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The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation of new of Sperm Quality Analyzer (SQA-V) with the computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) and manual semen analysis estimates. One hundred five fresh semen samples were analyzed using SQA-V and CASA and manual semen analysis. Significant correlations of sperm concentration (p < 0.0001), sperm motility (p < 0.0001), and normal morphology (p < 0.0001) were observed between SQA-V variables and manual semen analysis estimates. There also were significant correlations of sperm concentration (p < 0.0001), sperm motility (p < 0.0001), and sperm velocity (p = 0.0235) between SQA-V variables and CASA estimates. Meanwhile, it did not correlate with amplitude of lateral head displacement, beat cross frequency, lineality assessed by CASA. The value of the sperm concentration and the sperm motility measured by SQA-V showed high correlations with the value of those measured by CASA and manual semen analysis. In addition, velocity and sperm morphology may also be evaluated to some extent using SQA-V.

Two hundred and seven patients with male infertility were investigated. Total sperm concentration and percent progressive motility by SQA IIB showed high correlations with those of conventional manual method. Percent of normal morphology showed a significant correlation among these techniques. The sperm motility index (SMI) and total functional sperm concentration (TFSC) demonstrated high correlations with any variables of manual analysis. Only velocity and amplitude of lateral head displacement showed significant correlations with the variables obtained by SQA IIB, especially with SMI and TFSC. It was suggested that SQA IIB could be a useful instrument in the clinical practice of infertility as a screening test for semen quality.

Twenty-two idiopathic infertile patients were treated with Oriental herbal medicine, Bu-zhong-yi-qi-tang (Hochu-ekki-to). Seminal plasma sFas level elevated significantly after herb administration. There was an inverse correlation between seminal plasma IL-6 level and sperm concentration before treatment. After the administration of herb seminal plasma, sFas levels significantly correlated with sperm concentration. Seminal plasma IL-8 level did not change. Certain kinds of cytokine in the seminal plasma might play some role in improving semen quality with treatment.

The seminal plasma levels of soluble Fas (sFas) and interleukins IL-6 and IL-8 were measured and their relationship with semen qualities was examined. The seminal plasma sFas level in fertile males was significantly higher than that in the infertile group. On the other hand, seminal plasma level of IL-6 was significantly lower in fertile males than in the infertile group. In the infertile group, patients with oligozoospermia had a lower seminal plasma sFas and a higher IL-6 level than those with normal sperm concentration. There was an inverse correlation between IL-6 and sperm concentration in infertile patients. Seminal plasma IL-8 was not correlated with sperm parameters. It would appear that certain kinds of cytokine in the seminal plasma might play an important role in improving semen quality.

We measured the seminal plasma levels of tissue factor (TF) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in men and examined their relationship with sperm concentration and motility. The study comprised 71 patients in three groups: an infertile group with ( n=11) and without ( n=50) leukocytospermia and a fertile group ( n=10). The seminal plasma levels of TF were significantly higher in the infertile patients than in the fertile ones. The seminal plasma levels of both TF and IL-6 were significantly higher in the infertile patients with leukocytospermia than in those without leukocytospermia. In 54 nonazoopermic cases the seminal plasma levels of TF were significantly correlated with the sperm concentration and sperm motility. Further studies are necessary to clarify the role of TF in human fertilization.

The zinc concentration in seminal plasma from 98 infertile male patients and 8 fertile males was measured. The zinc concentration of the seminal plasma in azoospermic and oligoasthenozoospermic patients was significantly lower than that in the other groups (each, p<0.05 ). The seminal plasma zinc concentration in asthenozoospermic males was significantly higher than that in any other group (p<0.05). There was a positive correlation of zinc concentration with sperm concentration (r=0.33, p<0.05) and with sperm motility (r=0.22, p<0.05), while there was no correlation with sperm morphology. A correlation between zinc concentration and plasma testosterone concentration was observed (r=0.24, p<0.05). It is concluded that excessively high zinc concentration is apparently related to defective motility in asthenozoospermic patients, even though adequate seminal plasma content of the element is required for normal sperm function.

To investigate whether there is a relationship between seminal plasma transferrin concentration and hypoosmotic swelling of the sperm, semen samples from 46 infertile patients were examined. Seminal plasma transferrin concentration in oligozoospermic subjects (sperm concentration < 20 x 10(6)/mL) was significantly lower than that in normozoospermic subjects (sperm concentration > or = 20 x 10(6)/mL) (p < .05). Patients with > or = 50% swollen sperm showed significantly higher transferrin concentration in seminal plasma than those with < 50% swollen sperm (p < .05), while in oligozoospermic patients no difference was observed between seminal plasma transferrin concentration and hypoosmotic swelling. No relationship between seminal plasma transferrin concentration and serum gonadotropin levels was demonstrated. The results indicate that transferrin synthesis is important to sperm membrane integrity and functional competence. However, subsequent fertility must be examined to determine whether seminal plasma transferrin levels are predictive of fertilizing capacity.

Epidermal growth factor (EGF) content in seminal plasma of 17 patients with androgen deficiency (12 Klinefelter's syndrome and 5 hypogonadotropic hypogonadism) was determined before and after hormone replacement. No significant increase of plasma testosterone level was demonstrated after testosterone administration in Klinefelter's syndrome, although the level in 4 of 5 patients with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism reached the normal range. In 16 patients, except 1 with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism with no increase of blood testosterone level, prostate volume increased after hormone therapy, and volumes after treatment were significantly larger than those before treatment. On the other hand, EGF concentration in seminal plasma remained at the pretreatment level in most patients. It is therefore concluded that although the prostate volume increases to almost normal after treatment, prostate function does not improve in most patients, indicating that in patients with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism fertility potential may remain low, even if they obtain normal seminal parameters after treatment.

This study was designed to investigate the functional changes in Sertoli cells following clomiphene citrate administration to patients with idiopathic infertility. The agent was administered to 44 oligozoospermic patients. Patients with improvement in sperm concentration after treatment (improvement group) showed significantly lower pretreatment follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels in serum. Serum FSH and testosterone levels significantly increased in the improvement group after treatment (both p < 0.05). Seminal transferrin concentration significantly increased in the improvement group after treatment (p < 0.05), although there was no significant difference between pretreatment seminal transferrin concentration in the improvement group and that in patients with no improvement in sperm concentration. Seminal plasma transferrin concentration in patients in whom pretreatment luteinizing hormone level in serum was below 10 mIU/mL, and in those in whom the ratio of post- to pretreatment values was 1.5 or more, tended to increase after treatment. This group also contained a few more patients with improvement in sperm concentration than the other groups. The patients showing low pretreatment FSH levels and a high ratio of post- to pretreatment values demonstrated a significant increase in seminal plasma transferrin concentration after treatment (p < 0.01), and this group contained more patients with improvement than the other groups. It would appear that Sertoli cell stimulation may induce an increase in sperm concentration after clomiphene citrate administration, and the elevated transferrin secretion seems to be associated with the increase of serum FSH level after treatment.

Epidermal growth factor (EGF), first identified in extracts from submaxillary salivary glands of adult male mice, acts as a potent mitogen in a wide variety of cells and tissues in culture. Human EGF, a polypeptide of 53 amino acids isolated from human urine, has been identified in several biological fluids, including prostatic fluid and seminal plasma. Epidermal growth factor content in seminal plasma was measured by RIA. The EGF content in seminal fluid did not change after bilateral vasectomy and the first fraction of sample obtained by split ejaculation contained a significantly larger amount of EGF than the second fraction. Seminal EGF originates from the prostate. There was a close correlation between EGF and zinc contents in seminal fluid. The seminal fluid EGF content was lowered in patients with prostatitis and systemic androgen deficiency. The EGF content in seminal fluid seems to be a reliable indicator of prostatic function.

Seminal plasma transferrin concentrations were determined in 155 infertile male patients and in 15 pregnancy-proven fertile males (control group); then the relationship between these concentrations and seminal parameters and plasma hormone levels was investigated. The concentrations of seminal plasma transferrin in patients with a sperm concentration below 20 x 10(6)/ml were significantly lower than those in the control group (p < 0.01). There was no significant difference in seminal plasma transferrin concentration between patients with a sperm concentration of 40 x 10(6)/ml or more and the control patients. A positive correlation was observed between sperm concentration and seminal transferrin content (r = 0.56; p < 0.05). However, correlations between seminal transferrin concentration and sperm motility and between seminal plasma transferrin content and sperm morphology did not show any significance, nor did the seminal transferrin content correlate with plasma LH, FSH, prolactin or testosterone levels. It, therefore, seems that while transferrin is indicative of certain physiopathological conditions in the germ cells, this protein is not a distinctive marker of the fertility potential of an individual.

Bilateral seminal vesicle puncture and injection of drugs with ultrasound guidance were performed in patients with hemospermia resistant to conservative therapy and with dilated seminal vesicles. Of 7 patients 6 had resolution of hemospermia for 2 to 3 months and then relapse. No side effect was noted.

The aim of this study was to evaluate postoperative changes in sperm chromatin heterogeneity in varicocele patients. In 15 infertile patients with varicocele, sperm parameters including concentration, motility, and morphology were evaluated before and after surgical correction of varicocele. Sperm motion analysis using computer-assisted semen analyzer (CASA) was also performed. To analyze the sperm nuclear proteins, the acridine orange staining method was used. On semen analysis, sperm concentration and motility significantly increased after surgery (p = 0.002, p = 0.003, respectively), although sperm morphology was unaltered postoperatively. CASA parameters, including velocity, linearity, amplitude of lateral head displacement and beat cross frequency were unaltered postoperatively. On the other hand, acridine orange staining significantly increased postoperatively (p = 0.002). Varicocele influences the sperm chromatin condition, as well as sperm concentration and motility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Dietary supplementation of trace minerals (zinc, copper and manganese) has positive effects on various aspects of reproductive performance of farm animals and it has a strong antioxidant effect on sperm function. Also, feeding with trace minerals affects the functional structure of sperm cells and increases the quality of sperm for cryopreservation because it may lead to cell damage, production of reactive oxygen species and reducing the antioxidant capacity of seminal plasma. The objective of this study was to investigate whether dietary supplementation of zinc, copper and manganese affected on sperm motion characteristics, percentage of viability, sperm membrane integrity after thawing, and flow cytometry tests including apoptosis, hydrogen peroxide and molecular oxygen. Materials and Methods: Ten mature Afshari rams were all fed a nutritionally adequate diet for 70 days, from the end of September to the beginning of December. Half of the rams were randomly designated to receive dietary supplementation with a sulfate source of zinc, copper and manganese once daily for 70 days, starting 1 week after the study began. All ejaculates were diluted with a Tris-based cryoprotective extender. The extended semen was subsequently loaded into 0. 5 mL plastic straws and then they were frozen by the bio-freezer machine. One week after freezing, three straws of each ram were thawed and evaluated for sperm motion characteristics by computerassisted-semen-analysis system, hypoosmotic swelling test and live sperm percentage. In addition, we examined hydrogen peroxide, molecular oxygen and apoptosis in frozen sperm. Proc Mixed was used for analysis of repeated measures data. Results: Motion characteristics, percentage of sperm viability and sperm membrane integrity after thawing in the Supplemented group was relatively stable and significantly higher than in the Control group from day 28 onwards (P<0/05). At the end of this research, the levels of hydrogen peroxide, molecular oxygen, early apoptosis, late apoptosis and necrosis in the control group were significantly higher than the Supplemented group (P<0/05). The average number of live sperm in the Supplement group increased slightly at the end of the research period outside the breeding season, but it was not significant compared to the beginning of the period, but this rate at the end of the period was significantly higher than that of the Control group (P<0.05). Conclusion: The results showed that the simultaneous supplementation of zinc, copper and manganese elements, even after the reproductive season, can have beneficial effects on the quality and freezing ability of sperm after thawing and prevent the creation of reactive oxygen species and the occurrence of apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Androloji Bülteni (Andrology Bullettin) is the property of BAYT Ltd. Co and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Varicocele is one of the main causes of male infertility. Although the pathophysiology mechanism of varicocele is very well described and understood, there are some unanswered questions that remains unknown. Some studies have previously described the state of testicular inflammation and sperm in animal models, especially the mouse model, and the seminal plasma of men with varicocele, with or without changes in semen parameters. Methods of study: This review intended to verify the role of inflammatory mechanism in varicocele, using clinical studies as well as animal model studies on the effect of inflammation caused by varicocele on the function of testicular somatic and germ cells. Results: In‐vivo studies confirmed whether anti‐inflammatory molecules could treat the semen of men with varicocele and rats with varicocele. The use of different anti‐inflammatory agents in mouse model studies provided a new perspective for future clinical studies to investigate the effect of concurrent treatment with surgery to improve surgical outcomes. Conclusion: Similar to animal model studies, previously conducted clinical trials have demonstrated the effectiveness of anti‐inflammatory therapy in varicocele patients. However, clinical trials using anti‐inflammatory are needed to be conducted agents to evaluate different aspects of this therapeutical approach in varicocele patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: A live motile sperm sorting device (LensHooke® CA0) developed to prevent the deleterious effects of centrifugation was evaluated comparatively with conventional density-gradient centrifugation (DGC) and microfluidic-based device (Zymot) in sperm selection. Methods: Semen samples from 239 men were collected. CA0 under different incubation intervals (5, 10, 30, and 60 min) and temperatures (20, 25, and 37℃) was conducted. The sperm quality in CA0-, DGC-, and Zymot-processed samples was then comparatively evaluated. Semen parameters included concentration, motility, morphology, motion kinematics, DNA fragmentation index (DFI), and the rate of acrosome-reacted sperm (AR). Results: Total motility and motile sperm concentration increased in a time- and temperature-dependent manner and the total motility peaked for 30 min at 37℃. In paired analysis, CA0 showed significantly higher total motility (94.0%), progressive motility (90.8%), rapid progressive motility (83.6%), normal morphology (10.3%), and lower DFI (2.4%) and AR (4.7%) than the other two methods in normozoospermic samples (all p < 0.05). For non-normozoospermic samples, CA0 had significantly better results than the other two methods (total motility 89.2%, progressive motility 80.4%, rapid progressive motility 74.2%, normal morphology 8.5%, DFI 4.0%, and AR 4.0%; all p < 0.05). Conclusion: CA0 yielded spermatozoa with enhanced sperm fertilization potentials; DFI was minimized in samples processed by CA0. CA0 was effective for both normal and abnormal semen samples due to its consistent selection efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Male infertility is an emerging health issue in the world today. Surgical interventions for the treatment of male infertility are available but are quite expensive. Herbal interventions pose a popular alternative for the treatment of infertility. However, much has to be learned regarding their safety and efficacy. Objective: The aim of the study was to investigate the efficacy of herbal interventions in male infertility and also assess the possibility of these interventions as complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in the future. Method: From inception until 16 December 2021, all articles emphasizing the efficacy of herbal interventions in the treatment of male infertility are included in this review. Seven databases are searched. The literature obtained is screened and extracted. Semen parameters, hormonal concentration, and conception are the outcomes of interest. Results: A total of 19 articles were included in this review. Herbal interventions might improve semen parameters in males with infertility. Among all the interventions, Hochu-ekki-to and W. somnifera have shown the most promising results and should be studied further in a larger sample size. Conclusion: This systematic review has demonstrated the efficacy of herbal interventions, especially Hochu-ekki-to and W. somnifera, in treatingmale infertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hematospermia or hemospermia is traditionally defined as the presence of fresh or altered blood in semen. Several factors might cause hematospermia, including infectious, inflammatory, iatrogenic, traumatic, structural, neoplastic, vascular, and systemic factors. The main aim of evaluation is to identify significant or treatable underlying causes of hematospermia and to re-assure the patient if no causative factor is detected after full evaluation. This review aims novel management of hematospermia, including a detailed history, physical examination, appropriate laboratory investigations, and diagnostic imaging, based on underlying causes of hematospermia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Basic & Clinical Andrology is the property of BioMed Central and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: A widely studied model of hypoxia is represented by high altitude (HA). Hence, HA hypoxia (HAH) is a challenge for people residing in or visiting high altitudes (Young and Reeves, 2002). Adaptation to HAH affects the homeostasis of several organs and the endocrine and metabolic functions. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of HAH on the rat's semen and oxidative stress parameters. Methods: This experimental study was carried out at Abha city, Saudi Arabia, high altitude, 2,800 m above sea level; Jazan city, 43 m above sea level, low altitude. A total of 72 rats were used in this study—8 rats as control; groups 1, 2, and 3 each of 8 rats and group 4 of 40 rats were kept at high altitude for 8, 16, 24, and 32 days, respectively. From group 4, 32 rats were taken to low altitude to testify the reversibility of the semen parameters. Results: There were significant gradual decreases in the number and motility of the epididymal sperms in groups of rats exposed to HA during the first 3 weeks of HA exposure (HG1-HG3) with a maximum decreases to be seen in HG3 (-- 57.3 and -- 39.1%, respectively). However, the sperm count started to recover gradually on week 4 of HA exposure (HG4) and during all the periods of the reversal protocol achieved by returning the rats to the LA area (RG1-RG4). The maximum improvement in the sperm count and motility was seen in RG3 and RG4 which were not significantly different when compared with each other. The ANOVA test revealed that, in spite of the improvement in the sperm count which reach (109.3 ± 6.057 and 113.9 ± 8.967) in RG3 and RG4, their levels remained significantly low as those obtained in the control LA rats (129.2 ± 11.67). Conclusion: Exposure of rats to hypoxia resulted in a decrease in the sperm count and motility and an increase in the sperm morphological abnormalities. To conclude, the current study showed that the adverse effect of hypobaric hypoxia on semen parameters is transient and reversible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Male infertility may be caused by genetic and/or environmental factors that impair spermatogenesis and sperm maturation. High-altitude (HA) hypoxic environments represent one of the most serious challenges faced by humans that reside in these areas. To assess the influence of the plateau environment on semen parameters, 2,798 males, including 1,111 native Tibetans and 1,687 Han Chinese individuals living in the plains (HCILP) who underwent pre-pregnancy checkups, were enrolled in this study. The semen samples of males were evaluated to determine conventional sperm parameters, sperm morphology, and sperm movement. Reproductive endocrine hormones (REHs) were detected in 474 males, including 221 Tibetans and 253 HCILP. Due to recurrent abortions in partners, the DNA fragmentation index (DFI) of 133 native Tibetans and 393 HCILP individuals was further compared. Luteinizing hormone (LH) (4.94 ± 2.12 vs. 3.29 ± 1.43 U/L), prolactin (11.34 ± 3.87 vs. 8.97 ± 3.48 nmol/L), E2/T (0.22 ± 0.11 vs 0.11 ± 0.05), median total sperm motility (61.20% vs. 51.56%), and DFI (23.11% vs. 7.22%) were higher in males from plateau areas while median progressive motility (PR) (35.60% vs. 41.12%), total number of PR sperms (51.61 vs. 59.63 mil/ejaculate), percentage of normal form sperms (3.70% vs. 6.00%), curvilinear velocity (36.10 vs. 48.97 μm/s), straight-line (rectilinear) velocity (14.70 vs. 31.52 μm/s), estradiol (103.82 ± 45.92 vs. 146.01 ± 39.73 pmol/L), progesterone (0.29 ± 0.27 vs. 2.22 ± 0.84 nmol/L), testosterone (4.90 ± 1.96 vs. 14.36 ± 5.24 nmol/L), and testosterone secretion index (ratio of testosterone to LH) (33.45 ± 22.86 vs 145.78 ± 73.41) were lower than those in males from the plains. There was no difference in median total sperm number (157.76 vs. 151.65 mil/mL), sperm concentration (52.40 vs. 51.79 mil/mL), volume (3.10 vs. 3.10 mL), total normal form sperms (5.91 vs. 6.58 mil/ejaculate, p50), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels (4.13 ± 2.55 U/L vs 3.82 ± 2.35 U/L) between the two groups of males. The REH and sperm parameters of males from HA hypoxic environments were adaptively altered. Although the total number of PR sperm decreased and DFI increased, the Tibetan population that lives at HAs has been found to grown continuously and rapidly. These results supplement prior findings regarding the impact of HA on male reproductive function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Androloji Bülteni (Andrology Bullettin) is the property of BAYT Ltd. Co and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Male subfertility has been associated with bacterial infections and chronic inflammation. In this context, several studies investigated cytokine levels in seminal plasma, whereas interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) appears to be crucial. However, little is known about its receptor, the IL‐6R expression on human spermatozoa. Thus, the aim of the present study was to screen spermatozoa for IL‐6R expression and to identify its localisation. Semen samples of 137 patients (median age 37.69, SD ± 7.82) with subfertility were analysed. Sperm analysis including determination of IL‐6 was performed following the World Health Organization criteria. Also, flow cytometry was performed for sperm IL‐6R expression. IL‐6R+ cells were used for immunofluorescence staining to identify receptor localisation. The results showed positive staining for IL‐6R in the midpiece of spermatozoa. Furthermore, a significant correlation between sperm IL‐6R expression, seminal plasma IL‐6 and total sperm count could be demonstrated, whereas a negative correlation was observed in sperm IL‐6R expression and motility. However, no statistical significance could be observed between IL‐6R expression, vitality and morphology. Moreover, incubation of spermatozoa with IL‐6 led to a slight but significant decrease in motility after 24 hr. These data suggest that IL‐6R expression may play a role in impaired sperm function during inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. Deleterious effects from the freeze-thawing process on post-thawed sperm quality attributes are main limiting factors in cryopreservation. The current study was conducted to determine the effect of semen extender containing zinc oxide (ZnO) on post-thaw rooster sperm quality indices. 2. Semen samples from six, 60-week-old broiler breeder roosters were collected weekly during five successive weeks. The samples were mixed and divided into three equal parts and diluted with semen extender containing different levels of ZnO; 0 (ZnO-0), 1 (ZnO-1) or 2 (ZnO-2) µg/ml. After thawing, motility and velocity parameters, plasma membrane functionality, apoptotic like changes, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and DNA fragmentation index (DFI) were evaluated. 3. Results showed that the addition of ZnO in the extender quadratically affected (P < 0.01) total motility (TM), progressive motility (PM), and average path velocity (VAP) with the highest values were noted in the ZnO-1 group. Levels of ZnO quadratically affected percentages of live (P < 0.01), apoptotic (P < 0.03) and dead (P < 0.10) spermatozoa, where the highest percentage of live, and the lowest percentage of apoptotic or dead spermatozoa was for the ZnO-1 group. Although adding ZnO quadratically affected plasma membrane functionality and MMP (P < 0.01), it did not affect (P > 0.05) DFI. 4. In conclusion, there were some beneficial effects of ZnO supplementation in semen extender on post-thawed rooster sperm quality which may result in a better freezability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The declining trend of male fecundity is a major global health and social concern. Among numerous other confounding factors, variations in male fertility parameters in different regions have repeatedly been suggested to be influenced by geographic locations. The impact of overall lifestyle, behavioural patterns, ethnicity, work stress and associated factors upon health differ greatly between developed and developing countries. These factors, individually or in combination, affect male reproductive functions ensuing the discrepancies in semen qualities in connection with geographic variations. However, reports comparing semen characteristics between developed and developing countries are sparse. The present study finds its novelty in presenting a comparison in semen parameters of infertile men in the United States (n = 76) that fairly represents the population of a highly developed region and Iraq (n = 102), the representative of male populations of a developing region. Samples were collected and analysed according to WHO (WHO laboratory manual for the examination and processing of human semen, WHO; 2010) criteria by means of the Mann–Whitney test. The US population demonstrated lower sperm concentration, total count, and total and progressive sperm motility with a higher seminal total antioxidant capacity (TAC) as compared to the Iraqi population. This report encourages further investigations concerning the confounding factors leading to such alterations in semen qualities between these two geographic areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Optimal strategies to treat idiopathic male infertility have remained unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of combination antioxidant therapy with several vitamins and supplements on semen parameters. Methods: Thirty‐one men with oligozoospermia and/or asthenozoospermia evaluated by a Makler counting chamber were randomly assigned to two treatment groups: a combination of antioxidant supplements (L‐carnitine, zinc, astaxanthin, coenzyme Q10, vitamin C, vitamin B12, and vitamin E) and a Chinese herbal medicine, hochu‐ekki‐to (HE). Serum endocrinological profiles and semen parameters, especially total motile sperm count, were compared between before and after 12 weeks of treatment in both groups. Results: In the supplement group, endocrinological findings were not significantly improved. The semen parameters of semen volume, sperm concentration, and sperm motility were not statistically significantly improved, whereas total motile sperm count was significantly improved. In contrast, none of the endocrinological factors or semen findings were significantly improved by the Chinese herbal medicine although semen concentration, semen motility, and total motile sperm count showed a tendency to increase. Conclusion: Because combination antioxidant therapy could improve sperm motility significantly for patients with idiopathic oligoasthenozoospermia, our supplement could be one treatment option for idiopathic male infertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because of few available data on semen parameters in small breed dogs, the study aimed to analyse semen and measure testes of dogs ≤10.0 kg bodyweight. Semen was collected from 41 fertile stud dogs, which were divided based on bodyweight: group 1 ≤ 5.0 kg and group 2 between 5.1 and 10.0 kg. Median values for ejaculate volume (group 1:x~ 1.2 ml; group 2: x~ 2.2 ml), total sperm output (group 1: x~ 110.7 × 106; group 2: x~ 215.1 × 106) and testicular volume (group 1: left testicle x~ 2.8 ml, right testicle x~ 2.7 ml; group 2: left testicle x~ 5.5 ml, right testicle x~ 5.0 ml) were lower in group 1 compared to dogs of group 2 (p = .001; p = .001; both testes: p < .001). There was no difference in sperm concentration (p = .985). Based on these results, introduction of an additional weight group to the commonly used reference values is recommended, since values for ejaculate volume, total sperm output and testicular dimensions for dogs ≤5.0 kg bodyweight differed significantly from values of dogs with a bodyweight from 5.1 to 10.0 kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sperm capacitation is essential for proper fertilization and is associated with increased sperm hyperactivity (HA) and acrosome reaction (AR). For successful fertilization, AR timing is critical; accordingly, early spontaneous AR may not facilitate fertilization. Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) possesses antioxidant properties which affect sperm capacitation. The association between PON1, semen parameters, and capacitation is not fully understood. Objective: To study PON1 activity in relation to human sperm hyperactivity and AR. Materials and Methods: Semen samples were collected, and parameters were determined (volume, concentration, total sperm count, percentage total motility, and percentage normal morphology) according to World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. AR and hyperactivity were evaluated using FITC‐PSA, staining, and computer‐aided sperm analysis (CASA). PON1 activity was assessed using arylesterase activity assay. Results: Purified PON1 inhibited both sperm hyperactivity and AR in a dose‐dependent manner. Native semen PON1 activity was positively associated with higher sperm concentration and negatively associated with spontaneous acrosome reaction (sAR). Discussion and conclusion: PON1 may have a positive effect on fertility via its ability to prevent early spontaneous sperm capacitation and AR before reaching the female genital tract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: In a case‐controlled study, we assessed the expressed seminal NAD‐dependent protein deacetylase (SIRT1) expression in infertile oligoasthenoteratozoospermic (OAT) men associated with varicocoele. Our study involved 81 men, recruited from the University hospitals, after ethical approval and informed consent. They were allocated into fertile normozoospermic men (n = 23), infertile OAT men without varicocoele (n = 23) and infertile OAT men with varicocoele (n = 35). Inclusion criteria consisted of confirmation of abnormal semen parameters and normal female partners whereas exclusion criteria were leukocytospermia, tobacco smoking, hormonal therapy, immunological disorders, dyslipidemia, hypogonadism, cardiovascular disorders, morbid obesity, and hepatic or renal failures. All participants had an interview to assess clinical history, clinical examination, semen analysis, and estimation of seminal SIRT1 expression. Seminal SIRT1 expression was significantly lower in infertile OAT men than fertile men. Among infertile OAT men, seminal SIRT1 expression was significantly lower in those with varicocoele than in those without. Additionally, seminal SIRT1 expression was significantly lower in varicocoele grade III cases compared with other grades. Seminal SIRT1 expression was positively correlated with sperm concentration (r = 0.327, p = 0.001), total sperm motility (r = 0.532, p = 0.001), and sperm normal forms (r = 0.469, p = 0.001). Our results suggest that seminal SIRT1 expression has a role of male infertility being significantly decreased in infertile OAT men in general and in infertile OAT men associated with varicocoele in particular. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To prospectively investigate the longitudinal effect of ejaculatory abstinence on MRI-measured seminal vesicle (SV) volume and whole-prostate ADC over consecutive days.Methods: 15 healthy male volunteers (mean 35.9 years, range 27-53) underwent 3-T MRI at baseline and 1, 2 and 3 days post-ejaculation. Prostate and SV volumes were derived by volume segmentation and whole-gland apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values calculated. A mixed-effects linear regression compared ADC values and prostate/seminal vesicle volumes in each volunteer between studies in a pairwise manner.Results: All subjects completed the four MRIs. Mean prostate volume was 22.45 cm3 (range 13.04-31.21 cm3), with no change between the four studies (p = 0.89-0.99). 13/15 subjects showed SV volume reduction from baseline to day 1, with group-mean decreasing from 6.45 to 4.80 cm3 (-25.6%, p < 0.001), and a significant reduction from baseline to day 2 (-18.1%, p = 0.002). There was a significant volume increase from both day 1 (+21.3%, p = 0.006) and day 2 (+10.2%, p = 0.022) to day 3 post-ejaculation. There was a significant reduction in ADC from 1.105 at baseline to 1.056 × 10-3 mm2/s at day 1 (mean -4.3%, p = 0.009).Conclusion: The longitudinal effect of ejaculation on SV volume was demonstrated. Significant reductions in SV volume and whole-gland ADC were observed post-ejaculation, supporting a 3-day period of abstinence before prostate MRI.Key Points: • Seminal vesicle volume significantly reduced 24 h post-ejaculation remaining reduced at day 2 • Seminal vesicle fluid volume significantly increased from day 1 to day 3 post-ejaculation • There was a significant reduction in whole-gland prostate ADC values day 1 post-ejaculation • 3-day abstinence from ejaculation is required to ensure maximal seminal vesicle distension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have given conflicting results about the effect of generally infection and Chlamydia trachomatis on seminal ILs and semen parameters. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between semen quality and the level of seminal interleukins ( ILs) in infertile couples with C. trachomatis. Blood, first void urine ( FVU) and semen were obtained from 250 infertile men who had failed to conceive after 12 months of trying. Serological analysis for specific IgA, IgM and IgG antibodies to C. trachomatis in serum, the presence of C. trachomatis in FVU and semen sample and semen analysis were carried out. The main results are as follows: (i) elevated IL-6 and IL-8 are observed in C. trachomatis-positive men, but this is not significant and it varies by diagnostic method; and (ii) IL-6 and IL-8 levels were correlated with each other and the concentration of leucocytes, but IL-8 was correlated with semen volume and patient's age. This study showed that men with such an infection in FVU samples ( PCR positive) had only lower semen volume compared with men without infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Kafkas Universitesi Veteriner Fakultesi Dergisi is the property of University of Kafkas, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The hypo-osmotic swelling test ( HOST) is widely used as a valuable test for determining sperm quality by evaluating the membrane integrity of spermatozoa of various domestic animals including cattle, horses and swine. The HOST has also been used as an indicator of the fertilising capacity of spermatozoa. This test is based on the swelling ability when functional spermatozoa submitted to hypo-osmotic solutions. This test is commonly used as an important parameter for the evaluation of semen due to its strong correlation with semen evaluation parameters. The objective of this review was to analyse its significance in semen evaluation, swelling of spermatozoa under various osmolarities and variations in swelling percentage under different seasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Semen samples from 40 patients were collected in consecutive fractions. The variability in semen quality of each fraction was then determined. The first ejaculated fraction (FEF) primarily contained prostatic secretions, while the second ejaculate fraction (SEF) held the majority of the spermatozoa suspended in the secretions from the seminal vesicle. Differences in sperm quality were observed when the FEF was compared to the SEF and the total ejaculate fraction (TEF). These included the seminal parameters (volume, sperm concentration, motility) and sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF). When compared to TEF and SEF, the FEF presented a lower volume, higher sperm concentration, higher motility rates, and lower SDF. The data suggest that the first fraction renders an improved subpopulation of spermatozoa, with lower SDF. Spermatozoa from this fraction and hence their use for ART may have a positive effect on fertilization and embryo development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many drugs have been reported to impair semen parameters, leading to temporary or persistent infertility. Therefore, potential fathers may be concerned about the effect of medications on fertility. We searched the MEDLINE database of articles in English combining key terms including 'male infertility,' 'spermatogenesis,' 'fertility,' 'drug effects,' and 'dermatology.' Administration of methotrexate and finasteride has resulted in severe oligospermia and reversible infertility. Ketoconazole has had negative effects on sperm motility and testosterone production. Few individual case reports and a limited number of studies have demonstrated negative effects of tetracyclines, erythromycin, chloroquine, glucocorticoids, spironolactone, and antihistamines on fertility. It is important to counsel male patients when appropriate about the reversible negative effect on fertility when taking methotrexate and finasteride, and the adverse effect of ketoconazole. Patients may be reassured that taking oral retinoids, cyclosporine, azathioprine, and tumor necrosis factor alpha inhibitors should not affect their fertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compared the sperm nuclear vacuoles and semen quality in the evaluation of male infertility. One hundred and forty-two semen samples were obtained from patients who visited the Male Infertility Clinic at Toyama University Hospital. Semen samples were evaluated by conventional semen analyses and the Sperm Motility Analysis System (SMAS). In addition, spermatozoa were analyzed at 3,700-6,150x magnification on an inverted microscope equipped with DIC/Nomarski differential interference contrast optics. A large nuclear vacuole (LNV) was defined as one or more vacuoles with the maximum diameter showing > 50% width of the sperm head. The percentage of spermatozoa with LNV (% LNV) was calculated for each sample. Correlations between the % LNV and parameters in SMAS and conventional semen analyses were analyzed. Processed motile spermatozoa from each sample were evaluated. The mean age of patients was 35 years old. Semen volume was 2.9 ± 1.6mL (0.1-11.0; mean ± standard deviation, minimum-maximum), sperm count was 39.3 ± 54.9 (x106/mL, 0.01-262.0), sperm motility was 25.1 ± 17.8% (0-76.0), and normal sperm morphology was 10.3 ± 10.1% (0-49.0). After motile spermatozoa selection, we could evaluate % LNV in 125 ejaculates (88.0%) and at least one spermatozoon with LNV was observed in 118 ejaculates (94.4%). The percentage of spermatozoa with LNV was 28.0 ± 22.4% (0-100) and % LNV increased significantly when semen quality decreased. The correlation between the % LNV and the semen parameters was weak to moderate; correlation coefficients were -0.3577 in sperm count ( p < 0.0001), -0.2368 in sperm motility ( p = 0.0084), -0.2769 in motile sperm count ( p = 0.019), -0.2419 in total motile sperm count ( p = 0.0070), and -0.1676 in normal sperm morphology ( p = 0.0639). The % LNV did not show a significant correlation with the SMAS parameters except for weak correlation to beat/cross frequency (r = -0.2414, p = 0.0071). The percentage of spermatozoa with LNV did not have a strong correlation with parameters in conventional semen analysis and SMAS in the patients with male infertility; however, a certain level of negative influence of LNV to sperm quality cannot be excluded. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP), a neuropeptide with diverse effects, was originally isolated as a hypothalamo-hypophyseal peptide. Subsequent studies showed highest levels of PACAP in the testis after the brain, suggesting that it influences the development and functioning of spermatozoa. Indeed, it has been proven that PACAP has an effect on spermatogenesis, both locally and via influencing the hypothalamo-hypophyseal-gonadal axis. The aim of the present study was to determine whether PACAP has an effect on human sperm motility and whether it is present in the human seminal fluid. Furthermore, the sperm head morphology was studied in mice lacking endogenous PACAP. Human samples were obtained from healthy adult volunteers and andrological patients. The effects of PACAP on the motility of human sperm cells were investigated using a computer aided sperm analysis system. In cases where the motility was lower, addition of PACAP to the samples increased the motility and the ratio of rapid progressive and medium progressive sperm motility groups. The presence of PACAP could not be detected in human seminal fluid samples by means of mass spectrometry. Investigating sperm head morphology with routine histology in PACAP deficient mice revealed that both the longitudinal and transverse diameters were significantly lower in PACAP deficient mice, without marked difference in the shape, as revealed by scanning electron microscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We retrospectively reviewed infertile Japanese males for testicular volume discrepancies (D) and semen parameters to evaluate whether left grade II-III varicoceles (V) cause testicular damage. Methods: Seventy-seven patients who had idiopathic male infertility and 88 who had V without other causes of infertility were examined. We excluded cases of azoospermia. Testicular volume was measured using a punched-out orchidometer. D was defined as a size difference of at least 3 ml. The frequency of D was compared between the patients with and without V. The semen parameters were reviewed in association with D and V. Results: The mean left and right testicular volumes were 19.4 and 20.1 ml, respectively ( p < 0.001). D with a smaller left testis was more common in V+ cases than in V− cases (26.1 vs. 13.0%, p = 0.0351). The sperm count and motility were also significantly lower ( p = 0.0213 and p = 0.0217, respectively) in the D+ patients with a smaller left testicular volume. Conclusions: In the patients with V, D was more common than in those without V. The semen parameters were worse if D was present in the patients with V. These results indicated that V could induce testicular atrophy and negatively affect semen quality. Therefore, the ipsilateral reduced testicular volume is considered to be a sign of persisting testicular damage by V. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Zinc in human seminal plasma is divided into three types of ligands which are high (HMW), intermediate (IMW), and low molecular weight ligands (LMW). The present study was aimed to study the effect of Zn supplementation on the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of semen along with Zinc Binding Protein levels in the seminal plasma in asthenozoospermic patients. Methods: Semen samples were obtained from 37 fertile and 37 asthenozoospermic infertile men with matched age. The subfertile group was treated with zinc sulfate, every participant took two capsules per day for three months (each one 220mg). Semen samples were obtained (before and after zinc sulfate supplementation). After liquefaction seminal fluid at room temperature, routine semen analyses were performed. For determination of the amount of zinc binding proteins, the gel filtration of seminal plasma on Sephadex G-75 was performed. All the fractions were investigated for protein and for zinc concentration by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Evaluation of chromatograms was made directly from the zinc concentration in each fraction. Results: A significant high molecular weight zinc binding ligands percentage (HMW-Zn %) was observed in seminal plasma of fertile males compared with subfertile males. However, seminal low molecular weight ligands (LMW-Zn) have opposite behavior. The mean value of semen volume, progressive sperm motility percentage and total normal sperm count were increased after zinc sulfate supplementation. Conclusions: Zinc supplementation restores HMW-Zn% in seminal plasma of asthenozoospermic subjects to normal value. Zinc supplementation elevates LMW-Zn% in seminal plasma of asthenozoospermic subjects to more than normal value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aimed to assess seminal plasma heme oxygenase (HO) enzyme activity in oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT) males with varicocele. Ninety-three men were divided according to their sperm count and clinical examination into: healthy fertile controls ( n = 34), OAT without varicocele ( n = 37) and OAT associated with varicocele ( n = 22). They were subjected to semen analysis and estimation of seminal plasma HO enzyme activity in the form of bilirubin concentration. Seminal plasma HO enzyme activity decreased significantly in OAT cases compared with controls. Seminal plasma HO in OAT cases associated with varicocele decreased significantly compared with OAT cases without varicocele and healthy controls (mean ± SD; 109.2 ± 29.5, 283.6 ± 88.4, 669.5 ± 236.1 nMol bilirubin/mg ptn/min, P < 0.001). There was positive correlation between seminal plasma HO enzyme activity and sperm concentration, per cent of motile spermatozoa, number of motile spermatozoas ml−1 and significant negative correlation with sperm abnormal forms per cent. It is concluded that varicocele has a negative impact on seminal HO enzyme activity. Therefore, improved seminal picture after correcting varicocele repair might be related, in part, to improved HO action(s). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences is the property of Scientific and Technical Research Council of Turkey and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Prostasomes are prostate-derived organelles in seminal plasma exhibiting pluripotent properties to facilitate the fertilization process. Seminal prostasome concentration, size distribution and expression of the prostasomal surface antigens CD10, CD13, CD26 and CD59 were examined by flow cytometry. The study group consisted of 79 men with involuntary infertility. Very strong correlations existed between the prostasome expressions of the different CD markers. Significant correlations between prostasome concentration and CD molecules were weak or lacking. Further, no or weak relationships were observed between the prostasomal CD markers and sperm morphology, seminal fructose, neutral α-glucosidase activity, zinc and tumour necrosis factor α concentrations. Flow cytometry is a practical way to study prostasomes in seminal fluid without prior separation. This is a new technique for evaluation of the role of prostasomes and their functions in male reproductive physiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Progress in diagnosis of infertility, has been dramatically increased during the past decades with changes occurring in virtually all aspects of infertility research, thus providing innovative diagnostic testing and sophisticated instrumentation for improved management and treatment of infertility. There are about 50% of infertile couples who are suffering because of male infertility. Semen examination is a basic investigation for these infertile couples. It not only reveals the quantity and quality of sperm but also the quality of the seminal plasma, which is essential for normal sperm function. In this review, the recent advancement in investigation procedures has been analyzed which are very important in clinical practice to (a) evaluate the sperm fertilizing ability (Acrosin, aniline blue, HOS), (b) characterization of male accessory sex glands secretions (Fructose, alpha-glucosidase, PSA) and (c) the management of azoospermic patients. It is believed that use of such diagnostic procedures will facilitate wide selection of patients for whom an effective therapy might be then possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous independent studies have indicated that abnormally low parameters of sperm DNA integrity and sperm membrane integrity correlate to reduced fertility due in part to implantation disorders. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the relationship between sperm plasma membrane functional integrity assessed by the hypo-osmotic swelling test (HOST) and sperm DNA integriy test assesed by DNA fragmentation index (DFI). Semen samples from 102 random patients were evaluated in terms of standard semen parameters and assessed by DFI and HOST. Both tests showed a significant correlation to standard semen parameters (p <.05). In addition, patients with abnormal HOST results had a higher likehood of a subnormal or abnormal DFI result (p<.001). Our results suggest that a common sublethal insult may manifest as abnormalities in both the nucleus and the plasma membrane that act at the implantation and/or subsequent levels of development rather than at the fertilization stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The resazurin reduction assay depends on the ability of metabolically active cells to reduce the resazurin redox dye to resorufin. In the present study we applied and made a diagnostic evaluation of a spectrophotometric application of the resazurin reduction assay to assess the colour change of resazurin reduction in butanol extracted colour to evaluate boar semen quality. Forty-one samples of boar semen from various breeds were included in the study. The absorption peaks for resazurin and resorufin were found to be 610 and 575 nm, respectively. Absorbance at 610 nm, where the minimum overlap of the two peaks was observed, was used in further analysis. Spearman rank correlation analysis was used to determine the correlation between the resazurin reduction assay and various semen parameters. The highest correlations were observed with the concentration of motile spermatozoa ( r = −0.841; p < 0.001), sperm concentration ( r = −0.833; p < 0.001), sperm index (−0.826; p < 0.001) and concentration of viable spermatozoa ( r = −0.763; p < 0.001). Sensitivity and specificity, at 94.1 and 91.7%, respectively, indicate that the present test is highly accurate in discriminating between the samples according to the sperm index. When motile sperm concentration was used to distinguish between good and poor samples, high sensitivity (93.6%) was also found, whereas the test was only moderately, 80%, specific. The stability of butanol extracts in terms of A610 at different times of measurement confirmed that the resazurin reduction could be spectrophotometrically measured within 7 days from the time of assay performance, making the assay much more useful. Based on these results, the assay could be used as an additional tool for evaluating the quality of boar semen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are several unknown factors which cause haemospermia . An earlier developed diagnostic scheme has been expended by novel imaging techniques and biopsy methods . A detailed case history, physical examination and microscopic analysis of the ejaculate is required. In haemo-pyospermia a complete microbiological analysis must be escalated. Noninvasive imaging techniques (ultrasound, computer tomography and magnetic resonance imaging) help in detecting calculous and malignant diseases. So far, as a precise diagnosis has not been available, urethroscopy has been performed. Malignancies (prostate, seminal vesicles) must be histologically verified by biopsies. In contempt of our efforts the practice shows a part of haemospermia remaining essential. Analysing two time periods we found prostatic calculi, chronic prostatitis and carcinoma of the prostate unequivocally as most frequent causes. Considering the rare genital malignancies we find more than 10% frequency. Notably, in our study only 2.4% of the malignancies occurred in patients under 40 years of age. Hence a detailed diagnosis is advocated in haemospermia patients over 40 years. Finally, we may state that in contempt of the applied modern imaging techniques 15% of patients with haemospermia had unknown aetiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyclosporine A (CsA) is known to have testicular toxicity, leading to male infertility. The occurrence of numerous anomalous spermatids and residual bodies in the epididymal ducts of rats treated with CsA was observed in our previous studies. To examine the fine structural changes of impaired spermiogenesis induced by CsA, rats were treated s.c. with 40 mg/kg/day CsA for 2 weeks. Desquamation of round spermatids still surrounded by a slender Sertoli cell cytoplasm was occasionally observed. A prominent change in the seminiferous tubules was an occurrence of numerous residual bodies containing one or more flagella. They were not phagocytosed by the Sertoli cell, and accumulated in the epididymal ducts. Cellular components in the epididymal lumen included degenerating round spermatids and abnormal spermatozoa and residual bodies. Although separation of the head from the tail of the spermatozoa was rarely seen, various kinds of abnormalities of flagella were frequently encountered; compact aggregation of numerous flagella in a single spermatozoon or residual body, disarrangement of mitochondrial or fibrous sheath with outer dense fibers, and fusion of flagella with a single intervening mitochondrial layer. These findings indicate that CsA gives rise to toxic effects on the spermiogenesis by impairing directly the spermiogenic cell development and by impeding Sertoli cell function including a reduction of its phagocytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]