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Bovine leukosis is a chronic lymphoproliferative disorder that leads to significant economic losses in the beef and dairy industries. The major route of virus transmission is believed to be iatrogenic through the transfer of blood containing infected lymphocytes. In addition, BLV proviral DNA has been identified in nasal secretions, saliva, milk, colostrum, semen and smegma; however, natural transmission of BLV through these secretions has not been clearly demonstrated. The use of bulls for natural breeding has been identified as a risk factor in BLV infected dairy herds. However, the risk of BLV-infected bulls transmitting the virus is unknown. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential for BLV transmission during natural breeding between a BLV-infected bull and uninfected heifers. Forty healthy, BLV seronegative, and proviral-negative beef heifers were randomly assigned to one of two groups: control heifers (n = 20) exposed to a BLV seronegative and proviral negative bull and challenged heifers (n = 20) exposed to a BLV seropositive and proviral-positive bull. Each group was housed with the bull for a period of 38 days in a 5-acre pasture to replicate the housing of commercial beef cattle during the breeding season. Blood samples were collected from heifers at −60, −30 and 0 days prior to breeding and day 30, 60 and 90 after the breeding period ended. Blood samples were tested for BLV antibodies by ELISA and BLV proviral DNA by CoCoMo-qPCR. New infection was not detected by ELISA or CoCoMo-qPCR in any of the challenge or control heifers at any time point during the study. Based on these results, BLV infected bulls that are healthy and aleukemic may not be a significant risk of BLV transmission during a defined breeding season.

This study investigates the frequency of isolated microorganisms and the antimicrobial resistant pattern of inner foreskin and smegma in prepubertal children.This comparative cross-sectional study was conducted between March and November 2019, where 132 prepubertal boys, who were scheduled to receive religious circumcisions at our outpatient clinic, were examined. The patients were divided into the following groups based on the presence of smegma in their subpreputial space: Group I (with smegma, n=58) and Group II (without smegma, n=74). Sterile stuart transport swabs (Advanced Diagnostic Research, Mediko Kimya, Turkey) were taken from the smegma or the subpreputial space (glans surface and inner foreskin) using aseptic techniques and then the swab samples were immediately transported by sterile stuart transportation for microscopy, culture identification, and antibiographic resistance testing by conventional test methods and automated systems (VITEK II, Biomerieux, France) to the Microbiological Laboratory of our hospital.48 bacteria isolated from 39 boys in Group I comprised 28 gram-positive species (58.3%) and 20 gram-negative species (41.7%). The most commonly isolated gram-negative bacterium was Proteus mirabilis (45%) while most positive was Staphylococcus hominis (42.9%). In Group II, 68 boys had 103 bacterial isolates in the glans comprising 81 gram-positive species (78.6%) and 22 gram-negative species (21.4%). The most commonly isolated gram-negative bacterium was Proteus mirabilis (42.9%) while the most positive were Enterococcus faecalis (40.7%) and S. hominis (42.9%) Conclusion: The subpreputial space of uncircumcised boys is colonized by various types of uropathogens resistant to multidrug drugs. Smegma does not pose additional risks to microbiological colonization in children.

Testing for Tritrichomonas foetus and exclusion of infected animals is an effective way of improving the reproductive efficiency in a herd. Conventional PCR is inherently more specific than the culture method and quantitative PCR can significantly increase the detection limit. Loop Mediated Isothermal DNA Amplification (LAMP) is gaining interest because the method does not require expensive equipment, specificity and sensitivity can be as high as quantitative PCR. The object of this study was to develop a sensitive and friendly test for point-of-care detection of T. foetus. The LAMP test that targeted T. foetus elongation factor 1 alpha 1 sequences showed high specificity. Sensitivity was 100–1000 times higher than that reached through culture, polymerase chain reaction or with a previously developed LAMP for 5.8 ribosomal sequences. Moreover, T. foetus detection could be performed without DNA purification from infected cervical vaginal mucus (CVM) or smegma samples. The tf-ef1a1 LAMP method was tested for field detection with paper strips soaked in CVM from infected cows and the results were observed 90 min later. Direct detection of T. foetus in CVM with the tf-ef1a1 LAMP showed high sensitivity and specificity, and an overall diagnostic odds ratio of 56 (CI: 13.3–235.0). The tf-ef1a1 LAMP showed great potential for diagnosis and control of T. foetus in resource-challenged regions. Fil: Oyhenart, Jorge. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Instituto de Ciencias de la Tierra y Ambientales de La Pampa. Universidad Nacional de La Pampa. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales. Instituto de Ciencias de la Tierra y Ambientales de La Pampa; Argentina

In horses, squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) commonly affect the external genitals. There is growing evidence that equine papillomavirus type 2 (EcPV2) infection promotes disease development. To assess the possible association of EcPV2 with equine SCCs of the head (HSCC), 15 HSCC DNA samples were screened by E6/E7, E2, and LCR PCR and amplicons were analysed for sequence variations. The physical form of EcPV2 in HSCC, genital lesions, and smegma from horses with SCC was then addressed using EcPV2 immunocapture PCR (IC/PCR) for detection of virion, and E6 vs. E2 qPCR to investigate possible integration events. Four of 15 HSCC tested positive for EcPV2 DNA and harboured known or novel genetic variants of E6, E7, E2 and the LCR. Eighteen of 35 sample extracts including 3/4 smegma samples scored positive by IC/PCR, suggesting that about 51% of tested extracts harboured virions. E6/E2 qPCR from tumour DNA revealed E2/E6 copies/cell ranging between1 (E2; E6) and 797 (E2) or 1434 (E6). IC/PCR-positive smegma samples contained higher E2 and E6 copy numbers, ranging between 1490 and 4.95×10

Bovine trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted disease that results in infertility, abortion, and calf age variability. To date, management strategies include testing for Tritrichomonas foetus and culling of infected males. Challenges associated with testing include cost of culture medium, time and labor burden of sample incubation and processing, and adverse effects of bacterial growth on detection sensitivity. To overcome these challenges, we developed a direct reverse-transcription quantitative real-time PCR (direct RT-qPCR) utilizing smegma, eliminating the use of culture medium. In an analysis of 166 field samples (56 positives and 110 negatives as determined using microscopic reading of cultures as the reference test), the direct RT-qPCR exhibited 100% diagnostic sensitivity and 100% specificity, whereas the currently employed qPCR (culture qPCR), which utilizes cultured samples, exhibited 95% diagnostic sensitivity and 100% specificity. Agreement between direct RT-qPCR and culture qPCR was 98%. Moreover, direct RT-qPCR identified 3 more positive samples and exhibited lower quantification cycle (Cq) values among positives by culture reading than did culture qPCR (direct RT-qPCR Cq range = 14.6–32.3 vs. culture qPCR Cq range = 18.7–37.4). The direct RT-qPCR enables simplified sample collection, elimination of culture medium, faster results, applicability in cows, and lower cost than culture qPCR.

The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence ofTritrichomonas foetusinfection and to evaluate risk factors associated with this infection among cattle in the state of Paraíba in northeastern Brazil. Samples of cervicovaginal mucus from 290 females and smegma from 59 males [beef, 31; mixed aptitude (beef and dairy), 10; and dairy, 18] from 31 farms were collected. Modified Diamond’s medium and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were used for the laboratory diagnosis ofT. foetusinfection. Univariate analysis and logistic regression were performed to test for potential risk factors in addition to prevalence mapping. No sample was positive forT. foetusin culture, and the prevalence ofT. foetusinfection using PCR was 3.7% (13/349) [confidence interval (CI) 95%, 2.1%–6.4%]. In total, 19.3% (6/31) of the farms had at least one animal positive forT. foetus. The contact of females with males from other farms [Odds ratio, 5.9; 95% CI, 1.5–22.4;p= 0.009] was identified as a risk factor forT. foetusinfection. This study demonstrates thatT. foetusinfection is prevalent among dairy cows in the state of Paraíba, Brazil. Sexual resting, removal of positive females, and avoiding contact of females with males from other farms are recommended to reduce the risk of infection.

The objectives of the current study were 1) to compare sample preparation workflows and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction assays (qPCR) as currently used in veterinary diagnostic laboratories with a study protocol utilizing commercially available reagents for individual Tritrichomonas foetus testing, 2) to assess the accuracy of pooling cultured smegma samples followed by extraction and qPCR testing as used in the study laboratory, and 3) to assess the specificity of the currently used primers and probes by sequencing all positive and presumptive positive samples identified in the study laboratory in an attempt to capture any nucleotide variability between T. foetus isolates and to rule out false-positive results possibly due to Simplicimonas moskowitzi. Eight hundred three cultured smegma samples were collected from different regions of the United States with the collaboration of 5 veterinary testing laboratories. The samples were processed individually by the respective laboratories, and then sent to the study laboratory and retested using the study protocol. Comparison testing showed an overall agreement of 95.89% between the veterinary testing laboratories and the study laboratory. One hundred seventy-six positive or presumptive positive samples plus 625 negative qPCR samples were combined and retested using a pooling protocol. Pools consisted of 1 positive sample and 4 negative samples (1/5). These pools were processed using the same study laboratory protocols, and 96% of the positive samples were detected in these pools. Nested PCR followed by sequencing confirmed 175 of the 178 samples classified as positive or presumptive positive in the study laboratory as containing T. foetus–specific DNA.

The venereal diseases bovine trichomoniasis (BT) and bovine genital campylobacteriosis (BCG) cause economic losses in endemic areas like La Pampa province in Argentina, where beef cattle are usually managed extensively. This study used data compiled under a Provincial Programme for the Control and Eradication of BT and BGC (PCE) to determine the spatio-temporal distribution of these diseases and identify spatial clusters. The study population comprised 29,178 non-virgin bulls drawn from 3766 herds, tested for BT and BGC in 2010. Preputial smegma samples were cultured for BT detection, while BGC was diagnosed by direct immunofluorescence testing of these samples. Campylobacter fetus infection was detected in 1.5% of bulls and 2.3% of herds, and Tritrichomonas foetus infection was found in 1.1% of bulls and 5.1% of herds. The proportion of positive tests was highest in February for BT, while in April it was highest for BCG, and was inversely related to the number of tests, which was greatest during the breeding season (spring). An elliptical spatial cluster of high risk for BGC and a circular cluster for BT were both identified in the south of La Pampa province, which could not be explained by cattle herd density. The spatial and temporal patterns identified in this study provide baseline data for monitoring the success of BT and BGC control activities in La Pampa.

Bovine trichomonosis (BT) and bovine genital campylobacteriosis (BGC) are sexually transmitted diseases that can be important infectious causes of reproductive failure in extensively managed beef cattle where natural mating is a common practice. However, their prevalence in Europe was thought to be insignificant or very low. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence and risk factors associated with BT and BCG in a representative beef cattle breed, Asturiana de la Montana (AM), which is usually managed extensively in the mountain areas of Northern Spain and putative risk factors associated with the two diseases are present on most farms holding AM cattle. Preputial smegma samples were collected from 103 bulls belonging to 65 herds. Pathogen detection was undertaken using culture and PCR. Two scraping methods for sample collection (AI pipette and plastic scraper), as well as different culture media and DNA extraction methods were evaluated on field samples. Campylobacter fetus veneralis infection was not detected in any animal in any herd. However, Tritrichomonas foetus infection was demonstrated in 32% (33/103) and 41.5% (27/65) of bulls and herds tested, respectively. AM bulls older than 3 years (39.7%) were more likely to be infected than young bulls (16%) (OR = 3.45, CI = 1.07–11.19). An increase in repeat breeder cows was reported in herds from which T. foetus was detected (OR = 5.2, CI = 1.5–17.18). These findings highlight the re-emergence of this disease in extensively managed beef cattle in Spain. For routine diagnosis, the use of a culture technique and PCR in combination is advisable for testing smegma samples under field conditions.

Purpose The aim of the study was to investigate the common bacteria found in the smegma in the subpreputial space of asymptomatic boys prospectively, and to determine the difference of those bacteria according to the presence of smegma. Materials and methods In our institution, 40 boys who performed penoplasty were recruited into the study. Swab was done using aseptic techniques on smegma and glans in the operation room. According to the presence of smegma in the subpreputial space, we classified glans as a group S (with smegma, n=20) and group C (without smegma, n=20). The swabs were immediately sent to microbiology laboratory for microscopy, culture, and sensitivity tests. Results The mean age was 30.4±26.4 months. Thirty-one bacteria were isolated from smegma, comprising 15 gram-positive species (48.4%) and 16 gram-negative species (51.6%). The most commonly isolated gram-negative bacterium was Escherichia coli (25.8%), while the commonly isolated gram-positive bacteria were Enterococcus faecalis (19.4%) and Enterococcus avium (12.9%). Most of the bacterial isolates were multi-drug-resistant (61.3%). In group S, 12 boys had 22 bacterial isolates in the glans. The commonly isolated bacteria were E. coli (27.3%), E. avium (22.7%) and E. faecalis (18.2%). In group C, 13 boys had 21 bacterial isolates in the glans. The most commonly isolated bacterium was E. faecalis (28.6%). Conclusions Smegma in the subpreputial space of children was colonized by many kinds of uropathogen.

The sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp) of different testing schemes were estimated for detecting Tritrichomonas foetus (T. foetus) in smegma samples from experimentally infected bulls. Culture and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on smegma samples were evaluated alone and in parallel testing. Mature dairy bulls (n = 79) were intrapreputially inoculated with T. foetus (n = 19); Campylobacter (C.) fetus venerealis (n = 13); both T. foetus and C. fetus venerealis (n = 11); Tetratrichomonas spp. (n = 9); C. fetus fetus (n = 8); or were not inoculated (n = 19). For each bull, smegma samples were collected for 6 week post-inoculation and tested for T. foetus by In Pouch TF® culture and PCR. Most T. foetus-inoculated bulls became infected, according to culture (86.7%), PCR (90.0%), and both tests together (93.3%). In T. foetus-inoculated bulls, both tests combined in parallel on a single sample had a Se (78.3%) and Sp (98.5%) similar to two cultures (Se 76.0%, Sp 98.5%) or two PCR (Se 78.0%, Sp 96.7%) sampled on consecutive weeks. The PCR on three consecutive weekly samples (Se 85.0%, Sp 95.4%) and both tests applied in parallel on three consecutive weekly samples (Se 87.5%, Sp 95.6%) were similar to the current gold-standard of six weekly cultures (Se 86.7% and Sp 97.5%). Both tests used in parallel six times had the highest Se (93.3%), with similar Sp (92.5%). Tetratrichomonas spp. were only sporadically detected by culture or PCR. In conclusion, we have proposed alternative strategies for T. foetus diagnostics (for the AI industry), including a combination of tests and repeat testing strategies that may reduce time and cost for bull surveillance.

Objective To evaluate the prevalence and genotypes of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and microbiological status of the foreskin in asymptomatic prepubertal boys. Methods A total of 100 prepubertal healthy boys who underwent a standard circumcision procedure were included in the study. High-risk HPV status was determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction for the genotypes 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, 66, and 68. The swabs were immediately sent to microbiology laboratory for culture and sensitivity tests. Results The median age at the time of surgery was 5.7 years (range, 2 months-9 years). High-risk HPV was detected in 9 foreskins (9%). Positive samples showed are HPV16 (n = 3), 31 (n = 2), 39 (n = 3), and 51 (n = 1). There were a total of 72 organism isolates: 54 gram-positive (75%) and 17 gram-negative (23.6%) bacteria and 1 (1.4%) Candida. The most commonly isolated gram-negative bacterium was Escherichia coli (41.2%), whereas the commonly isolated gram-positive bacterium was Enterecoccus sp. (57.4%). Conclusion Our results showed that subclinical high-risk HPV infections are found in the foreskin, which could be a reservoir for HPV-associated diseases, and smegma seems not to be a risk factor for drug-resistant infection in children.

We describe a Mycobacterium smegmatis mutant with impaired biofilm and smegma formation. A gene homologous to Escherichia coli bacA, which has been proposed to play a role as undecaprenyl phosphokinase (Upk) was unmarked in-frame deleted from M. smegmatis. Though Upk is involved in cell wall synthesis, the surface of the mutant strain appeared virtually comparable to that of the wild type by electron microscopy. The absence of Upk influenced colony morphology and bacitracin resistance. The M. smegmatis Deltaupk mutant developed a biofilm characterized by scattered islands of bacteria distinct from the completely covered biofilm surface observed for wild-type bacteria. We further demonstrate biological consequences of upk deletion for smegma development in an in vivo model. These results suggest the upk gene to be essential in biofilm and smegma development.

We present observations on an unusual tetratrichomonad species isolated from preputial smegma of virgin bulls. Ultrastructural studies were performed using scanning and electron microscopy techniques. This protozoan presents four anterior flagella of unequal length and a recurrent one forming the undulating membrane. It shows one anterior nucleus, a Golgi complex, an axostyle, and a costa. The hydrogenosomes are rather elongated, seen in groups, and presenting different electron densities. Vacuoles of different sizes containing bacteria and material in process of digestion were frequently found. PCR was also used in order to compare the species herein described with other trichomonad species. The amplification products were seen only with primers TFR1 and TFR2 (specific to trichomonads), but not with TFR3 and TFR4 (specific to Tritrichomonas foetus), suggesting that although collected from the genital tract of the bull, this protist was not T. foetus. We propose that the appearance of these tetratrichomonads were probably due to the sodomy practiced among bulls. Concomitant contamination of preputial cavity with feces could explain the presence of the opportunistic organism. The observations presented here show the importance of the correct diagnostic when investigating samples obtained from the urogenital tract of cattle. We also suggest that this flagellate belongs to the species Tetratrichomonas buttreyi.

Gender determination is frequently requested by reptile breeders, especially for species with poor or absent sexual dimorphism. The aims of the current study were to describe techniques and diagnostic sensitivities of ultrasound, radiography, and computed tomography for gender determination (identification of hemipenes) in four species of lizards. Nineteen lizards of known sex, belonging to four different species (Pogona vitticeps, Uromastyx aegyptia, Tiliqua scincoides, Gerrhosaurus major) were prospectively enrolled. With informed owner consent, ultrasound, noncontrast CT, contrast radiography, and contrast CT (with contrast medium administered into the cloaca) were performed in conscious animals. Imaging studies were reviewed by three different operators, each unaware of the gender of the animals and of the results of the other techniques. The lizard was classified as a male when hemipenes were identified. Nineteen lizards were included in the study, 10 females and nine males. The hemipenes were seen on ultrasound in only two male lizards, and appeared as oval hypoechoic structures. Radiographically, hemipenes filled with contrast medium appeared as spindle-shaped opacities. Noncontrast CT identified hemipenes in only two lizards, and these appeared as spindle-shaped kinked structures with hyperattenuating content consistent with smegma. Hemipenes were correctly identified in all nine males using contrast CT (accuracy of 100%). Accuracy of contrast radiography was excellent (94.7%). Accuracy of ultrasound and of noncontrast CT was poor (64.3% and 63.1%, respectively). Findings from the current study supported the use of contrast CT or contrast radiography for gender determination in lizards.

Trichomoniasis, caused by the protozoan Tritrichomonas foetus, is a serious reproductive (venereal) disease found in some Utah cattle herds. Diagnosis of trichomoniasis is made when trichomonad organisms are detected in the smegma or preputial flush samples of bulls, or the uterine/vaginal fluids of cows

Trichomoniasis is a widespread, economically important venereal disease of cattle which causes infertility and abortion. Effective control of trichomoniasis has been impeded by the insensitivity of traditional diagnostic procedures, which require the isolation and cultivation of the parasite, Tritrichomonas foetus, from infected cattle. We developed a 0.85-kb T. foetus DNA probe by identifying conserved sequences in DNAs from T. foetus that were isolated from cattle in California, Idaho, Nevada, and Costa Rica. The probe hybridized specifically to DNAs of T. foetus isolates from different geographic areas but not to DNA preparations of Trichomonas vaginalis, bovine cells, or a variety of bacteria from cattle. The probe detected DNA from a minimum of 10(5) T. foetus organisms. To improve sensitivity, a partial sequence of the probe was used to identify oligonucleotide primers (TF1 and TF2) which could be used to amplify a 162-bp product from T. foetus DNAs by PCR. A chemiluminescent internal T. foetus sequence probe was hybridized to Southern blots of the amplification product. This system detected as few as one T. foetus organism in culture media or 10 parasites in samples containing bovine preputial smegma. Analysis of 52 clinical samples showed that 47 (90.4%) of the 52 samples were correctly identified, with no false-positive reactions. In comparison, the traditional cultivation method detected 44 (84.6%) of the 52 samples from T. foetus-infected and uninfected bulls. These results indicate that the PCR-based amplification system could be a useful alternative method for the diagnosis of bovine trichomoniasis.

Background The objective of this study is to document the common bacteria found in the smegma in the subpreputial space of asymptomatic boys in our environment, their antimicrobial susceptibility pattern, and to determine if they differ from those commonly isolated from children with established urinary tract infections in our sub-region. Materials and Methods Between May 2009 and January 2010, smegma swabs were collected from asymptomatic boys who presented for circumcision in our institution. This was done using aseptic techniques in the theatre, following retraction of the prepuce. The swabs were immediately sent to our microbiology laboratory for microscopy, culture, and sensitivity tests. Bacteria were isolated, identified, and confirmed by standard bacteriological techniques, and antimicrobial sensitivity pattern was determined using the disc diffusion method. A total of 52 boys, with an age range of 7 d to 11 y (median 138.7d), were recruited into the study. Results A total of 50 bacterial isolates were made. There were 29 gram-positive bacteria (58%) and 21 gram-negative ones (42%). A single isolate was found in 34 boys (65.4%), eight had a mixed isolate (15.4%), while no bacteria was isolated in 10 boys (19.2%). The most commonly isolated gram-negative bacteria was Escherichia coli (90.5%), while the commonly isolated gram-positive bacteria were Staphylococcus epidermidis (44.8%) and Staphylococcus aureus (41.4%). Most of the bacterial isolates were multi-drug-resistant. Conclusion Smegma in the preputial space of children may be colonized by drug-resistant organisms, the antimicrobial sensitivity pattern of which must be determined for an effective treatment of any infection arising in the region.

Methods for the extraction of DNA from the preputial smegma of cattle infected with Tritrichomonas foetus for the purposes of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) detection are usually time-consuming, relatively insensitive and require hazardous chemicals. In order to solve these problems, we have developed a rapid, sensitive and harmless method to extract quality DNA from preputial smegma spiked with T. foetus. Results indicate that the addition of 5% Chelex-100 resin and 0.05% agar solution to the spiked smegma before the process of DNA extraction by the boiling method can significantly increase the sensitivity of PCR detection. This improved method may be suitable for routine DNA extraction for the diagnosis of cattle and even human trichomoniasis by PCR.

To investigate the prevalence of Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) among village women in Henan and to determine its relevant risk factors.A population based cross-sectional study on cervical cancer was conducted among village women in Xinmi, Henan. Women aged 20 - 54 who had sexual intercourse experiences were enrolled in this study. Self-sampling and direct-sampling were used in collecting women's vaginal discharge. 13 high-risk HPVs were tested with HC2 for all of the specimens. Then women with abnormal results did colposcopy and biopsy. The biopsy results were regarded as the golden standard.There were 881 women enrolled in this paper and 881 self-sampling and 880 direct-sampling specimens were collected. The HPVs prevalence rates for the self-sampling and direct-sampling were 13.05% and 12.27%, respectively. Age-specific prevalence rates were 10.57% (20-), 9.60% (25-), 12.00% (30-), 9.52% (35-), 17.60% (40-), 13.74% (45-) and 12.80% (50 - 54). HPV prevalence rates were increased with progression of cervical disease (chi(2) = 200.69, P = 0.00). And HPV prevalence rates were higher in women with more advanced education background (chi(2) = 11.05, P = 0.01). HPV infection rate in women whose husbands have more than one sexual partner was 18.02% and whose husbands have only one sexual partner was 10.88% (chi(2) = 6.37, P = 0.01).The infection rate of high-risk HPVs in this area is high. The relationship of HPV infection with age has not been observed in this study, but the the sexual activity is the major risk factor for cervical cancer.

Background Smegma is widely believed to cause penile, cervical and prostate cancer. This nearly ubiquitous myth continues to permeate the medical literature despite a lack of valid supportive evidence. Methods A historical perspective of medical ideas pertaining to smegma is provided, and the original studies in both animals and humans are reanalysed using the appropriate statistical methods. Results Evidence supporting the role of smegma as a carcinogen is found wanting. Conclusions Assertions that smegma is carcinogenic cannot be justified on scientific grounds.

The prepuce and glans was examined in 4521 healthy infants and young children with a birthweight over 2600 g. There were 3238 infants aged 1-12 months and 1283 children aged 3 years. There is no custom of circumcision in Japan. The term phimosis implies the adhesion of the prepuce and glans, which cannot be separated by manipulation. Phimosis was found in 88.5% of infants aged 1-3 months, and the corresponding figures at the ages of 4-6 months, 7-9 months, 10-12 months and 3 years were: 74.4, 63.9, 58.0 and 35.0%, respectively. However, cases where the prepuce could be retracted by gentle manipulation were found in 3.0% of infants aged 1-3 months, 19.9% of those aged 10-12 months and increased to 38.4% of children aged 3 years, which exceeded the rate of phimosis. The complete adhesion of prepuce and glans was found in many infants, and a small space between the prepuce and glans was observed in some cases of 3-year-old boys. The smegma was notable in only 16 cases (0.5%) of infants and in 5 cases (0.4%) of the 3-year-olds. Balanopothitis was found in only one case of the 3-year-olds. It is not recommended to separate the foreskin by manipulation, which sometimes leads to bleeding or paraphimosis. And it is not necessary to surgically correct phimosis in infancy and early childhood except in the case of accompanying urological disturbance.

Tritrichomonas foetus (T. foetus) is the causative agent of bovine trichomonosis, a sexually transmitted disease leading to abortion (from 1 to 8 months gestation), infertility, and occasional pyometra. The annual losses to the U.S. beef industry are estimated to be in the hundreds of millions of dollars. Currently, the "gold standard" diagnostic test for trichomonosis in most countries is the cultivation of live organisms from reproductive secretions. The cultured organisms can then be followed by PCR assays with primers that amplify T. foetus to the exclusion of all other trichomonad species. Thus, negative results present as null data, indistinguishable from failed PCR amplification during T. foetus specific amplification. Our newly developed assay improves previously developed PCR based techniques by using diagnostic size variants from within the internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1) region that is between the 18S rRNA and 5.8S rRNA subunits. This new PCR assay amplifies trichomonad DNA from a variety of genera and positively identifies the causative agent in the bovine trichomonad infection. This approach eliminates false negatives found in some current assays as well as identifying the causative agent of trichomonad infection. Additionally, our assay incorporates a fluorescently labeled primer enabling high sensitivity and rapid assessment of the specific trichomonad species. Moreover, electrophoretic separation of amplified samples can be outsourced, thus eliminating the need for diagnostic laboratories to purchase expensive analysis equipment.

Pyogenic granulomas are benign vascular proliferations of the skin and mucous membranes. We present a case report of a 13-year-old uncircumcised boy with phimosis and a pyogenic granuloma of the glans penis. The relationship between these lesions, phimosis, smegma, and circumcision is discussed. When the lesion is found in conjunction with phimosis, consideration should be given for circumcision. Close follow-up to rule out recurrence is necessary.

Portions of penis and prepuce were collected from 24 bulls with current or recent Tritrichomonas foetus infection. Epididymides were collected from seven of the bulls, and seminal vesicles and prostate were collected from four. Following immunohistochemical staining with two monoclonal antibodies (34.7C4.4 and TF1.15) prepared against T. foetus surface antigens, trichomonads were identified in sections from 15 of the bulls. Organisms were most often located in penile crypts in the midshaft and caudal regions and less often in preputial crypts. Trichomonads were not observed in sections from other genitalia or in subepithelial tissue. T. foetus antigen, however, was present in the cytoplasm of some epithelial cells and the cytoplasm of some mononuclear cells in subepithelial lymphoid aggregates and follicles. Preputial smegma was collected from 16 T. foetus-infected bulls and from 16 control bulls with negative T. foetus cultures. Preputial antibody levels to TF1.17, a surface antigen of T. foetus, were determined by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Preputial secretions from infected bulls contained specific antibody of each isotype and subisotype tested. IgG1 responses were the greatest, IgM and IgA responses were approximately equal, and IgG2 responses were low. Each isotype and subisotype response in infected bulls was significantly greater than that in the controls. These results confirm previous speculation concerning anatomical sites of infection and suggest that parasite antigen can be taken up and processed locally, resulting in deposition of specific IgG1, IgG2, IgA, and IgM antibodies in the preputial cavity.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of Tritrichomonas foetus infection in beef bulls in north-western Spain. The study area comprised of 350 herds (5909 cows and 102 bulls) managed under extensive or semi-extensive systems where natural mating alone or alternated with artificial insemination are used. The targets of this survey were bulls of 1 year of age or older. Preputial smegma samples were taken from 70 bulls (68.6% of bull population) servicing a total of 184 herds (52.6%) and 4136 cows (69.9%). Data collected at sampling included farm location, herd size, age, breed, private or communal bull and previous infertility problems in the herd. The percentage of infected bulls was 2.9% (2 of 70). Age of infected bulls was 5 and 7 years and both were of the local breed, Asturiana de los Valles. These results confirm the presence of T. foetus infection in Spain and the necessity to include this disease in the differential diagnosis of reproductive failure in rangeland grazing cattle.

A number of minor urological surgical procedures can be readily carried out in children in outpatient clinics with the availability of a good topical local anaesthetic. In boys, the separation of preputial adhesions, frenulotomy, meatoplasty, meatal dilatation following circumcision or meatal surgery, the removal of smegma and excision of penile skin lesions can be performed as outpatient treatment. In girls, hymenal abnormalities, meatal abnormalities and labial adhesions come into consideration for its use. Success is dependent on a good estimation of the mental capacity of the child to undergo a local surgical procedure and correct use of the anaesthetic.

Organisms with characteristics typical of mycoplasmas were isolated from the preputial smegma of Afghan picas (Ochotona rufescens rufescens). The results of growth inhibition tests, metabolic inhibition tests, and immunobinding assays showed that the isolated strains were identical and that they were distinct from previously described Mycoplasma, Entomoplasma, Mesoplasma, and Acholeplasma species. These organisms represent a new species, for which the name Mycoplasma lagogenitalium is proposed. M. lagogenitalium ferments glucose, does not hydrolyze arginine or urea, reduces tetrazolium chloride, possesses phosphatase activity, does not digest gelatin or casein, and does not produce films or spots. It lyses sheep erythrocytes and does not adsorb sheep, rabbit, or horse erythrocytes. Cholesterol or serum is required for growth. The growth temperature is 37 degrees C. The guanine-plus-cytosine content of the DNA is 23.0 +/- 1.0 mol%. The type strain is M. lagogenitalium 12MS (= ATCC 700289T).

Sixty cow-half herds of more than 50 cows each were randomly selected for a prevalence survey of bovine trichomoniasis in California. Herd size, as judged by the number of bulls, ranged from 1 to 210 bulls (median = 8; mean = 59 +/- 15.8). Preputial smegma was collected from 729 bulls (median = 6 bulls/herd) and cultured for Tritrichomonas foetus. Of 57 herds from which samples were collected, 9 (15.8%) had at least one infected bull. Of the 729 bulls from which samples were cultured, 30 (4.1%) were infected. Correcting for sensitivity of the diagnostic test yielded a prevalence of 5.0%. Infection rates for bulls greater than 3 years old and less than or equal to 3 years old were 6.7% and 2.0%, respectively (P less than 0.025). Median herd sizes were 14 bulls (range, 6 to 114) for infected herds and 7 (range, 1 to 210) for uninfected herds. These findings suggest that trichomoniasis is common in California beef herds. Because several bulls less than 4 years old were infected, we suggest that control measures stressing replacement of older bulls with younger ones should be combined with diagnostic procedures in those younger replacements, to ensure that they are not already infected.

The lipids of human and equine smegma pools were saponified and the total fatty acids submitted to temperature programmed gas chromatography (GC) analysis. In contrast to the human products, the horse smegma fatty acids contained very low odd saturated as well as olefinic branched chain acid contents. The cyclopropane fatty acid, 9,10-methyleneoctadecanoic acid, occurred in smegma sampled from men over 35 years of age but could not be detected in the pool from persons of 17-20 years of age nor in any of the equine mixtures. The alcoholic fraction from horse smegma contained about 85% sterol, the remainder constituting alcohols of C12 to C28 and of which 43.5% were branched chain components. The corresponding product from human smegma was primarily sterol. Squalene comprised the main hydrocarbon present in smegma of either species.

Tyson noted macroscopic lesions on the corona of the penis, interpreting them as the source of smegma. Later authors described the same lesions under such terms as papillomatosis corona penis. Though the connective tissue nature of the papillomatous protrusions was recognized, they did not equate the condition with that previously observed by Tyson. Since Tyson had used the term "gland," microscopists who found ectopic sebaceous glands on the glans and prepuce referred to them as Tyson's glands, although they are not what Tyson described. Neither papillomatosis corona penis nor ectopic sebaceous glands appear to play a role in the formation of smegma; papillomatosis is not glandular and smegma is not a secretion. It is suggested that the term Tyson's glands be replaced by the appropriate descriptive expressions: papillomatosis corona penis or ectopic sebaceous glands.

This study was undertaken to investigate the relation of cancer of the cervix to circumcision status as determined by actual examination of the marital partner. A total of 1,148 histologically confirmed cases from five New York City hospitals were included in the study: 454 of invasive carcinoma, 411 of carcinoma in situ, and 283 of cervical dysplasia. Controls were matched by age and ethnic group. The examination of marital partners for circumcision status was limited to patients and matched controls who were married to first husband. Five degrees of circumcision status, i.e. coverage of the glans by the foreskin, were recorded. Patients married to first husband included 91 with invasive carcinoma, 140 with carcinoma in situ, and 98 with cervical dysplasia. Successful completion of examination of the marital partner was obtained for 64 of the invasive carcinoma case-control pairs, 108 of the carcinoma in situ pairs, and 74 of the cervical dysplasia pairs. No significant differences were found in the circumcision status of marial partners of cases and controls. This held true even when the invasiv and in situ pairs were combined to provide a series of 172 pairs.

Routine circumcision is gaining popularity in our community, as it is said to be a safe and painless operation in the neonate, and offers improved hygiene. That the circumcised foreskin is cleaner is undisputed, but whether the operation is safe is questioned. This article reviews the common problems encountered, and also reviews the physiology of the foreskin. The pros and cons of circumcision is discussed together with some complications of circumcision. The view is expressed that routine circumcision should not be encouraged.

Preputial smegma samples from 195 beef bulls were collected repeatedly and cultured for Tritrichomonas foetus. Seventy-five (38.5%) of these bulls were positive for trichomonads on at least 1 culture. Sensitivity of the culture procedure (number of positive cultures/number of total cultures from known-positive bulls) was 81.6%. Storage of preputial smegma in lactated Ringer's solution at 5 C for 24 hours resulted in a 14% loss of sensitivity. Seventy-three of the 75 infected bulls were available for treatment and were alloted randomly to 2 groups. Bulls in both groups were treated with procaine penicillin (7,000 IU/kg, IM) for 2 days before ipronidazole treatment. Thirty grams of ipronidazole powder was dissolved in 60 ml of sterile water, and was given IM to group 1 bulls. Group 2 bulls were given a similar 30-g ipronidazole solution IM on day 1, and were given 15 g of ipronidazole dissolved in 30 ml of sterile water on days 2 and 3. Efficacy of treatment (ie, negative cultures of preputial smegma for trichomonads for 6 consecutive weeks after treatment) was 92.8% for the 42 bulls treated once and 100% for the 31 bulls treated 3 times.

The study on vaginal mucous secretion in cows with metritis and vaginitis, on fetuses and placentae of cows that had miscarried as well as on preputial secretion of bulls revealed the presence of Mycoplasma organisms associated with V. fetus and other bacterial species. By their reaction to cholesterol, digitonin, sodium polyanetol sulfonate as well as their serum and temperature requirements, the formation of films and spots, their phosphatase activity and biochemical and serologic behaviour the mycoplasmas isolated from the genital tract of cows were specified as A. laidlawii and A. axanthum. From both cows and bulls T-forms of mycoplasmas were isolated. The strains determined as A. laidlawi showed deviations from the species characteristics by the fermentation of glucose, hydrolysis of esculine, and reduction of 2,3,5-triphenyl-tetrazolium chloride.

All Caucasian women in a large Eastern city who developed pathologically confirmed cervical cancer between 1950 and 1969 are being prospectively followed in an epidemiological test of the venereal hypothesis of cervical carcinogenesis. We are attempting to identify all men who were married to these probands at any time prior to the date of their cancer diagnosis. The ultimate objective is the identification of all the other wives of the proband husbands in order that their risk of cervical cancer be assessed. A random sample of control wives similar to the other wives in age, race, date and place of marriage as well as prior marital status is also being followed. To date, a total of 1,087 other wives and 659 control wives has been fully traced. Cervical cancer or carcinoma in situ was detected in 29 (2.7%) of the other wives and in seven (1.1%) of the control wives. A total of 14.0% of the other wives had either cervical cancer or a cervical cytological specimen which was other than normal. The corresponding statistic for the control wives was 8.0%. These differences in the prevalence of cervical cancer and of non-normal cervical cytology are statistically significant. In the course of this investigation so far, we have identified 29 "marital clusters" of cervical cancer in which two women married to the same man have all developed cervical neoplasms. The observed number of 29 clusters may be compared with an expected number of 11.6. This investigation, as yet incomplete, offers confirmatory evidence of the possible role of venereal factors in the pathogenesis of human cervical neoplasia. While the genital herpesvirus is the likeliest candidate, other venereal elements might also be involved.

Ritual circumcision of males has been practiced for millennia, but was limited to fewer than 20 per cent of the world's population. About a century ago, only the English-speaking countries adopted non-religious circumcision as a prophylactic or therapeutic panacea for myriad ailments. Since these "health" claims are now known to be unsubstantiated, the English-speaking countries either abandoned the practice or reduced the frequency of its performance; the only exception is the United States. This article examines the background for this enigma and suggests solutions.

World-wide incidences of penile cancer are reviewed and epidemiologic factors including ciecumcision, hygiene, phimosis, smegma, irritation, infection, veneral disease, viruses, environment, race, immune response, trauma, and age are discussed. The lowest rates appear in groups practicing infant circumcision and in areas where standards of sexual hygiene are high.