Accessory Glands Research Articles

HYPERSPERMIA, THE OFTEN-NEGLECTED SEMEN ABNORMALITY AFFECTING FECUNDABILITY

Highlights Hyperspermia is often ignored, but it can affect fecundability by diluting sperm and reducing sperm concentration. Hyperspermia might be associated with genetic causes and male accessory gland infections, but no specific treatment is mentioned to treat this condition. Abstract Background: Hyperspermia is defined as a seminal volume greater than 6.3 ml. This definition is often ignored by physicians, while it may affect fecundability. Objective: To report a case of an adult with hyperspermia that affects his fecundability and to discuss it with the scoping review’s result. Case: A 30-year-old man came desiring to have a child. He had regular sexual intercourse with his wife for the last 3 months, after living in different cities before. Based on the semen analysis, it was found that he had hyperspermia (volume 8.2 ml) and oligozoospermia (sperm concentration 4.25 million/ml). After taking antioxidants, the seminal volume was lowered, and the couple got pregnant. Method: A scoping review was conducted by using guidelines of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR). After a comprehensive search based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, only 3 original research were retrieved due to the rarity of articles regarding this topic. Discussion: According to previous studies, hyperspermia can affect fecund-ability by diluting the sperm, causing sperm concentration to be decreased as in this case. Genetic mutation and male accessory gland infection may be contributing factors to hyperspermia. No consensus and studies about the treatment are available. Conclusion: Hyperspermia is a semen parameter alteration that needs to be taken care of to increase fecundability.

Fecundity is optimized by levels of nutrient signal-dependent expression of Dve and EcR in Drosophila male accessory gland

Steroid hormones play various physiological roles including metabolism and reproduction. Steroid hormones in insects are ecdysteroids, and the major form in Drosophila melanogaster is ecdysone. In Drosophila males, the accessory gland is responsive to nutrient-dependent regulation of fertility/fecundity. The accessory gland is composed of two types of binucleated epithelial cells: a main cell and a secondary cell (SC). The transcription factors Defective proventriculus (Dve), Abdominal-B, and Ecdysone receptors (EcRs) are strongly expressed in adult SCs. We show that this EcR expression is regulated by parallel pathways of nutrient signaling and the Dve activity. Induction of Dve expression is also dependent on nutrient signaling, and it becomes nutrient signal-independent during a restricted period of development. Forced dve expression during the restricted period significantly increased the number of SCs. Here, we provide evidence that the level of nutrient signal-dependent Dve expression during the restricted period determines the number of SCs, and that ecdysone signaling is also crucial to optimize male fecundity through nutrient signal-dependent survival and maturation of SCs.

Expression and Clinical Significance of Non B Cell-Derived Immunoglobulins in the Urinary System and Male Reproductive System.

The urinary system comprises kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethrawith its primary function being excretion, referring to the physiological process of transporting substances that are harmful or surplus out of the body. The male reproductive system consists of gonads (testis), vas deferens, and accessory glands such as the prostate. According to classical immunology theory, the tissues and organs mentioned above are not thought to produce immunoglobulins (Igs), and any Ig present in the relevant tissues under physiological and pathological conditions is believed to be derived from B cells. For instance, most renal diseases are associated with uncontrolled inflammation caused by pathogenic Ig deposited in the kidney. Generally, these pathological Igs are presumed to be produced by B cells. Recent studies have demonstrated that renal parenchymal cells can produce and secrete Igs, including IgA and IgG. Glomerular mesangial cells can express and secrete IgA, which is associated with cell survival and adhesion. Likewise, human podocytes demonstrate the ability to produce and secrete IgG, which is related to cell survival and adhesion. Furthermore, renal tubular epithelial cells also express IgG, potentially involved in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). More significantly, renal cell carcinoma, bladder cancer, and prostate cancer have been revealed to express high levels of IgG, which promotes tumour progression. Given the widespread Ig expression in the urinary and male reproductive systems, continued efforts to elucidate the roles of Igs in renal physiological and pathological processes are necessary.

Caracterização das glândulas vesiculares, estudo da vesiculite e sua associação com as demais glândulas sexuais acessórias em touros

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to elucidate histological characteristics of the vesicular glands as well as to investigate vesiculitis and its association with ampolititis and prostatitis. Sex gland samples from 40 bulls were collected. The vesicular glands were descriptively evaluated, the number of acini was counted in an area of 25mm2, compared to the number of acini between healthy and pathological glands, the data were submitted to the Student's T test at 5%. Inflammatory tissue was investigated in the ampullae of the vas deferens and in the prostates, the chi-square test at 5% was performed to assess the association between the inflamed glands. Regarding inflammation in the gland (vesiculitis), 30 animals (75%) were positive. The vesicular glands presented an average of 355 ±76.4 acini/25mm2. When comparing the amounts of acini between the glands with and without vesiculitis, no significant difference was observed, p=0.930. When performing the chi-square test to assess the association between vesiculitis and ampolititis or vesiculitis and prostatitis, the results were p=0.356 and p=0.300 respectively. Despite the high incidence of inflammatory reaction in the glands, no association was observed between the accessory sex glands studied here.

Antioxidants for male infertility: therapeutic scheme and indications. A retrospective single-center real-life study.

This single-center real-life study was conducted to evaluate the most effective combination of nutraceuticals and the most appropriate indications for the treatment of male infertile patients. Infertile patients aged 20-55 years were treated with a combination of antioxidants (Androlen®; Enfarma, Misterbianco, Catania, Italy) (group A), with Androlen® (Enfarma) and a mixture of fibrinolytic molecules (Lenidase®, Enfarma) (group B), or Androlen® (Enfarma) and other molecules different from those used for the patients of the group B (group C). Patients were also subdivided according to the presence of varicocele, mild testicular hypotrophy, idiopathic infertility, and chronic male accessory gland infection. Forty-three patients were enrolled. In the overall analysis, only progressive motility significantly improved after therapy. Subgroup analysis showed a significant increase in progressive motility, total motile sperm count (TMSC), and in the percentage of alive spermatozoa after treatment in the group A. Progressive motility improved significantly in patients with varicocele, while the TMSC in patients with varicocele and those with idiopathic infertility. The percentage of alive spermatozoa increased in patients with testicular hypotrophy. Treatment with antioxidants increased progressive sperm motility, especially in patients with varicocele or idiopathic infertility.

Influence of titanium dioxide nanoparticles and/or cadmium chloride oral exposure on testicular morphology, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in rats: Ameliorative role of co-enzyme Q10

Background and objectivesLittle is known about the implications of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) and cadmium chloride (Cd) co-exposure on the male reproductive system in mammals. As a result, this study researched the effects of oral TiO2NPs and/or Cd exposure on male reproduction and testicular functions. Additionally, a mitigation trial with co-enzyme Q10 (CoQ10) has also been conducted. MethodsIn a 60-day experiment, seven experimental groups, each containing 10 male Sprague Dawley rats, were orally given distilled water (control), corn oil (vehicle control), CoQ10 (10 mg/kg b.wt), TiO2NPs (50 mg/kg b.wt), Cd (5 mg/kg b.wt), TiO2NPs + Cd, and TiO2NPs + Cd + CoQ10. Then, sperm quality, male sex hormones, oxidative stress indications, Ti and Cd testicular residues, testes and accessory gland architecture, and apoptotic and inflammatory markers in rat testes were assessed. ResultsTiO2NPs and/or Cd exposure negatively impacted body weight, weight gain, testicular weights, semen quality, serum reproductive hormones, oxidative stress parameters, and Caspase-3 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) immunoreactions. Histopathological changes were recorded in testicular, seminal vesicle, and prostatic tissues. Yet, co-administration of CoQ10 with TiO2NPs and Cd substantially mitigated these adverse consequences. The most notable aspect is that it effectively lowered testicular tissue Ti and Cd levels. It also improved oxidant status, hormonal profile, and sperm picture. CoQ10 minimized the testicular damage implied by histological examination. Furthermore, CoQ10 significantly diminished TiO2NPs and Cd-induced Caspase-3 and TNF-α immunoexpression in testicular tissue. ConclusionAs a result, CoQ10 could be utilized as a safe remedy to protect male reproductive physiology from TiO2NPs and Cd damage.

Salivary Gland Ductal Carcinoma of Accessory Parotid Gland

Salivary gland ductal carcinoma (SDC) is a rare, aggressive tumor with a highly malignant course and originates most frequently from the parotid gland among the major salivary glands. The incidence of accessory parotid gland (APG) varies between 21-56% and the incidence of tumor in APG is 1-8% of all parotid tumors. SDC is rarely seen in accessory glands. It was aimed to present our case, which was diagnosed with SDC in APG, in the light of the literature.

Female accessory glands of Adoxophyes honmai contain elicitor inducing tea leaves to arrest the egg-larval parasitoid, Ascogaster reticulata

Female accessory glands of Adoxophyes honmai contain elicitor inducing tea leaves to arrest the egg-larval parasitoid, Ascogaster reticulata

Visualization of radiographic mineral opacities in guinea pigs in the location of the bulbourethral glands may be underdiagnosed

BackgroundPathology of male guinea pig accessory sex glands is minimally described. Mineral opacities caudal to the pelvis were identified during evaluation of two index cases presenting with urinary signs. The objective of this study was to identify the prevalence of this radiographic finding, suspected to be bulbourethral glands, and to describe associated clinical signs. MethodsA retrospective review of medical records from a single academic institution was performed identifying male guinea pigs with abdominal radiographs, abdominal computed tomography, and/or necropsy. Available imaging studies were evaluated for mineral opacities caudal to the pelvis and necropsy reports were reviewed. Medical case histories meeting the inclusion criteria were summarized. ResultsSix cases met the inclusion criteria, with a prevalence of 5.17% (6/116) amongst male guinea pigs with abdominal imaging that included the soft tissues caudal to the pelvis. Collimation of 25% (28/112) of radiographic studies and 50% (4/8) of computed tomographic studies excluded this region. One necropsy report (3.23%, 1/31) during the study period evaluated the accessory sex glands. The most common clinical signs in identified cases were hematuria (66.7%, 4/6) and stranguria (50%, 3/6). Conclusions and clinical relevanceThe clinical significance of radiographic mineralization in the vicinity of the bulbourethral glands is unknown. This radiographic finding may be underreported due to collimation practices which may exclude the soft tissues caudal to the pelvis. Purposeful evaluation of these organs should be performed during imaging and necropsy evaluation to screen and develop better understanding of the clinical significance of this radiographic finding.

Vulvar adenofibroma and pregnancy: A case study, at the regional hospital of Thiès

Introduction: Benign vulvar epithelial tumors developing from glandular structures are rare. Given the resemblance of vulvar fibroadenomas to those of mammary locations, some authors have put forward the hypothesis of development from accessory mammary glands. Case Report: We report a case of hyperalgesic giant vulvar fibroadenoma occurring in a 22-year-old female patient at 28 weeks, 3 days gestation. She was admitted for a painful mass on the right labia majora that had been present for two years, with a remarkable increase in volume during pregnancy. Faced with the acute vulvar pain and the discomfort caused by the mass, the decision to perform a vulvar lumpectomy was made and carried out semi-urgently, leading to the excision of a mass weighing 1103 grams. Microscopic examination revealed an adenofibroma. The patient gave birth vaginally at 38 weeks of gestation to a male baby weighing 3115 grams, 10 weeks after lumpectomy. Conclusion: Fibroadenoma is a benign tumor located in most cases in the breast, its location in the vulva is rare and can lead to a diagnostic delay. Surgical treatment by complete excision allows healing.

Sjögren's Syndrome: A Rare Clinical Entity in Children

Background. Sjögren's syndrome (SS) is a rare autoimmune disease in children, with only a few hundred reported cases. Its clinical presentation is atypical. We report the case of a 14-year-old boy diagnosed with recurrent parotitis.
 Case Presentation. Our patient, a 14-year-old male, presented with a one-year history of recurrent bilateral parotid swellings. Clinical examination revealed an objective oculo-buccal dryness. Ultrasound imaging showed hypoechoic hypertrophy of the parotid glands. Anti-SSA/SSB antibodies were strongly positive. Histological study of the accessory salivary glands revealed lymphocytic sialadenitis with a focus score of 3. The diagnosis of SS was confirmed according to the ACR/EULAR 2016 criteria. The combination of treatment with hydroxychloroquine and corticosteroids resulted in the resolution of clinical signs and biological inflammatory markers.
 Conclusion. Given the rarity of SS in children, several diagnostic and therapeutic difficulties arise, in the absence of classification criteria adapted to the juvenile form of the disease, and the absence of therapeutic recommendations consolidated by clinical trials in children.

Karyotype and reproductive traits of the unique symbiotic mealybug Orbuspedummachinator G.-Z. (Homoptera, Coccinea).

The karyotype and reproductive features of Orbuspedummachinator Gavrilov-Zimin, 2017 (Pseudococcidae) were studied for the first time. Diploid chromosome number is 18 in females. Reproduction is probably bisexual, as indicated by the presence of characteristic Lecanoid heterochromatinization of the paternal set of chromosomes in embryonic cells of about 50% of the embryos studied. The female reproductive system has a pair of lateral oviducts merged into enlarged common oviduct; the spermatheca and accessory glands are connected to the common oviduct in its proximal part. Complete ovoviviparity occurs in ontogenesis.

Effects of Zinc (Zn) on the Growth of the Progeny from the Formation of Foetal Sperm through Parturition: A Review

The amount of zinc (Zn), another extremely important trace element, in human beings is substantial. Since the human body is unable to retain zinc, dietary intake of zinc is necessary for a number of bodily processes and metabolism. The testicles, epididymis, and prostate are the three main accessory sex glands, and normal development of these glands depends on the intake of Zn as it moves through the body. The early phases of the growth of germ cells and sperm development, the stages of sperm cell maturation and development, ejaculating the liquefaction the attachment of the male reproductive system and prostasomes, capacity, and fertilization are all important processes in which it participates. During ejaculation, the male reproductive system discharges higher zinc into the seminal fluid, which is important for the release and motility of sperm. The portion of Zn is essential during the gestational, labour, perinatal, and neonatal periods. During the maternity period, the average daily dietary intake of zinc in developing nations is 8–12 mg. Critical evidence has been used to discuss the lack of Zn and its effects. A thorough summary of the activities and roles played by Zn in effective fertilization has been provided. In the simplest terms, our current research highlights Zn's importance at every step of human reproduction, from spermatogenesis through birthing. Future research on reproductive biology now has a new avenue to explore thanks to the significance of zinc and its supplementation in in-vitro fertilization (IVF).

Some histological effects of Bisphenol-A on some reproductive organs in male adult rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

Bisphenol-A (BPA) is a broadly used substance in our environment. The current study was established to investigate the potentially toxic effects of BPA in the histology of adult male albino rabbits' reproductive organs. 45 adult male rabbits were subdivided into three groups. Group 1 orally received standard saline solution daily (proposed as a negative control); Group 2 received (0.5 ml/day) of olive oil orally daily (offered as a positive control); and the third Group, 3 rabbits, were treated orally with a dose of 25mg\Kg BW of the BP-A which dissolved in olive oil for 30 days. Tissue specimens from epididymis, testis, seminal vesicles and prostate were collected for histological examination. Blood samples were collected for serum hormone level evaluation. Results showed that BPA caused a significant decrease in testosterone, Luteinizing hormone, Follicle stimulating hormone, and a significant increase in estradiol and prolactin, along with some histopathological alterations in the epithelial and connective tissues of all the organs of studied animals. In conclusion, BPA induced hormonal disturbances in some hormones of the reproductive pituitary axis and histologic and toxic effects on the histology of all reproductive organs. Keywords: Bis-Phenol A; reproductive hormones; testis; epididymis; accessory sex glands; histology.

Reproductive seasonality of hair rams under tropical conditions: an alternative for non-seasonal lamb production?

Reproductive seasonality limits the periods of breeding on the year and, therefore, productive output. However, some breeds appear as probably non-seasonal. The aim of the study was to characterize the seasonal pattern of Santa Inês rams, including an ultrasound characterization of the reproductive tract, testosterone concentrations, and semen characteristics. Fifteen Santa Inês rams remained in a grazing system with concentrate supplementation, and measurements of the reproductive tract and ultrasound evaluation (biometrics and pixel intensity) of the testicles and accessory sex glands were monthly recorded. Computerized seminal evaluations were also performed monthly, and serum testosterone concentration was measured every 15days. Body weight and condition remained stable throughout the year. In general, reproductive traits varied along the year and reached maximum values during autumn and minimum in spring. Despite that, as fresh semen remained with enough quality to breed all along the year, seasonality does not appear as a limiting factor to breed along the year. Therefore, Santa Inês rams can be used for all-year-round breeding or for crossbreeding when rams from other breeds decrease their fertilizing ability.

Characteristics of the seminal quality of infertile patients in the City of Quito.

Introduction: Male infertility has a complex etiology and one of the determining factors is the quality of the semen. The evaluation of this factor is carried out using a spermogram; where the two components of semen are analyzed: the sperm; in number, mobility and morphology, as well as the seminal fluid produced by the accessory glands in charge of nourishing the sperm and interacting with the female genital tract. Objective: To determine the characteristics of the semen, the most frequent alterations and the age effect on the seminal quality of patients who come to an infertility consultation in an assisted reproduction center in the city of Quito. Material and Methods: An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study of 55 spermograms from patients with infertility problems from the “Instituto Quiteño de Infertilidad” was carried out. Results: 47.27% of the spermogram presented normozoospermia. Within the alterations, asthenozoospermia was 25.45% and teratozoospermia was 23.63%. The values ​​of the sperm quality parameters and the number of alterations showed an age-related trend; we found that the highest number of affected patients with alterations in the number of sperm corresponds to those over 40 years. Discussion: In our study, we have evidenced a high percentage of patients with at least one seminal alteration, especially in older patients, which indicates the importance of considering the age of males when evaluating infertile couples.

Families Braulidae and Streblidae (Insecta: Diptera) as ectoparasites of mammals

Once the larval development is complete, the Braula, Nitzsch, 1818 (Braulidae) becomes a pupa within the tunnels it has excavated, and when it reaches the adult state, it attaches itself to the body of the bee. Department of the cycle, from oviposition to the emergence of the adult parasite reaches 21 days. When the beekeeper carries out inspections of his hives. Parasitized bees, especially queens, are restless, nervous, weakened, and at intervals shake their legs or rub their bodies with their wings, in order to get rid of the parasites, but without any success. The Streblidae are viviparous ectoparasites, obligatory and exclusive to bats, which instead of laying eggs or larvae, what they do is put an already developed pupa. Viviparity is adenotrophic; that is, the larvae feed on glandular secretions in the uterus. In the third instar, the larva is deposited in the shelter of the host. One larva develops inside the female and feeds on secretions from the accessory glands, which are highly specialized. Eventually, the third-instar larva is deposited as a sessile prepupa in a substrate. The objective of this bibliographical production is to understand the biological, ecological, and taxonomic characteristics of the Braulidae and Streblidae families. In terms of the type of research source, we worked with scientific articles published in national and international journals. This type of production, in addition to being commonly the most valued in all bibliographic production, is the most easily accessed. Access to articles was through virtual libraries such as SciELO, ResearchGate, Hall, USP, UNB, CAPES, Qeios, and LILACS.

Maternal supplementation of alpha-lipoic acid ameliorates prenatal cytarabine-induced mutilation in reproductive development and function in F1 male adult rats.

Cytarabine (CYT), a prevalent anticancer drug for blood cancers, detrimentally affects male reproductive development and function. Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), a universal antioxidant, offers defense against chemical-induced reproductive dysfunction. Our study sought to explore ALA's protective role against prenatal CYT-induced reproductive impairment in F1 male adult rats. Pregnant rats were divided into 5 groups and administered normal saline, ALA 200mg/kg, CYT 12.5mg/kg, CYT 25mg/kg, and CYT 25mg/kg + ALA 200mg/ kg from gestational day 8 to 21. On postnatal day 73, F1 male rats were sacrificed, and general, oxidative, steroidogenic, spermatogenic, histological, and morphometrical parameters were evaluated. Prenatal CYT caused dose-dependent reductions in body weight, testis, and accessory gland weights; elevated oxidative stress; delayed puberty onset; sperm anomalies (decreased count, motility, viability, seminal fructose; increased morphological anomalies); impeded steroidogenesis (lower testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, 3β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase(HSD), 17β-HSD, and elevated cholesterol); and testicular histopathological and morphometric disturbances. Maternal supplementation of ALA was found to alleviate all the CYT-induced reproductive disruptions. The present work accentuates the beneficial actions of ALA against CYT-induced impairment in reproductive development and functions by combating disruptions in oxidative balance, steroidogenesis, spermatogenesis, and testicular histological aberrations. However, future experimental and clinical studies are warranted to explore the molecular mechanisms involved in the ALA's protection against prenatal CYT-induced testicular injury.

The clinicopathological features, treatment outcomes and follow-up results of 47 ectopic thyroid gland cases: a single-center retrospective study.

Ectopic thyroid gland (ETG) is an uncommon clinical condition, presenting various challenges and limitations in its regulate diagnosis and treatment currently. This study aims to enhance our understanding of ETG and improve the strategies for its diagnosis and treatment. The retrospective single-center study was conducted, encompassing clinical data from ETG patients screened at our institution between 2013 and 2022. Patients were categorized based on the location of the disease, and follow-ups were performed on each. This study included a total of 47 patients who were confirmed to hav confirmed to have ETG. Among them, we found 29 cases of accessory thyroid and 18 cases of aberrant thyroid. Furthermore, 42 cases exhibited the single ETG, while 5 cases displayed the double ETG. The distribution of the ETG was as follows: 20 were lingual, 10 were submandibular, 10 were lateral cervical, 4 were thoracic mediastinal, 1 was esophageal, and 7 were ovarian. Of these cases, 22 patients underwent surgery, 18 received thyroid hormone replacement therapy, and 7 were placed under observation. All patients were followed up for 59.4 (12-117) months. No significant abnormalities were detected at the conclusion of the follow-up period. ETG is frequently observed in the head and neck, particularly in lingual. Accessory thyroid glands are commonly reported, with most cases being single ETG. Notably, these glands usually do not manifest specific clinical symptoms. Therefore, the appropriate and comprehensive examinations during the initial diagnosis are crucial to avoid misdiagnosis. Treatment should be individualized, and long-term follow-up is essential for managing ETG effectively.

Morphology of the Female and Male Reproductive Tracts and More Data on the Spermatostyle in the Brazilian Gyretes sp. (Coleoptera, Adephaga, Gyrinidae).

We investigated the male and female reproductive tracts of Gyretes sp. with light and transmission electron microscopies. The male has a pair of testes with a single coiled follicle, followed by short efferent ducts, which have a similar shape and diameter to the testes. Long ducts (epididymides) with differential epithelium open in a pair of long vasa deferentia that lead to the accessory glands. Glycoprotein secretions from the vas deferens epithelium constitute the spermatostyle for spermatozoa aggregation. The female has numerous ovarioles per ovary, a coiled fertilization duct, an accessory gland, and an elongated vagina. Spermatozoa are stored as unaggregated cells in the fertilization duct. In Gyrinidae, the testes and accessory glands show diverse shapes, and the female sperm storage organs vary in shape, size, and type and may play a role in the interaction with sperm aggregates. Testes with a single follicle and vasa deferentia opening in the accessory glands of Gyretes sp. are features shared with other Gyrinidae and other Adephaga. We proposed adding this latter trait to characterize this suborder of beetles. The morphology of the reproductive organs in both sexes contributes to comparative analyses and knowledge of the reproductive biology of Gyretes and may provide additional features for systematics.