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Frontiers in Artificial Intelligence 2024The most common Assisted Reproductive Technology is Fertilization (IVF). During IVF, embryologists commonly perform a morphological assessment to evaluate embryo...
BACKGROUND
The most common Assisted Reproductive Technology is Fertilization (IVF). During IVF, embryologists commonly perform a morphological assessment to evaluate embryo quality and choose the best embryo for transferring to the uterus. However, embryo selection through morphological assessment is subjective, so various embryologists obtain different conclusions. Furthermore, humans can consider only a limited number of visual parameters resulting in a poor IVF success rate. Artificial intelligence (AI) for embryo selection is objective and can include many parameters, leading to better IVF outcomes.
OBJECTIVES
This study sought to use AI to (1) predict pregnancy results based on embryo images, (2) assess using more than one image of the embryo in the prediction of pregnancy but based on the current process in IVF labs, and (3) compare results of AI-Based methods and embryologist experts in predicting pregnancy.
METHODS
A data set including 252 Time-lapse Videos of embryos related to IVF performed between 2017 and 2020 was collected. Frames related to 19 ± 1, 43 ± 1, and 67 ± 1 h post-insemination were extracted. Well-Known CNN architectures with transfer learning have been applied to these images. The results have been compared with an algorithm that only uses the final image of embryos. Furthermore, the results have been compared with five experienced embryologists.
RESULTS
To predict the pregnancy outcome, we applied five well-known CNN architectures (AlexNet, ResNet18, ResNet34, Inception V3, and DenseNet121). DeepEmbryo, using three images, predicts pregnancy better than the algorithm that only uses one final image. It also can predict pregnancy better than all embryologists. Different well-known architectures can successfully predict pregnancy chances with up to 75.0% accuracy using Transfer Learning.
CONCLUSION
We have developed DeepEmbryo, an AI-based tool that uses three static images to predict pregnancy. Additionally, DeepEmbryo uses images that can be obtained in the current IVF process in almost all IVF labs. AI-based tools have great potential for predicting pregnancy and can be used as a proper tool in the future.
PubMed: 38881952
DOI: 10.3389/frai.2024.1375474 -
Veterinary Medicine and Science Jul 2024The metabolic impacts of including soya meal, wheat gluten and corn gluten in the diet of male lambs could influence their reproductive performance.
BACKGROUND
The metabolic impacts of including soya meal, wheat gluten and corn gluten in the diet of male lambs could influence their reproductive performance.
OBJECTIVES
An experiment was carried out to assess the effects of corn gluten, wheat gluten and soya meal on the reproductive system of male lambs.
METHODS
Twenty-four male Morkaraman lambs, aged 9 months, were utilized in this study and were fed experimental diets for 56 days. The lambs were divided into a control group (soybean meal + safflower meal), a corn group (corn gluten) and a wheat group (wheat gluten).
RESULTS
The serum follicle-stimulating hormone level of the control group was significantly higher and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) level was lower than the wheat and corn gluten groups (p < 0.05). The lowest malondialdehyde level in testicular tissue was observed in the control group, whereas the highest was in the wheat gluten group (p < 0.05). The glutathione level in the control group was significantly higher than in the other groups (p < 0.05). The corn gluten group showed the highest CHOP and IRE1 levels; the lowest Bcl-2 levels and the highest IL-1B and P2 × 7R levels were found in the wheat group; and the lowest TNF-α levels were in the control group (p < 0.05). Additionally, the study revealed that diet had a significant impact on spermatological parameters of the testis such as diameter, volume and weight (p < 0.05).
CONCLUSIONS
These results concluded that the inclusion of different protein sources in the diet of reproductive male lambs affects the metabolism of testicular tissue.
Topics: Animals; Male; Diet; Animal Feed; Testis; Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress; Spermatozoa; Semen Analysis; Sheep, Domestic; Sheep; Triticum; Animal Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; Zea mays; Glycine max
PubMed: 38879885
DOI: 10.1002/vms3.1504 -
Journal of Dairy Science Jun 2024Negative associations of health disorders with reproductive performance, often measured with pregnancy risk per artificial insemination (AI) or the risk of pregnancy...
Negative associations of health disorders with reproductive performance, often measured with pregnancy risk per artificial insemination (AI) or the risk of pregnancy loss, have been demonstrated extensively. Most studies investigated common clinical diseases but did not include subclinical disorders comprehensively. They often evaluated cows subjected to hormonal synchronization protocols for timed AI, limiting the ability to understand how disease may affect spontaneous reproductive function, which is essential for targeted management programs with selective hormonal intervention. It is plausible that metabolic and inflammatory disorders have short- and long-term detrimental effects on different features of reproductive function that result in or contribute to reduced fertility. These may include: 1) reestablishment of endocrine function to promote follicular growth and first ovulation postpartum, 2) corpus luteum (CL) function, 3) estrus expression, and 4) uterine environment, fertilization, and embryonic development. In this narrative literature review, we discuss insights and knowledge gaps linking health disorders with these processes of reproductive function. A growing set of observational studies with adequate internal validity suggest that these outcomes may be affected by metabolic and inflammatory disorders that are common in the early postpartum period. A better characterization of these risk factors in multi-site studies with greater external validity is warranted to develop decision-support tools to identify subgroups of cows that are more or less likely to be successful in targeted reproductive management programs.
PubMed: 38876223
DOI: 10.3168/jds.2023-24562 -
BMC Veterinary Research Jun 2024Buffalo spermatozoa have a distinct membrane structure that makes them more vulnerable to cryopreservation, resulting in lower-quality post-thawed sperm. This decreases... (Comparative Study)
Comparative Study
Effect of autologous platelet-rich plasma on the fertility and quality of cryopreserved buffalo bull semen: a comparative study using OptiXcell® and tris egg yolk extenders.
BACKGROUND
Buffalo spermatozoa have a distinct membrane structure that makes them more vulnerable to cryopreservation, resulting in lower-quality post-thawed sperm. This decreases the success rate of artificial insemination in buffaloes. Understanding and addressing these specific vulnerabilities are essential for improving reproductive techniques in buffalo populations. The properties of cryopreserved buffalo bull semen were examined in this study regarding the impact of adding autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to OptiXcell® or Tris egg yolk-based extenders. Ten buffalo bulls were used to collect semen. Each bull's ejaculate was separated into two main equal amounts, each of which was then diluted with either OptiXcell® or Tris egg yolk-based extender, supplemented with various PRP concentrations (5%, 10%, and 15%), and the control (0%), before being cryopreserved according to established protocols. Following equilibration and thawing, the quality and functionality of the sperm were evaluated, along with the antioxidant enzyme activities (GSH and TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and in vivo fertilization rate of the thawed semen.
RESULTS
All PRP concentrations in both extenders, particularly 10% PRP, improved the quality and functionality of the sperm in both equilibrated and frozen-thawed semen. Additionally, the antioxidant enzyme activities in both extenders were higher in the PRP-supplemented groups compared to the control group in thawed semen (P < 0.05). All post-thaw sperm quality, antioxidant enzyme activities, and functionality aside from DNA integrity were higher (P < 0.05) in the PRP-supplemented OptiXcell® than in the PRP-supplemented Tris egg yolk-based extender. The fertility of cryopreserved semen in the extenders supplemented with 10% and 15% PRP increased (P < 0.05) significantly more than that of the control extenders, with 10% PRP being the optimum concentration in OptiXcell® (80%) compared to that of Tris egg yolk-based extender (66.67%) and control of two extenders (53.33% and 46.67%, respectively).
CONCLUSIONS
Even though autologous PRP-supplemented extenders have a protective impact on equilibrated and cryopreserved semen, 10% PRP-supplemented OptiXcell® extenders are more effective at preserving post-thaw semen quality, functionality, and antioxidant capacity, which increases the in vivo fertility of buffalo bulls.
Topics: Animals; Buffaloes; Male; Cryopreservation; Semen Preservation; Platelet-Rich Plasma; Fertility; Egg Yolk; Semen Analysis; Cryoprotective Agents; Insemination, Artificial; Female; Semen; Spermatozoa
PubMed: 38849855
DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-04022-x -
Frontiers in Reproductive Health 2024Online sperm donation allows those hoping to conceive a baby ("recipients") to meet prospective sperm donors online, via "connection" websites or social media. These...
INTRODUCTION
Online sperm donation allows those hoping to conceive a baby ("recipients") to meet prospective sperm donors online, via "connection" websites or social media. These sites offer some advantages to clinical donation (including lower costs and greater choice over donation arrangements) but previous research has suggested that these sites may also pose risks and challenges to those who use them. Therefore, the aim of this exploratory research was to better understand online sperm donation communities and the experiences of both recipients and donors, particularly with respect to situations that could be "morally challenging" or involve harm.
METHODS
Three prolific donors and five recipients were interviewed using an in-depth narrative approach. Carol Gilligan's Listening Guide was employed to analyse the data.
RESULTS
The findings demonstrated that the donors sought to find ways to maintain autonomy in their donating practices and were concerned about the character and parenting abilities of recipients, as well as the potential for recipients to make unwarranted complaints. The recipients were concerned about their safety and finding a donor they could trust, discussing issues relating to donor "dishonesty", online abuse, and a lack of support from connection sites and related authorities. Both donors and recipients identified "morally challenging" behaviour relating to donor anonymity (donor use of fake online profiles or aliases) and the sexual motivations or (mis)conduct of some donors. The participants each discussed the ways in which they managed perceived risks.
DISCUSSION
The degree to which the participants voiced their acceptance or rejection of challenging behaviour in online sperm donation communities varied across and within participants, highlighting the complexity of the way in which people interact in this environment. Further research is required to understand how this form of sperm donation can be as safe and supportive as possible, while also respecting the importance to donors and recipients of autonomy and choice when making donation arrangements.
PubMed: 38847011
DOI: 10.3389/frph.2024.1222601 -
FASEB BioAdvances Jun 2024The in vitro storage of stallion spermatozoa for use in artificial insemination leads to oxidative stress and imbalances in calcium homeostasis that trigger the...
The in vitro storage of stallion spermatozoa for use in artificial insemination leads to oxidative stress and imbalances in calcium homeostasis that trigger the formation of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP), resulting in premature cell death. However, little is understood about the dynamics and the role of mPTP formation in mammalian spermatozoa. Here, we identify an important role for mPTP in stallion sperm Ca homeostasis. We show that stallion spermatozoa do not exhibit "classical" features of mPTP; specifically, they are resistant to cyclosporin A-mediated inhibition of mPTP formation, and they do not require exogenous Ca to form the mPTP. However, chelation of endogenous Ca prevented mPTP formation, indicating a role for intracellular Ca in this process. Furthermore, our findings suggest that this cell type can mobilize intracellular Ca stores to form the mPTP in response to low Ca environments and that under oxidative stress conditions, mPTP formation preceded a measurable increase in intracellular Ca, and vice versa. Contrary to previous work that identified mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) as a proxy for mPTP formation, here we show that a loss of MMP can occur independently of mPTP formation, and thus MMP is not an appropriate proxy for the detection of mPTP formation. In conclusion, the mPTP plays a crucial role in maintaining Ca and reactive oxygen species homeostasis in stallion spermatozoa, serving as an important regulatory mechanism for normal sperm function, thereby contraindicating the in vitro pharmacological inhibition of mPTP formation to enhance sperm longevity.
PubMed: 38846376
DOI: 10.1096/fba.2023-00051 -
Poultry Science May 2024The fertilization rate is an important index to evaluate the reproductive capacity of hens, which is mainly affected by semen quality, timing of artificial insemination...
The fertilization rate is an important index to evaluate the reproductive capacity of hens, which is mainly affected by semen quality, timing of artificial insemination (AI), and the ability to store sperm. A high sperm storage (SS) capacity can extend the interval, reduce the frequency, and decrease the labor costs of AI. However, relatively few studies have investigated the SS capacity of hens. Therefore, the aims of the present study were to identify factors influencing the SS capacity of Guangxi partridge chickens and to explore the impact of the sperm count in different sections of the oviduct and sperm storage tubules (SSTs), in addition to the number and surface area of SSTs on SS capacity at different time points after AI. We found that SS capacity was positively correlated to the egg production rate (P < 0.01) and body length (P < 0.05). On post-AI days 5, 10, and 15, the sperm count was higher in uterus-vagina junction (UVJ) than the magnum, isthmus, and infundibulum (P < 0.01), but gradually decreased over time. Also, the duration of SS and the sperm count of the UVJ was greater in the high SS group than the low SS group (P < 0.05). Histopathological analysis of the UVJ showed that the number and surface area of the SSTs (P < 0.01), as well as the proportion of SSTs containing sperm, were greater in the high SS group at all time points post AI (P < 0.01), while the proportion of SSTs containing sperm gradually decreased over time. Collectively, these results highlight the potential for selective breeding of SS capacity and show that SS capacity is related to laying performance and body length of Guangxi partridge hens. In addition, SS capacity was positively correlated to the surface area of SSTs and the proportion containing sperm. A greater sperm count stored in the UVJ was correlated to more sperm transported to the infundibulum and subsequent greater SS capacity of hens.
PubMed: 38833742
DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.103861 -
Veterinary Journal (London, England :... Jun 2024Preventing dystocia can stabilise beef cattle management. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between serum pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) S-N... (Comparative Study)
Comparative Study
Preventing dystocia can stabilise beef cattle management. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between serum pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) S-N values and estrone sulphate (ES) concentrations during pregnancy and the calf birth weight in beef cattle and to evaluate their usefulness as new predictive parameters for dystocia due to foetal overgrowth. Thirty-eight pregnant Japanese Black cattle were used. Blood samples were collected at 40, 70, 100, 150, 200, 250, 280, and 285 days after artificial insemination (AI), and birth weight of the offspring was measured. Serum PAGs S-N values and ES concentrations were measured, and the area under the curve (AUC) and the ratio of change based on 70 days after AI were calculated, followed by calculation of the correlation coefficient with the birth weight of the offspring and comparison between the eutocia (n = 32) and dystocia (n = 6) groups. The birth weight of the offspring was moderately positively correlated with the AUC of serum PAGs S-N values and ES concentrations in the second (r = 0.425, P < 0.01) and third (r = 0.595, P < 0.01) trimesters, respectively. The ratio of change in serum ES concentrations between 70 and 280 days after AI was greater (P < 0.05) in the dystocia group (1276.6 ± 229.1 %) than in the eutocia group (852.6 ± 69.6 %). These results suggest that blood PAGs S-N values at mid-pregnancy (100-199 days after AI) and the ratio of changes in blood ES concentrations between 70 and 280 days after AI may be new parameters for predicting dystocia.
Topics: Animals; Female; Pregnancy; Estrone; Cattle; Dystocia; Birth Weight; Cattle Diseases; Pregnancy Proteins; Glycoproteins
PubMed: 38810930
DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2024.106147 -
Open Veterinary Journal Apr 2024Postpartum ovarian dysfunction [ovarian cyst (OC) and persistent follicle (PF)] has been an important issue. Finding effective hormonal treatments to improve...
BACKGROUND
Postpartum ovarian dysfunction [ovarian cyst (OC) and persistent follicle (PF)] has been an important issue. Finding effective hormonal treatments to improve reproductive performance in dairy cows has become a necessity.
AIM
Improve reproductive performance and ovarian activity in postpartum cows with specific customized treatment for OC and PFs.
METHODS
The study included 48 cows at 14 days P.P, which received two dosages of 500 μg IM cloprostenol, 14 days apart as presynchronization protocol. Ultrasound ovarian scans 14 days after the last injection for 4 weeks. The cows were divided into three groups according to ovarian status: OC ( = 14), PF ( = 12), and NE ( = 22). In the OC group, received 500 μg IM cloprostenol and 100 μg IM cystoriline, a second dose of cloprostenol 14 days later and a second dose of cystoriline 36 hours later, and AI after 24 hours (GnRH+ PG/PG/GnRH). In the PF group, was fitted with progesterone-releasing intravaginal device (PRID) for 9 days; the same day, they received 100 μg cystoreline then 500 μg cloprostenol 7 days later, after PRID removal AI 56 hours later (PRID + GnRH/PG). In the NE group, artificial insemination was implemented until 28 days depending on estrus detection.
RESULTS
The ovarian activity was greatly affected by the customized treatments, leading to enhanced follicular and luteal activity, particularly after the PGF2α injection. The OC and PF groups showed substantial estrus responses of 71.43% and 75.02%, respectively, during AI time. While the NE group had an ovulation rate of 54.5% and a pregnancy rate of 31.8%, the treatment groups showed marked improvements in reproductive performance. The ovulation rates in the OC and PF groups were 71.43% and 75% and the pregnancy rates at the 1st artificial insemination were 64.28% and 66.7%.
CONCLUSION
Improving reproductive performance and minimizing the time to first service are possible advantages of early case-specific treatment for postpartum cows with OC and PFs.
Topics: Animals; Female; Cattle; Ovarian Cysts; Postpartum Period; Cloprostenol; Cattle Diseases; Insemination, Artificial; Pregnancy; Ovarian Follicle; Progesterone; Estrus Synchronization
PubMed: 38808298
DOI: 10.5455/OVJ.2024.v14.i4.10 -
Clinical risk factors for preterm birth and evaluating maternal psychology in the postpartum period.World Journal of Psychiatry May 2024Although the specific pathogenesis of preterm birth (PTB) has not been thoroughly clarified, it is known to be related to various factors, such as pregnancy...
BACKGROUND
Although the specific pathogenesis of preterm birth (PTB) has not been thoroughly clarified, it is known to be related to various factors, such as pregnancy complications, maternal socioeconomic factors, lifestyle habits, reproductive history, environmental and psychological factors, prenatal care, and nutritional status. PTB has serious implications for newborns and families and is associated with high mortality and complications. Therefore, the prediction of PTB risk can facilitate early intervention and reduce its resultant adverse consequences.
AIM
To analyze the risk factors for PTB to establish a PTB risk prediction model and to assess postpartum anxiety and depression in mothers.
METHODS
A retrospective analysis of 648 consecutive parturients who delivered at Shenzhen Bao'an District Songgang People's Hospital between January 2019 and January 2022 was performed. According to the diagnostic criteria for premature infants, the parturients were divided into a PTB group ( = 60) and a full-term (FT) group ( = 588). Puerperae were assessed by the Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) and Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS), based on which the mothers with anxiety and depression symptoms were screened for further analysis. The factors affecting PTB were analyzed by univariate analysis, and the related risk factors were identified by logistic regression.
RESULTS
According to univariate analysis, the PTB group was older than the FT group, with a smaller weight change and greater proportions of women who underwent artificial insemination and had gestational diabetes mellitus ( < 0.05). In addition, greater proportions of women with reproductive tract infections and greater white blood cell (WBC) counts ( < 0.05), shorter cervical lengths in the second trimester and lower neutrophil percentages ( < 0.001) were detected in the PTB group than in the FT group. The PTB group exhibited higher postpartum SAS and SDS scores than did the FT group ( < 0.0001), with a higher number of mothers experiencing anxiety and depression ( < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that a greater maternal weight change, the presence of gestational diabetes mellitus, a shorter cervical length in the second trimester, a greater WBC count, and the presence of maternal anxiety and depression were risk factors for PTB ( < 0.01). Moreover, the risk score of the FT group was lower than that of the PTB group, and the area under the curve of the risk score for predicting PTB was greater than 0.9.
CONCLUSION
This study highlights the complex interplay between postpartum anxiety and PTB, where maternal anxiety may be a potential risk factor for PTB, with PTB potentially increasing the incidence of postpartum anxiety in mothers. In addition, a greater maternal weight change, the presence of gestational diabetes mellitus, a shorter cervical length, a greater WBC count, and postpartum anxiety and depression were identified as risk factors for PTB.
PubMed: 38808088
DOI: 10.5498/wjp.v14.i5.661