Search Results (1,698)

Background/Objectives: Ram fertility is essential for sheep production, influenced by genetic, physiological, behavioral, and environmental factors. This narrative review synthesizes findings from over 190 peer-reviewed publications to evaluate the phenotypic indicators, genetic architecture, molecular candidates, and management conditions influencing testicular development, semen quality, and reproductive performance in rams. Methods: A narrative synthesis of peer-reviewed studies was conducted, integrating findings from quantitative genetics, genome-wide association studies, transcriptomics, and controlled environmental and management experiments. Emphasis was placed on studies evaluating fertility-related traits across breeds, ages, and production systems. Results: Recent genomic and transcriptomic studies have identified potential biomarkers (e.g., IGF1, IGFALS, FOXO1) and gene networks linked to ram fertility, including semen quality, scrotal circumference, and endocrine regulation. For instance, genome-wide association studies (GWASs) have identified candidate genes such as SLC2A8 and MAPK3, which are associated with spermatogenesis and semen quality. Additionally, Y-linked SNPs such as ZFY16: g.146 C > T have been linked to testicular development. Genetic potential is heavily modulated by environmental constraints. Heat stress emerges as a disruptor of testicular thermoregulation, with recent evidence highlighting the vulnerability of spermatogenesis even in adapted breeds. Management interventions, specifically nutritional supplementation and hormonal modulation via melatonin, are discussed as effective strategies to mitigate environmental impacts. Conclusion: Improving ram fertility will require an approach that prioritizes phenotypic traits supported by candidate genes identified through transcriptomic analyses and GWASs. Integrating these genetic tools together with cost-effective nutritional and hormonal management strategies can further improve semen quality, libido, and testicular traits, thereby enhancing fertility gains while maintaining sheep breed adaptability across production systems. Full article

Conventional electrochemical mechanisms for electrical energy storage face fundamental limitations in achieving ultra-high energy density and high-power output. These constraints arise from the intrinsic nature of the electrochemical processes themselves. Overcoming this challenge requires a paradigm shift—from electrochemical to quantum mechanisms of energy storage. As shown by theoretical models, this concept can be implemented in nanostructured materials consisting of clusters with tunnel-transparent shells. It is possible to build such a structure using supramolecular complexes and clathrate organization of matter. For this purpose, we synthesized a supramolecular clathrate with a hierarchical sub-host<host<guest>> architecture and investigated its conductive and polarization properties using impedance spectroscopy. As shown by the results of the research, in this structure it was possible to combine a high value of the dielectric permittivity with a dielectric loss tangent below unity in the ultra-low-frequency range. This was facilitated by the presumably specific energy structure of the clathrate, as evidenced by the measured spectra of thermally stimulated discharge currents. The ability of the clathrate to accumulate an electric charge is evidenced by the measured hysteresis current-voltage characteristic. The value of the specific capacitance of this clathrate reaches the value that arises from the theoretical model of a quantum supercapacitor. Full article

Male infertility contributes substantially to couple infertility, and a large proportion of cases remain idiopathic. Dysbiosis within the gut, seminal, and urinary microbiomes has been associated with impaired semen parameters, reproductive tract inflammation, and oxidative stress. This narrative review, informed by a structured literature search, summarizes current evidence for the gut–testis axis and the androbactome in male infertility and discusses mechanistic pathways linking microbial imbalance to sperm dysfunction. Proposed mechanisms include immune activation, increased oxidative stress, endocrine and metabolic perturbations, and disruption of epithelial barriers, including the blood–testis barrier. Early clinical trials report that selected probiotic or synbiotic formulations may be associated with improvements in one or more World Health Organization (WHO) semen parameters and with reductions in oxidative or inflammatory biomarkers (surrogate laboratory endpoints; pregnancy and live-birth outcomes are rarely reported and remain unproven) in selected populations, such as idiopathic infertility and the post-varicocelectomy setting. Given patient heterogeneity, a personalized approach requires prespecified clinical phenotypes and measurable monitoring targets, rather than indiscriminate supplementation. At present, probiotics should be considered an adjunct rather than a stand-alone therapy. Well-designed, contamination-aware microbiome studies and adequately powered randomized trials with clinically meaningful endpoints, including pregnancy and live birth, are required before routine clinical implementation. This synthesis is intended to support personalized counseling and trial design by clarifying candidate phenotypes, appropriate monitoring endpoints, and realistic limitations of current evidence. Full article

(1) Background: Testosterone plays a key role in spermatogenesis and in maintaining semen quality and sperm DNA integrity. Consequently, reduced testosterone levels may disrupt these processes and contribute to male infertility. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of low testosterone levels on semen parameters, sperm DNA fragmentation, and chromatin condensation; (2) Methods: This was a prospective study that included 214 men aged 25–45 years undergoing infertility evaluation. Participants were classified into two groups according to serum testosterone levels: low testosterone and normal testosterone. Total testosterone was determined using electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. Semen analysis was carried out according to the WHO 2021 guidelines. The DNA fragmentation index was assessed using the TUNEL assay. The sperm decondensation index was evaluated by aniline blue staining; (3) Results: Men with low serum total testosterone levels (<2.64 ng/mL) exhibited significantly impaired semen parameters compared with those with normal testosterone levels. Serum total testosterone was positively correlated with sperm concentration (rs = 0.43, p < 0.001), total motility (rs = 0.20, p = 0.005), normal morphology (rs = 0.25, p < 0.001), and sperm vitality (rs = 0.173, p = 0.014). In contrast, testosterone levels were negatively correlated with the DNA fragmentation index (rs = −0.221, p = 0.0017) and the chromatin decondensation index (rs = −0.19, p = 0.0086). A higher proportion of pathological DFI (>15%) was observed in the low testosterone group. (4) Conclusions: These findings support the essential role of testosterone in sustaining spermatogenesis, semen quality, and sperm DNA integrity and highlight the crucial importance of testosterone assessment in the diagnosis and pathophysiological understanding of male infertility. Full article

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of phyto-additive mixture supplementation on semen quality and on some reproductive parameters after artificial insemination in rabbits. The trial run 120 days on 20 adult New Zealand white rabbit bucks that were allocated into two different groups, first was control (CON; n = 10) fed with commercial pelleted-feed and second was considered experimental group (EXP; n = 10) which received in feed a natural feed additive mixture (0.1% of dried Chlorella vulgaris powder and 0.1% of dried Laurus nobilis leaves powder). Consequently, the quality assessment of semen by the Computer Assisted Semen Analyzer (CASA) system, samples were instrumentally inseminated on rabbit does for two consecutive reproductive cycles, and productive and reproductive indexes were evaluated. Results demonstrate that while spermatozoa concentration and ejaculate volume did not differ significantly among experimental groups or between reproduction cycles, spermatozoa motility parameters were significantly enhanced in rabbits receiving the phyto-additive mixture, as evidenced by increased total motility (87.83% vs. 70.63%) and progressive motility (75.68% vs. 50.10%) compared with the control group (p < 0.01). No differences were observed in prolificacy traits during the first reproductive cycle, whereas in the second cycle the phyto-additive treatment increased the number of kits born alive per litter (12.29 vs. 10.19; p < 0.05) and improved kit growth performance at birth (79.17 vs. 66.75 g), at weaning (1085.28 vs. 963.15 g), and in average daily gain (28.75 vs. 25.61 g/day). The study provides evidence of alternative practises based on feeding programme to enhance reproductive traits in rabbit production. The goal is to provide farmers with examples of good farming practise (such as precision farming), focused on sustainability and efficiency, and a certain transfer of knowledge. Full article

Background/Objectives: Infertility is a major public health concern, affecting one in six individuals worldwide and nearly one-quarter of couples in France. While a male, female, or combined factor can be identified in approximately 75% of cases, infertility remains unexplained in 10–25%. Genital tract infections account for roughly 15% of male infertility cases and are often asymptomatic, being detected incidentally during routine evaluation prior to assisted reproductive technology (ART). Emerging evidence suggests that the seminal microbiota may contribute to sperm quality and male reproductive health. This systematic review aims to evaluate whether specific microbial profiles are associated with alterations in semen parameters. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed and ScienceDirect, yielding 165 and 1418 records, respectively. In the end, 20 articles were included in this systematic review. Results: Men with normal semen parameters commonly exhibited a higher abundance of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, whereas Prevotella was more frequently observed in individuals with impaired semen quality. Several taxa—such as Gardnerella, Corynebacterium, and Staphylococcus spp.—were detected in both normal and altered semen profiles, suggesting that their impact on sperm quality may depend on reaching a pathogenic threshold. Conclusions: Current evidence supports an association between seminal microbiota composition and sperm quality. However, the heterogeneity of available studies and the lack of standardized methodologies limit the ability to draw firm conclusions. Further well-designed studies are required to clarify causal relationships and to determine the clinical relevance of seminal microbiota assessment in male infertility. Full article

Background/Objectives: Male infertility, including primary and secondary infertility, is significantly influenced by oxidative stress, which disrupts sperm function and fertility. Seminal plasma, a protein-rich fluid essential for sperm protection and function, represents a valuable source for identifying biomarkers through proteomic analysis. While previous studies have explored seminal plasma proteins in fertility, the specific proteomic changes associated with oxidative stress in secondary infertility remain unclear. This study aimed to characterize these alterations by analyzing seminal plasma from three groups: men with secondary infertility, fertile donors with high oxidative stress, and fertile donors without oxidative stress. Methods: Pooled semen samples from each group underwent quantitative proteomics analysis using advanced mass spectrometry, with subsequent bioinformatic analysis using tools like DAVID, STRING, and IPA for identifying differentially expressed proteins (DEPs). Results: Quantitative proteomic analysis identified 377 DEPs in secondary infertility and 523 DEPs in fertile donors with high oxidative stress compared to controls. Bioinformatic analysis revealed seven shared pathways, including acute-phase response signaling, organismal injury, cellular movement, cell-to-cell signaling, free radical scavenging, immune cell trafficking, and Hematological system development. Notably, C3 and SERPINA3 exhibited significant alterations, along with proteins involved in sperm motility, capacitation, and fertilization, suggesting their potential roles in impaired fertility. Conclusions: These findings underscore the link between oxidative stress and secondary infertility and highlight specific seminal plasma proteins as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for diagnosing and treating male infertility. Full article

Background/Objectives: Dynein axonemal heavy chain (DNAH) genes, including DNAH6, are implicated in male infertility, particularly multiple morphological abnormalities of the spermatozoa flagellum (MMAF). However, an underlying mechanism is unclear. Methods: This in silico study analyzed 19 previously reported DNAH6 mutations to elucidate their effects on the structural, mechanical, and microstructural aspects and axonemal assembly of flagellum and how these changes impact reproductive health, correlating with pathogenicity scores, ATP binding capacity, and protein interactions. Results: DNAH mutations were associated with CDGP (52.63%), male infertility (36.84%), and primary ovarian insufficiency (10.53%). MMAF-linked mutations exhibited higher SNAP2 scores (57.25 ± 5.68 vs. −32.58 ± 44.85, p = 0.002), reduced ATP binding affinity (−6.27 ± 4.20 vs. −8.92 ± 0.23 kcal/mol, p = 0.05), and smaller catalytic cavity size (17,646 ± 13,005 vs. 27190 ± 3485 ų, p = 0.04). These mutations showed reduced DNAH6-CLIP4 binding affinity (−303.90 ± 5.23 vs. −313.60 ± 4.28 kcal/mol, p = 0.002). Literature-based semen analysis revealed correlations between Phred scores and absent flagella (r = 0.952, p = 0.012) and inverse correlations between ATP binding capacity and absent flagella (r = −0.902, p = 0.036) or irregular width (r = −0.949, p = 0.014). A mathematical model of ATP binding kinetics predicted reduced flagellar motility in MMAF mutants due to impaired dynein function. Ultrastructural analyses indicated that high pathogenicity scores and reduced ATP binding correlate with absent inner dynein arms and radial spokes, while impaired DNAH6-CLIP4 interactions disrupt axonemal assembly. Conclusions: In silico analyses, integrated with microstructural, axonemal, and mathematical modeling data, demonstrate that DNAH6 mutations cause MMAF by impairing ATP binding, protein interactions, and axonemal assembly, leading to severe flagellar dysfunction and thereby negatively affecting reproductive health. Full article

Cryopreservation of ram semen is an essential tool in assisted reproductive technology; however, oxidative stress generated during the freezing process may compromise sperm quality. This study evaluated the effects of Se and SeNPs on post-thaw sperm quality, PRDX5 expression, and oxidative status in cryopreserved ram semen. In this study, semen samples collected from five mature rams (three collections at 2-week intervals, yielding a total of 15 ejaculates) were frozen in liquid nitrogen using extenders supplemented with selenium (1 μg/mL, S1; 10 μg/mL, S2) or selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs; 1 μg/mL, N1; 2 μg/mL, N2) alongside a nonsupplemented control extender. Post-thaw sperm quality was evaluated using computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) for motility, kinematic parameters, viability, membrane integrity (HOST) assays, chromatin condensation assessment, and morphological analysis. Total oxidant status (TOS) measurements and PRDX5 gene expression analysis were performed separately. Low-dose SeNPs (1 µg/mL) significantly improved total motility (55.73 ± 19.01%), progressive motility (25.05 ± 15.34%), viability (57.27 ± 19.30%), HOST-positive spermatozoa (50.87 ± 18.91%), and morphologically normal spermatozoa (88.27 ± 4.10%) compared with the control and high-dose sodium selenite groups (p < 0.05). Chromatin condensation abnormalities were lowest in the SeNP-treated group. S1 and N2 also improved motility and morphology compared with the control; however, the increases were numerically smaller than those observed in the N1 group. In contrast, S2 supplementation showed limited benefit, with values that were similar to those of the control. Morphologically normal spermatozoa were highest in N1, followed by S1 and N2, while S2 and the control exhibited the lowest values (p < 0.05). In contrast, no significant differences were detected in TOS or PRDX5 gene expression among the experimental groups (p > 0.05). These findings indicate that low-dose SeNPs enhance post-thaw sperm functional integrity and cryotolerance without inducing measurable changes in bulk oxidative markers or gene transcription. Full article

Male infertility is increasingly recognized as a complex, multifactorial disorder that extends beyond abnormalities in conventional semen parameters. A growing body of evidence highlights oxidative stress, sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF), and epigenetic alterations as tightly interconnected mechanisms contributing to sperm dysfunction and impaired fertility. Reactive oxygen species, though vital for sperm maturation and signaling, can inflict extensive genomic and chromatin damage when their levels exceed the antioxidant capacity of the testis and seminal plasma. These redox-driven lesions not only compromise fertilization potential but may also influence embryonic development and offspring health. Clinical studies and meta-analyses consistently report that elevated SDF and redox imbalance are associated with reduced pregnancy and live birth rates, particularly in assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs). The use of testicular sperm in men with high ejaculated SDF appears to improve ART outcomes, although long-term safety data remain limited. Advances in redox and genomic diagnostics, including assays for oxidation–reduction potential, SDF, and sperm epigenetic profiling, have opened new avenues for precision-based andrology, enabling targeted antioxidant, metabolic, and surgical interventions. Nonetheless, methodological variability, lack of assay standardization, and insufficient longitudinal follow-up constrain the full clinical translation of these findings. This review synthesizes evidence linking OS, SDF, and epigenetic alterations, highlighting their mechanistic crosstalk and translational relevance in the personalized management of male infertility. Full article

Background/Objectives: Interleukin-6 (IL-6), a pleiotropic cytokine involved in immune regulation, is consistently detected in human semen, even in the absence of overt infection. Its contribution to sperm dysfunction, oxidative stress, and inflammation remains incompletely understood. This study evaluated the associations between seminal IL-6 concentrations and markers of semen quality, oxidative stress, nuclear integrity, and genital tract inflammation in infertile men. Methods: A cohort of 204 infertile men was assessed. Seminal IL-6 was quantified by electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. Semen parameters, malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT) activity, sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI), sperm chromatin decondensation index (SDI), leukocytospermia, and bacteriospermia were measured. Analyses included correlation testing, IL-6 threshold stratification (<30, 30–60, 60–100, ≥100 pg/mL), and multivariate regression. Results: IL-6 was detectable in all samples (median: 31.52 pg/mL; range: 1.5–5000 pg/mL). Higher IL-6 levels were significantly associated with reduced sperm concentration, progressive motility, and vitality, and with increased DFI, SDI, MDA, leukocyte counts, and bacteriospermia (p < 0.001). In multivariate models, IL-6 independently predicted reduced progressive motility (β = −0.005; p = 0.032) and elevated leukocyte count (β = 0.0018; p < 0.0001). Logistic regression further showed that IL-6 increased the odds of DFI ≥ 30%, SDI ≥ 30%, and bacteriospermia (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Seminal IL-6 emerges as a sensitive biomarker of immuno-oxidative stress and sperm dysfunction in infertile men. Its integration into clinical evaluation may improve the assessment of inflammatory and oxidative contributors to male infertility. Full article

Body fluid identification at crime scenes is the first step in the forensic biology workflow, leading to the identification of the perpetrator and/or, in some cases, the victim. Current methods that are regularly used in forensic criminal evidence analysis utilize well-studied properties of each fluid as the foundation of the protocol. Among these approaches, alternative light sources, chemical reactions, lateral flow immunochromatographic tests, and microscopic detection stand out to identify the main body fluids encountered at crime scenes: blood, semen, and saliva. However, these often come with limits for specificity and sensitivity. There is also difficulty with fluid mixtures, environmental degradation, and destruction of the sample by the method used. Other fluids, like vaginal fluid and fecal matter, lack standardized protocols and require innovative ideas for accurate analysis without compromising the sample. Emerging technologies based on molecular methods have been the focus of body fluid research, with emphasis on topics such as mRNA, microRNA, epigenetics, and microbial analysis. Additional information alongside the determination of fluid origin could be an advantage from new molecular techniques, such as the identification of donors from SNP analysis, if regular STR analysis is not possible. Validation studies and the integration of such research have the potential to expand and enhance the laboratory practices of forensic science. This article will provide an overview of the current methods applied in the crime lab for body fluid identification before exploring active research in this field, pointing out the potential of these techniques for application in forensic cases to overcome present issues and expand the variety of body fluids identified. Full article

In mammalian sperm, the regulation of intracellular calcium (Ca²⁺) is essential for fertility. Semen processing for assisted reproduction may disturb Ca²⁺ homeostasis. This study aimed to investigate whether chilling boar sperm to 5 °C and subsequent storage affect the function of intracellular Ca²⁺ stores. Semen was stored in BTS-extender at 5 °C or 17 °C (control) for up to five days. Fluo-4/AM-loaded aliquots were incubated in Ca²⁺-free Tyrode’s medium at 38 °C. Sperm preserved at 17 °C had higher free intracellular Ca²⁺ levels compared with those stored at 5 °C (p < 0.05). However, there was no difference between storage groups in Ca²⁺ levels during incubation at 38 °C. Thimerosal, a sensitizer of Ca²⁺ channels, was added, and changes in the free intracellular Ca²⁺ concentration were monitored in viable acrosome-intact sperm by continuous flow cytometry. There was no effect of storage temperature on the kinetic response to thimerosal at days 1 and 3. At day 5, the relative increase in Ca²⁺ was higher in 5 °C-stored samples after 3 min of incubation. At 60 and 120 min of incubation, the thimerosal response was no longer influenced by the storage temperature or storage duration. In conclusion, chilling and storage do not affect the release dynamics of free Ca²⁺ from intracellular stores in viable boar sperm after rewarming. Full article

Ice and snow tourism (IST) is a significant global trend, offering Russia opportunities for tourism growth and seasonal diversification. This study investigates the potential of ice and snow art as a distinct subcategory of IST on Lake Baikal. Our research is based on an analysis of academic publications and official policy documents, field surveys conducted in winter 2025, and stakeholder consultations, with the “Olkhon Ice Fest” serving as a case study. The findings indicate a clear shift toward IST, with the number of winter tourists on Olkhon Island increasing by 70% between 2021 and 2024. The festival’s key features—its use of the natural ice landscape, a unique artistic technique, an explicit ecological focus, and strong entrepreneurial initiative—support the development of a conceptual model of IST on Lake Baikal grounded in ecotourism principles. Ensuring the long-term sustainable development of IST in the region requires improved governance, infrastructure, and transport systems, as well as support for green businesses and increased environmental awareness among tourists. This study contributes to the ongoing discourse on sustainable winter tourism by demonstrating the interconnections among environmental sustainability, socioeconomic benefits, and cultural innovation, thereby situating local IST practices within the broader framework of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Full article

Owing to their high strength characteristics, chemical stability, and piezoelectric activity, vinylidene fluoride (VDF) copolymers have become promising materials for creating implants to replace bone tissue defects. However, a significant drawback of these materials is the biological inertness of their surface, which leads to unsatisfactory integration with the patient’s bone tissue. In this study, we propose a single-step approach for immobilizing hydroxyapatite (HAp) on the surface of porous implants made of vinylidene fluoride and tetrafluoroethylene copolymer (P(VDF-TeFE)). This method consists of treating the surface of the product with a mixture of solvents while simultaneously capturing HAp microparticles. Using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), it was shown that the proposed method preserves the morphology of model implants (pore diameter and printed line thickness) and allows HAp to cover up to 63 ± 14% of their surface, reaching concentrations of calcium and phosphorus up to 6.0 ± 1.3 and 3.6 ± 0.7 at. %, respectively, imparting superhydrophilic properties to them. Optical profilometry revealed that the surface roughness of samples increased by more than seven times as a result of HAp immobilization. X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) confirmed that the piezoelectric phase of P(VDF-TeFE) is preserved after treatment, as are the compressive strength characteristics of the samples. Hydroxyapatite immobilization significantly improved the adhesion and osteogenic differentiation of multipotent stem cells cultured with P(VDF-TeFE)-based samples. Thus, the proposed method can significantly enhance the biological activity of implants based on the piezoelectric VDF copolymer. Full article