Latest news with #RobinsonResearchInstitute
Medscape
3 days ago
- Health
- Medscape
What Your Sperm Says About You
Semen analysis not only provides information on fertility but also offers insights into the overall health. A recent study published in Nature reported that sperm quality can significantly improve with basic lifestyle and dietary changes. Global Decline Sperm quality has steadily declined over the past 50 years. Between 1973 and 2011, the global sperm concentration and total sperm count decreased significantly. This decline was most pronounced in Western countries, with a reduction in the total sperm count of almost 60%. The study, led by Hannah Lyons, a researcher at the Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine at the University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia, attributed this decline to multiple factors. These include chronic conditions such as diabetes and metabolic syndrome, exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as phthalates, bisphenol A, cadmium, dioxins, and lead, and heat exposure. Lifestyle factors, including certain medications, substance use, poor diet, and physical inactivity, can impair sperm production by disrupting hormonal regulation, damaging testicular cells, and increasing oxidative stress due to elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). High ROS levels can damage sperm DNA, compromise the membrane integrity, and reduce sperm motility. Established risk factors include smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, drug abuse, and excessive exercise. Nutrient Impact Sperm quality can recover more rapidly than previously believed. In a study of 132 men with fertility issues, a 3-month micronutrient regimen, including L-carnitine (440 mg), L-arginine (250 mg), zinc (40 mg), vitamin E (120 mg), glutathione (80 mg), selenium (60 µg), coenzyme Q10 (15 mg), and folic acid (800 µg), significantly improved semen parameters. Volume, sperm concentration, progressive motility, total motility, and morphology increased by 33.3%, 215.5%, 93.1%, 36.4%, and 23.0%, respectively (all P < .001). No improvements were observed in healthy individuals (n = 73). In the 6 months following the intervention, the pregnancy rate among the partners of the participating men was also recorded. More pregnancies occurred in the intervention group (25.8%) than in the healthy group (15%). Although this study had some limitations, including age differences and limited risk factor data, two additional trials supported these findings. The researchers concluded that micronutrients may restore sperm production within 3 months. Combined Approach A 2021 study by Markus Lipovac, PhD, at the Robinson Research Institute at the University of Adelaide, and colleagues evaluated 339 men who received micronutrient supplements along with lifestyle changes. These include a healthy diet, regular exercise, and reduced smoking and alcohol consumption. Of these, 162 men received supplements and lifestyle guidance, whereas 177 followed lifestyle and dietary modifications. After 6 months, sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI) and pregnancy rates were assessed. In the supplement group, DFI decreased from 10.48 to 6.51 overall and from 20.39 to 9.93 in men with DFI > 15% ( P < .001). Pregnancy rates were higher with supplements: 27.78% vs 15.25% overall and 41.30% vs 22.86% in men with DFI > 15%. The limitations of this study include missing demographic data, lack of randomization, and lack of information on the extent of lifestyle changes. The researchers emphasized that while the study could not separate the effects of micronutrient supplementation from lifestyle interventions, both appeared to benefit reproductive function, with spermatogenesis being relatively responsive. However, only active micronutrient treatment significantly reduced sperm DNA fragmentation and improved pregnancy rates, highlighting the need for randomized trials and further investigations. DFI Interpretation < 15% — very good sperm quality 15%-25% — good sperm quality 25% — impaired sperm quality (increased DNA damage) A higher DFI is associated with lower fertility and an increased risk for miscarriage. Short-Term Gains Sperm quality may improve within 1 month of treatment. In a study of 402 men with abnormal semen, a 1-month personalized program including reduced or no smoking and alcohol, wearing loose underwear, avoiding baths over 15 minutes, limiting radiation exposure, stopping finasteride or dutasteride, and avoiding laptop use on the lap produced positive effects such as motility increased by 7.6%, sperm concentration by 6.9 million/mL, and total sperm count by 15.7 million (all P < .001). These findings challenge the belief that treatment must last at least 3 months, based on the 42- to 74-day sperm production cycle. The authors noted that this has major implications for the treatment and management of environmental- or lifestyle-related causes of male infertility. Broader Implications Semen analysis may reflect the overall health of men, not just their fertility. Men with infertility or abnormal semen are at a higher risk for hospitalization and early death. Men with infertility had a 26% higher risk for death (95% CI, 1.01-1.59), and men with oligo- or azoospermia had a 67% higher risk (risk ratio, 1.67; 95% CI, 1.26-2.21) than those with normal sperm counts. Sperm Analysis A study of 11,935 men at two health centers in the US from 1994 to 2011 found that low ejaculate volume, low sperm concentration, low total sperm count, poor motility, and low total motility were associated with increased mortality rates. Mortality was assessed using data from the Social Security Death Index and the National Death Index. The authors concluded that men with two or more abnormal sperm parameters had a 2.3-fold higher mortality risk. Abnormal sperm parameters often reflect poor health or disease and are linked to a higher risk for cancer. Studies have shown that men with infertility have an increased risk for prostate and testicular cancer. The exact reasons for this association are unclear but could point to genetic causes, which the research team has emphasized in their study. The researchers concluded that semen analysis could be a useful health tool for diagnosing infertility. Male fertility is closely linked to overall health, long-term illnesses, and risk for death. Routine semen testing could help detect health risks early and allow for immediate lifestyle changes. Abnormal results may prompt further health checkups. The link between poor sperm quality and self-image may motivate men to take better care of their health. Sensitive Communication Colloquial language and humor can sometimes help in medical conversations, but not in men's reproductive health. In a survey of men, participants reported a lack of sensitive communication from healthcare professionals, with insensitive language frequently used to communicate the diagnosis of infertility in men. Humor was frequently employed, with comments such as, 'Your nuts are stuffed,' or, '…your sperm […] they're all kind of knackered.' These remarks caused distress, and participants said that the same information could have been conveyed more sensitively.
Scoop
31-07-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Mining Positivity Internationally Recognised
Today's passing of the Crown Minerals Amendment Act is the cherry on top of a great week for mining, says New Zealand Minerals Council chief executive Josie Vidal. "To make the most of international interest in mining in New Zealand, untap the potential of critical minerals, and make a greater contribution to jobs, exports and the economy, we need enabling legislation such as the Crown Minerals Amendment Act," Vidal says. "One of the significant aspects of this law for us, is that the emphasis on promoting mining goes back into the purpose statement of the Act. This is important because it shows the world that the New Zealand Government understands the value of our mining industry and that gives export markets and investors confidence. "The positivity around mining has been reflected in the respected international analysis of policy and investment attractiveness in 82 mining jurisdictions globally by the Fraser Institute in its Annual Survey of Mining Companies, 2024, released this week. "After languishing near the bottom of rankings for too many years, due to uncertainty about the environment for mining, New Zealand has made a massive leap and is now ranked higher than any Australian jurisdiction on the Investment Attractiveness Index - at 12th of 82, compared with 43rd of 86 in 2023 - and 15th of 82 on the Policy Perception Index, compared with 50th of 86 in 2023. "This week we also hosted an event to discuss science in the sector, and it was heartening to see the buzz around the critical minerals the world needs and what is available in New Zealand, and how we can add value and be part of the global supply chain. "Professor Chris Bumby, Chief Scientist (Materials) at the Robinson Research Institute within Victoria University of Wellington spoke about the potential for value-add processing of New Zealand's critical mineral resources. He pointed out why metals production matters - 'today's world is built from metals and tomorrow's world will require a whole bunch more', he said. "He highlighted New Zealand opportunities included critical minerals vanadium, titanium, zirconium, tungsten, and antinomy, among others, and the value New Zealand minerals bring to the world's steel production. "New Zealand science and research stands out globally and Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Shane Reti also spoke about the work the Government is doing to further enable science and technology to advance our country in a rapidly changing high-tech world. "There is so much exciting work happening in our minerals industry and it is important to have enabling laws that back our claims that New Zealand is open for business, and that the Fast-track Approvals Act is allowed to work as it is intended and is not derailed by vexatious detractors," Vidal says.
Scoop
23-05-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Budget Reaction – Time To Back Science With Long-Term Investment
A thriving economy rests on four pillars: a strong science and innovation sector, secure property rights, a sound financial system, and efficient transport and communication networks. Science generates the ideas and knowledge that drive the development of new goods and services; property rights protect the fruits of innovation; the financial system enables growth and scaling; and transport and communications systems connect us to global markets. These principles emphasise the significance of public investment in R&D for achieving long-term economic prosperity. Science funding is not a luxury or a cost - it is a core ingredient in economic success. Yet Budget 2025 underdelivers for science - at best holding funding steady in nominal terms, and at worse an actual reduction to health research funding, while inflation continues to erode our national science capability. New Zealand invests approximately 1.5% of GDP in science, while the average expenditure within the OECD sits at approximately 2.7% of GDP. We urgently need a long-term strategic plan, along with associated investment, for science and technology. Agencies like MPI have created excellent roadmaps in areas like biotechnology and climate-smart primary production, but these strategies remain unrealised without funding. Strategic planning without resourcing is not a plan - it's a wish list. We applaud the new investment in advanced technology research at Robinson Research Institute. This kind of targeted funding is precisely what New Zealand needs: it boosts high-tech exports, strengthens connections between research and industry, and generates high-value jobs. But one initiative alone does not build a future. We need to see this approach expanded to other areas of advanced science and technology with the potential to generate real wealth for Aotearoa. Without a step change in science investment, we risk falling further behind not only in global competitiveness but also in our ability to address the complex challenges facing New Zealand.
Techday NZ
08-05-2025
- Business
- Techday NZ
Robinson secures $71 million for advanced tech platform
Robinson Research Institute has secured $71 million to establish and manage an advanced technology platform focused on Future Magnetic and Materials Technologies. The funding will be provided over seven years through the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment's Strategic Science Investment Fund portfolio. The initiative was announced by Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Shane Reti, at the Institute's Lower Hutt facility. The new platform aims to support New Zealand's ambitions to expand its hi-tech export sector by applying materials science and engineering expertise across key industries, including space, electric aviation, critical minerals, and fusion energy technologies. By advancing research and development in these areas, the platform is expected to contribute to the country's innovation capability, assist companies in bringing technology to market, and support the growth of the domestic manufacturing sector. The Institute, recognised for its work in high-temperature superconductivity (HTS), will lead the application of these technologies to address real-world challenges. Professor Nick Long, Director of Robinson Research Institute, stated, "It is an honour for the Institute to receive this strategic funding. At Robinson, our focus has always been on how applications of HTS can be leveraged to address real-world issues, ranging from propulsion in space to more accessible Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanners." He continued, "With proven capabilities in emerging areas like space and advanced aviation, Robinson is well-placed to drive growth in this area. Initially leveraging our capability in magnetics, the Institute has also developed processing methods for critical minerals from New Zealand resources. This funding will enable us to solve some problems with scaling these methods to commercial levels." The broader objectives of the platform include developing workforce capability by offering internships and postgraduate study opportunities. The initiative will also encourage early career researchers to progress their work beyond the confines of the laboratory. Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research, Professor Magaret Hyland highlighted the value of the new investment for the research community. "Te Herenga Waka has a strong culture of research excellence and the work that our staff undertake has impact on national and international scales," said Professor Hyland. Professor Hyland added, "A valued part of the University community, Robinson Research Institute has a strong track record of projects evolving into pilot projects or commercial enterprises. This new platform is a significant opportunity for Robinson to strengthen collaborations with the wider research community, in a way that delivers stronger outcomes for Aotearoa New Zealand. With an established network of research and commercialisation partnerships, within New Zealand and abroad, I can see Robinson now playing an even bigger role in enhancing New Zealand's capabilities in advanced technology." Strengthening partnerships both locally and internationally is a key part of the planned activities, with the intention to attract further investment into New Zealand's research and development sector. Projects developed under the platform are expected to foster collaboration and create commercial pathways for scientific innovations. The Robinson Research Institute's receipt of this funding aims to advance the development, scaling, and commercial application of HTS technology and associated material innovations, in line with national objectives to grow high-value technology sectors. The platform's establishment reflects ongoing efforts to enhance New Zealand's global standing in research, commercial partnerships, and workforce development in advanced technologies.
Scoop
05-05-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Robinson Research Institute Awarded $71 Million To Host Advanced Technology Platform
Press Release – Victoria University of Wellington Robinson Research Insititute, a pioneer in high-temperature superconductivity (HTS) research, has received funding of $71million towards setting up and hosting an advanced technology platform in Future Magnetic and Materials Technologies. The funding for … Robinson Research Insititute, a pioneer in high-temperature superconductivity (HTS) research, has received funding of $71million towards setting up and hosting an advanced technology platform in Future Magnetic and Materials Technologies. The funding for the advanced technology platform was announced by Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Shane Reti at Robinson Research Institute's facility in Lower Hutt, and will operate through the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment-administered Strategic Science Investment Fund (SSIF) portfolio over a period of seven years. In line with the objective to grow New Zealand's hi-tech exports, the advanced technology platform will apply materials and engineering expertise across a range of sectoral themes including space, electric aviation, critical minerals and technologies for fusion energy. The platform will play a crucial role in lifting New Zealand's innovation capacity, enabling companies to take technology to market, and in accelerating the growth of the domestic manufacturing sector. Professor Nick Long, director, Robinson Research Institute, said 'It is an honour for the Institute to receive this strategic funding. At Robinson, our focus has always been on how applications of HTS can be leveraged to address real-world issues, ranging from propulsion in space to more accessible Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanners. With proven capabilities in emerging areas like space and advanced aviation, Robinson is well-placed to drive growth in this area. Initially leveraging our capability in magnetics, the Institute has also developed processing methods for critical minerals from New Zealand resources. This funding will enable us to solve some problems with scaling these methods to commercial levels.' Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research, Professor Magaret Hyland is excited by the possibilities that the funding offers. 'Te Herenga Waka has a strong culture of research excellence and the work that our staff undertake has impact on national and international scales. 'A valued part of the University community, Robinson Research Institute has a strong track record of projects evolving into pilot projects or commercial enterprises. This new platform is a significant opportunity for Robinson to strengthen collaborations with the wider research community, in a way that delivers stronger outcomes for Aotearoa New Zealand. With an established network of research and commercialisation partnerships, within New Zealand and abroad, I can see Robinson now playing an even bigger role in enhancing New Zealand's capabilities in advanced technology.' The objectives of the platform will include developing workforce capability through internships and postgraduate study, and encouraging early career researchers to take their research beyond the laboratory. Projects from the platform will also enhance local and international research and commercial partnerships, and encourage inward investment into the New Zealand research and development sector.
