bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The General Importance of Proteins and other Factors in the Transfer of Steroids into the Rat Epididymis
Authors: Cooper T. G.
Published: May 2008

The entry of total radioactivity into the perfused tubule of the cauda epididymidis was measured during intravenous infusion of labelled steroids into the anaesthetised rat. The effect of altering the composition of the perfusate on this entry and the nature of radiometabolites was also studied. No radioactivity entered the epididymal lumen during infusions of cholesterol, and in the absence of luminal proteins the entry of isotope was generally low (< 14% plasma levels) for all steroids except dehydroepi‐androsterone. C21/22‐steroids exhibited a delay of about 30 min before a slow rise in luminal activity reached between 3% and 14% plasma levels. For C19‐steroids a low plateau level of radioactivity was reached (at 6%‐9% plasma levels) with dihydrotestosterone and androstenedione. whereas luminal activity continued to rise with respect to blood during infusions of dehydroepiandrosterone. When protein was added to the perfusing solution the delay in entry of radioactivity was decreased and plateau levels established for C21/22‐steroids (at 14%‐38% plasma levels). The extents of entry of dihydrotestosterone and androstenedione were raised (34%‐47%) and radioactivity continued to rise in the lumen relative to blood, but at a faster rate during infusions of dehydroepiandrosterone and perfusion with protein. Testicular fluid protein had little effect on the entry of activity for any steroid. There was no correlation between the extent of entry of tracer with binding of the steroids to plasma or perfusates, or partition into lipids. Tentative identification of metabolites indicated an entry of both dihydrotestosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone during their respective infusions. Androstenedione and andro‐stanediols were excluded whereas 5u‐reduced metabolites appeared during of androstenedione and dehydroepiandrosterone.
Tissue Specificity of the Epididymal Androgen Dependent Phospholipase A
Authors: Beck Bente
Published: May 2008

The effect of androgens on phospholipase A in the rat epididymis, liver, heart, kidney, prostate and epididymal fat pad has been investigated both in the cytosol and in a postmitochondrial partiulate cell fraction.

In both cell fractions, phospholipase A activity was 10–15 times higher in the cauda epididymidis than in the other organs, including the caput epididymidis, while the corpus showed an intermediate activity. In the cauda and corpus, castration reduced phospholipase A activity in both subcellular fractions to the same level as found in the other organs, and testosterone supplementation restored the enzyme activity. No evidence of a similar androgen controlled phospholipase A was found in any other tissue examined, including the prostate.
Evidence for Androgen‐Dependent Phosphodiesterase Activity in Rat Seminal Vesicle and Epididymis
Authors: Djøseland O. , Gordeladze J. O. , Hoglo S. , Halse J. I. , Haugen H. N.
Published: May 2008

This paper deals with findings implying the existence of an androgen‐dependent phosphodiesterase (PDE) activity in accessory sexual glands (seminal vesicle and epididymis) of the rat. It is suggested that the PDE activity is not a prerequisite for, but merely a modulator of the overall androgenic response.
FSH and LH/hCG Responsive Adenylyl Cyclases in Adult Rat Testes: Methodology and Assay Conditions
Authors: Jahnsen Tore , Purvis Ken , Birnbaumer Lutz , Hansson Vidar
Published: May 2008

The activities of the membrane bound testicular adenylyl cyclases (AC) and their responsiveness to LH/hCG and FSH were examined in membrane particles from adult rat testes. The assay requires the use of an ATP regenerating system consisting of creatine kinase, creatine phosphate, and myokinase for the maintenance of ATP levels. LH/hCG and FSH responsive AC in the rat testes showed the following properties:

1. GTP and GMP‐P(NH)P showed a concentration‐dependent stimulation of AC activity with an apparent Km of 2 times 10‐6M.

2. The relative response to hCG and FSH was not influenced by ATP concentration if the free magnesium (Mg2+) concentration was kept constant. The AC activitity increased with increasing concentration of ATP (with an apparent Km of approximately 1.0 mM) using Mg2+ of 0.4 mM in excess of ATP and EDTA.

3. At low ATP (0.15 mM) Mg2+ caused a concentration‐dependent increase in both basal and hormone stimulated activities. At high ATP (1.65 mM) Mg2+ caused a concentration‐dependent increase in basal AC activity, but a gradual decrease in hCG and FSH stimulated AC activities at Mg2+ concentrations higher than 5 mM.

4. Decreasing Mg2+ was associated with increasing relative responses to hCG and FSH. Optimal relative stimulation by FSH and hCG was obtained when Mg2+ was 0.4‐1.0 mM in excess of the added Mg2+ binding ingredients (ATP and EDTA). Maximal relative stimulation by fluoride was achieved at much higher Mg2+ (5mM).

5. Increasing pH from 7.0 to 8.2 was associated with increasing basal activity. Optimal hormonal effects (relative response) were achieved using an incubation medium of pH of 7.00–7.40.

6. Time curves with GTP and GMP‐P(NH)P with or without hormones showed linearity up to 20 min.

7. Hormonal activation by gonadotropins (hCG and FSM) was seen using both membrane particles and homogenates, and in the presence of either GTP or GMP‐P(NH)P.

8. Relative responses to hCG and FSH were slightly better in membrane particles than in homogenates, and GMP‐P(NH)P reinforced the FSH response better than GTY. Similar relative stimulation by hCG was obtained using both nucleotides.

9. Complete maintenance of AC activity as well as hormonal responses were seen after freezing at ‐70°C for two weeks.

10. LH/hCG responsive AC activity was associated with Leydig cells, whereas FSH responsive AC was entirely localized in the seminiferous tubules. The finding of an FSH responsive AC in seminiferous tubules of adult rats does not support the notion that “uncoupling” of the FSH receptors from the AC is a primary reason for the loss of FSH response occurring during sexual maturation.

The finding of an FSH responsive AC in seminiferous tubules of adult rats does not support the notion that “uncoupling” of the FSH receptors from the AC is a primary reason for the loss of FSH response occurring during sexual maturation.
Effect of Clomiphene Citrate on Testicular Steroid Metabolism in Man
Authors: Carlström Kjell , Fredricsson Bengt
Published: May 2008

Administration of clomiphene citrate to males with normal peripheral testosterone levels increased the serum levels of FSH. LH, testosterone and low polar oestrogens and also the urinary excretion of LH, low polar oestrogens, dehydroepiandrosterone, androsterone and actiocholanolone. No significant change was noted for the urinary excretion of 17‐oxogenic steroids. Addition of clomiphene citrate (10‐4 to 2 times 10‐3 M) to incubations of [7‐3H, 21‐14C] progesterone with human testicular biopsy specimens in vitro caused a slight inhibition in the formation of 17α‐hydroxyproge‐sterone and a slightly increased formation of 20α‐hydroxy‐4‐pregnen‐3‐one but no measurable changes in the C19 steroid formation. The results support the hypothesis that there is selective action of clomiphene citrate upon the adrenal C19 steroid biosynthesis in the human male, combined with an indirect effect upon the testes via the hypothalamic‐pituitary system. A direct effect on the gonadal steroidogenesis can, however, not be ruled out.
A Multi‐channel System for the Measurement of Spermatozoan Collective Motility
Authors: Mayevsky Avraham , Bar‐Sagie Dafna , Bartoov Benjamin
Published: May 2008

A new multi‐channel optical system for objective evaluation of sperm motility is described. The principle of the technique is based on the measurement of changes in the intensity of light scattered from semen samples thermoregulated at 38°C. These changes were recorded continuously as analog waves (Reflectospermiogram ‐ RSG).

Changes in the intensity of sperm motility as a function of time from ejaculation were simultaneously measured in 8 equal semen samples from single ejaculate. By analyzing the variations in results, the sensitivity of the technique was defined. In order to demonstrate the use of the technique, the effect of various concentrations of ethanol on sperm motility has been described. The exposure of sperm cells to 366 nm light used in the system did not alter their ultrastructure, as was observed by electron microscopy. This objective, relatively easy to perform and highly informative technique can be of great value in research studies.
Endocrinological Studies in Patients with Metastatic Malignant Testicular Germ Cell Tumours
Authors: Fosså Sophie Dorothea , Klepp Olbjørn , Barth Elin , Aakvaag Asbjorn , Kaalhus Olav
Published: May 2008

In this study, various serum hormone levels were determined in patients with metastatic testicular germ cell tumours. Raised LH levels, due to a cross reaction with hCG in the radioimmunoassay, were observed in 20 out of 29 patients with active disease and were mainly caused by gonadotrophin production in the tumour tissue. Increased LH levels were frequently observed in the patients with non‐seminomatous tumours, but were also found in 4 (out of 6) patients with metastatic seminoma. One should, however, preferably use a specific hCG radioimmunoassay in order to measure tumour hCG as a tumour marker with a high diagnostic accuracy. In patients with active disease despite ongoing combination chemotherapy which included LH suppressing medication, serum testosterone remained above 6 nmol/l in 11 out of 16 patients. These patients remained sexually potent, while testosterone values below 6 nmol/l usually were combined with sexual impotence in patients during combination chemotherapy.

These data strongly suggest that the tumour hCG has a biological activity, stimulating the remaining testis to increased testosterone secretion in these patients. The serum E2‐17β levels were slightly to moderately increased in half of the patients with metastatic disease. Markedly increased serum E2‐17β levels (> 0.30 nmol/l) and very high prolactin values (> 32 μg/l) were observed only in patients with high LH levels (> 9.5 μg/l) and a large tumour burden. These observations indicate that E2‐17β and prolactin determinations are of minor value for early detection of tumour manifestations. Serum FSH cannot serve as a tumour marker in patients with testicular germ cell tumours.
Testosterone and 5α‐dihydrotestosterone Concentrations in Human Seminal Plasma
Authors: Lannou D. Le , Massart C. , Chambon Y. , Nicol M. , Allannic H.
Published: May 2008

Testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) were estimated by radioimmunoassay in human seminal plasma. Testosterone concentrations showed no significant differences between fertile and infertile semen samples, whereas DHT concentrations were significantly lower in azoospermic and oligozoospermic samples. It is concluded that testosterone derives essentially from the accessory sex glands, whereas DHT is mainly of testicular or epididymal origin. The low DHT concentrations found in seminal plasma of oligozoospermic and azoospermic patients is probably due to defective epididymal conversion of testosterone to DHT.
Testosterone Levels in the Male Laboratory Rat: Variation under Experimental Conditions
Authors: Heywood L. H.
Published: May 2008

This report describes the variation of testosterone (T) levels in male Wistar rats (250–300 g) bled under typical laboratory conditions. Plasma T in 114 rats ranged from 2–48 nmol/l (median 13.1: 95% confidence range, 10–15) and varied significantly (P < 0.01) during the day (07.30‐16.30 h) with an acrophase between 09.00 h and 13.00 h. The distribution of plasma T levels was skewed (P < 0.05) and could be divided into basal values > 26 nmol/l and peaks > 26 nmol/l. Testosterone in testicular tissue and testis veins also varied during the day and was lower (P≤ 0.02) between 14.30 h and 16.30 h than from 11.30‐13.30 h. It was shown that plasma T may differ significantly (P≤ 0.02) between groups (n = 6–7) of untreated rats bled under identical conditions and it is suggested that gonadotrophin stimulation be included in experimental designs to reduce the difficulty of differentiating between normal variability and treatment effects.
Effect of Aspirin on Spermatogenesis in Mature and Immature Rats
Authors: Didolkar A. K. , Patel P. B. , Roychowdhury D.
Published: May 2008

Aspirin administration for 30 days (5 mg/100 g body weight) caused a significant decrease in the weight of testis of immature rats. Decrease in the activities of sorbitol dehydrogenase and hyaluronidase was observed in both immature and mature rats. Decrease in the number of spermatids and increase in size of spermatocytes nuclei were observed. It is concluded that aspirin causes impairment of the later stages of spermatogenesis.
Uniqueness of Sperm mtDNA as Compared to Somatic mtDNA in Ram
Authors: Bartoov Benjamin , Fisher Jocheved
Published: May 2008

Sperm mtDNA exhibits unique physicochemical properties compared with mtDNA from somatic tissues in the ram. The buoyant density of sperm mtDNA was 1.6983 g/cm3 while the brain, heart and liver mtDNAs was about 1.7005 g/cm3. The Tm of the liver and sperm mtDNA was 71.0°C and 69.5°C, respectively. The G + C content of sperm mtDNA was 3.0 moles % lower than the liver mtDNA. The contour length of the circular sperm mtDNA was 5.01 μm compared with the liver mtDNA with contour length of 5.33 μm.
Testicular Function in Varicocele
Authors: Pasqualini T. , Chemes H. , Coco R. , Domené H. , Campo S. , Nicolau G. , Lavieri J. , Rivarola M. A.
Published: May 2008

Testicular testosterone concentration, serum testosterone, LH and FSH, sperm count and testicular histology were evaluated in 17 patients with varicocele. Testicular testosterone was either normal or high (mean 906 ± 723 ng/g of tissue), and serum testosterone was within the normal range in most patients. Serum LH was elevated in half of the patients. The degree of testicular damage observed was extremely variable and correlated with sperm analysis. Testicular testosterone tended to be higher in patients with severe microscopic lesions of the testis.

It is concluded that even though Leydig cell function is partially altered, this deficiency is compensated by LH stimulation and therefore, failure of spermatogenesis is not secondary to low testosterone levels.,
Calmodulin Regulation of Testicular Cyclic Nucleotide Phosphodiesterases
Authors: Purvis K. , Hansson V. , Olsen A. , Barry M.
Published: May 2008

Three different, calmodulin‐dependent, isoenzymes of cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase (PDE) can be isolated by DEAE cellulose chromatography from the immature rat testis and shown to have different substrate specificities and kinetic behaviour. Calmodulin is regulating the activity of these enzymes by altering the maximal velocity (Vmax) rather than the Km of the reaction. Two of the 3 enzymes appear to be testis‐specific, while the remaining possesses properties similar to that described for the calmodulin‐dependent PDE found in other tissue.
Experimental production of testicular teratomas in the mouse
Authors: Stevens Leroy C.
Published: May 2008

Testicular teratomas are congenital tumours that are extremely rare in mice except for the inbred strain 129 and strains derived from it. A third of the males of strain 129/Sv‐ter has spontaneous teratomas. Teratomas may be easily produced experimentally in some inbred strains and hybrids by grafting genital ridges from male foetuses 12 days of gestation to scrotal adult testes. The grafted genital ridges develop into well formed testes and most of them have teratomas composed of many kinds of well differentiated tissues derived from all 3 germ layers. Experimentally induced teratomas may be recognized as early as six days after grafting when they are composed of small clusters of embryonal carcinoma cells. The low temperature of the scrotal testis is a critical factor in experimental teratocarcinogenesis. When genital ridges from genetically sterile (S1/S1) foetuses that lack germ cells are grafted, they develop into testes without teratomas whereas grafts from testes that develop from their normal littermates do have teratomas. This demonstrates that testicular teratomas are derived from primordial germ cells.
Clinical aspects of testicular carcinoma‐in‐situ
Authors: Skakkebæk Niels E. , Berthelsen Jørgen G. , Visfeldt Jakob.
Published: May 2008

Carcinoma‐in‐situ germ cells were demonstrated in testicular biopsies from 9 of 826 patients (1.1%) from a selected group of Danish infertile men. A similar observation was noted in testicular biopsies from 9 Swiss patients (representing 0.55% of the total number of infertile patients biopsied in that study). Such changes were also seen in 8 testicular biopsies from the contralateral testis of 180 patients (4.4%) with carcinoma of the teitis. Moreover, carcinoma‐in‐situ has beer, found in maldecended testes and in gonads of patients with the testicular feminization syndrome although the incidence of carcinoma‐in‐situ in these two latter groups is unknown.

The malignant potential of carcinoma‐in‐situ of the testis in infertile men has been clearly demonstrated, whereas its clinical significance in other groups of patients remains to be determined.
Distribution of carcinoma‐in‐situ in testes from infertile men
Authors: Berthelsen Jørgen G. , Skakkebæk Niels E.
Published: May 2008

Quantitative histologial studies on 4 testes removed because of carcinoma‐in‐situ (CIS) were performed in order to determine the distribution of CIS within the testis and to estimate the likelihood of diagnosing testicular CIS by biopsy. The CIS changes were distributed in all parts of the testes but were less frequent in the parts adjacent to the epididymis. In the 4 testes examined 1.4 to 599 of the entire testicular volume contained seminiferous tubules with CIS. In parts of the testes where more than approximately 10% of the testicular volume consisted of tubules with CIS all simulated biopsies measuring 3 mm contained the lesion. The same was true for simulated biopsies measuring 1.5 mm when more then approximately 30% of the testicular volume consisted of tubules with CIS.

If the distribution of CIS generally is similar to that found in the 4 analysed testes there seems to be a high probability of detecting the disease by one or two testicular biopsies.
Ultrasound in the detection of testicular tumours
Authors: Grønvall Sven. , Brünner Nils. , Jacobsen Crete Krag , Holm Hans Henrik
Published: May 2008

Ultrasonic scanning provides high resolution sectional images of the scrotal content.

The value of ultrasound in the detection of testicular tumours is discussed based on the ultrasonic findings in the normal testis as well as the findings in two patients with malignant testicular tumours.
Influence of LRH on gonadotrophin and testosterone levels in the foetal male rat
Authors: Krause W. , Hübner H. M.
Published: May 2008

Gonadotrophin and testosterone levels were measured in male foetal rats at the 21st day of gestation 30 min following administration of LRH. The releasing hormone was administered by 3 different routes: subcutaneously as a single injection to the pregnant rat; subcutaneously as 12 times repeated injection to the pregnant rat from 16th–21st day of gestation: direct injection into the amniotic cavity. Three different doses of 1, 5, and 10 μg/kg were used. The single administration to the dam was without effect. Repeated doses resulted in a significant dose‐dependent elevation of mean foetal LH: 163 μng/ml in the control animals and 133, 256, and 363 ng/ml in the 1, 5, and 10 μg/kg LRH group resp. Intra amnial injections significantly increased FSH and LH levels, but only those of FSH were clearly dose‐dependent. A mean of 390 ng/ml in the control group was observed, with 1 μg/kg LRH FSH was elevated to 723 ng/ml, at 5 μg/kg to 928 and at 10 μg/kg to 1017 ng/ml. Testosterone levels were not significantly altered. Our results demonstrate that the pituitary of foetal rats is able to respond to LRH in the same manner as adult animals.
Serum prolactin levels in the prepubertal period in male and female rats. Control by photoperiod and gonadal status and relationship to puberty onset
Authors: Ramaley Judith A.
Published: May 2008

In female rats there is a temporary afternoon rise in prolactin during the transition from the weaning period to the period just preceding puberty. The purpose of this study was to determine whether a similar tempopary prolactin peak occurs in males at the same age and to assess the dependence of this elevation upon gonadal status and light cycle cues. Blood samples were collected at 08.00, 20.00 and 02.00 h colony time during the prepubertal period. A prolactin peak occurred only at 28 days of age in males. This peak did not occur in either males or females gonadectomized at 22 days of age Animals reared in constant light from weaning (21 days of age) failed to shoow an afternoon prolactin peak at 28 or 32 days of age. Animals in constant light from weaning age showed maximum prolactin at 08.00 h on days 28, 30, and 32 with minimum levels at 20.00 h. It can be concluded that both males and females exhibit a transient peak of prolactin during the prepubertal period. This peak was abolished by gonadectomy and by constant light, suggesting that it is an expression of a clock mechanism sensitive to photoperiod and gonadal steroids. The prolactin peak does not appear to correlate with pubertal onset per se since both vaginal opening and balanopreputial separation are precocious in constant light despite the fact that the prolactin peak is abolished in the population as a whole.
Immunological sterilization of male dogs by BCG
Authors: Naz R. K. , Talwar G. P.
Published: May 2008

The effect of a single intratesticular injection of Freund's complete adjuvant (FCA), incomplete Freund's adjuvant (IFA) and various components has been investigated in dogs. FCA caused severe granulomatous reaction with widespread degeneration and vacuolation of the tubules. IFA and Arlacel A induced oligo ‐ but not azoospermia, which was of short duration (6 weeks). Bacillus Calmette Guerin (BCG) suspended in saline given with uniform distribution at doses of 10 units or higher was effective in inducing aspermatogenesis. The sperm count declined to near zero level within 3 to 6 weeks after injection of BCG, and sperm suppression was maintained for 6 to 11 months of the observation period. At moderate doses of 10 to 25 units partial to complete inhibition of spermatogenesis was seen in different tubules with leukocyte infiltration in the interstitium. The basement membrane of the tubules, the peritubular cells as well as the Leydig cells were intact. At high doses (75–110 units) and at sites where bacillary deposits were high even in moderate dose animals, there was massive leukocyte infiltration with nonspecific damage to the tubules. The animals, on low or high dose, retained libido and copulated with bitches in oestrus. The mating was, however, infertile. The treatment, especially with low and moderate doses, was largely free of significant side effects. At higher doses, scrotal pain and swelling lasting for 7–15 days was observed; a small decrease in the size of the testes was also noted.
Evaluation of the ultrastructural changes in the human Sertoli cell in testicular disorders and the relationship of the changes to the levels of serum FSH
Authors: de Kretser D. M. , Kerr J. B. , Paulsen C. A.
Published: May 2008

Sertoli cell ultrastructure was compared in men with testicular disorders (hypospermatogenesis; germ cell aplasia) and men with normal testes to determine if any specific cytological change could be correlated with diminished feedback from the testis resulting in elevated serum FSH levels. The normal Sertoli cell contained smooth endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria and variable numbers of lipid inclusions, lipofuscin, crystals of Charcot‐Böttcher and specialised inter‐Sertoli cell junctional complexes. The principal abnormalities in Sertoli cells of men with testicular disorders were: 1) dilated vesicles of smooth endoplasmic reticulum and occasional expansions of the intercellular space; 2) increased numbers of cytoplasmic filaments; and 3) with germ cell aplasia inter‐Sertoli cell junctions were complexly arranged due to interdigitation of Sertoli cell processes. Occasionally, increased lipid and lipofuscin aggregations were seen and in germ cell aplasia, aggregations of cytoplasmic glycogen were often present. Although these changes were seen more consistently with germ cell aplasia they were observed frequently with hypospermatogenesis where some tubules contained Sertoli cells with normal features. No correlation was found between abnormal Sertoli cell cytology and serum FSH levels.
Recovery of testicular functions after surgical treatment of experimental cryptorchidism in the rat
Authors: Karpe B. , Plöen L. , Hagenäs L. , Ritzén E. M.
Published: May 2008

When rats were made unilaterally cryptorchid at 17 days of age (before spontaneous descensus), the further maturation of the testis was prevented. At 34 days of age, the abdominal testis was smaller than the scrotal testis and showed less secretion of the Sertoli cell specific androgen binding protein (ABP). In 120–130 days old rats that were made bilaterally cryptorchid at 17 days of age, testicular weight, histology, secretion of fluid and ABP were restored and testosterone secretion and fertility were normal if orchidopexy was performed at 33 days of age. If the orchidopexy was delayed until 59 days of age, the recovery of testicular function and morphology was only partial. The results show that in the rat, the testicular damage caused by cryptorchidism is reversible, if the abdominal testis is surgically descended during early sexual maturation.
Spermatic and peripheral oestradiol levels in patients affected by azoospermia due to seminiferous tubular damage
Authors: Forti G. , Giusti G. , Pazzagli M. , Fiorelli G. , Borrelli D. , Cicchi P. , Guazzelli R. , Conti C. , Scarselli G. , Franchini M. , Boninsegni R. , Mannelli M. , Serio M.
Published: May 2008

Plasma levels of testosterone, androstenedione and oestradiol were determined in the spermatic venous blood of both testes of 17 patient affected by azoospermia due to tubular damage (Group I). The results were compared with those found in 5 patients affected by azoospermia of obstructive origin and 5 patients with an inguinal hernia (Group II). Mean spermatic levels of testosterone and androstenedione were not significantly different in the two groups, while the mean (± SE) oestradiol spermatic level was significantly higher in patients of Group I (5.02 ± 0.75 nM/1 vs 2.20 ± 0 36 nM/1; P < 0.05). Moreover, while the testosterone/androstenedione and the androstenedione oestradiol ratios were not significantly different in the two groups, the mean (± SE) testosterone/oestradiol ratio was significantly lower in patients of Group I (552.71 ± 80.94 vs. 939.86 ± 129.45; P < 0.025). Peripheral testosterone and androstenedione mean levels were not significantly different between the two groups while the mean peripheral oestradiol level (± SE) was significantly higher in Group I (0.107 ± 0.021 nM/1 vs. 0.038 ± 0.05 nM/1; P < 0.025). Peripheral oestradiol was not significantly related to peripheral FSH, nor to spermatic oestradiol in both groups. These results suggest the possibility that oestradiol may be involved in the pathogenesis of some cases of male infertility.
Artificial insemination by frozen donor semen: results of multicentre Australian experience
Authors: Trounson A. O. , Matthews C. D. , Kovacs G. T. , Spiers A. , Steigrad S. J. , Saunders D. M. , Jones W. R. , Fuller Sharon
Published: May 2008

A total of 5461 insemination cycles with frozen donor semen has been analysed for 8 of the larger AID services in Australia. Cumulative pregnancy rate, calculated by life‐table analysis, showed that 50% of all patients are pregnant after 6 cycles of insemination and 64% of all patients are pregnant after 12 cycles of insemination. Pregnancy rate was significantly higher in the first 3 cycles, declined in the next 3 cycles and was further reduced in the last 6 cycles of insemination. An average of 10% of all insemination cycles were anovular, but the proportion of anovular cycles was significantly lower in the first 2 cycles of insemination. There was no significant difference in cumulative pregnancy rates over the first 6 cycles of insemination in clinics using cervical mucus scoring or LH assay for detection of ovulation. An average of 12% of all pregnancies obtained by AID resulted in miscarriage.
The pituitary‐testicular axis in the streptozotocin diabetic male rat: evidence for gonadotroph, Sertoli cell and Leydig cell dysfunction
Authors: Murray Frederick T. , Orth Joanne , Gunsalus Glen , Weisz Judith , Li Jeanne B. , Jefferson Leonard S. , Musto Neal A. , Bardin C. Wayne
Published: May 2008

The pituitary‐testicular axis was investigated in the streptozotocin diabetic male rat to determine the relationship between hormonal alterations and Leydig cell morphology. Male Wistar rats (60 days of age) were made diabetic with a single intravenous injection (65 mg/kg body weight) of streptozotocin and were studied with non‐diabetic controls at 7–11, 14, 21, and 28 days after treatment. The observations on these animals were compared to those from diabetic rats (28 days) treated with 1–2 U protamine zinc insulin/100 mg body weight. Rats with untreated diabetes had hyperglycaemia and weighed less than controls. Untreated rats also had low plasma testosterone levels associated with decreased prostate and seminal vesicle weights. Insulin treatment partially or completely prevented these abnormalities. Studies of testosterone production y perfused testis suggested Leydig cell insensitivity to LH as one possible cause of decreased androgen blood levels in diabetic rats. Lipid droplets not found in Leydig cells of normal rats were seen in diabetic animals. Plasma FSH levels were also low in untreated diabetic rats but were normal in insulin
An assessment of the fertilizing ability of spermatozoa in the epididymis of the marmoset monkey (Callithrix jacchus)
Authors: Moore H. D. M.
Published: May 2008

The fertilizing ability of spermatozoa from different regions of the epididymis of the marmoset monkey, Callithrix jacchus, was assessed by determining their rate of fusion with zonaless hamster ova in vitro. This technique tests for functional competence and was validated using epididymal spermatozoa of the hamster whose fertility have been measured previously by in vivo fertilization experiments. The results suggest that some marmoset spermatozoa first acquire the ability to fertilize in the distal caput and proximal corpus epididymidis although the majority become fertile on reaching the proximal cauda region. Acquisition of fertilizing capacity was associated with a change in the degree and character of sperm motility. However, it is considered that modifications to the sperm plasmalemma which allow capacitation and the acrosome reaction to occur are of primary importance for sperm fertility. The development of sperm fertilizing ability in the marmoset is discussed in relation to that in other primates.
Clomiphene citrate administration to normogonadotropic subfertile men: Blood hormone changes and activation of acid phosphatase in seminal fluid
Authors: Rönnberg L. , Vihko P. , Sajanti E. , Vihko R.
Published: May 2008

Clomiphene citrate was administered as a 50 mg oral daily dose to 44 normogonadotrophic (serum FSH 2–10 mIU/ml) subfertile men for 3 months. The treatment resulted in significant increases in FSH and LH concentrations, whereas prolactin remained unchanged. Serum testosterone and oestradiol both increased highly significantly. The increased testosterone levels suggest that the elevated LH levels had not led to “down regulation” of Leydig cell LH/hCG receptors, neither had the greatly increased estradiol led to depletion of these receptors. This is suggested to be a result of the blocking of testicular oestradiol receptors by the estrogen antagonist, clomiphene. Sperm count increased highly significantly during the treatment. The spermatic fluid concentrations of zinc and magnesium ions were also increased, whereas fructose remained unchanged. The katalytic activity of acid phosphatase in spermatic fluid increased highly significantly, whereas the concentration of the main prostate‐specific acid phosphatase, as measured by a specific radioimmunological method, remained unchanged. Therefore, the increased Zn and Mg ion concentrations may be responsible for activation of acid phosphatase (s) in semen, or the treatment led to increased secretion of other prostatic acid phosphatase(s) than the main enzyme. However, it is clear that the secretion of the main prostatic acid phosphatase into semen is under different control than that of Zn++ and Mg++.
Free L‐carnitine in human seminal plasma
Authors: Soufir J.‐C. , Marson J. , Jouannet P.
Published: May 2008

It has often been suggested that determination of free L(—)‐carnitine in seminal plasma may provide a good indication of epididymal function. However, there has been disagreement regarding the origin of L(—)‐carnitine (epididymis and seminal vesicles) and its concentration in human seminal plasma. In this study, free L(—)‐carnitine was determined after deproteinization with an enzymatic spectrophotometric method. In 29 semen samples from fathers and with normal spermiograms (semen volume between 2 and 6 ml, sperm count over 20.106/ml, more than 50% motile spermatozoa), the total free L(—)‐carnitine in the seminal plasma was 1010 nmoles (SD:±480), in 16 samples from vasectomized men it was 131 nmoles (SD:±77), and in 5 from men with agenesis of the vas deferens and seminal vesicles it was 21 nmoles (SD:±25). These results suggest that free L(—)‐carnitine in the seminal fluid is predominantly of epididymal origin. The results of free L(—)‐carnitine determinations in split ejaculates and the absence of a correlation between L(—)‐carnitine and fructose concentrations in semen from normal subjects indicate that the seminal vesicles make only on minor contribution to L(—)‐carnitine in the seminal plasma.
Study of a group of 484 fertile men Part I: Distribution of semen characteristics
Authors: Jouannet P. , Czyglik F. , David G. , Mayaux M. J. , Spira A. , Moscato M. L. , Schwartz D.
Published: May 2008

The semen characteristics studied were the sperm count, semen volume, morphology and pre‐freeze and post‐thaw motility. Two categories of fertile men were investigated: semen donor candidates for artificial insemination and pre‐vasectomy subjects. Since mean values for each variable in the two series were similar, they could be considered as a single group of 484 fertile men. Only those subjects whose ejaculates were obtained after an abstinence of 5 days or less were retained. The distribution, mean and percentiles were determined for each variable. The 10th and 90th percentiles for sperm count, percentage of motile forms and percentage of normal cells were respectively 25 and 180 million per ml, 60% and 80% and 50% and 75% The three variables, sperm count, semen volume and total number of spermatozoa which were dependent on abstinence were analysed in the same manner for 3 days of abstinence. The group studied seemed to be as representative and as well defined as possible.
Study of a group of 484 fertile men Part II: Relation between age (20–59) and semen characteristics
Authors: Schwartz D. , Mayaux M. J. , Spira A. , Moscato M. L. , Jouannet P. , Czyglik F. , David G.
Published: May 2008

Commonly measured semen variables as well as post‐thaw motility have been studied as a function of age in fertile men. The mean age was 34.6 (so = 6.6). No significant change with age was found for the sperm count, semen volume or total number of spermatozoa. Conversely, there were significant differences between age groups for the percentage of normal cells (P < 0.01) and the percentage of motile forms (P < 0.01) as well as for the after‐thaw motility (P < 0.001). These three variables rise, reach a maximum level at 30 to 35 years of age and then decrease. These changes are not explained by variations in the length of abstinence.
Effects of gonadotrophin treatment in vivo on testicular function in immature rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta)
Authors: Arslan M. , Zaidi P. , Akhtar F. Bint , Amin S. , Rana T. , Qazi M. H.
Published: May 2008

Changes in testicular histology and concentrations of testosterone and oestradiol 17β in testicular tissue and plasma have been studied following administration of gonadotrophins (oFSH, oLH, hCG and PMSG) to immature male monkeys. Treatment with FSH (1 mg/day) or PMSG (100 IU/day) for five days, induced a marked enlargement of the seminiferous tubules and increase in the Sertoli cell cytoplasm. Injections of LH (1 mg/daily) or hCG (100 IU/daily) administered similarly, failed to produce hypertrophy of the Sertoli cell. In LH, hCG and PMSG stimulated testes morphologically differentiated interstitial cells could be recognized. FSH did not produce any detectable effect on the intertubular tissue. A significant increase in testicular and plasma testosterone levels was observed with LH, hCG and PMSG. FSH was shown to be much less effective in stimulating androgenesis. An increase in testicular oestradiol production over that of controls, was observed in FSH and PMSG treated monkeys but not in animals treated with LH or hCG.
A comparison between the morphology and cell kinetics of gonocytes and adult type undifferentiated spermatogonia in the mouse
Authors: Kluin Ph. M. , de Rooij D. G.
Published: May 2008

A comparison has been made between gonocytes and adult type undifferentiated spermatogonia in the mouse. The following morphological resemblances were noted: 1. Proliferating gonocytes, at days 13 and 14 p.c., resemble proliferating undifferentiated spermatogonia between stages IX and IV in the adult. 2. Gonocytes in G1 arrest, from day 15 p.c. until birth, resemble undifferentiated spermatogonia in G1 arrest from stage IV until stage VIII. Both populations of cells undergo the same morphological changes during this period, known to accompany transformation of most Aal spermatogonia into A1 spermatogonia in the adult. 3. Gonocytes in late G2 or prophase, 24 h p.p., resemble A1 spermatogonia in late G2 and prophase in stage IX. 4. Most of the daughter cells of the gonocytes resemble A2 spermacogonia, the others resembling adult undifferentiated spermatogonia. The hypothesis is put forward that gonocytes are identical to adult type undifferentiated spermatogonia. The primordial germ cells then give rise to adult type spermatogonial stem cells (As).
Clinical evaluation of DNA flow cytometry of fine needle aspirates from testes of infertile men
Authors: Åbyholm T. , Clausen O. P. F.
Published: May 2008

DNA flow cytometry was performed on fine needle aspirates from the testes of 40 oligozoospermic or azoospermic men under investigation for infertility. The DNA distributions from men with increased FSH serum levels were all abnormal. The values were below the level of detection (or very low) with respect to both haploid (1c) and tetraploid (4c) cells, indicating reduced proportions of spermatids and primary spermatocytes. This confirms that increased FSH serum levels are indicative of severely damaged spermatogone‐sis. The findings of both normal and abnormal testicular DNA distributions in the large group of oligozoospermic men indicate that the presented method may be of importance for evaluating prognosis, and for selection of men for further investigation and therapy. Many azoospermic men showed normal testicular DNA distribution patterns, suggesting the value of DNA flow cytometry for selection of such cases for surgical treatment (epididymovasos‐tomia).
Morphological findings in varicocele An ultrastructural study of 30 bilateral testicular biopsies
Authors: Terquem Alain , Dadoune Jean‐Pierre
Published: May 2008

A systematic study of a series of thirty bilateral biopsies of testes was performed using electron microscopy. Observations showed how frequently there were bilateral changes within the Sertoli cells. These included a sometimes extensive vacuolization of the endoplasmic reticulum which may cause germ cells to exfoliate. Bilateral vascular lesions including modifications of the capillary endothelium which becomes thick and rich in pinocytotic vesicles and arteriolar spasms with an increase in number of microfilaments in the endothelial cells were constantly observed.
Effect of hormonal steroids on lactate dehydrogenase activity and its isozymes in the coagulating gland of castrated male rats
Authors: Pereira Ben M. J. , Balasubramanian K. , Govindarajulu P.
Published: May 2008

The effect of castration and treatment with testosterone propionate, androstenedione and oestradiol‐17ß on the coagulating gland LDH activity and its isozymes were studied. Castration reduced the total LDH activity and administration of testosterone propionate alone was able to restore it back to sham operated control levels. Regarding LDH isozymes, the LDH3 and LDH4 responded very similarly to testosterone and oestradiol. LDH3 was significantly increased only in the androgen treated groups. The post‐castration decrease in total M‐subunits was restored to sham operated control levels in the testosterone propionate treated group. This was mainly contributed by the LDH3, LDH4 and LDH5 isozymes. The changes observed due to testosterone propionate and androstenedione treatments have been attributed to the rejuvenation of tissue from the castration induced losses. The oestradiol induced events have been associated with the growth of fibro muscular layers observed under similar experimental conditions.
The effect of clomiphene citrate on sex hormone binding globulin in normospermic and oligozoospermic men
Authors: Adamopoulos D. A. , Vassilopoulos P. , Kapolla N. , Kontogeorgos L.
Published: May 2008

The effect of clomiphene citrate (CC) on sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) was studied in 10 oligozoospermic patients with varicocele and 6 normospermic men. Plasma SHBG, testosterone (T), oestradiol (E2), FSH, LH. Prolactin (Prl), thyroxine (T4) and 17‐OH‐progesterone (17‐OH‐P) were determined before and during medication. SHBG concentration rose from 38.1 ± 18.3 to 54.3 ± 16.0 nmol/l (P < 0.01), while T and E2 showed significant increases from 31.2 ± 10.8 nmol/***l and 24.6 ± 5.4 pg/ml to 52.0 ± 3.6 and 43.3 ± 14.9, respectively in the oligozoospermic patients, with similar rises noted in the normospermic men. FSH, LH and 17‐OH‐P were markedly elevated while on CC, but Prl and T4 remained unchanged. The findings of this study indicated that CC causes an increase of SHBG concentration, which is probably related to the rise of E2 concentration. This SHBG change, combined with the intrinsic oestrogenic activity of CC might be one of the factors responsible, through a decrease of free T and a T to E2 imbalance, for the lack of a significant effect on parameters of seminal quality in so treated patients.
An andrological study of 51 fertile men
Authors: Åbyholm Thomas
Published: May 2008

Andrological examination were performed on 51 healthy volunteers whose wives were pregnant. The men underwent the same clinical examinations as men in infertile couples. The results of these examinations indicate: a) a broad range of semen qualities exist in the normal fertile population several of which by previously defined standards could by considered pathological, b) that current ideas of those factors which are believed to be responsible for diminished semen quality in infertile men should by critically reexamined, and c) greater investigations of normal fertile groups to delineate more clearly the differences between fertile and infertile men
Comparison between thermography and venous scintigraphy of the scrotum in the diagnosis of varicocele
Authors: Comhaire F. , Vandeweghe M. , Simons M.
Published: May 2008

Fifty‐one consecutive infertile men were examined for the presence of (sub)clinical varicocele with both scrotal thermography and venous radionuclide scintigraphy. Venous scintigraphy with 99mTC yielded false negative results in about half of the patients suspected of varicocele because of clinical findings and/or abnormal scrotal thermography. Venous scintigraphy cannot serve as an alternative for scrotal thermography for the detection of spermatic venous reflux in varicocele.
Content of chlorinated pesticides in human semen of a random population
Authors: Szymczyński Grzegorz A. , Waliszewski Stefan M.
Published: May 2008

Residues of chlorinated pesticides ‐ BHC isomers, DDT isomers, HCB and DMDT ‐ in samples of human semen have been determined. Samples of semen were collected from a random population of patients sent to our department for the evaluation of their fertilizing ability. The contents of 50 samples of semen were analyzed individually for residues of chlorinated pesticides and their metabolites by gas‐liquid chromatography. Of BHC isomers detected in the analyzed samples of semen, the highest absolute values were shown for epsilon‐BHC (x 0.005 μg/g of sample). DMDT, op'DDT and pp'DDT were not detected in the studied samples. DDE was found in 20 samples on the average level of 0.003 μg/g.
Effects of antifertility drugs on epididymal protein secretion, acquisition of sperm surface proteins and fertility in male rats
Authors: Tsang A. Y. F. , Lee W. M. , Wong P. Y. D.
Published: May 2008

The possibility that α‐chlorohydrin, 6‐chloro‐6‐deoxyglucose (6CDG) and cyproterone acetate (CPA) might affect epididymal protein secretion or acquisition of sperm surface proteins as the cause of their antifertility action in male rats was investigated. Daily administration of 9 mg/kg α‐chlorohydrin for 7–14 days and 24 mg/kg 6CDG for 14–21 days induced sterility in male rats and impaired the capacity of the cauda epididymal spermatozoa to initiate motility. Treatment with CPA (30 mg/kg/day) for 21–28 days, however, was found to have no effect on fertility and initiation of sperm motility, although the epididymis of the treated animals underwent a loss in weight. The antifertility effects of α‐chlorohydrin or 6CDG did not seem to be attributed to an interference with epididymal protein secretion. The cauda epididymal fluids of the α‐chlorohydrin, 6CDG and CPA treated animals have similar protein patterns compared to those of the control animals. However, when the surface proteins of the spermatozoa were labelled with radioactive iodine, the sperm surface proteins of the α‐chlorohydrin and 6CDG treated animals were found to differ from those of the control animals. Two peaks (MW 32 000 and 70 000) and one peak (70 000) were significantly reduced in the α‐chlorohydrin treated and 6CDG treated animals, respectively. Additional bands appeared on the surface of the treated (infertile) animals. In contrast, CPA treatment did not affect the surface protein pattern of the epididymal spermatozoa. It was concluded that the antifertility affects of α‐chlorolydrin and 6CDG are not due to an interference with epididymal secretion of specific proteins but to an intervention of the subsequent acquisition of these proteins by epididymal spermatozoa. This results in a decrease in the capacity of the epididymal sperm to initiate motility and hence a loss of fertilizing capacity.
The role of sperm‐bound hyaluronidase in the dispersal of the cumulus oophorus surrounding rat ova
Authors: Lewin Lawrence M. , Nevo Zvi , Gabsu Amos , Weissenberg Ruth
Published: May 2008

Only a very small portion (4–7%) of the hyaluronidase of rat sperm obtained from the caput or cauda epididymis was released during incubation in capacitation medium for up to 24 h at 37°C. A portion of the cell‐associated hyaluronidase was accessible to external substrates, allowing sperm suspensions to lyse glycosaminoglycans of cumulus clots rapidly, even without capacitation. This process appears to represent the employment of an enzyme bound to the sperm cell, analogous to the use of solid‐phase enzymes in current enzyme technology.