News – Dyneval https://www.dyneval.com Precise measurement of microscopic motion Mon, 19 May 2025 13:50:12 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://www.dyneval.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/cropped-Dynevalicon-32x32.jpg News – Dyneval https://www.dyneval.com 32 32 Game-changing motile cell count algorithm for all sex-sorted semen https://www.dyneval.com/game-changing-motile-cell-count-algorithm-for-all-sex-sorted-semen/ Wed, 02 Apr 2025 16:59:44 +0000 https://www.dyneval.com/?p=1009417

Game-changing motile cell count algorithm for all sex-sorted semen

Our ground-breaking MCC algorithm automatically calculates the concentration of both total motile and progressive motile cells in any sex-sorted sample measured with the Dynescan. It works seamlessly in the background while you perform your usual analysis — no extra steps, no extra hassle.

When combined with the large field of view of Dynescan videos, this technology has the potential to set a new standard in quality control (QC) for sex-sorted semen, as it addresses limitations of CASA instruments. For instance, it captures up to 10 times more cells in a single field of view, and delivers results that are independent of the user and their experience. Our MCC algorithm is particularly well suited for evaluating sexed semen straws produced by any sorting technology, but it can also be applied to conventional straws (upon request).

How to use the beta MCC Analysis

The best part? For Dynescan users, no extra steps are needed. The MCC analysis is automatically applied to every sex-sorted sample during the standard measurement process, guaranteeing consistent and reliable results — no matter the operator’s experience. 

Look for the Total Motile Count (TMC) and Progressive Motile Count (PMC) per milliliter, conveniently displayed under Concentration Test Results in the Dyneval web app. These results can also be easily accessed in the Dyneval’s Semen Motility PDF report, ensuring quick and straightforward evaluation of semen quality.

MCC Algorithm Validation

A total of 110 semen straws, including both conventional and sex-sorted samples, were analysed to validate the MCC algorithm. Each straw was assessed undiluted, loaded into 20 µm depth Leja® slides, and sealed with Vaseline® to prevent drift. Measurements were conducted using the IVOS® II (Hamilton Thorne) and the Dynescan (Dyneval®) within the same chamber, with all readings taken within one minute. Any motile cells missed by the IVOS® II were manually corrected, an additional, time consuming step that required careful attention to ensure a fair comparison. The results are in Figure 1. Given that Dynescan’s field of view is approximately 10 times larger than that of the IVOS® II, no fewer than seven fields of view were analysed per sample using the IVOS® II.

IVOS® II vs. Dynescan Comparison
Fig 1.Two plots demonstrating the agreement between the IVOS II results and the Motile Cell Count (MCC) algorithm of the Dynescan. Note that cells missed by the IVOS II are corrected for. The standard Qualivet settings were used to categorize cell types for both technologies, and both conventional and sexed semen straws [1]. The plots show their fit with its corresponding gradient, where the y-intercept has been fixed to zero. Left: The progressively motile cell concentration ranging from around 1M/mL to over 40M/mL. Right: The total motile concentration results ranging from around 1M/mL to above 60M/mL.

We found our MCC algorithm agreed quantitatively with the IVOS II within less than 4%, on average, giving an excellent correlation with a Pearson coefficient of 0.99 for both TMC and PMC. This correlation is maintained for a wide range of motile concentrations from as low as 1.4M/mL up to around 60M/mL. Minor deviations were observed at higher concentrations (>55M/mL total motile), which, for a motility of 50%, corresponds to a total concentration of around 110M/mL—well within the range of many conventional semen straws. While these differences are minimal, further investigation is required to determine their significance at elevated concentrations.

We note that we do not consider the capillary correction when using Leja channel slides, and the same correction is removed from the IVOS II values, to compare results fairly. See the bottom of page for more information. Also, please be aware that the MCC is measured in millions of cells per millimeter, if you wish to know how much is in a 0.25mL straw you must divide it by 4. 

Current standards and CASA systems

In the world of semen analysis, accuracy matters. This is especially true for sex-sorted semen samples, which contain low concentrations and a significant amount of debris in comparison to conventional or fresh semen. With sex-sorted straws growing in popularity worldwide, there is an urgent need for a quick, reliable, low-effort, and high-accuracy method for quality control.

The two different methods to process sexed semen are as follows:

  • Cells are physically sorted, only allowing one gender to enter the straw. Figure 2 (a)
  • The undesired gender is ablated before the sample is added to the straw. Figure 2 (b)

 

The images in Figure 2 are examples of the two different sorting types, which both contain significant amounts of debris. This creates a challenging environment for CASA systems, which struggle to accurately characterise percentage motility in the presence of debris. Debris are often detected as non-motile cells, artificially lowering motility. Additionally, the high magnification required by CASA systems makes them sensitive to slight variations in focus, further affecting measurement consistency. These challenges are compounded by the fact that different sex-sorting technologies use varying preparation protocols, resulting in additional variability in sample characteristics.

Two different methods to process sexed semen
Fig 2. Two examples of sex sorted samples. (a) demonstrates the method that filters out the unwanted gender from the straw, and (b) shows the technique that ablates cells of the incorrect gender, which are seen in the sample. The circled subfigure offers a magnified view of an ablated cell, demonstrating the ease with which it can be identified as a regular cell.

The challenges associated with CASA systems mentioned above, can all be solved with our MCC algorithm. The following advantages of the MCC algorithm collectively enhance its accuracy and precision beyond what has been achieved with conventional approaches.

  • It captures 10x more cells in a single field of view due to the Dyneval, low magnification videos, reducing variability and saving time.
  • It is not sensitive on focus due to low magnification, making it user-independent and less prone to user mistakes.
  • It excludes the detection of cells that lack the capacity to migrate through the fallopian tube to fertilise the oocyte, thereby eliminating errors caused by the misidentification of non-cellular, non-motile particles.

Shaping the future: Dyneval's MCC algorithm

At Dyneval, we believe the industry deserves better tools — tools that deliver accuracy, consistency, and confidence. That’s why we’ve developed an innovative algorithm to measure Motile Cell Count (MCC): a game-changing feature that sets a new benchmark for semen analysis.

The MCC algorithm provides breeders, researchers, and technicians with a deeper understanding of semen quality over time — delivering precise, transparent data that empowers smarter, evidence-based decisions.

We believe MCC has the potential to become standard practice across the industry, transforming the way semen quality is assessed and unlocking better outcomes from lab to field.

We’d love to hear how MCC is supporting your work — share your thoughts with us at contact@dyneval.com.

References

  1. O’Meara, C., Henrotte, E., Kupisiewicz, K., Latour, C., Broekhuijse, M., Camus, A., Gavin-Plagne, L., & Sellem, E.. (2022). The effect of adjusting settings within a Computer-Assisted Sperm Analysis (CASA) system on bovine sperm motility and morphology results. Animal Reproduction, 19(1), e20210077. https://doi.org/10.1590/1984-3143-AR2021-0077 

 

Note on the SS-effect:

It is claimed that applying the capillary correction is due to a phenomenon called the Segre-Silberberg effect. Based on experimental evidence, we have found such effect is not justified for semen samples and so have removed the factor of 1.3 that is applied to all IVOS II concentration measurements. Further details to follow.

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]]> Dynescan is Now Available in Spanish https://www.dyneval.com/dynescan-is-now-available-in-spanish/ Wed, 05 Mar 2025 12:28:36 +0000 https://www.dyneval.com/?p=1009296

Dynescan is Now Available in Spanish

At Dyneval, we recognise the importance of clear communication in labs and farms. While English is widely used, Spanish and Portuguese dominate Latin America, making accessibility crucial. A language barrier can lead to errors in data collection, misinterpretation of results, and reduced efficiency. Ensuring that our users can operate Dynescan with confidence in their preferred language is essential to achieving accurate and reliable outcomes.

Expanding Accessibility with Spanish Support

During our first visit to South America, it became clear that supporting customers meant making our technology more accessible. Farmers, veterinarians, and lab technicians rely on clear instructions to collect and analyse semen quality data accurately. With Spanish speakers on our team, we acted quickly to implement a structured translation plan.

We are excited to introduce Spanish as the first available translation for the Dynescan Desktop Application, allowing a broader range of users to benefit from our technology. All active users have been notified with instructions on how to enable this feature and start using Dynescan in Spanish immediately.

What’s Next? Portuguese and More

Our efforts don’t stop here—Portuguese is next, expanding accessibility even further across Latin America and beyond. In addition to software translation, we are working on localising the Dynescan web application and PDF reports, ensuring users can generate and interpret their results in their native language. These enhancements will improve usability and contribute to better decision-making for farm and lab professionals worldwide. Our team is dedicated to making these updates as seamless as possible while maintaining the highest accuracy and quality standards.

Supported by Key Partners

This expansion was made possible with support from Scottish Development International and the Latin American team at the Department for Business and Trade (DBT). Their guidance and resources have helped us establish a strong presence in the region, connecting us with key distributors and partners who share our vision for improving reproductive efficiency in livestock production. Thanks to their collaboration, Dyneval is strengthening its reach in the Southern Cone and building valuable relationships that will drive further innovation and adoption of our technology.

We appreciate your patience and support as we continue optimising and expanding our services and functionalities. 

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]]> New Home – Roslin Innovation Centre https://www.dyneval.com/new-home-roslin-innovation-centre/ Mon, 08 Nov 2021 11:23:54 +0000 https://www.dyneval.com/?p=2012

New home for Dyneval in the Roslin Innovation Centre

Dyneval are moving into the Roslin Innovation Centre, and within Easter Bush Campus the company will be located in a cluster of the highest concentration of animal related science expertise in Europe.

“Dyneval is a great strategic fit for the Roslin Innovation Centre. The Dynescan enables the generation of new data sets concerning male livestock fertility at a global level which will be of considerable value to guide data-driven decisions for sustainable outcomes. We are delighted to welcome Dyneval to our already burgeoning research, data driven innovation and entrepreneurial community.“

John Mackenzie, CEO, Roslin Innovation Centre

]]> Dyneval joins project to drive livestock productivity in UK and Canada https://www.dyneval.com/dyneval-joins-project-led-by-raft-solutions/ Sun, 01 Aug 2021 15:34:26 +0000 https://www.dyneval.com/?p=2203

Dyneval joins InnovateUK project to drive livestock productivity in UK and Canada.

Dyneval is excited to be joining a project led by RAFT Solutions Ltd, funded by UK Research and Innovation’s UK-Canada: enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability competition, overseen by the Transforming Food Production challenge. Along with other partners, Dyneval’s innovation will support improvements in fertility performance for the dairy and beef industries in the UK and Canada.

RAFT Solutions Ltd, Atelerix, Ostara Biomedical Ltd & Dyneval (UK) partnered with Bow Valley Genetics (Canada)

Good fertility performance is the cornerstone of a profitable and sustainable livestock enterprise. In the international dairy and beef herd, optimum performance is achieved by maintaining a calving interval (CI) of 365 days. Every day CI increases >365 days is estimated to directly cost the farmer close to £2.07 or $3.54 per cow, or more for high yielding dairy cows.

Fertility drives productivity, and in turn the mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions, through reduced waste and optimising unproductive replacement youngstock inventories.

This project is supported by advisors at University of Saskatchewan and University of Guelph in Canada. As an integrated bilateral approach, it will:

  • research and develop several innovative new technologies

  • establish national level referral facilities for quality assurance and improvement of bovine germplasm.

The outputs of the project will transform genetic progress, through adoption of:

  • precision technologies

  • diagnostics

  • advanced breeding

  • big data.

This will lead to more sustainable livestock food production and export opportunities in both UK and Canada.

More information about UKRI can be found here: https://www.ukri.org/

]]> Scottish EDGE https://www.dyneval.com/scottish-edge/ Tue, 25 May 2021 17:37:40 +0000 https://www.dyneval.com/?p=2006

Dyneval win IBioIC EDGE award at the 17th Scottish EDGE competition in 2021

Dyneval is delighted to announce that it was awarded £100K as the IBioIC EDGE winner at this year’s Scottish EDGE17 awards final.

This news comes after having already been announced as winner of the i4 Product Design awards in January this year and the Biocity Accelerator Glasgow most promising venture awards in 2020.

Dyneval’s innovative technology offers reliable and precise measurements of semen quality using portable equipment and is currently focused on supporting reproduction in the livestock industry. There is currently no quality control standard for vets, farmers and AI technicians to check semen quality before reproduction, this results in the average UK dairy farmer losing £37,000 each year due to poor conception rates (which have dropped by 40% over the past 20 years costing Europe 2 billion euros each year).

Invented by physicists, with over 30 years of experience studying complex fluids at the University of Edinburgh, and validated by vets the technology provides an easy-to-use, automated and portable instrument for semen analysis. The Dyneval technology offers the most reproducible motility measurements and works for any concentration of semen above 1million/mL. The company’s goal is to become the “gold-standard” in semen assessment for use by anyone, anywhere.

Speaking about the EDGE17 funding award Dr Tiffany Wood, Founder and CEO, said “The team at Dyneval is absolutely delighted to have won the Scottish Edge. This award will accelerate our market readiness and growth to build a Scottish business that will have a strong and positive impact on the profitability and sustainability of dairy farming, worldwide.’”

Dr Vincent Martinez, Founder and CTO, said, “I feel speechless and honoured to have won this award from such a prestigious competition.”

Dyneval will be using part of this funding to design instrumentation control software with Firefinch Software

Barry McHoull, Director, Firefinch Software commented “It is an exciting time to be partnering with Dyneval. It’s a time of innovation and growth for Scottish life sciences and we are delighted to continue to be part of it through this project. We look forward to working with the Dyneval team to bring their product to launch”

Tiffany Wood, CEO of Dyneval Ltd continued “Firefinch were recommended to me through one of their clients and, on meeting, we discovered that Firefinch’s knowledge of instrument control and experience in designing software for users in the LifeScience sector offered Dyneval the highest potential for rapid progress. With their help, we look forward to being market-ready this summer.”

Mark Bustard, CEO of IBioIC, added: “Dyneval is a great example of the kind of world-leading innovation we are looking to support – the company is a worthy winner of the IBioIC Award, which recognises future leaders in biotechnology. We are proud to support Scottish Edge through our sponsorship, providing co-funding for the £100,000 prize and helping the next generation of start-ups and entrepreneurs to make meaningful change through their groundbreaking research and development.”

]]> Dyneval wins Biocity Accelerator Award https://www.dyneval.com/dyneval-wins-biocity-accelerator-award/ Sat, 15 Aug 2020 11:30:33 +0000 https://www.dyneval.com/?p=2238

Dyneval win Biocity Accelerator Award 2020

Dyneval are delighted to be listed as ‘the most promising start-up at the at the Biocity Accelerator Glasgow Program’ in 2020.  Dyneval will be provided with business coaching and access to facilities at Biocity, Glasgow as part of a package to support their growth under the Biocity Launch Program 

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