bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Thickness of Microscopically Examined Seminal Sample and its Relationship to Sperm Motility Estimation
Authors: Makler Amnon
Published: May 2008

Sperm motility was examined microscopically in 7 drops of different samples. By a special way of slide preparation it was possible to evaluate motility at various thickness of each drop, ranging from zero to 20 microns and at intervals of 1 micron. No sperm motility was found below 2 microns. Between 2 and 10 microns per cent and quality of motility as well as sperm maximal speed increased gradually. Above 10 microns all these values remained constant but vision was impaired as blurring of sperm appeared. Optimal conditions for obtaining reliable results of motility estimation therefore exists only at a narrow range of 8–10 microns of thickness. But without control, it is difficult to get this range. In most cases, motility is estimated where vision is clear but where friction may affect motility and the results are therefore of limited value. The implication of these facts on accuracy and conclusion of many studies on sperm motility done in the past are discussed.
Long‐Term Study of Oral Testosterone Undecanoate in Hypogonadal Males
Authors: Franchi F. , Luisi M. , Kicovic P. M.
Published: May 2008

Thirty‐four hypogonadal male patients were given testosterone undecanoate (TU) orally for 8 months in a dosage of from 40 to 160 mg/day. Before the start of, and during, the study the patients were interviewed about their libido and their sexual, physical and mental activities, and plasma levels of testosterone (T), 5α‐dihydrotestosterone (DHT), oestradiol (Oe2), FSH, and LH were measured by radioimmunoassays simultaneously. Prostate gland was palpated regularly and a routine laboratory screening programme was also performed.

All patients reported a marked increase in libido and sexual, physical and/or mental activities and preferred TU over injectable preparations. Circulating T, DHT and Oe2 rose significantly in all 34 patients and the levels remained stable throughout the whole study. The mean plasma FSH and LH levels in the hypergonadotrophic patients were significantly lowered, but remained above the upper normal limit. In the hypogonadotrophic patients, mean plasma FSH levels increased, but not significantly, while mean LH levels remained unchanged. Neither changes in the size and consistency of the prostate gland, nor abnormal values during the routine laboratory screening programme were observed.
Influence of Aging upon the Serum Hormone Levels in the Male
Authors: Sköldefors Holger , Carlström Kjell , Eneroth Peter
Published: May 2008

The peripheral serum levels of FSH, LH, testosterone, 5α‐dihydrotestosterone, 4‐androstene‐3,17‐dione and total oestrone (sum of free + conjugated oestrone, mainly oestrone sulphate) were determined in two groups of healthy males aged 40–54 and 58–79 years respectively. The mean level of FSH was higher in the older group (P < 0.05) while no significant age‐dependent changes was found for LH, testosterone and 5α‐dihydrotestosterone (P < 0.9, < 0.4 and < 0.1 respectively). The levels of 4‐androstene‐3,17‐dione and total oestrone were significantly (P < 0.01) lower in the older group. The results supports the hypothesis concerning an age‐dependent change in the sulphokinase/sulphatase balance and also indicate a shift in the biosynthetic process in the aging adrenal.
Studies on Factors Governing Testicular Decent in the Rat – Particularly the Role of Gubernaculum Testis
Authors: Bergh A. , Helander H. F. , Wahlqvist L.
Published: May 2008

In the rat the testicles are abdominal at birth: testicular descent and scrotal development are completed at about 40 days of age. To elucidate mechanisms of testicular descent the following operations were performed in newborn rats: Proximal and distal unlateral gubernaculotomy, and unilateral and bilateral orchidectomy. The operated rats were studied at various time intervals up to 100 days after the operations. Testicular descent was prevented if the distal part of the gubernaculum was cut, presumably because of interference with the growth of the vaginal processes. The gubernaculum does not pull the testicle down into the scrotum, since testicular descent occurred also after proximal gubernaculotomy. The gubernaculum is, however, necessary to anchor the descended testicle to the scrotal floor. Descent of epididymis took place also in the absence of a testicle on the same side. We propose that distal gubernaculotomy can be used in rats to produce an experimental model for studies of cryptorchism.
The Effects of Low Oral Doses of 2,6‐cis‐ liphenylhexamethylcyclotetrasiloxane on Male Rats and Rabbits
Authors: Tarasek C. D. , Zimmerman K. J. , Aire T. A. , Crabo B. G.
Published: May 2008

Daily oral doses of 2,6‐cis‐diphenylhexamethylcyclotetrasiloxane in oil administered to rats for 2 weeks decreased fertility at dose levels of 1 and 2 mg/kg. Five mg/kg inhibited fertility completely. Normal fertility was re‐established after 2–5 weeks recovery. In rabbits. 1.0 mg/kg/day inhibited, 0.5 mg/kg/day lowered, and 0.1 mg/kg/day did not affect fertility. Libido was not depressed although plasma testosterone levels were lowered by 1.0 (P< 0.025) and 0.5 mg/kg/day (P< 0.10) of the drug. Alterations in measured characteristics of the ejaculate were seen after the two highest dose levels. Spermatogenesis in the rat appeared normal after the minimum effective dose (5.0 mg/kg/day for 14 days). This dose (1.0 mg/kg/day for 21 days) in the rabbit caused degeneration in the seminiferous tubules. Increased Na+(P< 0.025) and decreased glycerylphosphorylcholine (P< 0.05) were observed in cauda epididymal fluid of these animals. The only side effect noted was an initial decrease in feed and water intake.
The Effect of Caffeine on Guinea Pig Epididymal Spermatozoa: Motility and Fertilizing Capacity
Authors: Shilon M. , (Frenkel) G. Paz , Homonnai Z. T. , Schoenbaum M.
Published: May 2008

Guinea pig epididymal spermatozoa, when taken from different segments of the epididymis, are known to differ markedly in their in vitro motility, metabolism and morphology. In this report, the fertilizing capacity of epididymal spermatozoa isolated from proximal and distal segments and treated with caffeine was tested. Twenty six guinea pig sows were inseminated 16–26 h after parturition with isolated epididymal spermatozoa. In 15 cases the spermatozoa were treated with caffeine (10 mM), and 11 cases served as controls. Sperm characteristics (mean ± SE) were: proximal sperm; concentration 48 ± 3.9 millions/ml, vitality 94 ± 0.9%, motility 42 ± 5.3%. Distal sperm: concentration 161 ± 21 million/ml, vitality 94 ± 0.9% and motility 86 ± 3.0%. Caffeine increased significantly the motility of proximal spermatozoa (by 59.5%). These suspensions of spermatozoa were used for intraperitoneal artificial insemination.

The impregnation rate of untreated proximal sperm was zero (0 out of 4), compared with 83% (5 out of 6) for the caffeine treated sperm. The impregnation rate of untreated distal segment sperm was 42.8% (3 out of 7) compared with 100% (9 out of 9) for caffeine treated sperm.
Effect of Chronic Neutralization of Endogenous FSH on Testicular Function in the Adult Male Bonnet Monkey – Assessment Using Biochemical Parameters
Authors: Rani C. S. Sheela , Murty G. S. R. C. , Moudgal N. R.
Published: May 2008

The effect of long‐term passive immunization with a specific homologous antiserum to ovine FSH on testicular function in the adult bonnet monkey was studied. Testicular function was assessed by studying biochemical parameters such as hyaluronidase activity and the rate of incorporation of [3H]thymidine into DNA of testis in vitro.

The above parameters were determined in one group of monkeys at 210 days and in another group at 130 days after initiation of antiserum treatment. The testis of both groups of monkeys showed a marked reduction in the rate of [3H]thymidine incorporation into testicular DNA as well as in hyaluronidase activity compared to the corresponding control animals. Further, on withdrawal of antiserum treatment in one set of monkeys, a clear recovery was observed in these parameters, thus demonstrating that the earlier observed effects were specifically due to lack of FSH.

The results clearly indicate that chronic lack of FSH affects testicular function in the adult monkey and it is suggested that FSH could have a positive role in spermatogenesis in the adult sub‐human primate.
The Influence of Sexual Maturation and Immunization Against LH‐RH on Testicular Sensitivity to Gonadotrophin Stimulation In Vitro
Authors: Sharpe R. M. , Fraser H. M.
Published: May 2008

Binding of 125[‐labelled hCG to testicular homogenates from 60‐ and 120‐day‐old rats was between 3 and 4 times higher than to tissue from 25‐day‐old rats. However, testes from the latter showed maximal testosterone production (35 ng/testis) in vitro in the presence of 5 pM hCG whereas testes from 60‐ and 120‐day‐old rats responded maximally (560 ng and 400 ng/testis respectively) with an hCG concentration of 45 pM; the minimum effective dose of hCG was 0.5 pM hCG in 25‐day‐old rats and 5–11 pM in 60‐ and 120‐day‐old rats.

In adult rats actively immunized against LH‐RH, the testes had regressed to less than 15 % of their normal weight and showed maximal testosterone production (4 ng/testis) in the presence of 10 pM hCG whereas testes from adult control rats required 45 pM hCG to elicit this response (600 ng/testis); the minimum effective dose of hCG was 2 pM in LH‐RH immunized rats compared with 11 pM for controls.

It is concluded that the maturational increase in the testicular capacity to secrete testosterone is associated with a decrease in ‘sensitivity’ to hCG‐stimulation in vitro; the latter change appears to be related to the level of gonadotrophin exposure in vivo.
The Effect of Low‐Dose HCG on the Testis of Prepuberal Dogs
Authors: Ibach B. , Passia D. , Weissbach L. , Goslar H. G.
Published: May 2008

Tubule size and the changes of various enzyme activities in response to low doses of HCG were investigated in prepuberal dogs. After administering a total dose of 1000 IU over a period of five weeks, there was no significant alteration of the surface area of the seminiferous tubules as compared to controls. Histochemical studies of a number of hydrolases and oxido reductases of the germinal epithelium and interstitium did not show any changes in activity as compared to those of untreated animals. The results indicate that the low doses of HCG suggested by the International Health Foundation for treatment of cryptorchidism do not lead to marked alterations in the testicular tissue.
In Vitro Method of Studying the Site of Action of Bromocryptine on Hypothalamus‐Pituitary‐Testis Function in Rats
Authors: Vermes I. , Telegdy G.
Published: May 2008

The effects of bromocryptine, a specific dopaminergic agonist, were studied in vitro on the system comprising the hypothalamic tissue, the collagenase‐digested, isolated anterior pituitary cells, and the Leydig cells, by measuring the testosterone production of the Leydig cells.

The in vitro testosterone production and the HCG sensitivity of the isolated Leydig cells decreased in the presence of 10‐5 M bromocryptine, whereas 10‐8–10‐6 M concentrations were ineffective. However, bromocryptine in concentrations of 10‐7–10‐6 M inhibited the isolated adenohypophyseal cell‐induced stimulation of the Leydig cells. The same inhibitory effect of bromocryptine was observed when the stimulation of the pituitary cell – Leydig cell system was induced by LHRH or hypothalamic tissue in vitro. Bromocryptine in a concentration of 10‐6 M did not alter the LHRH content and release of the hypothalamus measured by radioimmunoassay in the hypothalamic tissue and in the medium after an in vitro incubation.

The results suggest an inhibitory effect of bromocryptine on the pituitarytestis axis by acting on the pituitary and testis levels in the in vitro system studied.
Androgen Binding Proteins and Androgen Levels in the Human Testis and Epididymis
Authors: Purvis Ken , Calandra R. , Sander S. , Hansson V.
Published: May 2008

The human testis and epididymis contain two distinct androgen binding components, one with physicochemical properties identical to the androgen receptor found in other target tissues and another, androgen binding protein (ABP), which shares the same binding characteristics as human testosterone binding globulin (TeBG). Simultaneous assays of ABP and corticosteroid binding globulin (CBG, an exclusive blood protein) in the same testicular extracts suggest that androgen binding to the second component could be readily explained by contamination with blood TeBG rather than by the existence of a testis specific ABP. The levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) (the major androgen binding to this protein) in the human epididymis are much lower than those reported for rats and rabbits. Furthermore, there is no concentration gradient in DHT or testosterone along the human epididymis.
Zinc Content of Human Ejaculate and the Motility of Sperm Cells
Authors: Danscher Gorm , Hammen Richard , Fjerdingstad Erik , Rebbe Heinrich
Published: May 2008

The material consisted of ejaculates from 152 men who were consulting the laboratory for infertility control. The zinc content of ejaculates was determined by flameless atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Fertility was measured by conventional methods (morphology, motility and the concentration of spermatozoa). It was found that depressed sperm motility was correlated with a high zinc concentration.
Bilateral Macro‐Orchidism in Otherwise Normal Men
Authors: Padrón Rubén S. , Hung Santiago , Licea Manuel , Pérez‐Plaza Miriam , Arce Bartolome
Published: May 2008

Six men with benign macro‐orchidism are described. There was no clinical evidence of endocrine or urologic disorder, and male sex characteristics were normal. Semen analysis data, previously unreported, and fertility of three of them indicate normal spermatogenesis. The findings suggest that some normal men may have unusually large testes. In these subjects, both seminiferous tubule and androgenic function were clinically normal.
Permanent Sterility after Immunosuppressive Therapy
Authors: Marina S. , Barceló P.
Published: May 2008

The fertility of 19 patients, 9 men and 10 women, suffering from glomerulopathies and treated with one or more cytostatic drugs – 6‐mercaptopurine, chlorambucil and cyclophosphamide – is studied.

Semen analyses and testis biopsies were performed in men. Clinical histories of pregnancies were done in women. In the men permanent or transitory sterility, depending on the total doses of cytostatics, was established. Fertility was not affected in women's fertility.
Proportions of Y and YY Spermatozoa in Normal and Abnormal Semen Samples
Authors: Rameix‐Selva J. , Jeulin C. , David G.
Published: May 2008

The frequency of spermatozoa bearing one or two fluorescent bodies (FB) has been studied in two series of semen, normal and abnormal (asthenozoospermic). The percentage of spermatozoa with one FB is lower in abnormal semen (41.19% vs 45.82%). On the other hand, there is no significant difference when spermatozoa bearing two FB are compared (1.95% vs 1.90%). Various correlations among semen characteristics were studied, including sperm count, mobility, vitality, percentage of normal forms. Two correlations were found to be significant: positive correlation between the frequency of one FB spermatozoa and mobility and a positive correlation between the frequency of normal forms and the frequency of one FB spermatozoa. The differences between normal and abnormal semen involve only one FB spermatozoa and not those with two FB.
Age Related Effects on Androgen Binding Protein (ABP) in Sheep Testis and Epididymis1
Authors: Carreau S. , Drosdowsky M. A. , Courot M.
Published: May 2008

An androgen binding protein (ABP) has been demonstrated in testis and epididymis (caput, corpus, cauda) supernatants of sheep aged 50, 120 and 200 days. This protein has a high affinity for 5α‐dihydrotestosterone (Ka = 0.184 ± 0.023 × 109 M‐1), an electrophoretic mobility (RF) of 0.52–0.56 on PAGE and a molecular weight of about 70 000 daltons. In 50 day‐old animals (infantile) ABP is only present in the testis (392 fmoles/mg protein) with no dihydrotestosterone binding detectable in the epididymis. This is the first evidence of production of ABP by the testis some time before initiation of spermatogenesis. In the 120 day‐old animals (prepubertal), ABP is observed both in testis (142 fmoles/mg) and epididymis: caput (90 fmoles/mg), corpus (41 fmoles/mg) and cauda (165 fmoles mg). In the 200 day‐old rams (postpubertal) testis ABP is less concentrated than in younger animals (22 fmoles/mg), but in the epididymis the levels of ABP are twice those encountered in 120 day‐old animals.
Effects of Testosterone, Progesterone and Testosterone plus Progesterone on Rat Testicular Lipids
Authors: Sheriff D. Sultan
Published: May 2008

The effects of testosterone, progesterone or testosterone plus progesterone on testicular lipids of pubertal rats are presented. The hormones were administered for 1 day as well as 7 days continuously to study both short and long term effects. Testosterone induced marked depletion of glycerides in short and long term treatments. It elicited a significant increase in phospholipids only in long term treatment. Progesterone brought about marked increase in esterified cholesterol with a congenital fall in free cholesterol. It had no significant effect on testicular glycerides and phospholipids Testosterone plus progesterone administration caused marked increase in phospholipids with a fall in glyceride levels even in short term treatment. There was a marked increase in esterified cholesterol with a concurrent fall in free cholesterol level. Thus, testosterone plus progesterone treatment brought out marked changes in phospholipids, glycerides and cholesterol fractions.

These hormonal treatments did not have any significant effect on testicular weight in short as well as long term studies.
Inhibition of Spermatogenesis with Monthly Injections of Medroxyprogesterone Acetate and Low Dose Testosterone Enanthate
Authors: Sánchez Francisco Alvarez , Brache Vivian , León Patricia , Faundes Anibal
Published: May 2008

The use of the combination of a gestagen, medroxy‐progesterone acetate, and an androgen, testosterone enantate as a method for male contraception has been tried. The treatment was given at monthly injections, the gestagen at two dose levels. 150 and 300 mg/month and the androgen at 250 mg month. No substantial difference was observed between the two treatment schedules. Azoospermia was achieved in a majority of the patients within 4 months of treatment, but was never observed in all patients. After discontinuation the sperm count increased gradually after 2–3 months. This treatment schedule is not adequate for contraceptive purposes. Sexual impotency was not a problem for any of the subjects although testosterone in serum was reduced to 20–25% of the pretreatment level.
Changes Induced to Bull Spermatids and Testicular Spermatozoa by a Single Peritesticular Injection of Ethylene Dibromide
Authors: Amir D. , Nicolle J. C. , Courot M.
Published: May 2008

Peritesticular injection of ethylene dibromide to bulls resulted in misshaping, abnormal chromatin condensation and decrease of UV‐DNA and UV‐protein contents of elongating spermatids.
Ultrastructural Study of the Macrophage‐Cytophilic Antibody‐Spermatozoa Complex
Authors: Mazzolli Alicia B. , Barrera Clydes , Vilar O.
Published: May 2008

Normal guinea pig peritoneal cells were firstly incubated in vitro with cytophilic sera obtained from animals with experimental immunologic orchitis and secondly with immobilized spermatozoa from the same cell donor guinea pig. These preparations were studied by transmission and scanning electron microscopy. The results showed that most of peritoneal cells were macrophages which were turned capable to phagocytose normal sperm cells after being incubated with cytophilic serum. This specific phagocytosis seems to be neither complement nor lymphokine dependent. The possible role of cytophilic antibodies in the phagocytic process is discussed.
Effects of Prostaglandins and Indomethacin on the Response of Rat Testis to LH in vivo
Authors: Joseph M. M. , Bartke A.
Published: May 2008

In adult male rats, bilateral intratesticular administration of 20 μg PGA1 or 20 μg indomethacin significantly reduced the acute stimulation of plasma testosterone levels by concomitantly injected LH, while treatment with the same dose of PGF2α was without effect. After six days of treatment with indomethacin, plasma testosterone levels were reduced to approximately 1/3 of the control levels.

Intratesticular administration of 10 μg LH per testis per day produced, after six days, a precipitous decline in plasma testosterone levels and a decrease in the weight of the testes. This was probably due to desensitization of Leydig cells by these high doses of gonadotropin. Administration of PGF2α together with LH caused a further decrease in testicular weight and a significant reduction in the weights of the prostate and the seminal vesicles.
Reversal of Short Photoperiod‐Induced Sterility in Male Hamsters by Ectopic Pituitary Homografts
Authors: Bartke A. , Smith M. S. , Dalterio S.
Published: May 2008

In the hamster testicular atrophy can be reversed by ectopic pituitary grafts but effects of this treatment on fertility have not been examined. Adult male hamsters were transferred from a long (14 h of light: 10 h of darkness) to a short photoperiod (5 h of light: 19 h of darkness) to induce atrophy of the testes. Two months later, the animals were given transplants of one or two pituitaries from adult females under the kidney capsule, were sham‐operated, or left untreated. After an additional 2 months, all of 7 animals given one graft and 2 of 5 animals given two grafts were fertile while none of 10 control males sired litters. At autopsy, the concentration of testosterone in the plasma and the weights of the testes and the seminal vesicles were significantly higher in grafted than in control animals. Plasma FSH levels were increased only in animals given two transplants, while plasma LH levels were not affected by either of the treatments. Restoration of fertility by pituitary transplants was most likely due to increase in peripheral PRL concentration and in testicular LH receptor levels.
Absence in Human Ejaculate of Cephalexin Following its Oral Administration
Authors: Frenkel G. Paz , Scher N. , Homonnai T. Z. , Campus A. , Eylan E.
Published: May 2008

Cephalexin (1 g) was ingested by 57 male volunteers and the subsequent concentrations of the drug in their serum and ejaculate were measured by the broth‐dilution method. Serum maximal levels (29.8 ± 6.6 μg/ml) were attained 1 h following ingestion and were sustained for an additional h before dropping to about 10% at 4 h postingestion. In the ejaculates, 22 out of 34 determinations failed to detect the drug whereas the remaining 12 gave various levels apparently independet of the time elapsed from drug administration. Determinations of the drug in the two fractions of 15 split ejaculates showed measurable levels in only 8 ejaculates and these were invariably higher in the first fraction than in the second.

Cephalexin levels in the urine of 8 men 2 h after ingestion of the drug were above 200 μ/ml. Ejaculates obtained from these men half an h after the micturition showed in 7 out of 8 cases Cephalexin levels in the range of 12–50 μ/ml.

These findings suggest that contamination of the ejaculate by traces of urine (from the urethra) may explain some false‐positive results reported in the literature for Cephalexin in seminal plasma.
Increased Concentration of Testosterone in Testis Artery Blood as Compared to Peripheral Venous Blood in Man
Authors: Damber J.‐E. , Tomic R. , Bergman B. , Bergh A.
Published: May 2008

In 8 patients undergoing orchidectomy for prostatic carcinoma, blood samples were taken from the testis artery and the brachial vein simultaneously. It was found that the concentration of testosterone in the testis artery was significantly higher (P < 0.01) than the concentration in the brachial vein. These results support the idea of a counter‐current exchange mechanism for testosterone between venous and arterial blood in the human, spermatic cord.
Involvement of Insulin and Testosterone in the Reproduction of Streptozotocin Diabetic Rats
Authors: Frenkel G. Paz , Homonnai Z. T.
Published: May 2008

Streptozotocin diabetic rats were shown to be subfertile, which can be overcome by treatment with insulin plus hCG. In this study, we have shown that replacement of hCG by exogenous testosterone was enough for restoration of the accessory glands activity in contrast to its failure to preserve sparmatogenesis and restore fertility. A synergistic effect of insulin and testosterone in control of the male accessory glands was evident. Exogenous testosterone, insulin or both together improved only slightly the epididymal function as reflected in sperm motility and fertility capacity. The fertility rate of the diabetic rats (14%) treated with either insulin (22%), testosterone (40%), or both together (50%) was not as good as the synergistic effect of insulin and hCG. These results point to the beneficial effect of LH (by hCG) in the regulation of male fertility apart from its control on the activity of the Leydig cell function.
Effect of Hypoxia on the Response of the Adult Rabbit Isolated Testicular Capsule to Sodium Nitroprusside, Papaverine and Verapamil
Authors: Davis Joseph R. , Horowitz Arthur M.
Published: May 2008

Spontaneous contractions of the adult rabbit isolated testicular capsule were found to be adversely affected by acute hypoxic exposure. The observed increase in testicular capsular tension (tone) resulting from hypoxia was demonstrated to be influenced by the addition of smooth muscle relaxant agents. Sodium nitroprusside, papaverine and verapamile each were found to relax the hypoxic‐induced contracture of the testicular capsule and to restore capsular tone to a control aerated level. The present data suggests that these agents may be of use in preventing an increase in active tension development of the testicular capsule of the hypoxic testis.
Histochemical Demonstration of Δ5,3β‐hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Activity in Cultured Leydig Cells under the Influence of Gonadotropic Hormones and Testosterone
Authors: Bilińska Barbara
Published: May 2008

The influence of gonadotropic hormones or testosterone upon activity of Δ5, 3β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (Δ5,3β‐OH‐SDH) within cultured Leydig cells was histochemically investigated.

The following amounts of hormones were added into the culture medium: LH – 10, 100, 500, and 1000 ng/ml, FSH – 100 ng/ml, Testosterone (T) – 150 ng/ml of culture medium. Doses 10 and 100 ng LH stimulated the activity of the histochemically investigated enzyme, while 500 ng decreased enzyme activity and 1000 ng failed to support culture at all. FSH did not exert any influence on enzyme activity of cultured cells while testosterone decreased its activity beginning on day 6 in culture.
Human Testicular Disorders: Serum and Urinary Hormone Patterns and in vitro Conversion of [21‐14C,7‐3H]Progesterone
Authors: Fredricsson Bengt , Carlström Kjell
Published: May 2008

The peripheral serum levels of FSH, LH, testosterone and low polar oestrogens and the urinary excretion of LH, low polar oestrogens, dehydroepiandrosterone, androsterone and aetiocholanolone and 17‐oxogenic steroids were determined in five groups of infertile men. Together with the hormone determinations, the in vitro metabolism of [7‐3H, 21‐14C]progesterone by testicular biopsy specimens was studied. The five groups were defined by their testicular histology: Normal spermatogenesis, hypospermatogenesis with thickening of the lamina propria, spermatogenetic arrest and Sertoli cell only syndrome. Cases with azoospermia and normal testicular histology constitute our reference material.

The group of hypospermatogenesis with normal lamina propria was characterized by increased urinary excretion of 17‐oxogenic steroids (P < 0.05), of androsterone (P < 0.02) and in some cases also of dehydroepiandrosterone.

The group of hypospermatogenesis with thickening of the lamina propria showed also elevation of the urinary excretion of androsterone (P < 0.01) but also of aetiocholanolone (P < 0.05). Elevated serum values of FSH (P < 0.05) and testosterone (P < 0.05) were also seen. The results of in vitro conversion of progesterone were not normally distributed, revealing one subgroup with normal bioconversion pattern and one with an immature pattern.

In the group of spermatogenetic arrest significantly elevated values of FSH (P < 0.05) and of prolactin (P < 0.05) were found. In this group some cases with elevated urinary excretion of dehydroepiandrosterone were also found. Bioconversion pattern was normal in all cases except one in which the most immature pattern in the cntire matcrial was found. The Scrtoli cell only group showed significant elcvations of serum FSH (P < 0.01) and LH (P < 0.01). Also in this group were cases with immature bioconversion pattern found.

The findings indicate that the pituitary‐testicular interrelationship is disturbed in cases of hypospcrmatogcnesis and spermatogenic arrest, either via a general adrenal interaction (cases with normal lamina propria) or specifically by increased dehydroepiandrosterone, which in the cases of spermatogenetic arrest may be induced by prolactin. The significance of altered ratios of FSH/LH is discussed. It is suggested that an abnormal bioconversion pattern may be due either to adrcnal overactivity or to an altered FSH/LH‐ratio, or to both.
The Net Surface Charge of Mammalian Spermatozoa as Determined by Isoelectric Focusing. Changes Following Sperm Maturation, Ejaculation, Incubation in the Female Tract, and after Enzyme Treatment
Authors: Moore H. D. M.
Published: May 2008

The mean net surface charge of living mammalian spermatozoa from various regions of the male reproductive tract has been investigated by whole cell isoelectric focusing techniques. In all cases, spermatozoa released from the caput epididymidis had a significantly higher mean isoelectric point than those from the cauda region. The net charge of spermatozoa from the rat and hamster was further modified by seminal vesicular fluid but not by prostatic secretion.

Whereas the isoelectric point of caudal spermatozoa from rodents increased significantly after exposure to neuraminidase or trypsin, that of spermatozoa from the caput region was altered to a lesser extent. By contrast, neuraminidase failed to influence the surface charge of ejaculated human and rabbit spermatozoa, as did the incubation of spermatozoa in the female tract or with capacitating media. Finally, a preliminary study showed that spermatozoa from some apparently infertile men have an isoelectric point consistently higher than those from fertile men.
The Routine Spermiogram in the Assessment of Male Fertility
Authors: Brotherton Janet , Koch U. J. , Hammerstein J.
Published: May 2008

An analysis has been made of 1214 consecutive unselected first spermiograms obtained from a male infertility clinic. The methods of semen analysis are fully described. There were only 99 “normal” or “perfect” spermiograms when 7 criteria of “normality” were applied, that is a sperm count > 40 million/ml, > 60% motility, > 60% normally formed spermatozoa, > 1200 μg fructose/ml, volume > 2.0 ml, pH 30 min after liquifaction between 7.0 and 7.6 and the absence of Spinnbarkeit or slime after liquefaction. It was found that almost all specimens with a sperm count of > 250 million/ml, but not those of > 200 million/ml, could not be classified as “normal”. Similarly lowering the “normal” limit to 30 million/ml or 20 million/ml introduced very few extra “normal” specimens. Lowering the motility limit to > 50% motile introduced a further 62 “normal” specimens. The characteristics of the original 99 “perfect” specimens are given in detail for additional parameters, e.g. qualitative motility (speed) and vitality. After incubation at 37°C for 4 h the effect on quantitative and qualitative molitity and on vitality is also described.
Homologous Insemination Using the Split Ejaculate
Authors: David A.
Published: May 2008

Seventy‐two couples complaining of primary or secondary sterility, mainly due to male subfertility were investigated. Sperm analyses showed that the husbands were suffering from oligozoospermia and asthenozoospermia of moderate to poor grading. Following split ejaculations the semen analyses showed that the first portion of the ejaculates contained a good number of motile spermatozoa. Husbands were instructed to perform coital withdrawal after the deposition of the first portion of the ejaculate. They were interviewed in connection with their sexual performances using this special coital technic. Twenty‐seven husbands reported difficulties in performing the technic, 24 could not control their ejaculation, 16 of the 72 reported either precox ejaculations or impotence; only 5 husbands considered the technic as an easy one. Therefore homologous artificial inseminations using the first portion of the ejaculate were performed. In these cases post coital tests showed better results than following regular coitus or after the withdrawal technic. The results of these tests were later confirmed by a total of 45 pregnancies resulting in 36 living babies.
The Effects of Verapamil on Interstitial Cell Steroidogenesis
Authors: Lin T. , Murono E. , Osterman J. , Troen P. , Nankin H. R.
Published: May 2008

The effect of verapamil on interstitial cell steroidogenesis was studied. Collagenase‐dispersed interstitial cells were incubated with varying amounts of LH, 8‐bromo‐cyclic AMP, or verapamil. Cyclic AMP and testosterone were determined in media after 4‐hour incubations. Verapamil in the doses of 10‐4 and 10‐5M inhibited LH‐induced testosterone biosynthesis, while 10‐6M verapamil had no effect. The inhibition persisted even though LH was increased 100 fold. Verapamil (10‐5M) also significantly reduced 8‐bromo‐cyclic AMP and 1‐methyl‐3‐isobutylxanthine‐stimulated testosterone formation. Cyclic AMP responses to LH stimulation were enhanced by low doses (10‐6 and 10‐5M), but were inhibited by a higher dose (10‐4M) of verapamil. This study suggests that verapamil blocks LH‐ and 8‐bromo‐cyclic AMP‐induced testosterone formation. In high doses, verapamil also decreases cyclic AMP response to LH stimulation. The main effect of verapamil appears to be beyond cyclic AMP formation.
Electron Microscopy (SEM and TEM) of the Rete Testis in the Monkey
Authors: Burgos Mario H. , Cavicchia Juan C. , Einer‐Jensen N.
Published: May 2008

The present report shows the topography of the rete testis in normal and ductuli efferentes ligated monkeys. The epithelium of the rete testis has been studied by both scanning and transmission electron microscopy. It shows two main surfaces. One covering the main cavity is rather flat with microvilli and ill‐defined cellular limits. The other surface is found close to the opening of ductuli efferentes and shows bulging cupola‐like cells with better defined limits, microvilli and blebs. Both zones have cells with one cilium. Many of the cupola‐like cells show the presence of phagocytized spermatozoa in different stages of digestion. Phagocytic activity appears to be more pronounced in the ligated animals.
In Vitro Steroidogenesis and Hormone Levels in Pooled Human Vas Deferens
Authors: Kumari G. L. , Poddar A. K. , Das R. P.
Published: May 2008

The ability of human vas deferens to utilize labelled pregnenolone and testosterone for the synthesis of androgens was studied and correlated with the endogenous hormone levels present in the pooled tissue. In vitro incubation of vas tissue with [4‐14C]‐pregnenolone resulted in accumulation of more radioactivity in dehydroepiandrosterone and testosterone compared to that observed in 4‐androstene‐3,17‐dione and progesterone. Labelled [14C]‐testosterone was mainly converted to 4‐androstene‐3,17‐dione and 5α‐dihydrotestosterone, the counts being more in the former than in the latter steroid. The endogenous levels of progesterone, testosterone and 4‐androstene‐3,17‐dione in the vas tissue were higher than the levels of 5α‐dihydrotestosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone. Thus, the vas deferens appears to have all the enzymes necessary for the synthesis of testosterone and the major metabolite of testosterone was not 5α‐dihydrotestosterone as in other male accessory sex organs.
Immunoglobulin Class of Antispermatozoal Antibodies from Infertile Men and Inhibition of in vitro Sperm Penetration into Cervical Mucus
Authors: Jager S. , Kremer J. , Kuiken J. , van Slochteren‐Draaisma Tiny
Published: May 2008

The presence of IgG and IgA on motile spermatozoa from normal semen donors and men from infertile couples was studied with mixed antiglobulin reaction (MAR) tests.

The percentage of motile spermatozoa with IgG (IgG MAR%) was found to be related to the circulating antispermatozoal IgG. No direct relation could be detected between the IgG MAR% and the sperm agglutinating activity in seminal plasma (SP) or the percentage of motile spermatozoa showing the shaking phenomenon (S%) in the sperm cervical mucus contact (SCMC) test. The percentage of motile spermatozoa with IgA (IgA MAR%) showed no direct relation to the sperm agglutinating activity in serum and SP, but was roughly proportional with the S%.

It was discerned that the shaking phenomenon in the SCMC test was probably due to presence of IgA on the motile spermatozoa. Previously it had been demonstrated that also the sperm agglutinating activity in SP is caused by IgA that is probably locally produced in the male genital tract. In conclusion it was thought that the reduced ability of penetration into cervical mucus by spermatozoa from infertile men is caused by locally produced IgA.
Ultrastructural Aspects of Asthenospermia
Authors: de Casseye M. Jadot‐Van , Schoysman R. , Smets G. , Gepts W.
Published: May 2008

In fifty cases of proven asthenospermia semen samples were examined for ultrastructural abnormalities. In 32 of the cases the sperm cells appeared either completely normal, or presented only minor abnormalities. In 15 cases severe teratospermia was observed. In the 3 remaining cases, specific and hitherto undescribed tail abnormalities were detected.
Assessment of Testicular Function by the Radioimmunoassay of Testosterone in Saliva
Authors: Walker R. F. , Wilson D. W. , Read G. F. , Riad‐Fahmy D.
Published: May 2008

A sensitive RIA (500 fg/tube) has been developed for assay of testosterone in male saliva and extensively validated. In normal male saliva samples, morning concentrations (368 ± 167 pmol/l) were significantly higher than evening samples (212 ± 132 pmol/l). The circadian rhythm was confirmed by COSINOR analysis. Levels of testosterone in saliva, in response to HCG stimulation, accurately reflected the increase observed in matched plasma samples. Synacthen administration, although increasing circulating cortisol levels, caused no significant change in plasma and salivary testosterone concentrations. Prostatic cancer patients on diethylstilboestrol therapy had low salivary (47–122 pmol/l) and plasma (1.0–2.8 nmol/l) testosterone concentrations.

Correct assessment of testicular function following stimulation and treatment regimens requires multiple sampling. Since saliva samples are easily collected by non‐invasive techniques they represent an attractive alternative to plasma for evaluation of androgenicity.
Characteristics of Anti‐Spermatozoal Antibodies Responsible for the Shaking Phenomenon with Special Regard to Immunoglobulin Class and Antigen‐Reactive Sites
Authors: Kremer J. , Jager S.
Published: May 2008

The interaction between spermatozoa and cervical mucus in the presence of antispermatozoal antibodies was studied in the SCMC‐test and in the Miller‐Kurzrok test.

A high correlation was found between: 1. The “shaking phenomenon” in the SCMC‐test; 2. sperm penetration into cervical mucus; 3. the sperm agglutination titre in seminal plasma and in cervical mucus.

The authors performed investigations which indicate that antispermatozoal IgA in semen and in cervical mucus is probably responsible for the “shaking phenomenon” in the SCMC‐test and for the reduced penetration of spermatozoa into cervical mucus. Experiments with the Miller‐Kurzrok test make it probable that antispermatozoal antibodies in semen, which are responsible for the “shaking phenomenon”, are directed against the surface antigens of the sperm tails. Antispermatozoal antibodies in cervical mucus, which are responsible for the “shaking phenomenon”, are probably directed against the surface antigens of the sperm acrosome.
A Quantitative Structural Model of the Testis of Fertile Males with Normal Sperm Counts
Authors: van Dop P. A. , Scholtmeijer R. J. , Kurver P. H. J. , Baak J. P. A. , Oort J. , Stolte L. A. M.
Published: May 2008

The morphology of testicular biopsies of 8 healthy fertile men with proven normal sperm counts was studied using stereological techniques. Quantitative estimations were made of different cellular compartments in the testicular biopsies. The experimental errors of observation, homogeneity of the section, accuracy of the measurements and errors caused during the preparation of the sections were studied. A stereological model of the human testis comprising all compartments was designed. The present observations on the stereological parameters were compared with the results in literature; generally a good agreement was found.

This stereological model enabled the authors to establish the quantitative correlations that exist between the separate compartments of the human testis. The tubular length density was positively correlated with the tubular surface density. The tubular surface density showed a negative correlation with the volume density of the germinal cell nuclei. The tubular volume density showed a negative correlation with the volume density of the Leydig cells. The intra‐tubular volume density correlated negatively with the volume density of the Leydig cells and with the volume density of the remaining extra‐tubular tissue. The intra‐tubular tissue density correlated negatively with the volume density of the intra‐tubular space.
Sperm Storage Capacity of the Indigenous West African Boar
Authors: Egbunike Gabriel N.
Published: May 2008

The sperm reserves in the testis and epididymis of pubertal and adult indigenous West African boars were 4.22 and 4.99 times 109 and 1.81 and 1.92 times 109 respectively and were influenced by age and organ weight (P < 0.05). Although these values were much less than those of exotic boars of about the same age, distribution in weights and sperm content of both indigenous and exotic boars is similar. However, testicular and epididymal sperm reserves were unrelated (r= 0.19, P > 0.05) indicating that sperm storage capacity was still developing.
Serum Prolactin and Radiological Skull Examinations in Infertile Men with Azoospermia or Severe Oligozoospermia
Authors: Åbyholm Thomas , Molne Kåre
Published: May 2008

Measurements of serum prolactin, FSH, LH, testosterone, and oestradiol and radiological examinations of the skull were carried out in 142 infertile men with sperm counts below 10 millions/ml. The prolactin levels were compared to those observed in 27 fertile men.

Six of the infertile men showed high levels of prolactin. Two of these men had earlier been hypophysectomized, and the sella turcica was found to be abnormal on the roentgenograms. In the remaining four men the sella turcica was normal, and serum gonadotrophins, testosterone and oestradiol were within normal range except for one man who displayed a very high FSH. The testis biopsies from these four men showed severe hypoplasia, signalling that treatment of the infertility with bromocriptine may be of limited value.
Secretion of Metronidazole into the Human Semen
Authors: Eliasson R. , Dornbusch K.
Published: May 2008

The concentration of metronidazole has been studied in blood and in seminal plasma from apparently healthy volunteers and men with subclinical prostatitis. The volunteers took one dose of 500 mg orally and the patients 250 mg twice daily for two to three days. Therapeutic concentrations of metronidazole were found in blood and semen two to three h after intake. In patients the mean concentration was 8.7 μg/ml in blood plasma and 7.0 μg/ml in seminal plasma. Split ejaculates were collected in four to six fractions and the concentrations of metronidazole in the different tractions were related to those for zinc and fructose. The results indicated that the drug was excreted from prostate, seminal vesicles, and the ampulla ductus deferens.
Acid Phosphatases of the Human Testis Separation and Enzyme Characteristics
Authors: Guha Kallol , Vanha‐Perttula Tapani
Published: May 2008

Acid phosphatase activities of human testicular tissue were studied after gel filtration on Sepharose 6B and rechromatography on DE‐52 cellulose. Four enzyme activity peaks were detected by using p‐nitrophenyl phosphate, α‐naphthyl phosphate and thymolphthalein phosphate as substrates. Pooled fractions representing each peak were used to analyse the pH‐optima, thermal inactivation and modifier characteristics.

Enzyme I was eluted with the first protein peak obtained in gel filtration. Its optimum was at pH 4 and it was the most resistant among the four enzymes to thermal treatment. Enzyme I showed a moderate inhibition with tartrate and fluoride. The three substrates tested were readily hydrolysed by this activity.

Enzyme II was co‐eluted with Enzyme IV in the second peak of gel filtration. After cellulose chromatography of this peak Enzyme II was eluted first from the column. Its optimum activity was at pH 3.5. About 80% of its activity was lost by a 15‐min incubation at 60°C. The enzyme was the most sensitive to both tartrate and fluoride. All three substrates were also hydrolysed by this enzyme.

Enzyme III was eluted in the third peak of gel filtration. Its optimal activity was at pH 5. It was the most thermolabile among the enzymes. Another unique feature of this enzyme was also the high sensitivity to cadmium, copper and high concentration of zinc and resistance to both tartrate and fluoride, α‐naphthyl phosphate and thymolphthalein phosphate were not hydrolysed by this enzyme.

Enzyme IV was co‐eluted with Enzyme II in the second peak of gel filtration but could be separated from the latter in DE‐52 cellulose chromatography. Its optimum was at pH 5.5. It was resistant to low concentrations
Isolation of Principal Cells and Basal Cells by Elutriation of Suspensions of Rat Epididymal Tissue
Authors: Klinefelter G. R. , Amann R. P.
Published: May 2008

A technique was developed to aseptically prepare suspensions enriched in principal cells or basal cells of the caput epididymidis in number sufficient for physiological studies. To provide sperm‐free tissue the efferent ducts of adult rats were ligated 6 days before use. Tissue from the caput epididymidis was minced and dissociated enzymatically. Dissociated cells (1.0–1.4 times 108) were introduced with a buffer flow of 20 ml/min into a Beckman elutriator rotor operating at 1600 rpm. Cells other than principal cells passed through the elutriation chamber. Principal cells were collected by decreasing rotor speed while increasing buffer flow to 30 ml/min. Cells initially passing through the rotor were reintroduced at a flow of 10 ml/min; only basal cells were elutriated. The principal‐cell fraction contained an average (N = 7) of 23 times 106 cells of which 71% were principal cells and 16% were basal cells. Cells in this fraction had an energy charge of 0.92 and 71% excluded erythrosin‐B dye. The basal‐cell fraction typically contained 30 times 106 cells of which 80% were basal cells and 7% were principal cells. These cells had an energy charge of 0.83 and 85% excluded dye.