1
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Bar-Chama N, Rabinovitch L, Honig S. Amateur vs Professional Users of the YO Home Sperm Test: An Assessment of Usability. Urology 2024; 190:162-169. [PMID: 38705243 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2024.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the accuracy of the YO home sperm test by real-world/amateur users. METHODS This multisite study investigated whether amateur users could use the FDA-cleared YO Home Sperm Test to obtain accurate motile sperm concentration (MSC) results when compared to trained laboratory technicians. The qualitative MSC results of amateur and professional YO users were compared to each other as well as to the results of an established automated sperm quality analyzer (SQA-V) above and below a 6 m/mL MSC cut-off. RESULTS This was a blinded, prospective study of 316 amateur users and 3 professional laboratory technicians across 3 study sites. Amateur vs Professional YO users demonstrated an accuracy of >97%. Qualitative results of amateurs and professionals vs SQA-V results showed a >95.7% accuracy. CONCLUSION Amateur users with no prior training were able to follow the YO test directions to receive highly accurate qualitative motile sperm concentration (MSC) results. The YO test is user-friendly and can be used as an effective initial home screening tool to gain preliminary insight into the fertility status of the male in a real-world setting. Furthermore, the YO test results correlated with those obtained by the FDA-cleared SQA-V laboratory analyzer, confirming that the YO test delivers accurate MSC results in the hands of amateur users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natan Bar-Chama
- Reproductive Medicine Associates of New York, New York, NY; Department of Urology, The Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY.
| | | | - Stanton Honig
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Urology, Yale University, New Haven, CT
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2
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Wang C, Barratt CLR, Blithe DL. Contraceptive efficacy: Determining the threshold for effective suppression based on sperm concentration, motility, and morphology. Andrology 2024. [PMID: 39031534 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/22/2024]
Abstract
INTRODCTION Human spermatogenesis is a complex process that transforms spermatogonial stem cells through mitosis and meiosis to spermatozoa. Testosterone is the key regulator of the terminal stages of meiosis, adherence of spermatids to Sertoli cells, and spermiation. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) may be required for early spermatogenesis and is important for maintaining normal spermatogenesis in men. Hormonal contraception suppresses FSH, luteinizing hormone, and intratesticular testosterone concentration, resulting in marked suppression of sperm output. RESULTS Clinical trials using testosterone alone or testosterone plus progestin demonstrate that sustained suppression of sperm concentration to ≤1 million/mL is sufficient to prevent pregnancy in the female partner. New agents that target spermatogenesis could use this as a target for contraceptive efficacy while others that block sperm function or transport may require a lower threshold. When sperm concentrations are suppressed to such low levels, measurement of sperm motility and morphology is technically difficult and unnecessary. With current data from fertile and infertile men, it is not possible to establish a lower limit of sperm motility or percent normal morphology that equates to the prevention of conception. New compounds that decrease sperm motility or alter sperm morphology may need to demonstrate a complete absence of sperm motility or altered morphology in all spermatozoa in the ejaculate. Sperm function tests may be useful depending on the mechanism of action of each new compound. CONCLUSION Monitoring of sperm surrogate markers to ensure effective contraception relies on laboratories experienced in semen analyses. The development of at-home tests to assess sperm parameters has progressed rapidly. Some tests have been assessed in clinical trials and approved by regulatory agencies for at-home use for fertility assessment. However, caution must be exercised in using these tests as many have not been rigorously validated against semen parameters measured in laboratories by trained technologists using standardized tests defined in the World Health Organization Semen Manual.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Wang
- Clinical and Translational Science Institute, The Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, USA
| | - Christopher L R Barratt
- Division of Systems and Cellular Medicine, Medical School, Ninewells Hospital, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland
| | - Diana L Blithe
- Contraceptive Development Program, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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3
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Ghayda RA, Cannarella R, Calogero AE, Shah R, Rambhatla A, Zohdy W, Kavoussi P, Avidor-Reiss T, Boitrelle F, Mostafa T, Saleh R, Toprak T, Birowo P, Salvio G, Calik G, Kuroda S, Kaiyal RS, Ziouziou I, Crafa A, Phuoc NHV, Russo GI, Durairajanayagam D, Al-Hashimi M, Hamoda TAAAM, Pinggera GM, Adriansjah R, Maldonado Rosas I, Arafa M, Chung E, Atmoko W, Rocco L, Lin H, Huyghe E, Kothari P, Solorzano Vazquez JF, Dimitriadis F, Garrido N, Homa S, Falcone M, Sabbaghian M, Kandil H, Ko E, Martinez M, Nguyen Q, Harraz AM, Serefoglu EC, Karthikeyan VS, Tien DMB, Jindal S, Micic S, Bellavia M, Alali H, Gherabi N, Lewis S, Park HJ, Simopoulou M, Sallam H, Ramirez L, Colpi G, Agarwal A. Artificial Intelligence in Andrology: From Semen Analysis to Image Diagnostics. World J Mens Health 2024; 42:39-61. [PMID: 37382282 PMCID: PMC10782130 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.230050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Artificial intelligence (AI) in medicine has gained a lot of momentum in the last decades and has been applied to various fields of medicine. Advances in computer science, medical informatics, robotics, and the need for personalized medicine have facilitated the role of AI in modern healthcare. Similarly, as in other fields, AI applications, such as machine learning, artificial neural networks, and deep learning, have shown great potential in andrology and reproductive medicine. AI-based tools are poised to become valuable assets with abilities to support and aid in diagnosing and treating male infertility, and in improving the accuracy of patient care. These automated, AI-based predictions may offer consistency and efficiency in terms of time and cost in infertility research and clinical management. In andrology and reproductive medicine, AI has been used for objective sperm, oocyte, and embryo selection, prediction of surgical outcomes, cost-effective assessment, development of robotic surgery, and clinical decision-making systems. In the future, better integration and implementation of AI into medicine will undoubtedly lead to pioneering evidence-based breakthroughs and the reshaping of andrology and reproductive medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramy Abou Ghayda
- Urology Institute, University Hospitals, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Rossella Cannarella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Glickman Urological & Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Aldo E. Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Rupin Shah
- Department of Urology, Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, India
| | - Amarnath Rambhatla
- Department of Urology, Henry Ford Health System, Vattikuti Urology Institute, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Wael Zohdy
- Andrology and STDs, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Parviz Kavoussi
- Department of Urology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Tomer Avidor-Reiss
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, USA
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, USA
| | - Florence Boitrelle
- Reproductive Biology, Fertility Preservation, Andrology, CECOS, Poissy Hospital, Poissy, France
- Department of Biology, Reproduction, Epigenetics, Environment, and Development, Paris Saclay University, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Paris, France
| | - Taymour Mostafa
- Andrology, Sexology & STIs Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ramadan Saleh
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Tuncay Toprak
- Department of Urology, Fatih Sultan Mehmet Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ponco Birowo
- Department of Urology, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Gianmaria Salvio
- Department of Endocrinology, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Gokhan Calik
- Department of Urology, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Shinnosuke Kuroda
- Glickman Urological & Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Urology, Reproduction Center, Yokohama City University Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Raneen Sawaid Kaiyal
- Glickman Urological & Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Imad Ziouziou
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco
| | - Andrea Crafa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Nguyen Ho Vinh Phuoc
- Department of Andrology, Binh Dan Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | | | - Damayanthi Durairajanayagam
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Manaf Al-Hashimi
- Department of Urology, Burjeel Hospital, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE)
- Khalifa University, College of Medicine and Health Science, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE)
| | - Taha Abo-Almagd Abdel-Meguid Hamoda
- Department of Urology, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, El-Minia, Egypt
| | | | - Ricky Adriansjah
- Department of Urology, Hasan Sadikin General Hospital, Universitas Padjadjaran, Banding, Indonesia
| | | | - Mohamed Arafa
- Department of Urology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medical-Qatar, Doha, Qatar
| | - Eric Chung
- Department of Urology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, University of Queensland, Brisbane QLD, Australia
| | - Widi Atmoko
- Department of Urology, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Lucia Rocco
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Caserta, Italy
| | - Haocheng Lin
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Eric Huyghe
- Department of Urology and Andrology, University Hospital of Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Priyank Kothari
- Department of Urology, B.Y.L. Nair Charitable Hospital, Topiwala National Medical College, Mumbai, India
| | | | - Fotios Dimitriadis
- Department of Urology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Nicolas Garrido
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Sheryl Homa
- Department of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, United Kingdom
| | - Marco Falcone
- Department of Urology, Molinette Hospital, A.O.U. Città della Salute e della Scienza, University of Turin, Torino, Italy
| | - Marjan Sabbaghian
- Department of Andrology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Edmund Ko
- Department of Urology, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Marlon Martinez
- Section of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Santo Tomas Hospital, Manila, Philippines
| | - Quang Nguyen
- Section of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Santo Tomas Hospital, Manila, Philippines
- Center for Andrology and Sexual Medicine, Viet Duc University Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam
- Department of Urology, Andrology and Sexual Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Ahmed M. Harraz
- Urology and Nephrology Center, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
- Department of Surgery, Urology Unit, Farwaniya Hospital, Farwaniya, Kuwait
- Department of Urology, Sabah Al Ahmad Urology Center, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Ege Can Serefoglu
- Department of Urology, Biruni University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Dung Mai Ba Tien
- Department of Andrology, Binh Dan Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Sunil Jindal
- Department of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Jindal Hospital, Meerut, India
| | - Sava Micic
- Department of Andrology, Uromedica Polyclinic, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marina Bellavia
- Andrology and IVF Center, Next Fertility Procrea, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Hamed Alali
- King Fahad Specialist Hospital, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nazim Gherabi
- Andrology Committee of the Algerian Association of Urology, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Sheena Lewis
- Examen Lab Ltd., Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Hyun Jun Park
- Department of Urology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Busan, Korea
- Medical Research Institute of Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Korea
| | - Mara Simopoulou
- Department of Experimental Physiology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Hassan Sallam
- Alexandria University Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Liliana Ramirez
- IVF Laboratory, CITMER Reproductive Medicine, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Giovanni Colpi
- Andrology and IVF Center, Next Fertility Procrea, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- Global Andrology Forum, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
- Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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Evaluación de la fertilidad masculina en casa. CLINICA E INVESTIGACION EN GINECOLOGIA Y OBSTETRICIA 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gine.2021.100725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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5
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Barratt CLR, Wang C, Baldi E, Toskin I, Kiarie J, Lamb DJ. What advances may the future bring to the diagnosis, treatment, and care of male sexual and reproductive health? Fertil Steril 2022; 117:258-267. [PMID: 35125173 PMCID: PMC8877074 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Over the past 40 years, since the publication of the original WHO Laboratory Manual for the Examination and Processing of Human Semen, the laboratory methods used to evaluate semen markedly changed and benefited from improved precision and accuracy, as well as the development of new tests and improved, standardized methodologies. Herein, we present the impact of the changes put forth in the sixth edition together with our views of evolving technologies that may change the methods used for the routine semen analysis, up-and-coming areas for the development of new procedures, and diagnostic approaches that will help to extend the often-descriptive interpretations of several commonly performed semen tests that promise to provide etiologies for the abnormal semen parameters observed. As we look toward the publication of the seventh edition of the manual in approximately 10 years, we describe potential advances that could markedly impact the field of andrology in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher L R Barratt
- Division of Systems Medicine, University of Dundee Medical School, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee, Scotland.
| | - Christina Wang
- Clinical and Translational Science Institute, The Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California
| | - Elisabetta Baldi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Igor Toskin
- Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - James Kiarie
- Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Dolores J Lamb
- The James Buchanan Brady Foundation Department of Urology, Center for Reproductive Genomics and Englander Institute for Personalized Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
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6
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Gonzalez D, Narasimman M, Best JC, Ory J, Ramasamy R. Clinical Update on Home Testing for Male Fertility. World J Mens Health 2021; 39:615-625. [PMID: 33474845 PMCID: PMC8443999 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.200130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Male factor infertility accounts for about 50% of the incidence of infertility in couples. In current practice, the men must attend a clinic or hospital facility to provide a semen analysis, which is key to the diagnosis of the male reproductive potential. However, many men are often embarrassed with the process and conventional semen analysis requires complex, labor intensive inspection with a microscope. To mitigate these problems, one of the solutions can be at-home semen analysis. In this review we examine the literature of currently available at home semen analysis test kits, describe their limitations, and compare them to the conventional lab-based methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Gonzalez
- Department of Urology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Manish Narasimman
- Department of Urology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Jordan C Best
- Department of Urology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Jesse Ory
- Department of Urology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Ranjith Ramasamy
- Department of Urology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
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7
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Tsao Y, Yang C, Wen Y, Chang T, Matsuura K, Chen Y, Cheng C. Point-of-care semen analysis of patients with infertility via smartphone and colorimetric paper-based diagnostic device. Bioeng Transl Med 2021; 6:e10176. [PMID: 33532582 PMCID: PMC7823130 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Male infertility affects millions of males worldwide and is rising in prevalence due to social and environmental conditions. However, men often feel too embarrassed to receive a semen analysis in the hospital due to social stigmas. To overcome this problem, we developed a 3-(4,5-Dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide test strip to distinguish semen samples with low total motile sperm concentration from those with normal motile sperm concentration. This is a point-of-care colorimetric semen analytical method with a one-step, inexpensive, equipment-free evaluation process, and adequate accuracy validated in a 42-sample clinical trial. In this study, results were evaluated visually and with a smartphone application. Using visual observation methods, the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.71 (95% of confidence interval = 0.55-0.86; p = 0.021), sensitivity was 41%, specificity was 95%, positive predictive value was 90%, negative predictive value (NPV) was 59.4%, and accuracy was 67%. Using a smartphone recording and analytical system, AUC was 0.766 (95% of confidence interval = 0.612-0.92; p = 0.003), sensitivity was 96%, specificity was 65%, PPV was 75%, NPV was 92.9%, and accuracy was 80.9%. This work demonstrated a screening tool that could elevate semen analysis to the level of routine healthcare and provide for private, in-home self-assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu‐Ting Tsao
- Institute of Biomedical EngineeringNational Tsing Hua UniversityHsinchuTaiwan
- Department of EducationChang Gung Memorial Hospital Linkou BranchTaoyuanTaiwan
| | - Chung‐Yao Yang
- Department of Research and DevelopmentHygeia Touch Inc.TaipeiTaiwan
| | - Yun‐Chiao Wen
- Department of EducationChang Gung Memorial Hospital Linkou BranchTaoyuanTaiwan
- School of Traditional Chinese MedicineChang Gung University College of MedicineTaoyuanTaiwan
| | - Ting‐Chang Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyChang Gung Memorial Hospital Linkou BranchTaoyuanTaiwan
| | - Koji Matsuura
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of EngineeringOkayama University of ScienceOkayamaJapan
| | - Yu Chen
- Department of UrologyChang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung UniversityTaoyuanTaiwan
| | - Chao‐Min Cheng
- Institute of Biomedical EngineeringNational Tsing Hua UniversityHsinchuTaiwan
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8
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Tsai VF, Zhuang B, Pong YH, Hsieh JT, Chang HC. Web- and Artificial Intelligence-Based Image Recognition For Sperm Motility Analysis: Verification Study. JMIR Med Inform 2020; 8:e20031. [PMID: 33211025 PMCID: PMC7714652 DOI: 10.2196/20031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 07/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Human sperm quality fluctuates over time. Therefore, it is crucial for couples preparing for natural pregnancy to monitor sperm motility. Objective This study verified the performance of an artificial intelligence–based image recognition and cloud computing sperm motility testing system (Bemaner, Createcare) composed of microscope and microfluidic modules and designed to adapt to different types of smartphones. Methods Sperm videos were captured and uploaded to the cloud with an app. Analysis of sperm motility was performed by an artificial intelligence–based image recognition algorithm then results were displayed. According to the number of motile sperm in the vision field, 47 (deidentified) videos of sperm were scored using 6 grades (0-5) by a male-fertility expert with 10 years of experience. Pearson product-moment correlation was calculated between the grades and the results (concentration of total sperm, concentration of motile sperm, and motility percentage) computed by the system. Results Good correlation was demonstrated between the grades and results computed by the system for concentration of total sperm (r=0.65, P<.001), concentration of motile sperm (r=0.84, P<.001), and motility percentage (r=0.90, P<.001). Conclusions This smartphone-based sperm motility test (Bemaner) accurately measures motility-related parameters and could potentially be applied toward the following fields: male infertility detection, sperm quality test during preparation for pregnancy, and infertility treatment monitoring. With frequent at-home testing, more data can be collected to help make clinical decisions and to conduct epidemiological research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Fs Tsai
- Department of Urology, Ten-Chan General Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Department of Urology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Bin Zhuang
- Division of Research and Development, Createcare Technology Corporation, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yuan-Hung Pong
- Department of Urology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Urology, Ten-Chen General Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Ju-Ton Hsieh
- Department of Urology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hong-Chiang Chang
- Department of Urology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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Samuel R, Feng H, Jafek A, Despain D, Jenkins T, Gale B. Microfluidic-based sperm sorting & analysis for treatment of male infertility. Transl Androl Urol 2018; 7:S336-S347. [PMID: 30159240 PMCID: PMC6087839 DOI: 10.21037/tau.2018.05.08] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2017] [Accepted: 05/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Microfluidics technology has emerged as an enabling technology for different fields of medicine and life sciences. One such field is male infertility where microfluidic technologies are enabling optimization of sperm sample preparation and analysis. In this chapter we review how microfluidic technology has been used for sperm quantification, sperm quality analysis, and sperm manipulation and isolation with subsequent use of the purified sperm population for treatment of male infertility. As we discuss demonstrations of microfluidic sperm sorting/manipulation/analysis, we highlight systems that have demonstrated feasibility towards clinical adoption or have reached commercialization in the male infertility market. We then review microfluidic-based systems that facilitate non-invasive identification and sorting of viable sperm for in vitro fertilization. Finally, we explore commercialization challenges associated with microfluidic sperm sorting systems and provide suggestions and future directions to best overcome them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raheel Samuel
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Haidong Feng
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Alex Jafek
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Dillon Despain
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah, USA
| | - Timothy Jenkins
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Bruce Gale
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
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10
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Gallagher MT, Smith DJ, Kirkman-Brown JC. CASA: tracking the past and plotting the future. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 30:867-874. [DOI: 10.1071/rd17420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2017] [Accepted: 04/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The human semen sample carries a wealth of information of varying degrees of accessibility ranging from the traditional visual measures of count and motility to those that need a more computational approach, such as tracking the flagellar waveform. Although computer-aided sperm analysis (CASA) options are becoming more widespread, the gold standard for clinical semen analysis requires trained laboratory staff. In this review we characterise the key attitudes towards the use of CASA and set out areas in which CASA should, and should not, be used and improved. We provide an overview of the current CASA landscape, discussing clinical uses as well as potential areas for the clinical translation of existing research technologies. Finally, we discuss where we see potential for the future of CASA, and how the integration of mathematical modelling and new technologies, such as automated flagellar tracking, may open new doors in clinical semen analysis.
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11
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Yu S, Rubin M, Geevarughese S, Pino JS, Rodriguez HF, Asghar W. Emerging technologies for home-based semen analysis. Andrology 2017; 6:10-19. [PMID: 29194998 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2017] [Revised: 09/21/2017] [Accepted: 10/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
With about 70 million cases of infertility worldwide, half of which are caused by male factors, sperm analysis is critical to determine male fertility potential. Conventional semen analysis methods involve complex and manual inspection with a microscope, and these methods are labor intensive and can take several days. Due to unavailability of rapid, convenient, and user-friendly semen analysis tools, many men do not seek medical evaluation, especially in resource-constrained settings. Furthermore, as conventional methods have to be conducted in the laboratories, many men are unwilling to be tested as a result of social stigma in certain regions of the world. One solution can be found in at-home sperm analysis, which allows men to test their semen without the hassle of going to and paying for a clinic. Herein, we examine current at-home sperm analysis technologies and compare them to the traditional laboratory-based methods. In addition, we discuss emerging sperm analysis approaches and describe their limitations and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Yu
- Asghar-Lab, Micro and Nanotechnology in Medicine, College of Engineering and Computer Science, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| | - M Rubin
- Asghar-Lab, Micro and Nanotechnology in Medicine, College of Engineering and Computer Science, Boca Raton, FL, USA.,Department of Computer & Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| | - S Geevarughese
- Asghar-Lab, Micro and Nanotechnology in Medicine, College of Engineering and Computer Science, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| | - J S Pino
- Asghar-Lab, Micro and Nanotechnology in Medicine, College of Engineering and Computer Science, Boca Raton, FL, USA.,Department of Computer & Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| | - H F Rodriguez
- Advanced Reproductive Technologies - LIFE Laboratories, Fertility& Genetics, Plantation, FL, USA
| | - W Asghar
- Asghar-Lab, Micro and Nanotechnology in Medicine, College of Engineering and Computer Science, Boca Raton, FL, USA.,Department of Computer & Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA.,Department of Biological Sciences, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, USA
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12
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13
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Abstract
Endocrinology relies on hormone and metabolite measurement for public health screening, diagnostics, and disease management. Advances in microfluidics, immunoassay technology, electronics, and software are moving in vitro endocrine diagnostics from the laboratory to the point of care. Point-of-care endocrine diagnostics provide results clinically equivalent to those produced by expensive laboratory instrumentation for a fraction of the cost and with a substantially more rapid turnaround time. Similar to the transformation of mainframe computers into laptops, tablets, and smartphones, clinical laboratories are evolving into point-of-care technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel Ehrenkranz
- i-calQ LLC, 466 North Wall Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84103, USA; Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, 13001 East 17th Place, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
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14
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Schaff UY, Fredriksen LL, Epperson JG, Quebral TR, Naab S, Sarno MJ, Eisenberg ML, Sommer GJ. Novel centrifugal technology for measuring sperm concentration in the home. Fertil Steril 2016; 107:358-364.e4. [PMID: 27887718 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2016] [Revised: 10/16/2016] [Accepted: 10/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the analytical performance and usability of the Trak Male Fertility Testing System, a semiquantitative (categorical) device recently US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-cleared for measuring sperm concentration in the home by untrained users. DESIGN A three-site clinical trial comparing self-reported lay user results versus reference results obtained by computer-aided semen analysis (CASA). SETTING Simulated home use environments at fertility centers and urologist offices. PATIENT(S) A total of 239 untrained users. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Sperm concentration results reported from self-testing lay users and laboratory reference method by CASA were evaluated semiquantitatively against the device's clinical cutoffs of 15 M/mL (current World Health Organization cutoff) and 55 M/mL (associated with faster time to pregnancy). Additional reported metrics include assay linearity, precision, limit of detection, and ease-of-use ratings from lay users. RESULT(S) Lay users achieved an accuracy (versus the reference) of 93.3% (95% confidence interval [CI] 84.1%-97.4%) for results categorized as ≤15 M/mL, 82.4% (95% CI 73.3%-88.9%) for results categorized as 15-55 M/mL, and 95.5% (95% CI 88.9%-98.2%) for results categorized as >55 M/mL. When measured quantitatively, Trak results had a strong linear correlation with CASA measurements (r = 0.99). The precision and limit of detection studies show that the device has adequate reproducibility and detection range for home use. Subjects generally rated the device as easy to use. CONCLUSION(S) The Trak System is an accurate tool for semiquantitatively measuring sperm concentration in the home. The system may enable screening and longitudinal assessment of sperm concentration at home. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02475395.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Sara Naab
- Sandstone Diagnostics, Inc., Livermore, California
| | - Mark J Sarno
- Vision Biotechnology Consulting, Escondido, California
| | - Michael L Eisenberg
- Department of Urology and Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
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15
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Application of microfluidic technologies to the quantification and manipulation of sperm. UROLOGICAL SCIENCE 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.urols.2014.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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16
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Nosrati R, Gong MM, San Gabriel MC, Pedraza CE, Zini A, Sinton D. Paper-Based Quantification of Male Fertility Potential. Clin Chem 2016; 62:458-65. [DOI: 10.1373/clinchem.2015.250282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2015] [Accepted: 12/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
BACKGROUND
More than 70 million couples worldwide are affected by infertility, with male-factor infertility accounting for about half of the cases. Semen analysis is critical for determining male fertility potential, but conventional testing is costly and complex. Here, we demonstrate a paper-based microfluidic approach to quantify male fertility potential, simultaneously measuring 3 critical semen parameters in 10 min: live and motile sperm concentrations and sperm motility.
METHODS
The device measures the colorimetric change of yellow tetrazolium dye to purple formazan by the diaphorase flavoprotein enzyme present in metabolically active human sperm to quantify live and motile sperm concentration. Sperm motility was determined as the ratio of motile to live sperm. We assessed the performance of the device by use of clinical semen samples, in parallel with standard clinical approaches.
RESULTS
Detection limits of 8.46 and 15.18 million/mL were achieved for live and motile sperm concentrations, respectively. The live and motile sperm concentrations and motility values from our device correlated with those of the standard clinical approaches (R2 ≥ 0.84). In all cases, our device provided 100% agreement in terms of clinical outcome. The device was also robust and could tolerate conditions of high absolute humidity (22.8 g/m3) up to 16 weeks when packaged with desiccant.
CONCLUSIONS
Our device outperforms existing commercial paper-based assays by quantitatively measuring live and motile sperm concentrations and motility, in only 10 min. This approach is applicable to current clinical practices as well as self-diagnostic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Nosrati
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Max M Gong
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Maria C San Gabriel
- Urology Research Laboratory, Department of Surgery, McGill University and Research Institute, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Claudio E Pedraza
- Urology Research Laboratory, Department of Surgery, McGill University and Research Institute, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Armand Zini
- Urology Research Laboratory, Department of Surgery, McGill University and Research Institute, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - David Sinton
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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17
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Agarwal A, Sharma R, Singh A, Gupta S, Sharma R. Standardisation of a novel sperm banking kit - NextGen®- to preserve sperm parameters during shipment. Andrologia 2015; 48:662-9. [DOI: 10.1111/and.12497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/15/2015] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- A. Agarwal
- Andrology Center and Reproductive Tissue Bank; and American Center for Reproductive Medicine; Cleveland OH USA
| | - R. Sharma
- Andrology Center and Reproductive Tissue Bank; and American Center for Reproductive Medicine; Cleveland OH USA
- Health Services Department; Saint Joseph University; Philadelphia PA USA
| | - A. Singh
- Andrology Center and Reproductive Tissue Bank; and American Center for Reproductive Medicine; Cleveland OH USA
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine; Columbus OH USA
| | - S. Gupta
- Andrology Center and Reproductive Tissue Bank; and American Center for Reproductive Medicine; Cleveland OH USA
| | - R. Sharma
- Andrology Center and Reproductive Tissue Bank; and American Center for Reproductive Medicine; Cleveland OH USA
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18
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Agarwal A, Sharma R, Gupta S, Sharma R. NextGen® Home Sperm Banking Kit: Outcomes of Offsite vs Onsite Collection—Preliminary Findings. Urology 2015; 85:1339-45. [DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2015.02.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2014] [Revised: 01/22/2015] [Accepted: 02/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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19
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Chen CY, Chiang TC, Lin CM, Lin SS, Jong DS, Tsai VFS, Hsieh JT, Wo AM. Sperm quality assessment via separation and sedimentation in a microfluidic device. Analyst 2013; 138:4967-74. [PMID: 23817531 DOI: 10.1039/c3an00900a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
A major reason for infertility is due to male factors, including the quality of spermatozoa, which is a primary factor and often difficult to assess, particularly the total sperm concentration and its motile percentage. This work presents a simple microfluidic device to assess sperm quality by quantifying both total and motile sperm counts. The key design feature of the microfluidic device is two channels separated by a permeative phase-guide structure, where one channel is filled with raw semen and the other with pure buffer. The semen sample was allowed to reach equilibrium in both chambers, whereas non-motile sperms remained in the original channel, and roughly half of the motile sperms would swim across the phase-guide barrier into the buffer channel. Sperms in each channel agglomerated into pellets after centrifugation, with the corresponding area representing total and motile sperm concentrations. Total sperm concentration up to 10(8) sperms per ml and motile percentage in the range of 10-70% were tested, encompassing the cutoff value of 40% stated by World Health Organization standards. Results from patient samples show compact and robust pellets after centrifugation. Comparison of total sperm concentration between the microfluidic device and the Makler chamber reveal they agree within 5% and show strong correlation, with a coefficient of determination of R(2) = 0.97. Motile sperm count between the microfluidic device and the Makler chamber agrees within 5%, with a coefficient of determination of R(2) = 0.84. Comparison of results from the Makler Chamber, sperm quality analyzer, and the microfluidic device revealed that results from the microfluidic device agree well with the Makler chamber. The sperm microfluidic chip analyzes both total and motile sperm concentrations in one spin, is accurate and easy to use, and should enable sperm quality analysis with ease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Yu Chen
- Institute of Applied Mechanics, National Taiwan University, 1 Roosevelt Road, Section 4, Taipei 106, Taiwan
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20
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Pacey AA. Assessment of male factor. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2012; 26:739-46. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2012.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2012] [Revised: 04/23/2012] [Accepted: 05/14/2012] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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21
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KO YJ, MAENG JH, LEE BC, LEE S, HWANG SY, AHN Y. Separation of Progressive Motile Sperm from Mouse Semen Using On-chip Chemotaxis. ANAL SCI 2012; 28:27-32. [DOI: 10.2116/analsci.28.27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Jun KO
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Graduate School, Hanyang University
| | - Joon-Ho MAENG
- Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School, Hanyang University
| | - Byung-Chul LEE
- Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School, Hanyang University
| | - Seungwoo LEE
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Graduate School, Hanyang University
| | - Seung Yong HWANG
- Division of Molecular and Life Science, Hanyang University and GenoCheck Co. Ltd
| | - Yoomin AHN
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Hanyang University
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22
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Kirkman-Brown JC, Smith DJ. Sperm motility: is viscosity fundamental to progress? Mol Hum Reprod 2011; 17:539-44. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gar043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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23
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At home testing: optimizing management for the infertility physician. Fertil Steril 2011; 95:1867-78. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2011.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2010] [Accepted: 10/01/2010] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Barratt CLR, Mansell S, Beaton C, Tardif S, Oxenham SK. Diagnostic tools in male infertility-the question of sperm dysfunction. Asian J Androl 2011; 13:53-8. [PMID: 21102478 PMCID: PMC3739390 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2010.63] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2010] [Revised: 10/24/2010] [Accepted: 10/25/2010] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm dysfunction is the single most common cause of infertility, yet what is remarkable is that, there is no drug a man can take or add to his spermatozoa in vitro to improve fertility. One reason for the lack of progress in this area is that our understanding of the cellular and molecular workings of the mature spermatazoon is limited. However, over the last few years there has been considerable progress in our knowledge base and in addressing new methods to diagnose sperm dysfunction. We review the current state of the field and provide insights for further development. We conclude that: (i) there is little to be gained from more studies identifying/categorizing various populations of men using a basic semen assessment, where an effort is required in making sure the analysis is performed in an appropriate high quality way; (ii) technological development is likely to bring the reality of sperm function testing closer to implementation into the clinical pathways. In doing this, these assays must be robust, cheap (or more appropriately termed cost effective), easy to use and clinically useful; and (iii) clinical necessity, e.g., the need to identify the highest quality spermatozoon for injection is driving basic research forward. This is an exciting time to be an andrologist and, likely, a fruitful one.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher L R Barratt
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Maternal and Child Health Science Laboratories, Centre for Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Ninewells Hospital, University of Dundee, Dundee, DD1 9SY, Scotland, UK.
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25
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Comments on the release of the 5th edition of the WHO Laboratory Manual for the Examination and Processing of Human Semen. Asian J Androl 2010; 12:59-63. [PMID: 20111082 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2008.57] [Citation(s) in RCA: 175] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The authors of the World Health Organization Semen Analysis Manual are to be congratulated on producing a new edition; it is an essential tool to disseminate good practice in andrology. However, the tests described have poor prognostic power to predict a man's fertility and show little about the underlying causes of sub-fertility. This commentary urges a revival of research into the diagnosis of male fertility. It suggests that fertility should be regarded as a continuum and that the artificial binary division between fertile and infertile should be abandoned. Models to predict a sub-fertile couple's chance of conception in a year should be developed on the basis of prospective data. These models would allow for sophisticated decision making about management. The future lies in the identification of tests to detect underlying pathologies open to specific treatment. Leads such as oxidative stress, defects in the intracellular regulation and the developing field of proteomics should be explored.
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26
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Coppola MA, Klotz KL, Kim KA, Cho HY, Kang J, Shetty J, Howards SS, Flickinger CJ, Herr JC. SpermCheck Fertility, an immunodiagnostic home test that detects normozoospermia and severe oligozoospermia. Hum Reprod 2010; 25:853-61. [PMID: 20139122 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dep413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A simple and inexpensive home sperm test could be of considerable value to couples attempting to conceive and to men curious about their fertility potential. A two-strip lateral flow immunochromatographic diagnostic device that allows men to evaluate their sperm count at low cost in the privacy of their own homes is described. METHODS The ability of SpermCheck Fertility to predict sperm counts obtained using a hemacytometer procedure based on standard World Health Organization methodology was assessed. Test results obtained by lay users were also compared with those obtained by trained laboratory professionals, and the ease of use of the device was evaluated in consumer studies. RESULTS A total of 225 semen samples were analyzed in the method comparison, and the performance of SpermCheck Fertility was excellent with over 96% of all samples correctly classified as normozoospermic (> or =2 x 10(7) sperm/ml), oligozoospermic (5 x 10(6)-2 x 10(7) sperm/ml) or severely oligozoospermic (<5 x 10(6) sperm/ml). Consumer studies with 164 lay users demonstrated that SpermCheck Fertility was easy to use. Lay users and laboratory professionals agreed 95% of the time when reading the same test independently. Overall, the correct response rate on a 20-question survey about the test was over 97%. CONCLUSIONS SpermCheck Fertility is a simple and reliable immunodiagnostic test that can quickly inform men as to whether their sperm count is normal, low or very low. This home test can assist couples in deciding whether to seek comprehensive clinical evaluation of the fertility status of the male partner.
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27
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28
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Milkin
- Commonwealth Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, USA.
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29
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Lefièvre L, Bedu-Addo K, Conner SJ, Machado-Oliveira GSM, Chen Y, Kirkman-Brown JC, Afnan MA, Publicover SJ, Ford WCL, Barratt CLR. Counting sperm does not add up any more: time for a new equation? Reproduction 2007; 133:675-84. [PMID: 17504912 DOI: 10.1530/rep-06-0332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Although sperm dysfunction is the single most common cause of infertility, we have poor methods of diagnosis and surprisingly no effective treatment (excluding assisted reproductive technology). In this review, we challenge the usefulness of a basic semen analysis and argue that a new paradigm is required immediately. We discuss the use of at-home screening to potentially improve the diagnosis of the male and to streamline the management of the sub-fertile couple. Additionally, we outline the recent progress in the field, for example, in proteomics, which will allow the development of new biomarkers of sperm function. This new knowledge will transform our understanding of the spermatozoon as a machine and is likely to lead to non-ART treatments for men with sperm dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Lefièvre
- Reproductive Biology and Genetics Group, Division of Reproductive and Child Health, The Medical School, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
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30
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Björndahl L, Connelly T, Kirkman-Brown J, Barratt C. Reply: Development of a novel home sperm test - temperature range. Hum Reprod 2006. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/del061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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31
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Björndahl L, Kirkman Brown J, Barratt CLR. Reply: Development of a novel home sperm test – What are the limitations? Hum Reprod 2006. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/del063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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32
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Marik JJ. Development of a novel home sperm test - temperature range. Hum Reprod 2006; 21:3028; author reply 3028-9. [PMID: 17035549 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/del060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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