholesterol were noted. Fourteen subjects withdrew because of an adverse event with those possibly related to the study medication reported more frequently in the 6-wk group (nine vs. one). In conclusion, the combination of 300 g ENG with 400 mg TD every 4 wk was superior in terms of efficacy, hormone profiles, and safety. This represents a promising approach to male hormonal contraception. (

To evaluate the ameliorative effect of melatonin on sub-chronic chlorpyrifos (CPF) and cypermethrin (CYP)-evoked cognitive changes in male Wistar rats. Fifty adult male Wistar rats, divided into five groups of ten rats each, were used for the study. Groups 1 and II were given distilled water and soya oil (2 mL/kg) respectively. Group III was administered with melatonin at 0.5 mg/kg only. Group IV was administered with CPF [7.96 mg/kg (1/10th LD50)] and CYP [29.6 mg/kg (1/10th LD50)], and Group V was administered with CPF [7.96 mg/kg (1/10th LD50)] and CYP [29.6 mg/kg (1/10th LD50)] 30 min after melatonin (0.5 mg/kg). The regimens were administered by gavage once daily for 12 weeks. Thereafter, cognitive performances were determined and the brain was evaluated for malonaldehyde concentration. CPF and CYP induced cognitive deficits and increased brain malonaldehyde concentration, which were all ameliorated by melatonin. Cognitive deficits elicited by CPF and CYP was mitigated by melat...

This study investigated whether there are adverse eects due to microwave exposure emitted by cellular phones in male rats. Eighteen Wistar Albino rats were separated into three groups, a sham group and two experimental groups. The rats were con®ned in Plexiglas cages and cellular phones were placed 0.5 cm under the cages. In the ®rst experimental group, cellular phones were in standby position for 2 h. In the second experimental group, phones were turned to the speech position three times each for 1 min duration over 2 h. Rats in the ®rst and second experimental groups were exposed to microwaves emitted by phones for 2 h/day for a duration of 1 month. After the last exposure the rats were killed. Brain, eyes, ears, liver, heart, lungs, stomach, kidneys, testes, small and large intestines and skin of the rats were observed histologically. The decrease of epididymal sperm counts in the speech groups were not found to be signi®cant (P > 0.05). Dierences in terms of normal and abnormal sperm forms were not observed (P > 0.05). Histological changes were especially observed in the testes of rats of the speech groups. Seminiferous tubular diameter of rat testes in the standby and speech groups was found to be lower than the sham group (P < 0.05). Rectal temperatures of rats in the speech group were found to be higher than the sham and standby groups (P < 0.05). The rectal temperatures of rats before and after exposure were also found to be signi®cantly higher in the speech group (P < 0.05). Speci®c absorption rate (SAR) was determined as 0.141 W/kg.

The effects of cigarette and alcohol on male reproductive system have been studied mainly on the testis and prostate but studies on their co-administration on the seminal vesicle which produces about 70% of the semen volume are scarce. Therefore, the present study evaluated the effects of nicotine and/ or alcohol on the glandular epithelial cells of seminal vesicle in adult rats. Methods: In this study, 50 adult Wistar rats, aged 9 weeks, were randomly divided into five groups, including: sham, control (0.09% normal saline), 20% ethanol (2 ml/kg), nicotine (0.1 mg/kg) and ethanol-nicotine. Ethanol was given via oral gavage but nicotine was administered subcutaneously for 50 days. Blood samples were collected prior to intracardiac perfusion. The seminal vesicles were later dissected and tissue samples were stained by H&E for morphologic and morphometric studies. One-way ANOVA and Tukey's post-hoc test were used for data analysis. A pvalue <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The height of glandular epithelial cells of the seminal vesicle was reduced remarkably in rats in ethanol versus the control group (p<0.0001). However, testosterone concentrations were not significantly different in the two groups. Semen volume, as well as its acidophilic properties in the lumen of most acini were lower in the ethanol comparative to the control group. Conclusion: Ethanol had the most negative effects on the cells and tissue structure of seminal vesicle compared to nicotine. The minimal effects seen by the simultaneous use of alcohol and nicotine on seminal vesicle structure might be attributed to the reduction of alcohol absorption following nicotine administration.

In this study, the comparative effects of half, normal and double clinical doses of artesunate; artesunate/sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine; artesunate/amodiaquine and their combinants (sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine and amodiaquine) on the semen parameters-total sperm count, motility, morphology, debris and premature/primordial cell count of the male guinea-pig were investigated. The agents caused significant (p<0.05) decreases in total sperm count and sperm motility, with increases in abnormal sperm cells (morphology), debris and premature sperm cells. The effects were maximal at the subclinical doses and synergistic in the ACTs, compared to those of the individual partner agents. Artesunate, amodiaquine and artesunate/amodiaquine caused 54, 28 and 84% decreases in total sperm count, with 13, 31 and 64% decreases in sperm motility respectively. Conversely, the above drugs increased baseline morphology by 70, 30 and 264% respectively. Similar synergistic responses were obtained with artesunate/sufadoxine/pyrimethamine. These results may be explained in terms of the oxidative effects of these agents, through generation of free radicals, resulting in pathological damage to testicular structure/function.

In this study, the effects of different doses of artesunate, artesunate/sulfadoxine/ pyrimethamine, artesunate/amodiaquine and their combinants (sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine and artesunate/ amodiaquine) on the biochemical parameters-alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total acid phosphatase (ACPT), prostatic acid phosphatase (ACPP), urea, creatinine, uric acid and total cholesterol of the male guinea-pig were investigated. Basal serum ACPP value was increased from 3.50 ± 0.42 to 4.75 ± 0.85 and 4.75 ± 0.48 IU/L by amodiaquine and sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine respectively at their subclinical doses. These values were significant at p < 0.05. Furthermore, the agents caused no significant effects (p < 0.05) on serum ALP and ACPT. Artesunate/sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine significantly increased (p < 0.05) serum urea at the 3 doses, while the effects of artesunate and artesunate/amodiaquine were biphasic, decreasing basal serum urea level at lower doses and increasing at higher doses. However, basal serum creatinine level was increased from 62.5 ± 6.7 to 89.8 ± 4.8 µmol/L by sulfadoxine/ pyrimethamine and decreased to 53.0 ± 0 µmol/L by artesunate/amodiaquine at their subclinical doses, while the other agents caused no significant (p < 0.05) effects. Furthermore, control serum uric acid level was significantly decreased from 368.8 ± 10.0 to 318.3 ± 5.8, 306.0 ± 1.2 and 312.3 ± 2.6 mmol/L by artesunate, amodiaquine and artesunate/amodiaquine, after administration of half their clinical doses, respectively. Total blood cholesterol was also significantly reduced from 2.43 ± 0.13 to 2.1 ± 0 and 1.9 ± 0 mmol/L after administration of clinical doses of amodiaquine and artesunate/amodiaquine, respectively. These biochemical changes may be due to oxidative effects induced by these agents.

Ocimum gratissimum Linn. (OG) is widely used in folk medicine for several conditions because of its high medicinal value and therefore calls for its toxicological screening. The present study is designed to investigate the effects of aqueous leaf extract of OG on hormonal and semen parameters of mice. Animals were divided into 3 groups and orally administered OG (11 -88 mg/kg) daily for 1, 2 and 4 weeks, respectively, while a fourth (control) group received only distilled. They were sacrificed at the end of each treatment period and blood sample was assayed for serum levels of testosterone, FSH and LH. Semen was collected and analyzed for semen parameters, while the testis was evaluated for histological changes. OG caused no significant (p ≤ 0.05) effect on the serum levels of the hormones studied. However, sperm count and motility were decreased, while the percentages of abnormal sperm cells, sperm debris and primordial cells were increased dose-and time-dependently. Furthermore, OG caused histopathological damages to the seminiferous epithelium of the testes. The results indicate that OG has anti-fertility effect in the male mouse, which may be mediated through a direct deleterious action on the testis without disruption of the testicular endocrine function.

In this study, the effects of half, normal and double clinical doses of artesunate; artesunate/sulfadoxine/ pyrimethamine; artesunate/amodiaquine and their combinants (sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine and amodiaquine) on the basal serum levels of testosterone, FSH, LH and prolactin of the guinea-pig were investigated. The results of this study showed that the agents caused significant decreases (p<0.05) in serum testosterone level, with varying effects on LH, FSH and prolactin. Testosterone level was decreased by artesunate (37%), sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine (22%), amodiaquine (14%), artesunate/sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine (41%) and artesunate/amodiaquine (49%) at the clinical dose, compared to the serum levels in control animals. Furthermore, artesunate and amodiaquine also caused moderate decreases in the serum concentrations of LH and FSH, without an effect on prolactin. The effects of these agents may be due to oxidative stress on the reproductive system of the organism.

An experiment was conducted to determine whether prolactin is involved in growth or in mediating the photoperiod-induced growth response in sheep. Prolactin was manipulated by im injections of 2-Br-~-ergocryptine (CB154) or sc injections of ovine prolactin (oPRL) "and by two light:dark regimens (16L: 8D and 8L:16D). Fifty-six wether lambs (two/ pen) were allotted to one of four treatments for a 9-wk growth study. Treatments were: 1) 16L: 8D, placebo injections; 2) 16L:8D, CB154 injections; 3) 8L:16D, placebo injections and 4) 8L:16D, oPRL injections. Daily injections of CB154 (.1 mg/kg body weight'Ts), oPRL (.8 mg/kg body weight "Ts) or placebo were in 1 ml volume. Animals were fed ad libitum a complete mixed diet. At wk 8, plasma prolactin concentrations at 3 to 6 h postinjection were 214, 3, 90 and 228 ng/ml for treatments 1, 2, 3 and 4, respectively. Pattern of feed intake, measured at 8-h intervals for a 48-h period, was affected by photoperiod. Animals exposed to the 16L:8D photoperiod consumed 40.0, 42.4 and 17.6% of their total daily feed intake during the first 8 h of light, second 8 h of light and 8 h dark interval, respectively. Those exposed to the 8L:16D regimen consumed 55.2,

The prospective study was carried out to evaluate the success rates of combining a check tug and fascial interposition while performing a no-scalpel vasectomy. A total of 2150 male acceptors visiting the family welfare clinic of Lok Nayak Hospital, Delhi, from July 1992 to June 1995 and opting for a no-scalpel vasectomy, underwent a combination of check tug and fascial interposition during the procedure. These men were followed-up for failure rates as shown by semen analysis, 3 months and at least 20 ejaculations following the procedure. All the clients showed a negative sperm count during the subsequent follow-up, less than two non-motile sperms per high power field being taken as a negative count (n = 5) and there were no reported pregnancies. A check tug ensures that the same vas deferens is not ligated twice, particularly as the approach is a midline one. The fascial interposition prevents spontaneous recanalisation of the cut vas. Thus the combination of the two would further increase the reliability of the procedure.

The prospective study was carried out to evaluate the success rates of combining a check tug and fascial interposition while performing a no-scalpel vasectomy. A total of 2150 male acceptors visiting the family welfare clinic of Lok Nayak Hospital, Delhi, from July 1992 to June 1995 and opting for a no-scalpel vasectomy, underwent a combination of check tug and fascial interposition during the procedure. These men were followed-up for failure rates as shown by semen analysis, 3 months and at least 20 ejaculations following the procedure. All the clients showed a negative sperm count during the subsequent follow-up, less than two non-motile sperms per high power field being taken as a negative count (n = 5) and there were no reported pregnancies. A check tug ensures that the same vas deferens is not ligated twice, particularly as the approach is a midline one. The fascial interposition prevents spontaneous recanalisation of the cut vas. Thus the combination of the two would further increase the reliability of the procedure.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of cigarette smoking on intrauterine insemination (IUI) outcome in men with normal sperm concentrations. Semen samples were obtained from smoker (n=120) and non-smoker (n=125) IUI couples in our center. Semen analysis were performed manually according to WHO guidelines and Kruger's strict criteria. We found that the quality of sperm parameters in the smoker men was not significantly different than that of the nonsmoker men (p>0.05) except for ratios of chromatin condensation and progressive motility (p<0.05). Pregnancy rate of the smoker group was significantly lower than that of the nonsmoker group (p<0.001). In conclusion, smoking cigarette has a negative effect on chance of conceiving after IUI in couples with smoking male partners.

The effects of different dietary nucleotide mixture (NT) levels (0, 0.2, 0.4 and 0.6 %) was investigated on the reproductive performance, fatty acid profile and biochemical parameters in Litopenaeus vannamei female that were co-fed with fresh food (2 times daily) and experimental diets (2 times daily) for 30 days. Sampling was carried out at the first day of the trial, before eyestalk ablation (ESA) (day 21) and after ESA (day 30). Reproductive performance parameters including the hepatopancreatic index, absolute fecundity, egg diameter and latency period were higher in the NT supplemented groups than the control group (P < 0.05). Total n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in the ovaries, especially eicosapentaenoic acid, were higher in the NT supplemented groups than in the control (222.6 ± 7.3 vs. 204.7 ± 3.0 mg g -1 extracted lipid) (P < 0.05). Total hemocyte count, granular cells, plasma glucose (Glu), total protein (TP), calcium (Ca 2+ ), total cholesterol (Chol), triglyceride (Tg) and high density lipoprotein (HDL) levels were significantly increased in the NT supplemented groups in comparison with the control group (P < 0.05). After ESA, the concentration of plasma Glu, TP, Chol and Tg significantly decreased, but HDL levels increased in all groups (P < 0.05). These results suggested that the application of dietary NT may present a novel strategy for increasing reproductive performance and health status in L. vannamei.

Introduction. Somatic chromosomal rearrangements that occur in infertile males are thought to be one of the major genetic factors influencing male infertility. The objective of this retrospective study was to evaluate sperm parameters in a group of patients with balanced translocations. Material and methods. We analyzed semen of 84 balanced somatic translocation carriers [35 Robertsonian translocation (RT group) and 49 reciprocal translocation (RCT group)] and 57 men with normal karyotype (control group). Semen samples were evaluated for sperm concentration, its motion parameters and vitality, round cell number (CASA) and DNA fragmentation index (TUNEL). Cytogenetic evaluation was also performed for each study participant. Results. Sperm concentrations were lower when comparing the RT group to the control (p < 0.001) and RCT groups (p < 0.05). Occurrence of abnormal sperm concentration was more common among RT carriers (74.3%) than in the other groups (42.9% in RCT group and 28.1% in control group). The sperm progressive motility and vitality in RT carriers (21.53% and 62.17%) were lower than in control group (39.77% and 77.47%, p < 0.001, respectively) and RCT carriers (31.47% and 76.17%, p < 0.001, respectively). The RCT carriers and the control group did not differ in regard to sperm concentration, progressive sperm motility, motility grade D and sperm vitality. There were no significant differences in DNA fragmentation in carriers of both studied structural chromosomal rearrangements in comparison to subjects with normal karyotype. Conclusions. RT carriers had significantly lower semen parameters in comparison to not only the subjects with normal karyotypes but also the RCT carriers.

Presence of vacuoles and degree of sperm DNA damage are considered to be the basic factors used for the assessment of sperm fertilization capacity. We aimed to investigate the link between these two parameters. According to our knowledge, this is the first study where the Comet assay was used to assess the degree of DNA fragmentation of sperm categorized by Motile Sperm Organelle Morphology Examination (MSOME) Grades. Semen samples from 10 patients were assessed. Spermatozoa were graded into four MSOME groups according to the Vanderzwalmen's criteria. A total of 3930 motile spermatozoa were selected one-by-one using an inverted microscope and transferred onto two different slides. The degree of DNA fragmentation was analyzed by alkaline and neutral Comet assay. Results of the neutral Comet assay showed that Grade I spermatozoa (absence of vacuoles) presented significantly lower dsDNA fragmentation level (mean: 3.13 AE 1.17%) than Grade II (maximum of two small vacuoles; mean: 10.34 AE 2.65%), Grade III (more than two small vacuoles or at least one large vacuole; mean: 23.88 AE 8.37%), and Grade IV (large vacuoles associated with abnormal head shapes or other abnormalities; mean: 36.94 AE 7.78%; p < 0.05). Results of the alkaline Comet assay showed that Grade I spermatozoa had significantly lower DNA (ssDNA + dsDNA) fragmentation level (mean: 8.33 AE 3.62%) than Grade III (mean: 25.64 AE 9.15%) and Grade IV (mean: 40.10 AE 9.10%, p < 0.05), but not significantly lower than Grade II (mean: 12.73 AE 5.06%; p > 0.05). Probably, the vacuoles may be responsible for double strand DNA breaks rather than single strand DNA breaks (only 2.39% spermatozoa in MSOME Grade II, 1.76% in III, and 3.16% in IV has single strand breaks). The results demonstrate that lower MSOME grading correlates with lower sperm DNA fragmentation. Therefore, the observation of sperm nuclear vacuoles using real-time optical microscopy without precise DNA fragmentation examination is not sufficient for optimal sperm selection for intracytoplasmic sperm injection.

Objectives: Supplementary assays are needed for determination of relationships between sperm biomarkers and fertility potential. Therefore, our research was designed to determine the extent of sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) and establish a discriminating threshold of SDF for fertility potential. Material and methods: Semen characteristics were evaluated according to World Health Organization recommendations, and SDF was assessed by sperm chromatin dispersion test on ejaculated spermatozoa from infertile and healthy normozoospermic men. Results: A higher proportion of SDF was noted in infertile men (median 23.00%) than normozoospermic (median 14.00%). Significantly less subjects (17.03%) with low SDF level (≤ 15%) and more (35.17%) with high SDF level (> 30%) were found for the infertile group vs the normooospermic (57.90% and 5.26%, respectively). Infertile group had significantly lower odds ratio (OR) for having a low SDF level (OR: 0.1493) and higher OR for having a high SDF level (OR: 9.7627). Receiver operating characteristic analysis [area under curve (AUC) = 0.785] revealed that 20% SDF is predictive value for discriminating between infertile and normozoospermic subjects. SDF was negatively correlated with the sperm number, morphology, progressive motility and vitality but positively with the teratozoospermia index. Our study demonstrates: (1) a significant difference in the extent of SDF and in the risk for having damaged sperm DNA between infertile and normozoospermic men, (2) > 20% SDF has negative predictive value for fertility potential, (3) coexistence of abnormal standard sperm parameters with sperm chromatin damages. Therefore, SDF should be considered as a highly valuable indicator of male fertility potential.

We studied three closely related species of endangered gazelles (Gazella dorcas, Gazella dama and Gazella cuvieri) with di¡erent levels of inbreeding in order to determine at which intensities inbreeding in£uences ejaculate traits. We also examined whether £uctuating asymmetry (FA) is a reliable indicator of genetic as well as reproductive stress. Our results show that, within each population, the individual coe¤cient of inbreeding is inversely related to ejaculate quality only in the species with the highest levels of inbreeding (G. cuvieri). In addition, FA is a reliable indicator of individual levels of inbreeding in both the species with the highest levels of inbreeding (G. cuvieri) and the species with intermediate levels of inbreeding (G. dama). Thus, FA appears in individuals whose levels of inbreeding are still not high enough to a¡ect male reproductive potential and should therefore be considered a sensitive indicator of genetic stress. Finally, FA is also a reliable indicator of male reproductive stress since it is related to individual semen quality in all the species studied.

The present study was conducted to clarify the effect of Kemzyme or Bentonite and their mix as feed additives on the main semen characteristics, testicular enzyme markers, plasma testosterone level and fertility indices of bucks. Twenty four mature NZW rabbit bucks of about 4-month age and average body weight 2.400 kg were equally divided into four groups (6 in each). The first group was kept untreated (C). The second group (K) was supplemented with 0.1% "Kemzyme", a multi-enzyme. The third group (B) was supplemented with 2% sodium bentonite while the fourth group (KB) was supplemented with Kemzyme plus bentonite. The dietary treatment lasted for 10 weeks to cover a complete spermatogenic cycle. Results obtained revealed better sexual activity and higher libido of (K) and (KB) bucks. Besides, significant improvement in their different semen parameters, blood testosterone level, seminal total lipids concentration and the activities of different seminal enzymes. Such improvement was complementary to the higher fertility indices that also noticed on bucks of the same groups. Practically, it could be considered that (K) supplementation is a good reproductive promotant tool in the field of rabbit production.

The objective of this study was to investigate whether medical therapy can reduce sperm aneuploidy levels and improve the results of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) in patients with severe idiopathic oligoasthenoteratospermia (OAT). Thirty-three infertile couples requiring ICSI because of severe idiopathic OAT after at least one unsuccessful ICSI cycle were considered. Semen parameters (concentration, motility and morphology), the percentage of aneuploid sperm and the results of ICSI (the number of oocytes fertilized, embryos transferred, biochemical pregnancies, clinical pregnancies and live births) were compared before and after a 3-month course of treatment with L-carnitine 1 g given twice per day1acetyl-L-carnitine 500 mg given twice per day1one 30-mg cinnoxicam tablet every 4 days. Aneuploidy was assessed using fluorescent in situ hybridisation (FISH) performed on chromosomes X, Y, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 21 and 22. The results showed that 22 of the 33 patients had a reduced frequency of aneuploid sperm and improved sperm morphology after treatment (group 1), and 11 showed no change (group 2). The numbers of biochemical pregnancies, clinical pregnancies and live births were significantly higher in group 1 than in group 2. No significant difference was found between the groups regarding the numbers of oocytes fertilized and embryos transferred. The side effects were negligible. The numbers of ICSI pregnancies and live births in severe idiopathic OAT patients improved with a course of L-carnitine, acetyl-L-carnitine and cinnoxicam.

observed, a fertilization rate comparable to that with ICSI of the other male factor can be expected. KS is a heterogeneous group of disorders with similar clinical presentations, and treatment should be individualized depending on sperm motility.

Background: Transition metal ions, such as iron, can make electron donations to oxygen forming superoxide or hydrogen peroxide, which is further reduced to an extremely reactive hydroxyl radical that induces oxidative stress. The purpose of the present study was to design a system that could easily detect and reliably measure the ferrous oxidation associated to oxygen radical reactions in the sperm samples. Methods: A total of 64 sperm samples from 11 men who had normal semen parameters and proven fertility and 53 male partners of couple experiencing primary infertility, were included in the study. The semen samples from oligoasthenoteratozoospermic patients was divided on the basis of spermatic parameters into moderate, when the sperm concentration was ≥5 × 10 6 /ml and in severe when the concentration was <5 × 10 6 /ml. The evaluation of the ferrous oxidation was performed measuring the formation of iron complexes between ferric ions and thiocyanate anions by spectrofluorimetry. The concentration of the ferric thiocyanate complex ions was significantly higher in pathological sperm samples (137.6 ± 10.8 μmol/l in moderate oligoasthenoteratozoospermic, 170.0 ± 25.4 μmol/l in severe oligoasthenoteratozoospermic and 155.4 ± 7.3 μmol/l in non-obtructive azoospermic men), when compared with both infertile noormozoospermic (92.4 ± 10.7 μmol/l) (P<0.015) and with samples from fertile men (76.3 ± 6.2 μmol/l) (P<0.005). No significant differences were found in the concentration of ferric thiocyanate complex among the different pathological groups when compared to each other and in infertile noormozoospermic patients when compared with the samples from men of proven fertility (P=0.168). Accordingly, an inverse correlation was found between the concentration of the ferric thiocyanate complex and total motility, progressive motility and morphology. Conclusions: This preliminary study shows that the method proposed detect quickly and reliably measures the ferrous oxidation associated to oxygen radical reactions in the sperm samples.

Chemokine receptor CCR5, the main HIV-1 coreceptor, is present in the human spermatozoa. This study aimed to investigate (i) whether the percentage of CCR5-positive spermatozoa varies under conditions associated with changes in the membrane architecture, such as capacitation and fixation/permeabilization procedures; (ii) whether there is any relationship between individual variability in sperm CCR5 expression and semen parameters. methods and results: In cytometric analysis, the percentage of CCR5-positive unfixed spermatozoa varied from 10 to 60%, and it significantly decreased after 5 h capacitation. The percentage of CCR5-positive spermatozoa was increased to more than 90% following fixation and permeabilization, suggesting the existence of large intracellular pools of the receptor. Immunocytochemistry showed positive staining in the anterior region of the sperm head. In ejaculates from male partner of 102 infertile couples, the CCR5 expression rate significantly correlated with sperm count, total sperm number and forward motility, but not with sperm morphology. In stepwise analysis, only forward motility entered into the model; however, this explained only 8% of the variability in CCR5 expression. Interquartile analysis showed significant differences between the first and fourth quartiles of CCR5 expression for all semen parameters, except morphology. The percentage of CCR5-positive spermatozoa may vary under conditions associated with changes in membrane architecture and spermatozoa showed large intracellular pools of CCR5. A lower expression of CCR5 in asthenozoospermia seems to be suggested; however, it would only partially contribute to the inter-individual variability in the CCR5 expression. A genetic basis can be hypothesized to explain the variability.

This study examines the effects of milled Tribulus terrestris (TT), Avena sativa (AS), white ginseng (WG) and triple-combination (TC) powders on sexual dysfunction parameters -such as serum total cholesterol, free testosterone levels and histopathological changes in testicular tissue -in rats fed a high-cholesterol diet. The study's animal material consisted of 42 male Wistar albino rats weighing 200-210 g divided into six groups. Group I was fed normal pellet feed, while the remaining groups were fed pellet feed containing 2% cholesterol. Group III, IV, V, and VI also received 0.6 g/kg/day of TT, 0.3 g/kg/day of AS, 0.2 g/kg/day of WG and 0.55 g/kg/day of TC (7.5% TT, 3.75% AS, 2.5% WG), respectively. After 90 days, the rats were sacrificed and blood and testicular tissue samples obtained. Serum total cholesterol and free testosterone levels were measured, and the Johnsen testicular biopsy score (JTBS) was calculated by a histopathological examination of testicular tissue samples. The high-cholesterol diet in Group II significantly caused increase in total cholesterol level and decrease in JTBS as compared to Group I. Although the groups' free testosterone levels were not statistically significant, WG and TC significantly prevented total cholesterol increase. TC significantly increased the JTBS compared to TT, AS and WG alone. Thus, it was concluded that TC might be particularly efficient for improving male sexual dysfunction.

Decreasing male fertility encouraged the investigators to innovate accurate diagnostic non-invasive methods for detection of changes in the testicular parenchyma. Ultrasonography (US) has the potential to be used in this manner for decades, but magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is still of limited application in animals for this purpose. The current study was designed to describe appearances and quantitative MRI attributes of the normal testes, epididymis besides angiography of testicular artery in camels. About 30 apparently healthy male dromedary camels aged 8-14 years were slaughtered during the rutting season. Immediately after slaughtering, the male gonads (n = 30 pairs of testicles and epididymis) were subjected to morphometric evaluation using a Vernier caliper and ultrasound scanning. Epididymial sperms were evaluated for motility, vitality and abnormality. MRI was performed for testes (n=16) by using a 1.5T Excite-II MRI apparatus of Sigma. Radiography and angioarchitecture of testicular artery (n=24) were done. Camel testicular length, width, and depth showed non-significant differences between a Vernier caliper or sonar. The MRI results revealed that both the testis and epididymis have homogenously intermediate signal (T1) and testes have hyperintense signal, with slightly lower signal in the epididymis (T2). In conclusion, both the ultrasonography and MRI techniques, with each respective computer-assisted imaging, could be used to detect the histomorphological changes of the camels' testicles. However, US imaging remains the first diagnostic technique for evaluating the Sary et al. Ultrasound and MRI of Normal Male Camel Genitalia reproductive health in men for its lower cost and accuracy. MRI is beneficial when the sonograms are inconclusive and/or equivocal. It shows the examined tissues in greater anatomical details compared to ultrasonography. Further studies are needed to compare between characteristics of US and MRI of normal testes and epididymis with testicular artery angiography in living camel during rut season and non-rut season and between normal healthy and affected diseased genitalia.

Doxorubicin is an effective antimitotic agent but whose use is limited by reported cases of reproductive toxicity attributed in part to oxidative stress. There is paucity of information on whether L-carnitine, a common and potent antioxidant mitigates doxorubicin-induced male reproductive impairment, hence this study. Fifteen (15) male Wistar rats used for the study were randomly divided into control, doxorubicin-only and doxorubian+L-carnitine groups of 5 rats each. Duration of daily administration with L-carnitine and weekly with doxorubicin was 28 days after which animals were sacrificed and relevant samples obtained for determination of parameters. Results show significant (p<0.05) decrease in relative testicular weight in the doxorubicin-only group compared with control, but significantly (p<0.001) higher in the Doxorubicin + L-carnitine groups compared with doxorubicin-only group. Sperm count, motility, and viability were significantly (p<0.05) reduced in the Doxorubicin-only compared with control group but significantly (p<0.05) higher in the doxorubicin + L-carnitine compared with Doxorubicin-only group. Teratozotospermia was significantly higher in Doxorubicin-only than in the control (p<0.05) but decreased in Doxorubicin+L-carnitine group (P<0.05) compared with doxorubicin-only group. Serum testosterone, luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone concentrations were significantly (p<0.05) decreased in doxorubicinonly compared with control but significantly (p<0.05) higher in doxorubicin + L-carnitine compared with the doxorubicin-only groups. We therefore conclude that L-carnitine ameliorates doxorubicin-induced male reproductive toxicity in Wistar rats probably via its anti-oxidant potentials.

Parasitic sex-ratio distorters are a major selective force in the evolution of host mating behaviour and mate choice. Here, we investigate sperm limitation in the amphipod Gammarus duebeni and the impact of the microsporidian sex-ratio distorter Nosema granulosis on sperm allocation strategies. We show that males become sperm limited after three consecutive matings and provide uninfected, high fecundity, females with more sperm than infected females. We show that sperm limitation leads to a decrease in female productivity. The outcome of sex-ratio distortion has been shown theoretically to be sensitive to the mating limits of males. Our results indicate that strategic sperm allocation under male rarity will have a greater impact on infected females and has the potential to regulate spread of parasitic feminisers in host populations.

Aim:  To investigate the impact and possible mechanism of action of the rodent malarial parasite on reproduction.Methods:  Male albino mice were infected with 15, 30 and 45%Plasmodium berghei berghei through inoculation with 107 parasitized red blood cells. Each experiment had its own control that was not infected with P. berghei berghei. Mice infected with 15%P. berghei berghei were killed on days 0, 5, 10 and 15; those infected with 30%P. berghei berghei were killed on days 0, 3, 6 and 10; and those infected with 45%P. berghei berghei were killed on days 1–7 after infection. Caudal epididymal sperm motility, counts and morphology, body and wet organ weights and hematological indices were determined.Results:  The results showed a progressive duration dependent decrease in sperm motility, sperm count and viability (P &lt; 0.01) in parasitized mice. There were significant decreases in serum testosterone and increases in cortisol levels (P &lt; 0.05) in the infected mice compared with...