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Copyright of Revista Foco (Interdisciplinary Studies Journal) is the property of Revista Foco 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.)

Copyright of Cirugía y Cirujanos is the property of Publicidad Permanyer SLU 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 reintroduced population of Mexican gray wolves (Canis lupus baileyi) continues to rely on a carefully managed captive breeding program. Although success of that program depends on detailed knowledge of reproductive processes, age of puberty has not been determined. This study assessed male puberty status (presence of sperm in ejaculates), maintained in nine US facilities, during their first breeding season. Variables possibly associated with puberty were also evaluated. There was a significant effect of body weight, testis size, facility latitude, and date of collection, whereas a statistical trend was found for age and inbreeding coefficient. Social factors, including being housed with sire, had no effect. Over half the males in their first breeding season were producing sperm, although in some cases sperm quality was poor, suggesting possible infertility. Although there was no minimum body weight associated with presence of sperm, likelihood increased with increasing body weight, highlighting a possible critical role for nutrition. The trend for sperm production in males collected later in the breeding season and at lower latitudes suggests that later collections, especially at higher latitudes, might reveal a higher percentage of pubertal males. These results have potential implications for breeding program management and introduce the possibility that more wild gray wolves than previously thought might produce sperm during their first year, even if they do not sire young. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present work was to study the closer effect of clomiphene citrate on the ultrastructure of the testis of adult albino rats to provide a basis for optimizing this drug in the treatment of male infertility. The testes were removed from both groups under anesthesia and then prepared for examination by light using hematoxylin and eosin stains and a transmission electron microscope. Semithin sections were cut into 1 mm thick sections, stained with toluidine blue, and examined by light microscopy for a survey. The desired areas were placed in the center, and other areas were trimmed. Primary spermatocytes showed marked nuclear changes (pyknosis), and their nuclear membranes were ill-defined and disrupted. The cytoplasm showed widespread degeneration of mitochondria and lysosomes and focal degeneration of the rough endoplasmic reticulum compared with the control group. The spermatids were pale, and the two phases of spermatogenesis were distinctly identifiable in the control group but were confused in the treated group. Some spermatids had interrupted nuclear membranes, also containing degenerated mitochondria, focal fragmentation of rough endoplasmic reticulum, and free ribosomes. Spermatozoa in the treated group appeared deformed compared to the control, where they had deformed head caps. Leydig cells of the treated group have an irregularly shaped nucleus, with focal chromatin aggregation and peripheral chromatin condensation on the inner surface of the nuclear membrane. The observations of the present work indicate a possible causal relationship between testicular affection and ingestion of clomiphene citrate, which can be avoided by close medical observations using ultrasonography, semen analysis, or testicular biopsy to detect early malignant changes. Furthermore, the drug should not be used for more than three to six cycles and should be stopped for at least three cycles before reuse. When clomiphene citrate is ineffective in the treatment of male infertility, human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) administration is typically selected. However, high-dose hMG therapy is associated with a variety of adverse effects. In this work, we report the success of a modified clomiphene citrate regimen in increasing sperm count without any hazards to the testicular tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista de la Facultad de Medicina Humana is the property of Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias Biomedicas de la Universidad Ricardo Palma 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.)

Copyright of Revista Cientifica de la Facultade de Veterinaria is the property of Universidad del Zulia, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias 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.)

Los autores estudiaron la estructura histológica y los procesos de espermatogénesis y espermiogénesis en vesículas seminales, testículos, etc. de Pheretima californica Kinb. El material fue incluido y seleccionado según las técnicas histológicas habituales con reacción nuclear de Feulgen en cortes histológicos y tinción de Hematoxilina-eosina y Van Giesson como control. Se observaron las diferentes etapas de la espermatogénesis, estudiando también los diferentes tipos celulares. Se describen las espermatogonias, espermatocitos, espermátides y su ciclo de maduración a espermatozoide, con especial referencia al ciclo blastóforo en las fases finales de la espermatogénesis y espermiogénesis.

Introduction: Broccoli (Brassica oleracea) is well known for its properties as an anticancer, antioxidant, and scavenger of free radicals. However, its benefits in enhancing spermatogenesis have not been well established. Objective: To study broccoli aqueous extract effects on sperm factors and the expression of genes Catsperl, Catsper2, Arl4a, Sox5, and Sox9 In sperm factors in mice. Material and methods: Male mice were divided randomly into six groups: (1) Control; (2) cadmium (3 mg/kg of mouse body weight); (3) orally treated with 200 pi broccoli aqueous extract (1 g ml1); (4) orally treated with 400 pi of broccoli aqueous extract; (5) orally treated with 200 broccoli aqueous extract plus cadmium, and (6) orally treated with 400 pi of broccoli aqueous extract plus cadmium. We analyzed the sperms factors and Catsperl, Catsper2, Arl4a, Sox5, and Sox9 gene expression. Results: An obvious improvement in sperm count and a slight enhancement In sperm motility were observed in mice treated with broccoli extract alone or with cadmium. Sperm viability was reduced by broccoli extract except for the 200 pi dose with cadmium, which significantly increased it. Interestingly, Arl4a gene expression Increased In the 400 pi broccoli-treated group. Likewise, the Arl4a mRNA level in mice treated with cadmium and 200 pi of broccoli extract was higher than in the cadmium-treated mice. Furthermore, broccoli extract enhanced the mRNA level of Catsper2 and Sox5 genes in mice treated with 200 pi and 400 pi broccoli extract plus cadmium compared with the group treated solely with cadmium. Conclusion: The higher sperm count in broccoli-treated mice opens the way for the development of pharmaceutical products for Infertile men. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Si bien la porción del genoma destinada a la síntesis de proteínas es muy pequeña, actualmente se sabe que casi todo el genoma se expresa bajo forma de ARNs no codificantes. Entre dichos ARNs se encuentran los ARNs no codificantes largos (lncRNAs). Aunque los lncRNAs han sido muy poco estudiados, recientemente han comenzado a centrar la atención de los investigadores, al descubrirse que los mismos pueden desempeñar diversas funciones en la regulación de la expresión génica. Además, su vinculación con patologías ha comenzado a ser puesta de manifiesto. Curiosamente, la cantidad de lncRNAs presentes en el testículo es abrumadoramente mayor que en cualquier otro órgano o tejido estudiado. Los perfiles de expresión de estos lncRNAs varían significativamente a lo largo de la espermatogénesis, y algunas evidencias sugieren que al menos algunos de ellos podrían participar en el proceso de formación de células germinales masculinas. No obstante, el conocimiento sobre el tema es aún muy escaso. En este trabajo revisamos la información disponible sobre la expresión de lncRNAs en el testículo y sus posibles funciones. Asimismo, analizamos algunos ejemplos que ilustran la participación de lncRNAs en el desarrollo de patologías como la infertilidad y el cáncer testicular.

Introducción: Se reconoce la importancia ecológica de los anfibios y reptiles, vitales en el funcionamiento de los ecosistemas y con patrones de reproducción diversos. No existen muchos estudios en biología de la reproducción en especies cubanas. El objetivo es mostrar el impacto de los estudios histológicos y ultraestructurales de las gónadas de anfibios y reptiles cubanos en la determinación del estado reproductivo del ejemplar y las etapas de la gametogénesis. Métodos: Se recolectaron once ranas del género Eleutherodactylus, un hílido y ocho sapos del género Peltophryne, además de tres especies de lagartijas; dos lagartos, un geckónido y cinco serpientes. Se procesaron las gónadas de ambos sexos con histología clásica, inmunofluorescencia, microscopía electrónica de transmisión y microscopía de fuerza atómica. Resultados: En anfibios y reptiles los ovocitos se clasifican en previtelogénicos, vitelogénicos y postvitelogénicos, acorde al proceso de síntesis y deposición del vitelo. Se aprecia una mayor cantidad de ovocitos vitelogénicos en etapa reproductiva. Los testículos contienen lóbulos seminíferos en anfibios donde tiene lugar la espermatogénesis cística y túbulos en reptiles, con espermatogénesis radial. Se identificó el órgano de Bidder en los sapos machos y en una hembra. La morfología de los espermatozoides en anfibios es similar incluso a nivel ultraestructural, y diferente entre los lagartos y las serpientes. Conclusiones: la histología clásica establece diferencias a nivel celular en ovarios y testículos, aspecto esencial para describir los ciclos gonadales que se suceden en anfibios y reptiles. Los caracteres histológicos y ultraestructurales permitieron describir los tipos celulares de la gametogénesis.

Si bien la porción del genoma destinada a la síntesis de proteínas es muy pequeña, actualmente se sabe que casi todo el genoma se expresa bajo forma de ARNs no codificantes. Entre dichos ARNs se encuentran los ARNs no codificantes largos (lncRNAs). Aunque los lncRNAs han sido muy poco estudiados, recientemente han comenzado a centrar la atención de los investigadores, al descubrirse que los mismos pueden desempeñar diversas funciones en la regulación de la expresión génica. Además, su vinculación con patologías ha comenzado a ser puesta de manifiesto. Curiosamente, la cantidad de lncRNAs presentes en el testículo es abrumadoramente mayor que en cualquier otro órgano o tejido estudiado. Los perfiles de expresión de estos lncRNAs varían significativamente a lo largo de la espermatogénesis, y algunas evidencias sugieren que al menos algunos de ellos podrían participar en el proceso de formación de células germinales masculinas. No obstante, el conocimiento sobre el tema es aún muy escaso. En este trabajo revisamos la información disponible sobre la expresión de lncRNAs en el testículo y sus posibles funciones. Asimismo, analizamos algunos ejemplos que ilustran la participación de lncRNAs en el desarrollo de patologías como la infertilidad y el cáncer testicular.

RESUMEN La evidencia clínica que ha permitido relacionar la diabetes mellitus con la infertilidad se basa en la importancia del metabolismo de la glucosa durante el proceso de espermatogénesis, debido a que en los episodios tanto de hipoglucemia como de hiperglucemia pueden ocurrir cambios epigenéticos en algunas proteínas involucradas en la espermatogénesis. En la presente comunicación se describen los aspectos teóricos de los efectos de la diabetes sobre el líquido seminal con énfasis en la espermatogénesis.

El pez león es una especie considerada invasora y registrada por primera vez en Cuba en el 2008. Varios autores han afirmado que entre los factores que han contribuido a su éxito están las características de su reproducción, por lo cual el objetivo de la presente investigación ha sido analizar la morfología de las gónadas maduras de Pterois volitans y la influencia de esta en su estrategia reproductiva en el litoral oeste de La Habana, Cuba. Se tomaron las medidas de Longitud Total y Peso Total en 64 ejemplares. Se procesaron fragmentos de gónadas para su análisis mediante Microscopía Óptica y Electrónica. En la población de P. volitans en estudio existe dimorfismo sexual: los machos muestran una Longitud y Peso Total significativamente mayor que las hembras. Esta especie, acorde al desarrollo de sus células sexuales, está activa reproductivamente durante todo el año. La espermatogénesis de P. volitans es semicística. El patrón morfológico de los espermatozoides del pez león es uno de los esquemas más ampliamente representados entre los peces teleósteos, descritos como espermatozoides simples anacrosomales de Tipo I. La morfología ovárica interna presentada se clasifica como estructura cistovariana Tipo II-3. La gran cantidad de gametos, ovocitos y espermatozoides, encontrados en los tejidos gonadales apoya la potencialidad del pez león como una especie invasora. Recibido: 26-05-2020 Aceptado: 20-10-2020

La espermatogénesis de Pheretima hawayana (Rosa) fue estudiada desde un punto de vista eminentemente citogenético, dejando de lado las técnicas histológicas clásicas. En su lugar, se utilizó una técnica de secado al aire modificada y probada previamente para Oligochaeta. Se determinó que existe un proceso de desarrollo normal a partir de protogonias y espermatogonias. Estas células experimentan 5 mitosis premeióticas sincrónicas (grupos espermatogónicos de 2, 4, 8, 16 células y espermatocitos I de 32 elementos) y la división meiótica (espermatocitos II y espermátidas 64 y 128 elementos respectivamente) que conducen a la formación de gametos viables. Este último hecho fue confirmado por la observación directa de los espermatozoides en los receptáculos seminales o espermatecas.

Lionfish is an invader species registered in Cuba for the first time in 2008. Several authors have affirmed that among the factors that have contributed to its success are the characteristics of its reproduction; therefore, the main goal of this work has been to analyze gonad's morphology of P. volitans and its influence in its reproductive strategy in the west littoral of Havana, Cuba. Measurements of Total Length and Total Weight were calculated. Gonad fragments were processed for analysis by Light and Electron Microscopy. Sexual dimorphism exists in the studying population of P. volitans: males show significantly bigger Total Length and Weight than females. This species is reproductively active throughout the year. P. volitans spermatogenesis is semicystic. The morphological pattern of lionfish spermatozoa is one of the most widely represented schemes among teleostean fish, described as Type I simple anacrosomal sperm. The presented internal ovarian morphology is classified as cystovarian structure Type II-3. The great amount of gametes, oocytes and spermatozoa, found in gonad tissues supports the lionfish's potentiality as an invader species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This systematic review aims to evaluate the optimal treatment for male infertility resulting from Anabolic Androgenic Steroids (AAS) abuse., Methods: A systematic review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Studies that compared different protocols for the recovery of spermatogenesis in patients after AAS use were included., Results: 13 studies investigating different protocols to restore spermatogenesis in patients with AAS abuse met the inclusion criteria. The available agents that showed restoration of spermatogenesis include injectable gonadotropins, selective estrogen receptor modulators, and aromatase inhibitors, but their use is still poorly described in the literature., Conclusions: Clinicians need to be aware of the detrimental effects of AAS on spermatogenesis. AAS-associated infertility may be reversible, but sperm production may take over a year to normalize. Both conservative and aggressive treatment can boost spermatogenesis with positive results. Further understanding of male reproductive endocrinology and high-quality data on the field of restoration of spermatogenesis after AAS abuse are warranted., (Copyright © 2023. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U.)

Tanto la obesidad como la infertilidad masculina han aumentado durante las últimas décadas por lo que se ha explorado una posible asociación entre estas patologías. Los estudios informan que la obesidad puede afectar la fertilidad del varón por diferentes mecanismos, los que en última instancia, pueden provocar disfunción eréctil y/o deteriorar la calidad espermática. Dichos mecanismos incluyen: 1) disrupción en la fisiología del eje hipotálamo-hipófiso-testicular (HHT): disminución en la concentración sérica de testosterona, gonadotrofinas, SHBG y/o inhibina B e hyperestrogenemia; 2) incremento en la liberación de hormonas derivadas del tejido adiposo, entre ellas leptina, que podrían alterar la fisiología del eje HHT y/o afectar directamente las células de Leydig y la espermatogénesis; 3) aumento de las adipoquinas (proinflamatorias), incremento de la temperatura escrotal y acumulación de disruptores endócrinos en los adipocitos; todos ellos responsables de un aumento en el estrés oxidativo testicular y 4) la apnea del sueño, frecuente en obesos, que suprime el pico nocturno de testosterona necesario para la espermatogénesis. Finalmente, si bien está discutido, estos mecanismos podrían alterar la espermatogénesis y/o la maduración epididimaria, disminuyendo así la concentración y la motilidad espermática y aumentando la fragmentación del ADN. En resumen, si bien la obesidad puede afectar la fertilidad masculina por algunos/todos los mecanismos mencionados, lo cierto es que sólo una pequeña proporción de obesos son infértiles; probablemente aquéllos con obesidad mórbida o genéticamente predispuestos. Sin embargo, ya que la incidencia de obesidad sigue aumentando, es de esperar que el número de hombres con sub/infertilidad también lo haga.

ABSTRACT The smallnose fanskate, Sympterygia bonapartii Müller & Henle, 1841 is one of the most disembarked items in commercial harbors in Argentina. In this work, the microscopic architecture of mature male gonads and the dynamics of cysts development are analyzed as a contribution to awareness of the reproductive biology of the species. Some biological data related to reproduction are given as well. Two seasons were sampled (fall and spring) and length classes's frequency distribution and maturity stages frequency distribution are given. Size at first sexual maturation for males was estimated at 57 cm of total length. Testes are symmetric, peer, lobed, with several germinal zones. Inside the gonads, there are many spermatocysts, containing reproductive cells at the same developmental stage. On the basis of their cytological and microanatomical features, several maturative degrees of the spermatogenic series were differentiated. Few Leydig cells were recognized at the interstitial tissue among cysts. The microscopic and semiquantitative analysis performed in this work provides morphological information about male gametogenesis and some biological data for the North Patagonian population of this economically and ecologically important species.

Revisión sistemática de las fichas técnicas (apartados 4.6 y 5.3) de los medicamentos más consumidos en España, según el Sistema Nacional de Salud, y revisión bibliográfica a través de PubMed, según un patrón de búsqueda estándar, con respecto a la influencia de éstos sobre la fertilidad masculina. Como resultado a esto nos encontramos con que de 29 principios activos estudiados, 15 no presentan datos referentes a la fertilidad masculina en su ficha técnica, para 18 no se recuperó información al respecto en la búsqueda en PubMed y 9 no disponen de material de información que provenga de ninguna de las dos fuentes de las que utilizamos. En 3 medicamentos los resultados de las dos fuentes coinciden y en 2 encontramos discrepancias. En 13 de los 29 fármacos estudiados se ha encontrado información de efectos adversos sobre la fertilidad masculina en alguna de las 2 fuentes de información revisadas. Se demuestra con esto una falta de información clara, concisa y contrastada.

La langosta espinosa Panulirus homarus, distribuida a lo largo de las costas sudeste y sudoeste de la India, es una especie de importancia comercial con gran potencial para la mari-cultura. A pesar de su importancia, las características estructurales y ultraestructurales de las gónadas masculinas de esta especie han sido poco estudiadas. Debido a esto, el objetivo de este estudio fue describir el aparato reproductor masculino de dicha especie, utilizando técnicas convencionales de microscopía histológica y electrónica. Se procesaron 94 ejemplares de P. homarus de vizhinjam (costa suroeste de la India) (70 individuos para histología y 24 para ultraestructura), cuyos caparazones variaron de 37 mm a 92 mm de longitud. El sistema reproductor masculino de esta especie consistió en un par de testículos y un conducto deferente situados en la región céfalo-torácica. Macroscópicamente, el aparato reproductor se observó en langostas con una longitud de caparazón >35mm. En testículos inmaduros, la espermatogonia midió 6.9-13.8μm de diámetro y se encontró presente en los testículos maduros primarios (5.4-5.9μm), espermatocitos secundarios (2.8 a 3 μm) y espermátidas (2.2-2.4μm). Cada conducto deferente consistió de porciones proximales y distales. La formación de la masa espermatofórica comienza en los conductos deferentes proximales. En el conducto deferente distal espermatofórico, la masa que contiene los espermatozoides está dispuesta en paquetes hacia la periferia, en una matriz gelatinosa producida por el tiflosol. Ultraestructuralmente, las espermatogonias presentan una lámina, núcleo y mitocondrias, los espermatocitos primarios tienen núcleo, cromatina densa y citoplasma vacuolado, mientras que las espermátidas tienen mitocondrias, retículo endoplasmático y centríolos. En las espermátidas, el retículo endoplásmico y la envoltura nuclear forman el acrosoma. Los brazos radiales con microtúbulos se forman en asociación con el retículo endoplásmico denso, cerca del núcleo. El esperma presenta una estructura esférica con el núcleo, la región laminar, las espinas y el acrosoma. Este documento constituye el primer informe exhaustivo de la estructura de los gametos masculinos y espermatogénesis en P. homarus de la India.

Morphine is one of the naturally occurring phenanthrene alkaloids of opium that induces adverse effects on male reproductive system. Resveratrol is a phytoestrogen and antioxidant of red grape. The main goal is to investigate whether resveratrol could inhibit adverse effects of morphine on sperm cell viability, count, motility as well as testis histology, testosterone hormone and nitric oxide levels in mice. In the present study, 48 male rats were randomly divided into 8 groups (n=6) and were treated intraperitoneally for 14 days with normal saline, resveratrol (2, 8, 20 mg/kg/day), morphine (20 mg/kg/day) and morphine (20 mg/kg/day) + resveratrol (2, 8, 20 mg/kg/day). At the end of experiments, sperm parameters (sperm cell viability, count, motility and morphology), testis weight, the diameter of seminiferous tubules, testosterone hormone level and nitric oxide were analyzed. The data were analyzed by SPSS software for windows (version 20) using one-way ANOVA test followed by Tukey's post hoc test, and P<0.05 was considered significant. The results indicated that morphine administration significantly decreased testosterone level, count, viability and motility of sperm cells and testis weight and increased nitric oxide compared to the saline group (P=0.000). Administration of resveratrol and resveratrol plus morphine significantly increased motility, count and viability of sperm cells, somniferous tubule diameter and testosterone, while it decreased nitric oxide level compared to morphine group (P=0.025). It seems that resveratrol administration could increase the quality of spermatozoa and prevented morphine-induced adverse effects on sperm parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radiotherapy is a source of human exposure to ionizing radiation. This pure energy causes deleterious effects on tissues, which result from oxidative stress, a phenomenon in which there is the participation of the Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS). The male genital organs are extremely radiosensitive and the action of radiation in the testes can significantly affect spermatogenesis. In search of potential radioprotective for male genital system, this study investigated whether the AT1 receptor antagonists minimize radiationinduced damage to reproductive tissues, by decreasing oxidative stress. Male Wistar rats were divided into six groups: 0 Gray (Gy) (control), 5 Gy (single dose in the scrotal area), telmisartan, losartan, 5Gy+telmisartan and 5Gy+losartan. The treatment started the day after irradiation with losartan 34 mg/kg (two times/day) and telmisartan 12 mg/kg (one time/day) during 60 days. For ultrastructural analysis, the testis fragments were fixed in 2 % glutaraldehyde and 4 % paraformaldehyde in 0.1 M phosphate buffer, pH 7.3. The material was postfixed for 2 h in 1 % osmium tetroxide. For collagen evaluation, the sections were stained with Picrosirius-red method. Serum testosterone was determined. The date showed the deleterious effects of gamma radiation on testicular ultrastructure. Rich accumulation of collagen fibers in the interstitium was observed in the irradiated groups, especially the irradiated and nontreated testes. No significant difference was detected in serum testosterone concentration among the studied experimental groups. Treatments with telmisartan and losartan influenced the onset of attenuation on ultrastructural damages arising from ionizing radiation. Although the data strongly suggest that AT1 receptor antagonists may promote radioprotection to the testes, further studies with a longer duration of treatment are required for these potentially positive effects to be maximized and therefore, to better characterize radioprotection to reproductive parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Busulfán es un agente alquilante bifuncional tipo-éster, que interfiere con la replicación del ADN. Dosis elevadas de este compuesto son aplicadas antes de los transplantes de médula ósea y de células germinales, sin embargo no han sido cuantificados el daño ni la recuperación del sistema reproductor. Para cuantificar la recuperación del efecto en la espermatogénesis, se usaron ratones de la cepa Balb C, a los que se les inyectó Busulfán intraperitonealmente, 40 mg/kg de peso corporal, y se evaluó el peso testicular y la concentración espermática en cola de epidídimo, a los 30, 54 y 72 días y se realizaron cortes histológicos de testículo. Los resultados fueron analizados con la prueba U Mann-Whitney p>0.05. A los 30 días el peso testicular, la concentración espermática y el diámetro de los túbulos seminíferos presentaron una drástica reducción del 77,8%, 97,9% y 34,3% respectivamente, comparados con el grupo control. A los 54 días, el peso testicular y el diámetro testicular muestran una recuperación del 70%. A los 72 días, la recuperación es completa en los parámetros evaluados. Por lo tanto, Busulfán aplicado en una sola dosis afecta significativamente la espermatogénesis en el ratón y se logra la recuperación completa en dos ciclos espermáticos.

La madurez gonadal se suele evaluar a través del análisis macroscópico de las gónadas. En las tortugas marinas, las etapas de maduración están asociadas con el tamaño del cuerpo, dependiendo de la población estudiada. Los pescadores clasifican las tortugas que miden más de 65.0cm como maduras sexualmente. Si tienen los caracteres sexuales secundarios se registran como machos en edad reproductora. Nosotros comparáramos el tamaño del cuerpo con las características gonadales macroscópicas y microscópicas de dos tortugas de Cuba. Se obtuvieron dieciocho individuos de C. mydas y veinte de E. imbricata en la pesquería legal del Archipiélago Jardines del Rey (Cuba), entre octubre de 2005 y 2006. En los machos, el estado reproductivo (máxima espermiogénesis) se comprobó mediante el análisis histológico de los testículos. En las hembras, la madurez sexual fue identificada por la presencia de folículos vitelogénicos u ovarios corpora. La mayoría de los machos eran inmaduros (C. mydas: 79.0cm; E. imbricata: 73.1±4.9cm, n=3) y carecían de los caracteres sexuales secundarios. Algunos E. imbricata que no tenían un pene desarrollado se encontraban en fases espermatogénicas entre II y IV (p. ej. pubescentes). La mayoría de las hembras eran inmaduras (C. mydas: 79.6±7.7cm, n=17; E. imbricata: 69.0±7.1cm, n=16; p. ej. prepubescente y pubescente). Las hembras prepubescentes tenían ovarios con folículos previtelogénicos de cerca de 1.0mm en un estroma compacto y amarillento. Las hembras pubescentes tenían ovarios con folículos previtelogénicos entre 2.0 y 3.0mm. El estroma fue más distendido e irrigado que en las tortugas pubescentes. El hallazgo de actividad espermatogénica en machos pubescentes indica la asincronía entre el desarrollo de testículos y pene en E. imbricata. El criterio fenotípico actual utilizado por los pescadores no es suficiente para determinar la madurez sexual de estas tortugas. La talla mínima tentativa debe cambiar a: C. mydas: por encima de 93.0cm y E. imbricata por encima de 79.0cm.Gonadic histology and phenotypical maturation criteria in the marine turtles Chelonia mydas and Eretmochelys imbricata (Testudines: Chelonidae) from Cuba. Gonad maturity is usually evaluated through macroscopic analysis of the gonads. In sea turtles, the maturation stages are associated with body size, depending on the studied marine stock. Fishermen classify turtles bigger than 65.0cm as sexually mature. If they have secondary sex characters they are recorded as breeding males. We compared body size with macroscopic and microscopic gonad characteristics in two Cuban turtles. Eighteen individuals of C. mydas and twenty of E. imbricata was obtained from the legal fishery stock of Jardines del Rey Archipelago (Cuba), from October 2005 and 2006. In males, breeding condition (maximum spermiogenesis) was checked by histological analysis of the testes. In females, sexual maturity was identified by the presence of vitellogenic follicles or ovarian corpora. Most males were immature (C. mydas: 79.0cm; E. imbricata: 73.1±4.9cm, n=3) and lacked secondary sex characters. Some E. imbricata without a developed penis were in spermatogenic stages II to IV (i.e. pubescent). Most females were immature (C. mydas: 79.6±7.7cm, n=17; E. imbricata: 69.0±7.1cm, n=16; i.e.prepubescent and pubescent. The prepubescent females had ovaries with previtellogenic follicles near 1.0mm in a compact and yellowish stroma. The pubescent females had ovaries with previtellogenic follicles between 2.0 and 3.0mm. The stroma was more loosened and irrigated than in prepubescent turtles. The finding of spermatogenic activity in pubescent males indicates asynchrony between testicular and penial development in E. imbricata. The current phenotypical approach used by fishermen is not enough to determine sexual maturation in these turtles. The minimal size tentatively should be changed to: C. mydas: above 93.0cm and E. imbricata above 79.0cm. Rev. Biol. Trop. 58 (1): 287-298. Epub 2010 March 01.

The tropical gar A. tropicus plays an important ecological role as it regulates other fish stocks in different water bodies in Southeastern México. Nevertheless, wild populations are declining, and one conservation alternative is the aquaculture production and basic knowledge of reproductive biology; for males, this requires the study of germ and somatic structures of testes, to characterize the reproductive cycle, and to provide basic knowledge for exploitation and conservation models and strategies. With this aim, a total of 24 males with an average sL = 47.2 cm were collected from wild populations from the Laguna Pomposú, municipality of Jalpa de Mendez (18°19' - 93°01'12" W), Tabasco, Mexico. Fish were collected with a trawl net and were transported live to the Tropical Aquaculture Laboratory, División Académica de Ciencias Biológicas (DACBiol), Universidad Juárez Autónoma de Tabasco (UJAT). Males were killed by prolonged immersion in MS222. Testes samples were collected from each specimen and were processed using the standard histological procedures, that consisted of dehydration in an ascending ethanol series, xylol, embedding in paraffin, sectioning at 7 μm, and staining with hematoxylin-eosin (HE). The diameter of 20 seminiferous tubules (Dst), height of germinal epithelium (Hge), gonadosomatic index (GSI) and gonad volume (gV) were determined monthly. Based on morphometric and morpho-physiological characteristics, the testes consisted of a network of anastomosed tubules with non-restricted cystic spermatogenesis, and a permanent germinal epithelium. This is the first report of a permanent germinal epithelium in A. tropicus. Five reproductive classes were histologically identified: Class I Regressed; Class II Early Maturation; Class III Mid Maturation; Class IV Late Maturation; Class V Regression. Monthly GSI, gV and Dst values were lower in January and February, the testis showed spermatozoa remains and a regenerating discontinuous germinal epithelium. In March spermiogenesis increased and proliferation of spermatogonia decreased. Male tropical gar followed a seasonal reproductive cycle, indicated by the monthly variation of the reproductive classes and the reproductive season processes observed, and for which temperature and rainfall seem to stimulate reproductive activity and spermiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Caspian Green Lizard, Lacerta strigata Eichwald, 1831, is a member of the Lacertidae family distributed in the Caspian coast of northern Iran. The specimens were found in coastal dunes, hilly areas and pastureland containing some shrubby cover. In this research, the reproductive biology of this species was studied from April 20 to September 5, 2013. Forty eight adult specimens including 24 females and 24 males were collected by hand at midday from three sampling stations (Goharbaran, Ab-Bandansar and Ab-Bandankesh) of Sari County, located in Mazandaran Province of Iran. Ovaries and testes were removed and processed for histological and morphometric studies. In females, there were 6-17 follicles in each ovary. Totally, 6-10 oviductal eggs were observed in mature females. The oogenic and spermatogenic cycle begins from late March, mating starts from early May, with oviposition occurring from late May to late June, with the possibility of producing a secondary clutch later in the season. In males, the mean number and mean diameter of seminiferous tubules were 86.95 and 190.4750 microns, respectively. The mean diameter of tunica albuginea, germinal layer and lumen were 18.75, 69.79 and 144.27 microns, respectively. Maximum reproductive activity occurs from early May to early June, reduces from early July and ends in August. Hence, oogenesis and spermatogenesis occurs from April through July, L. strigata follows a seasonal reproductive cycle with associated type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The golden mussel Limnoperna fortunei is an invasive species that has quickly dispersed and colonized several potential different habitats distributed all over the world, causing environmental and economic impacts. Thus, in order to contribute to a better understanding of the reproductive aspects of L. fortunei, we described the cellular dynamic of the male and female germinal epithelium during the annual reproductive life history of this species, with the use of high resolution histology. An approximate of 1 200 specimens of L. fortunei were sampled periodically on the upper Paraná River floodplain (Brazil), from March 2010 to December 2012. Based on the activity of the germinal epithelium and consequent germ cell development, this study has resulted in the recognition of the following reproductive phases: Developing, Spawning Capable, Regressing and Regenerating. In the characterization of these phases, the following germ cells were described for males: spermatogonia, primary and secondary spermatocytes, spermatids and spermatozoa. Cell nests, oogonia, early prophase oocytes, previtellogenic oocytes and vitellogenic oocytes (early vitellogenic oocytes, middle vitellogenic oocytes and full-grown oocytes) were described for females. The morphological data and reproductive parameters obtained, showed the value of the cellular dynamics of the germinal epithelium, for the understanding of the cyclic gonadal events during the adult reproductive life of the mollusk in general. These results on the gametogenesis of this invasive species may be a fundamental tool for the development of control strategies and programs implementation, to reduce their proliferation and impacts in natural local environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

El objetivo fue determinar el efecto de furazolidona (0,02 g/100 g de alimento administrada durante 45 semanas), sobre la función espermatogénica y endócrina de testículos de pavo. Once pavos machos de 1 día de vida recibieron furazolidona en el alimento (0,02 % p/p), durante 45 semanas y 11 fueron controles. Se determinó la calidad seminal. Se midió el perfil sérico y la respuesta de testosterona (Te) postestímulo con buserelina. Se analizó la anátomo-histología testicular. Análisis estadístico: ANOVA, test de Wilcoxon y test t al 5 %. La concentración espermática fue menor (p

Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is a plant that grows above 4000 altitude meters in Peru’s Central Andes; it has different varieties according to the color of the hypocotyl. This review summarizes the results of studies about the effects of maca on sexual function, spermatogenesis, female reproductive function, memory, depression and anxiety, and energy as well as effects on benign prostatic hyperplasia, osteoporosis and metabolic syndrome. Its anti-aging effect is also discussed as well as safety in consumption. Differences have been shown between the effects of the black, yellow and red maca varieties. Black maca shows the best results on spermatogenesis, memory and fatigue, while red maca is the variety that reverses the benign prostatic hyperplasia and experimentally induced osteoporosis. In addition, maca reduces the glucose levels, and its consumption is related to the lowering of blood pressure and an improved health score. Experimental studies have proven that short and long term consumption don’t show in vivo and in vitro toxicity. Although experimental studies have shown that maca has diverse beneficial effects, more clinical studies are needed to confirm these results.

Copyright of Iheringia. Série Zoologia is the property of Fundacao Zoobotanica do Rio Grande do Sul 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.)

Systematic review of the technical specifications (4.6 and 5.3 paragraph) of the most frequently used drugs in Spain, from NHS, and the information provided by PubMed according to a standard search pattern with respect to their influence on male fertility. As a result of this we find that 15 of 29 active substances studied have no data about male fertility in their technical data sheets, 18 of this 29 have no data about male fertility from PubMed and 9 don't have any information coming from either source we used. 3 medicines have matching results from the two sources and other 2 found discrepancies. In 13 of the 29 drugs studied the information about adverse effects on male fertility was found in one of the two sources of information reviewed. It's demonstrated that it's necessary clear, concise and contrasted information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Androgenic anabolic steroids (AAS) are artificial testosterone analogues, used as medicine in chronic diseases, because they increase protein synthesis generating muscle hypertrophy. Its effect has caught the attention of athletes and gym users, thus their consumption has become epidemic, due to easy marketing, the immediate results and the false impression that it doesn't carry health risks. Such risks may globally harm the body. This study aims to investigate the influence on spermatogenesis of using nandrolone decanoate with or without physical training. Twenty-four rats, divided intofour groups were used: sedentary group (SG), sedentary on steroids group (SSG), trained group (TG) and trained on steroids group (TSG). The animals were trained on voluntary exercise wheel twice a week during 12 weeks, and were subsequently euthanized by decapitation. Groups TSG and SSG received intramuscular injections of 5 mg / kg of the AAS. It was found that there was a greater cellularity in TSG, suggesting interference between androgen therapy and physical training on the mount of cells in the seminiferous epithelium. Comparing the TSG group with the SG, it is noticed that the physical training associated with the use of steroid tends to affect cell division without compromise, however, the number of spermatogonia, did not significantly vary compared to the control group. Finally, it seems that there was no significant statistical difference among the groups in terms of spermatogenesis yield, so that can not be said that the use of nandrolone decanoate, with or without the physical training, interfere with fertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of West Indian Medical Journal is the property of West Indian Medical Journal (WIMJ) 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.)

La Lepidium peruviam (Maca) es un tubérculo con excelentes cualidades alimenticias y medicinales, es recomendada como un suplemento alimenticio, por sus minerales, compuestos químicos. Vitaminas, proteínas, ácidos grasos, carbohidratos, taninos, alcaloides.Método. En nuestro estudio experimental tuvo como objetivo determinar el efecto que tiene la Maca en el desarrollo de células sexuales en los mamíferos. El estudio fue realizado en 20 ratas jóvenes Holtzman dividida en dos muestras, 10 pertenecieron al grupo control y las otras 10 al grupo experimental .El gnipo del experimento consumieron dos gramos de Maca diario, se sacrificaron las ratas disecando los testículos y luego se hicieron cortes histologicos. Se concluye que el consumo de Maca fue muy eficaz en el desarrollo de CéIulas de Sertoli, en Espermatocito y en las células de Leydig el desarrollo fue notoriamente eficaz.

This study documents the annual morphohistological changes in the testes of the catfish Pimelodus grosskopfii, and reproduction upstream of the Betania Reservoir in the upper Río Magdalena, Colombia. The testes of P. grosskopfii undergo distinct morphological changes, which are of cyclic and seasonal nature. Four stages of spermatogenesis can broadly be recognized: I: formation of spermatogonia and beginning of maturing, II: formation of spermatocytes, spermatides and spermatzoa, III: completely mature and viable spermatozoa fill the sperm ducts or completed spermatogenesis, IV: spent testis or period of involution. Most P. grosskopfii in the upper Magdalena spawn between October and March. All males larger than 14 cm standard length were reproductively maturs.Esta investigación documenta los cambios histomorfológicos anuales en los testes de la población de capaz, P. grosskopfíí, atrapada aguas arriba del embalse de Betania en al alto río Magdalena, y establece el ciclo reproductivo a través de los cambios histomorfológicos de los testes. La espermatogénesis del capaz pasa por diferentes cambios morfológicos de naturaleza cíclica y estacional. Estos cambios son agrupados por conveniencia en cuatro estadios - 1: formación de espermatogonios, II: formación de· espermatocitos, espermátides y espermatozoos, III: espermatozoos viables, IV: postreproducción o período de involución. El estudio también determina que para 1991/92 el período de reproducción del capaz en el alto Magdalena se realizó entre octubre y marzo, y que todo macho mayor de 14 cm de longitud estándar ha alcanzado su madurez sexual.

Sperm competition, whereby sperm from multiple males compete to fertilize an egg, selects for adaptations that increase fertilization success. Because fertilization success is related to sperm number, size, and quality, both interspecific and intraspecific variation in these traits are predicted to correlate with the level of sperm competition. Specifically, species and individuals that experience high sperm competition are predicted to produce more sperm per ejaculate, produce longer sperm, and exert higher quality control, resulting in reduced numbers of morphologically abnormal sperm and reduced size variation via selection for the most successful sperm phenotype. However, the causes of sperm morphological and size variation and its consequences for sperm competition remain poorly understood, especially within species. We quantified variation in sperm morphology, size, and number in the Lancetailed Manakin (Chiroxiphia lanceolata), a Neotropical suboscine passerine with a cooperative lek mating system. Although alpha-status males sire almost all chicks, the numbers of sperm produced per ejaculate by betas, nonterritorial adults, and subadult males were similar to those produced by alphas. Sperm counts declined with age in alphas, which may explain the decreased siring success of older alphas. Most ejaculates contained both normal helical sperm and abnormal sperm with rounded heads. The proportion of morphologically normal sperm per ejaculate was unrelated to social status or age. The coefficients of variation in sperm component length (head, tail, and total) both between and within alpha males were comparable to variation reported in passerines with low sperm competition. Total sperm length was shorter than in the majority of avian species studied to date, and cloacal protuberance and relative testis size were small. These results indicate low sperm competition, despite evidence for multiple paternity, or that sperm number rather than sperm morphology may be a major postcopulatory mediator of male reproductive success in this species. This work represents the first thorough quantification of intraspecific sperm variability in a suboscine passerine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spiny lobster Panulirus homarus, distributed along the Southeast and Southwest coasts of India, is an important commercial species having mariculture potential. Despite its importance, the structural and ultrastructure features of male gonads from this species have received scarce attention. Hence this study was aimed to describe the male reproductive tract of the species, using standard histological and electron microscopy techniques. Gonads from 94 specimens of P. homarus ranging in carapace length 37mm-92mm from vizhinjam (Southwest coast of India.) were obtained and processed for the study (Histology-70 numbers & ultrastructure-24 numbers). The male reproductive system consists of paired testis and vas deferens located in the cephalo-thoracic region. Macroscopically, the reproductive tract was observed in lobsters >35mm carapace length. In immature testis, spermatogonia were seen which measured 6.9-13.8µm in diameter and in the mature testis primary (5.4-5.9µm) and secondary spermatocytes (2.8-3µm) and spermatids (2.2-2.4µm) were present. Each vas deferens consists of proximal and distal portions. The spermatophoric mass begins formation in the proximal vas deferens. In the distal vas deferens the spermatophoric mass containing the spermatozoa are arranged in packets towards the periphery by the gelatinous matrix produced by the typhlosole. Ultrastructurally, the spermatogonia have lamina, nucleus and mitochondria like bodies, the primary spermatocytes have nucleus, dense chromatin and vacuolated cytoplasm and the spermatids have mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum and centrioles. The endoplasmic reticulum and the nuclear envelope in the spermatids form the acrosome. The radial arms with microtubules are formed in association with the dense endoplasmic reticulum, near the nucleus. The sperm has a spherical structure with the nucleus, lamellar region, spikes and acrosome. This is the first comprehensive report of the structure of the male gametes and spermatogenesis in P. homarus from Indian waters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is a plant that grows above 4000 altitude meters in Peru's Central Andes; it has different varieties according to the color of the hypocotyl. This review summarizes the results of studies about the effects of maca on sexual function, spermatogenesis, female reproductive function, memory, depression and anxiety, and energy as well as effects on benign prostatic hyperplasia, osteoporosis and metabolic syndrome. Its anti-aging effect is also discussed as well as safety in consumption. Differences have been shown between the effects of the black, yellow and red maca varieties. Black maca shows the best results on spermatogenesis, memory and fatigue, while red maca is the variety that reverses the benign prostatic hyperplasia and experimentally induced osteoporosis. In addition, maca reduces the glucose levels, and its consumption is related to the lowering of blood pressure and an improved health score. Experimental studies have proven that short and long term consumption don't show in vivo and in vitro toxicity. Although experimental studies have shown that maca has diverse beneficial effects, more clinical studies are needed to confirm these results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Cirugía y Cirujanos is the property of Publicidad Permanyer SLU 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.)