Testicular Consistency Research Articles

Endocrine and dog factors associated with semen quality

Knowledge of factors associated with semen quality may help in investigations of the aetiology and pathophysiology. We investigated the correlation between biomarkers for testicular cell function (anti-müllerian hormone, AMH, Inhibin B, testosterone, free androgen-index (testosterone/sex-hormone binding globulin), insulin like peptide 3, INSL-3), alkaline phosphate (ALP), canine prostate-specific esterase (CPSE), and heterophilic antibodies with dog variables, semen quality, and fertility. Blood and semen were collected from 65 Bernese Mountain Dogs. We evaluated total sperm count, motility and morphological parameters. The semen quality ranged from poor to excellent, with an average total sperm count of 1.1 × 109 and 50% morphologically normal spermatozoa (MNS). Age and abnormal testicular consistency correlated with decreased motility and MNS. Higher ALP correlated with higher total sperm count. AMH could not be detected in seminal plasma. AMH in blood correlated with head defects and high AMH concentration correlated with a severe decline in several semen parameters. Testosterone was negatively and CPSE positively correlated with age. No correlations were found for INSL-3, inhibin B, or heterophilic antibodies. Our findings contribute to the understanding of factors associated with semen quality in dogs, particularly related to Sertoli cell function.

Preliminary analysis of reproductive, behavioral and physiological characteristics of military working dogs.

The use of dogs in military work environments has always aroused great interest in the general population and determining the stress levels they go through is extremely important to maintain their welfare. The aim of this research was to evaluate if the work shifts in military working dogs leads to stress conditions and if this working influences on the reproductive performance and life quality. The study was conducted at the Military Police Kennel located at Campinas, Sao Paulo, Brazil. Eight male dogs of four different breeds (German Shepherd, Belgian Malinois Shepherd, Doberman, and Rottweiler) were evaluated during two different shifts: Working Shifts: animals working 12 hours a day with 2 hour-interval; and Control Shifts: animals that were on their day off (36 hours). Saliva samples were collected for cortisol analysis at the control and working shifts. The study was carried out over 60 days and analyzed behavior, physiology, and reproduction quality. Saliva samples, behavior observation of stereotyping, resting and moving activities and semen analysis were collected by digital stimulation (for combined second and third fractions). The salivary cortisol levels during the control and working shifts were between 0.361–0.438 and 0.312–0.592 µg/dL, respectively; the highest values were found at the end of working shifts. The animals were resting during most of the observation period, but few showed stereotypic behaviors. The testicular consistency was firm and semen parameters were within the normal values in German Shepherd, Belgian Malinois Shepherd, and Doberman dogs. However, Rottweiler dogs had a higher rate of sperm abnormalities, higher salivary cortisol levels, and more stereotypic behaviors. Nevertheless this work highlights the importance of further research relating reproduction and cortisol levels in military dogs.

Serum testosterone concentrations, testicular biometry, and testicular tone in wild male lowland tapirs (Tapirus terrestris) in the Pantanal and Cerrado biomes, Brazil

This study aimed to contribute to the knowledge about the reproductive physiology of wild lowland tapirs ( Tapirus terrestris ) by describing the serum testosterone concentrations, testicular biometry, and testicular tone of individuals living in the Pantanal and Cerrado biomes of Brazil, and to check for reproductive seasonality for the species, and to investigate correlations among these reproductive parameters and individual age and weight. Meteorological data (air temperature, wind speed, relative humidity, and global radiation) of the study sites were characterized through automated stations of the National Institute of Meteorology (INMET). From 2015 to 2020, field data were collected from 22 and 11 wild male lowland tapirs from the Pantanal and Cerrado biomes, respectively. After capture and chemical restraint, the age and weight of the animals were estimated. Blood samples were collected to determine serum testosterone concentrations using radioimmunoassay. Testicular biometry measurements included width, length, height, and volume, while testicular tone was assigned using scores from 3 (firm) to 1 (soft). Animal age, weight, and testosterone concentrations did not differ between the two biomes (P > 0.05). Positive correlations were found between age and weight (ρ = 0.86; P < 0.001), and serum testosterone levels with both estimated age (ρ = 0.45; P = 0.0047) and weight (ρ = 0.51; P = 0.0011). Testicular volume was positively correlated with age (ρ = 0.75; P < 0.0001), weight (ρ = 0.65; P = 0.0011), and serum testosterone levels (ρ = 0.42; P = 0.0081). In addition, testicular tone in adult subjects (> 48 months) was significantly higher than in younger subjects (P < 0.05). Testicular consistency was positively correlated with weight (ρ = 0.36; P = 0.0241) and serum testosterone levels (ρ = 0.38; P = 0.0174). Seasonal effect on tapir reproduction was not identified, but testicular tone was influenced by wind speed (ρ = 0.37; P = 0.0211) and air humidity (ρ = 0.37; P = 0.0262). This study is the first scientific description of reproductive parameters of male lowland tapirs. • Tapir serum testosterone levels and age and weight correlated positively and moderately; • The adult animals showed a significantly higher testicular volume than the younger ones; • There were no differences related to serum testosterone concentrations, testicular biometry and tone between individuals from the Pantanal and Cerrado biomes; • No seasonal activity related to reproductive parameters was identified for lowland tapirs; • Some environmental variables, such as wind speed and relative humidity, can influence testicular tone.

Maternal stress in sheep during late pregnancy influences sperm quality in early puberty of the offspring

Stress at the end of sheep gestation can damage the reproductive development of young males. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of LPS administration in the last third of sheep pregnancy on the reproductive parameters of prepubertal rams. Thirty-six pregnant nulliparous ewes (12 ± 2 months old; 45 ± 6 kg) were assigned to two treatments, LPS (E. coli; 0.8 μg kg−1) and control (placebo/saline) administered in late pregnancy (120 days post-conception). The animals gave birth to 17 male lambs (11 LPS; 8 control). Reproductive development of the young rams was analyzed from 5 to 12 months of age. A completely randomized design in double factorial scheme was used. The data were analyzed by analysis of variance. The model included treatment (LPS; control), age as main effects and their interactions, and the animal as a repeated measure. Means were compared by the PDIFF-SAS (Pr > |t|) at P < 0.05. An effect of age was observed for scrotal circumference, testicular consistency, homogeneity of testicular parenchyma, vascularization, semen quantity and quality, and blood testosterone concentration (P < 0.05). LPS increased sperm defects (P < 0.05) but an interaction with age was not observed (P > 0.05) with higher abnormalities only during months 8 and 9 (P < 0.05) and not thereafter. In summary, LPS did not cause long-term damage to testicular morphology analyzed from the onset of puberty to sexual maturity. However, LPS treatment affected sperm morphology during early puberty of the offspring.

A comparison between the efficacy and safety of microscopic inguinal and subinguinal varicocelectomy.

To compare microscopic inguinal (MIV) and subinguinal varicocelectomy (MSV) surgeries with respect to efficacy and safety. Patients who underwent varicocelectomy between January 2002 and January 2018 were evaluated retrospectively and prospectively. The patients who underwent varicocelectomy until December 2015 were analyzed retrospectively and the cases after January 2016 were analyzed prospectively. In our study, the married infertile male cases were compared on the basis of operation duration, number of ligated veins, number of preserved veins, postoperative pain score (visual analogue scale: VAS), patient satisfaction, surgeon satisfaction, changes in sperm parameters, testicular consistency, pregnancy rates, and complications, such as hydrocele, testicular atrophy, and recurrence of varicocele. Surgical success rates were compared by semen analysis between unmarried infertile male cases because pregnancy rates cannot be tested. The patients were recalled for control examinations every 3 months for 1 year and tested the above-mentioned parameters. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences Version 20 Windows Software was used for data analysis and comparison between the two groups. The study included a total of 136 adult patients. Mean age of the patients was 28.14 (20-41) years. MSV and MIV were performed in 62 (45.6%) and 74 (54.4%) patients, respectively. No statistically significant difference was detected between the two groups in terms of admission duration, semen parameters within the 1-year follow-up process, hormonal changes, and complication rates. Operation duration was significantly longer in the MSV group. It was determined that a fewer number of veins were ligated, and a fewer number of veins needed to be ligated in the MIV group. The analysis of all the patients revealed that pain scores at 4 and 24 hours postoperatively were significantly statistically lower in the MSV group. MIV and MSV are distinct, efficient, and safe surgical techniques with specific advantages and disadvantages. Their efficacy and safety rates are similar.

Patient Attitudes Toward Testicular Prosthesis Placement After Orchiectomy.

Orchiectomy is the standard of care for many testicular conditions. Testicular prosthesis placement (TPP) can mitigate psychosocial burden, restore self-image, and improve quality of life for patients requiring orchiectomy. Limited data exist regarding patient attitudes and counseling on TPP in the United States. The objective of this study was to characterize patient experiences after TPP, rationale for pursuing/declining TPP, and satisfaction levels.Patients with a history of urologic conditions warranting orchiectomy were identified and sent an anonymous survey addressing demographics, pre/post counseling, attitudes toward TPP, satisfaction rates, and postoperative complications. Sixteen percent (76/480) of patients completed the survey. Of these, 50.8% (32/63) undergoing orchiectomy were counseled by their surgeon about TPP, and 22.2% (14/63) received a prosthesis. The most common reasons for declining TPP included lack of concern for cosmetic appearance and lack of counseling. Leading reasons for pursuing TPP included improving self-confidence and cosmetic appearance. Although 71% (10/14) of patients were satisfied with TPP, they did highlight areas for improvement. Twenty percent (2/10) felt their implant was too high, 60% (6/10) felt their implant was too firm, 10% (1/10) endorsed discomfort during sex, and 30% (3/10) felt that TPP did not match their size expectations. Despite these findings, 71% (10/14) reported that they would have TPP again and 79% (11/14) would recommend TPP to others.TPP improves body image and quality of life following orchiectomy. Provider counseling plays an important role in influencing a patient’s decision to undergo TPP. Areas of improvement include implant positioning and more effective replication of testicular consistency.

Effect of testicular consistency on semen quality of Murrah buffalo breeding bulls

The present study was conducted to find out the effect of testicular consistency on semen quality of Murrah buffalo breeding bulls. For this study, 64 mature Murrah buffalo breeding bulls, which were in regular semen collection, were selected. Four ejaculates from each bull were evaluated for semen quality attributes viz. ejaculate volume (EV, ml), mass motility (MM, 0-5), sperm concentration (SPC, million/ml), sperm motility (SM, %), viability (%) and sperm abnormality (SA, %). Testicular consistency was measured by palpation of the testis and categorised them as soft, moderate and firm state; the bulls were also grouped on the basis of testicular consistency as soft, moderate and firm group. The results revealed that EV, MM, SPC, SM, sperm viability and SA did not show any significant difference among the groups , however better quality semen was obtained in soft testicular group than firm and moderate groups. From this study it can be concluded that the bulls having soft testicular consistency produced better quality semen, therefore testicular consistency can also be included in routine breeding soundness evaluation of buffalo bulls.

The prevalence and severity of varicocele in adult population over the age of forty years old: a cross-sectional study

Objectives: To investigate the prevalence and severity of varicocele in adult population over the age of 40. We also measured testicular size, consistency, and total testosterone levels with an aim to observe the effect of varicocele on testis as men age.Methods: Two hundred twenty-four patients with varicocele, 241 patients without varicocele who admitted to our clinic were enrolled in the study. We stratified participants by four age groups (40–49, 50–59, 60–69, >70 yr). Patients were grouped according to varicocele grade and laterality. The morning testosterone level was drawn. The subgroups were compared with each other.Results: Overall, varicocele prevalence was 48%. Of the patients, 104 had unilateral, 120 had bilateral varicocele. Of the patients with varicocele, 62 (13.30%) were found as grade 3, 99 (21.10%) were grade 2, and 63 (13.60%) were grade 1. The percentages of smaller testes in grade 1, grade 2, and grade 3 varicocele group were 20.60, 79.80, and 88.70 and a significant association was detected. Age stratification of the data revealed the smaller and soft testis prevalence as well as higher grade varicocele prevalance increased in older age groups.Conclusions: Varicocele presence is associated with lower testicular size, softer testicular consistency, and lower testosterone levels, especially in older patients with bilateral and high-grade varicocele.

Gonadal infection

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine whether a relationship between previous gonadal infections and adolescent varicocele occurrence exists. Patients and methods: All adolescents who presented with varicocele at Tanta Urology Department during the period from January 2006 to March 2011 were included in this study. Patients were evaluated for age, clinical presentation, previous history of epididymitis or epididymoorchitis, laterality, and grading of varicocele. Examination of testicular consistency and ultrasound measurement of testicular volume were carried out for all patients to define those with testicular atrophy. Results: Sixty-three boys were included in this study. The mean patients’ age was 15.6 years (range: 10–18, SD; 1.6 years). Twenty-nine (44.4%) boys had signs of testicular atrophy (testes are soft in consistency with ultrasounddetected volume smaller than that normal for age) either unilateral or bilateral. About 28.6% of patients (18 boys) had a history of epididymitis or epididymo-orchitis either associated with mumps or of unknown etiology. Of those patients, six boys had previous history of single attack, 10 boys had two attacks, and two boys had more than two attacks of epididymo-orchitis. A significant positive correlation was seen between the incidence of epididymo-orchitis attacks and the grade of varicocele (rs=0.63, 95% confidence interval: 0.21–0.85, P <0.05). Patients with past history of epididymo-orchitis were significantly more liable (4.1 times) of developing testicular atrophy as compared with those without a history of epididymo-orchitis (95% confidence interval: 1.517–11.097, P <0.05). Conclusion: History of epididymo-orchitis is significantly a potential risk factor for the development of adolescent varicocele with subsequently higher risk for testicular atrophy. We advise routine ultrasonographic examinations in patients with previous history of epididymo-orchitis both for possible early detection of varicocele and to avoid testicular atrophy in this cohort of patients. However, more studies on a larger scale are still warranted. Keywords: adolescent varicocele, epididymo-orchitis, testicular atrophy

Efecto de la Manipulación de la Temperatura Escrotal sobre las Características Clínicas, Seminales y Endocrinas en Carneros

&lt;p&gt;El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar los cambios en características clínicas, seminales y endocrinas en carneros con aislamiento escrotal térmico. Doce carneros Merino adultos fueron distribuidos al azar en un grupo Control (n=4) y uno sometido a aislamiento escrotal (n=8). A este grupo se le cubrió el escroto con una bolsa de algodón cubierta con plástico para elevar la temperatura a 39.0 °C por 48 h. Se registró por cinco semanas el volumen del eyaculado, consistencia testicular, circunferencia escrotal, concentración espermática, motilidad masal e individual y tasa de anormalidades. El semen fue colectado tres veces por semana por electroeyaculación. La vena yugular fue canulada para colectar muestras por 6 h a intervalos de 10 min para la determinación de testosterona y LH plasmática mediante radioinmunoanálisis. Los resultados señalan cambios en circunferencia escrotal (de 30.43±1.1 cm al inicio a 25.00±0.5 cm en la semana 5); reducción de la concentración espermática (semana 2); motilidad masal: 0 (semana 2); motilidad individual: 2.45±3.1% (semana 2); y 82.3±29.3% de espermatozoides anormales (semana 3). A partir de la semana 2 disminuyen los niveles de testosterona (280±83 pg/ml) y se incrementan los de LH (0.96±0.72 ng/ml), incluyendo un mayor número de pulsos. Se concluye que el incremento de temperatura escrotal produce cambios en las características clínicas, seminales y endocrinas en el carnero.&lt;/p&gt;

Is the presence of varicocele associated with static and dynamic components of benign prostatic hyperplasia/lower urinary tract symptoms in elderly men?

To evaluate the relationship between varicocele and benign prostatic hyperplasia/lower urinary tract symptoms in patients over the age of 40 years. A total of 1040 patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia/lower urinary tract symptoms were evaluated for prostate volume, testicular volume, testicular consistency, total testosterone, total prostate-specific antigen and body mass index. A questionnaire including International Prostate Symptom Score and a uroflow test were also carried out. The presence and grade of varicocele was determined in each patient by physical examination. Varicocele was found bilaterally in 22.3% and unilaterally in 25.7% of the patients. There was no difference in terms of age and body mass index distribution between subgroups. When grouping patients for varicocele laterality, total testosterone (P = 0.04), prostate volume (P = 0.009) and total prostate-specific antigen (P = 0.02) level were significantly different. Similarly, these parameters were significant between patients with grade 1, 2 and 3 varicocele. Total testosterone level (P = 0.02) and prostate volume (P = 0.035) were found to be significantly different when patients were grouped according to testicular size. A positive correlation was found between testosterone level and prostate volume (P = 0.004; r(2) = 0.084). Bilateral and/or higher-grade varicocele is associated with lower prostate volume and testosterone levels, as well as lower prostate-specific antigen levels. However, it is not associated with dynamic components of benign prostatic hyperplasia/lower urinary tract symptoms in patients over the age of 40 years.

Impotentia generandi in male dromedary camels: breeding soundness, haematology, biochemistry and testosterone level

The aim of the present study was to evaluate changes occurring in blood constituents and testosterone levels in male dromedary camels with impotentia generandi (IG). A total of 30 male dromedary camels suffering from IG were used. Ten normal fertile male camels served as controls. A thorough breeding soundness examination was performed. Semen was collected by electroejaculator. According to the sperm count, the camels with IG were classified as azoospermic (IG-AZO, n = 10), oligospermic (IG-OLG, n = 10) and normospermic (IG-NOR, n = 10). Blood samples were obtained from all animals for haematology (total and differential white blood cell count, red blood cell count, haematocrit value, corpuscular volume, corpuscular haemoglobin value, corpuscular haemoglobin concentration, platelet count), biochemistry (total protein, albumin, alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, γ-glutamyl transferase, blood urea nitrogen, creatine kinase, phosphorus, magnesium) and testosterone level. The results showed that 73.3 % of the camels with IG had abnormal testicular size and/or consistency. No significant differences in any of the estimated blood parameters were detected among the groups. In conclusion, IG in the male dromedary camels was mostly associated with testicular abnormalities. Blood constituents and testosterone levels did not differ between the camels with IG and the healthy controls.

Endocrine disrupter action in ruminants: A study of the effects of Ipomoea carnea in adult male goats

Ipomoea carnea is a toxic plant in Brazil and other tropical countries that often poisons livestock; its primary toxin is swainsonine. Some substances that interact with the endocrine system have been called endocrine disruptors (EDs). Considering swainsonine's mode of action, it is feasible to hypothesize that this compound could act as an ED. Bisphenol A (BPA), an estrogen-mimic, is considered a classical ED in rodents. This study aimed to evaluate the possible ED actions of I. carnea and BPA in male goats. Seventeen adult male goats were divided into three homogeneous groups: control (C, n=5); IC (n=6, received 5.0g/kg body weight of freshly harvested I. carnea per day), and BPA (n=6, received 25.0mg/kg body weight of BPA per day). The experimental period was 120 days. During the experiment, blood samples were collected at 0, 30, 60, 90 and 120 days for biochemical and hormonal evaluations. On the same days, semen samples were collected for andrological evaluation, and scrotal circumference and testicular consistency were determined. The males were castrated on day 121, and fragments of testicle and epididymis were collected for histopathological evaluation. A decrease in serum T3 and T4 was observed in the IC group as well as an increase in the number of sperm with morphological alterations. In the BPA group, reduced serum T4 and a decreased percentage of sperm with plasma membrane integrates were observed. A histopathological examination revealed the vacuolar degeneration of Sertoli cells and areas of laminar patterns of calcium deposits in the IC group and vacuolar degeneration in the rete testis in the BPA group. These results indicate that both I. carnea and BPA are potential EDs in goats. This study emphasized the susceptibility of livestock to ED actions. We also demonstrated the action of I. carnea acting as EDs in the endocrine and reproductive systems.

Clinical and Pathological Changes in Rams Experimentally Infected withActinobacillus seminisandHistophilus somni

Infectious epididymitis is considered a major cause of economic losses for the sheep industry worldwide. This study aimed to investigate clinical and pathological changes associated with experimental infections with A. seminis and H. somni in rams. Twenty rams of age 18 to 24 months were infected by intraepididymal inoculation of A. seminis (n = 10) and H. somni (n = 10). Rams were weekly examined and biological samples were collected during six weeks. All rams inoculated with A. seminis and 80% inoculated with H. somni became infected. The recovery of bacteria was possible in semen and urine samples and tissues in both experimental groups. Clinically, there were a decrease in testicular consistency and an increase in measures of the left epididymis tails in both experimental groups. The main gross changes were observed in the reproductive tract. Microscopically, the main lesions were inflammatory changes in the genitourinary tract and testicular degeneration. A. seminis and H. somni were able to colonize several organs of the genitourinary tract in rams, being indistinguishable by clinical exam, necropsy or histopathology. For differential diagnosis, it is important to use diagnostic techniques for direct confirmation of the etiologic agent.

Efeitos da disponibilidade de sombra a campo sobre características reprodutivas de touros da raça Nelore (Bos indicus) criados na região Sudeste do Brasil

Solar radiation is responsible for bull body temperature elevation. An alternative to minimize heat stress is to use artificial shade. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of thermal stress reduction, through shade availability, on reproductive characteristics of Nellore bulls (Bos indicus). For this, ten bulls were divided in: Available artificial shade (AS, n = 5) and Unavailable shade (US, n = 5). Each group was kept in two hectare paddocks, in which shade availability for group AS was artificially created. Animals were submitted to a clinical-reproductive evaluation and seminal analyses. No interaction was observed between treatments (AS and US) and time (8 collections) for all analyzed variables (P>0.05). No significant effect (P > 0.05) of treatment was observed for all parameters analyzed. So, it can be concluded that the absence of shaded areas during summer does not negatively affect reproductive characteristics such as: scrotal circumference, testicular consistency, progressive motility, percentage of rapidly moving cells (Computer Assisted Semen Analysis - CASA), morphology or sperm viability in Nellore bulls raised in southeastern Brazil, considering that results could be different in other regions of the country where average temperature is higher.

Fertility potential in a cohort of 65 men with previously acquired undescended testes

PurposeTo evaluate testicular function in men with previously acquired undescended testes (AUDT) in whom spontaneous descent was awaited until puberty followed by orchiopexy in case of nondescent. MethodsAndrological evaluation including paternity, scrotal ultrasound, reproductive hormones, and semen analysis was performed in three groups: men with AUDT, healthy controls, and men with previously congenital undescended testes (CUDT). ResultsIn comparison with controls, men with AUDT more often had significantly abnormal testicular consistency, smaller testes, lower sperm concentration, and less motile sperm. Except for more often a normal testicular consistency in men with AUDT, no differences were found between men with AUDT and men with CUDT. Also, no differences were found between men with AUDT which had spontaneously descended and men who underwent orchiopexy. ConclusionsFertility potential in men with AUDT is compromised in comparison with healthy controls, but comparable with men with CUDT. This suggests that congenital and acquired UDT share the same etiology. No significant difference was found between men who had spontaneous descent and men needing orchiopexy. However, fertility potential is unknown for men after immediate surgery at diagnosis, and this should be a subject for future studies.

Orquiepididimite em carneiro por Salmonella enterica sub-diarizonae: primeiro caso na América do Sul

O objetivo deste artigo é relatar um caso de orquiepididimite associado com infecção por Salmonella enterica subespécie diarizonae em carneiro da raça Santa Inês de quatro anos de idade, vasectomizado. Ao exame clínico reprodutivo, o animal mostrou aumento severo do conteúdo escrotal, sendo o testículo direito maior do que o esquerdo e a cauda do epidídimo direita maior do que a esquerda. A consistência testicular, avaliada em escala de 1 a 5, foi 5 para o testículo direito e 2,5 para o esquerdo; o órgão apresentava-se muito sensível ao toque. Na ultrassonografia foram observadas estruturas anecoicas/hipoecoicas circulares na cauda do epidídimo, sugestivas de abscessos; alguns pontos hiperecogênicos no parênquima testicular, sugerindo lesões de calcificação; e todo o testículo direito rodeado por imagem hipoecoica, indicativa de edema. Uma das estruturas da cauda do epidídimo direita foi puncionada, encontrando-se exsudato purulento, o qual foi enviado para exame microbiológico, sendo isolada e identificada Salmonella enterica subespécie diarizonae. O carneiro foi submetido a orquiepididectomia, e o órgão foi caracterizado macroscopicamente por adesões fibrosas entre as camadas escrotais, coexistência de abscessos epididimários e degeneração testicular. A Salmonella enterica subespécie diarizonae deve ser considerada no diagnóstico diferencial de infecção genital em ovinos.

Seasonal Aspects of Reproductive Physiology in Captive Male Maned Wolves (Chrysocyon brachyurus, Illiger 1815)

The aim of the study was to evaluate the seasonality of andrological characteristics and hormonal profile of captive maned wolves (Chrysocyon brachyurus, Illiger 1811). Three adult males were evaluated from the Companhia Brasileira de Metalurgia e Mineração Scientific Breeding Center in Araxá, MG, Brazil, over 13 months. Semen was collected 2-3 times weekly and analysed. Scrotal circumference, biometrics and testicular volume were measured. Stool samples were collected 2-3 times weekly to analyse corticosteroid and testosterone metabolite concentrations. A success rate of 100% was achieved in the collection attempts during the breeding season (BS) and 77.8% during the non-breeding season (NBS). The interval to achieve penile erection was 1-5 min in the BS and 6-10 in the NBS (p < 0.001). Of the ejaculates collected, 80.0% contained sperm during BS, while 28.6% did during the NBS. The ejaculate had only one fraction, was odourless, predominantly translucent (72.4%), with a watery appearance, pH 6.7 and osmolarity of 352.8 mOsmol. Seasonal influences were seen in ejaculate volume (1.3 ml vs 0.4 ml), number of spermatozoa per ejaculate (73.9 × 10(6) vs 6.1 × 10(6) ) and percentage of live sperm (82.0% vs 66.1%) between the BS and NBS (p < 0.05), respectively. A high percentage of major sperm defects were observed in both seasons (50.1% in BS; 65.7% in NBS). Testicular volume was larger (p < 0.05; right testicles 13.1 cm(3) in BS vs 4.0 cm(3) in NBS, while left testicles 12.9 cm(3) in BS vs 5.3 cm(3) in NBS) and testicular consistency increased in the BS. No difference was seen in the basal faecal metabolite concentrations of testosterone; however, the corticosteroid concentrations were higher in the BS. Based on these results, it is possible to conclude that the collection of semen is feasible in captive maned wolves without compromising libido, seminal characteristics and reproductive behaviour and that sperm production is influenced by seasonality; however, it appears that there is no seasonal influence on basal testosterone concentrations.

Die Quetschung des Samenstrangs eignet sich beim Kaninchen nicht zur Ausschaltung der Hodenfunktion

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of three different methods for squeezing of the spermatic cord as bloodless castration in rabbits according to the "Burdizzo"-method used for ruminants. In 18 anaesthetized male rabbits (group 1-3) spermatic cords were squeezed twice using three different methods according to Burdizzo: using a Pean haemostat for 3 minutes (group 1, n=10) or 10 minutes (group 2, n=4) or by use of a Doyen intestine clamp for 3 minutes (group 3, n=4). Seven males serving as controls underwent surgical castration under general anaesthesia. Animals were daily examined until day 7, and on days 14 and 90. Blood samples for testosterone measurement were taken on days 1 and 90. On day 90, all animals of groups 1-3 were surgically neutered and testis examined histologically in comparison with group 4. A swelling of the squeezing site was obvious in all animals of group 1-3 which was - like pain reaction - most obvious in group 1. Temporary changes in testicular consistency, as well as inflammation signs were observed in testes, epididymides and spermatic cords. During the course of the study, testes size increased (p<0.0001) independently of the group. Testosterone was within the physiological range in group 1-3 and differed significantly from group 4 (p=0.0002). Histology revealed normal spermatogenesis and fully elongated sperm in testes and epididymides. None of the three bloodless methods used led to testicular shrinking, basal testosterone concentration and disturbed spermatogenesis which would be a suitable marker for testicular atrophy indicating castration. Although bloodless castration seems to be an interesting alternative to surgery in rabbits, none of the methods used was successful in inducing castration effects.

Testis Rigidity Tester: A prototype device for intraoperative detection of changes in testicular pressure and/or elasticity. First experimental experiences

In order to quantitatively evaluate testicular consistency, we designed a device for measurement of testis rigidity, which reflects the resistance caused by testicular pressure and elasticity. The device was tested in experimental models of cryptorchidism and torsion. The Testis Rigidity Tester (TRT) prototype consists of a system of weights and levers. It measures the force needed for a known deformation of the testis, defined as rigidity. We inhibited testis descent in 10 18-day-old Lewis rats; another 10 age-matched rats underwent sham operation. At the age of 40 days we measured testicular rigidity using the TRT. Additionally, left testes of eight adult Lewis rats underwent 720 degrees torsion; rigidity was measured by the TRT before and 1h after torsion. To investigate repeatability of TRT measurements, the rigidity of five twisted testes was measured 10 times by three researchers. The TRT revealed a significant decrease of rigidity in undescended testes and an increase in twisted testes. Measurements were repeatable, independent of the observer. The TRT is a safe, reliable and objective device that successfully measured the altered rigidity in experimental models of testicular disease.