The importance of updated criteria in breeding soundness examination of commercial Nellore bulls for the herd reproductive improvement / [Importância de critérios atualizados na avaliação andrológica de touros Nelore a campo para a evolução reprodutiva do rebanho]

The aim of this work was to compare results of breeding soundness examination (BSE) of Nellore bulls (n=1257) according to evaluation criteria from two different classification tables (traditional-Table1 used since 1997 and an updated-Table2-proposed in 2020). Data were separated into 3 categories: questionable animals in Table1 and Table2 (Q1Q2), animals approved in Table1 and questionable in Table2 (A1Q2) and animals approved in Table1 and Table2 (A1A2). BSE parameters were submitted to ANOVA (P<005), according to age groups. Higher (P<0.0001) scrotal perimeter (PE) were observed in A1A2 category (18-24m=33.4±2.4cm; 24-36m=34.5±2.2cm; 36-48m=36.6±1.7cm; >48m=38.6±1.7cm) compared to A1Q2 (18-24m=29.05±0.98cm; 24-36m=30.3±0.6cm; 36-48m=32.9±1.0cm; >48m=34.8±1.0cm) and to Q1Q2 (24-36m=26.8±2.0cm; 36-48m=30.0±0.1cm; >48m=31.3±1.1cm), for all age groups. At the age of 36-48months (Q1Q2=2.7±0.3; A1Q2=3.2±0.3; A1A2=3.3±0.6) and >48months (Q1Q2=3.0±0.4; A1Q2=3.3±0.5; A1A2=3.4±0.5), animals with better andrological classifications presented higher (P<0.05) body condition score (BCS). Additionally, at age >48m, higher sperm Motility (P=0.0250) and Vigor (P=0.0335) were observed in animals A1Q2 (Mot=55.5±14.7%; V=3.21±0.82) and A1A2 (Mot=55.8±12.2%; V=3.23±0.81) compared to Q1Q2 (Mot=50.2±17.4%; V=2.77±0.82). It was concluded that bulls approved using strict selection criteria demonstrated higher PE and BCS, regardless of the age. The utilization of updated classification tables is highly recommended for further reproductive potential development of Nellore bulls in the field.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar os resultados obtidos no exame andrológico a campo de touros Nelore (n=1257) de acordo com os critérios de avaliação de duas tabelas de classificação (uma tabela tradicional - tabela 1 - proposta em 1997 e uma nova tabela atualizada - tabela 2 - proposta em 2020). Os dados foram separados em três categorias: animais questionáveis nas tabelas 1 e 2 (Q1Q2), animais aprovados na tabela 1 e questionáveis na tabela 2 (A1Q2) e animais aprovados nas tabelas 1 e 2 (A1A2). Os parâmetros foram submetidos à análise de variância (P<0,05), por faixa etária. Observou-se maior (P<0,0001) PE no grupo A1A2 (18-24m=33,4±2,4cm; 24-36m=34,5±2,2cm; 36-48m=36,6±1,7cm; >48m=38,6±1,7cm) em comparação ao grupo A1Q2 (18-24m=29,05±0,98cm; 24-36m=30,3±0,6cm; 36-48m=32,9±1,0cm; >48m=34,8±1,0cm) e este maior (P<0,0001) que Q1Q2 (24-36m=26,8±2,0cm; 36-48m=30,0±0,1cm; >48m=31,3±1,1cm) em todas as idades. Nas faixas etárias 36-48m (Q1Q2=2,7±0,3; A1Q2=3,2±0,3; A1A2=3,3±0,6) e >48m (Q1Q2=3,0±0,4;A1Q2=3,3±0,5; A1A2=3,4±0,5), animais com melhor classificação andrológica apresentaram melhor (P<0,05) escore de condição corporal (ECC). Adicionalmente, na idade >48m, maiores motilidade (P=0,0250) e vigor (P=0,0335) foram observados nos animais A1Q2 (Mot=55,5±14,7%; V=3,21±0,82) e A1A2 (Mot=55,8±12,2%; V=3,23±0,81) comparados aos animais Q1Q2 (Mot=50,2±17,4%; V=2,77±0,82). Concluiu-se que touros aprovados na tabela com critérios mais rigorosos de classificação (tabela 2) apresentaram maior PE e ECC, independentemente da idade. Assim, a utilização de tabelas classificatórias atualizadas é fundamental para maior desenvolvimento do potencial reprodutivo de touros Nelore a campo.(AU)

Chinese Expert's Perspectives on Andrological Diseases Responding Specifically to Traditional Chinese Medicine / 中国实验方剂学杂志

In recent years， the incidence rate of andrological diseases has shown a significant growth trend. Considering the unavailability of a perfect theoretical system for andrology in traditional Chinese medicine （TCM） and the complex pathogenesis despite of the limited types of andrological diseases， it is necessary to improve the clinical efficacy of andrological diseases so as to satisfy the needs of patients. Therefore， the China Association of Chinese Medicine （CACM） organized the andrologists of TCM and western medicine and the outstanding young clinicians to discuss the andrological diseases responding specifically to TCM or integrated TCM and western medicine， such as chronic prostatitis， male infertility， benign prostatic hyperplasia， erectile dysfunction， and premature ejaculation， determine their diagnostic criteria in western medicine， and standardize the specifications for TCM diagnosis and treatment based on syndrome differentiation， thus formulating recognized and integrated diagnosis and treatment protocols. Apart from proposing suggestions on the treatment of such andrological diseases with TCM and western medicine， the experts have also figured out the andrological diseases responding specifically to TCM， the optimal intervention time of TCM and western medicine， and the suitable measures including surgery. The resulting consensus helps to better guide the formulation of accurate， personalized， and optimized treatment plans in clinical practice and improve the diagnosis and treatment effects of andrological diseases by giving full play to the advantages of TCM， which will in turn contribute to further innovation and development of TCM.

Potencial reprodutivo (PR) de touros Nelore avaliados por parâmetros andrológicos e comportamento sexual. Classificação por pontos: nova proposição / [Reproductive potential of Nelore bulls evaluated by andrological parameters and sexual behavior. Classification by points - a new proposition]

Este estudo teve por objetivo comparar variações de parâmetros andrológicos e comportamentais de touros Nelore de diferentes faixas etárias, calcular seu potencial reprodutivo (PR) e propor uma nova tabela de classificação por pontos, de acordo com as médias atualmente alcançadas por eles nas características estudadas. Foram utilizados dados de 6162 exames andrológicos de touros da raça Nelore, entre 12 e 80 meses de idade, em regime de monta natural. O número de touros classificados como aptos consistiu em 88,9% dos animais avaliados (n=5480), sendo 51,6% desses considerados excelentes (n=2827), 41,2% muito bons (n=2257) e 7,2% considerados bons (n=394). Entre os animais questionáveis (n=682; 11,1%), 79,6% foram classificados como inaptos temporários (n=542) e 20,4% (n=139) como animais descarte, de acordo com o exame andrológico, independentemente do teste da libido. O número de touros classificados como excelentes se reduziu para 752 (12,2%) quando dados de comportamento sexual foram incluídos para definição do seu PR. Concluiu-se que o uso de tabelas de classificação andrológica por pontos com atualizações técnicas beneficia a seleção mais apurada de touros Nelore. O teste da libido é ferramenta importante para a determinação do PR, o qual permite melhor aproveitamento dos reprodutores.(AU)

This study aimed to compare variations of andrological and behavioral parameters from Nelore bulls of different ages, to calculate their reproductive potential (RP) and propose a new classification table by points, considering current averages in each reproductive trait studied. Data were collected from 6162 breeding soundness examinations of Nelore bulls aged between 12 and 80 months, under natural mating. According to andrological parameters, regardless of the libido test, the number of bulls classified as approved was 88.9% (n= 5480), being 51.6% considered as excellent (n= 2827), 41.2% very good (n= 2257) and 7.2% considered as good (n= 394). Among the animals considered as questionable (n= 682; 11.1%), 79.6% were classified as temporarily reproved (n= 542) and 20.4% (n= 139) as discarded animals. The number of bulls classified as excellent decreased to 752 (12.2%) when sexual behavior data were included to define their RP. It was concluded that the use of tables for andrological classification by points with technical updates improves the reproductive selection of Nelore bulls. The libido test is an important tool for RP determination which provides better utilization of the sires.(AU)

Ultrassonografia testicular no modo color Doppler∕ espectral e avaliação andrológica de garanhões tratados com gonadotrofina coriônica humana (hCG) em diferentes estações do ano / [Testicular ultrasonography in the doppler / spectral color mode and andrological evaluation of stallions treated with human corionic gonadotrofin (hCG) in different seasons of the year]

Utilizaram-se quatro garanhões nos meses de janeiro, abril, julho e outubro de 2016, em dois protocolos, em que: GI (n=4; 5mL de solução salina, i.v.) e GII (n=4; 5000UI de hCG, i.v.) e subdividiram-se esses protocolos em ciclos (C1 e C2), seguindo o esquema crossover, sendo: CI=animais 1 (GI) e 2 (GII), avaliados nos dias D1, D3 e D5, e animais 3 (GI) e 4 (GII), em D2, D4 e D6; CII= animais 1 (GII) e 2 (GI), em D1, D3, D5, e animais 3 (GII) e 4 (GI), em D2, D4 e D6. Realizou-se o tratamento em D1 e D2 de cada ciclo e a ultrassonografia testicular no modo color Doppler e Doppler espectral, uma hora antes de cada coleta de sêmen e imediatamente após. Avaliou-se: número de reflexo de Flehmen, de montas sem ereção, início da monta, tempo de reação à ereção e total da monta e análises de qualidade seminal. Estatisticamente foram utilizados os testes de qui-quadrado e ANOVA. Não houve diferenças estatísticas (P>0,05) entre os parâmetros analisados. Concluiu-se que uma única dose de 5000UI de hCG em garanhões não causou alterações significativas nos parâmetros avaliados em diferentes estações do ano.(AU)

Four stallions were used in January, April, July and October 2016 in two protocols: GI (n=4; 5ml saline, iv) and GII (n=4; 5000 hCG, iv), and these protocols were subdivided into cycles (C1 and C2) following the cross over scheme, as follows: CI=animal 1 (GI) and 2 (GII) evaluated on days D1, D3 and D5 and animal 3 (GI) and 4 (GII) at D 2, D 4 and D 6; CII=animal 1 (GII) and 2 (GI) at D1, D3, D5 and animal 3 (GII) and 4 (GI) at D2, D4 and D6. Treatment was performed on D1 and D2 of each cycle and testicular ultrasound in color Doppler and spectral Doppler mode, one hour before each semen collection and immediately after. We evaluated: Flehmen's reflex number, mounts without erection, start of the mount, reaction time to erection and total mount and seminal quality analyzes. Statistically, the Chi-square and ANOVA tests were used. There were no statistical differences (P>0.05) between the analyzed parameters. It was concluded that a single dose of 5000IU hCG in stallions did not cause significant changes in the parameters evaluated in different seasons of the year.(AU)

Application of transurethral seminal vesiculoscopy in uroandrology / 中华男科学杂志

With the continuous improvement of living conditions, increasing attention is being drawn to the genitourinary health of males, which has boomed the development of uroandrology in recent years. Refractory hemospermia, infertility, and perineal pain are commonly seen in some male patients, and mainly relied on medical imaging for diagnosis in the past, which, however, has a high pseudopositive rate and cannot give an etiological explanation. Patients with these diseases often adopt conservative treatments such as medication and physiotherapy, often with poor prognosis, and those suffering frequent recurrence used to be treated by transurethral resection, laparoscopic surgery or open surgery, which are now rarely employed due to their high rate of postoperative complications, slow recovery, and easy recurrence. In recent years, transurethral seminal vesiculoscopy has gained a wide application in the diagnosis and treatment of the above-mentioned uroandrological diseases and shown its advantages of high clinical effectiveness and low incidence of complications. The review updates on the indications, methods, skills and clinical application of transurethral seminal vesiculoscopy.

Current Situation and Reconsideration on the Study of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Andrology / 中国结合医学杂志

The development of Chinese medicine and Western medicine andrology is based on different social background and academic systems, either Chinese medicine or Western medicine andrology has their limitations, therefore, integration of Chinese and Western medicine (ICWM) andrology is in a great need. After more than 30 years of development, andrology has made great achievements in the construction of specialized academic association, holding academic conferences and publication of academic monographs, and the research progress on this field is mainly in the combination of disease and syndrome, microdifferentiation of symptoms and signs and basic research development. However, the comprehensive theoretic system of ICWM andrology has not yet established, and the related studies are still on the primary stage. In the future studies, great efforts still need to be made to expand the methods for the investigation of ICWM, and make innovations in the field of andrology.

Análisis de subpoblaciones cinéticas y morfométricas de espermatozoides con sistemas CASA: revisión

La valoración subjetiva de la calidad seminal ha dado paso al uso de las técnicas objetivas de valoración por medio de la tecnología CASA (computer-assisted semen analysis). Se pueden aplicar una serie de pruebas cinéticas, morfométricas, morfológicas o de integridad del ADN para caracterizar y entender la biología reproductiva del espermatozoide. En los últimos años, se ha dado un cambio significativo de paradigma conceptual respecto de qué es un eyaculado. Cabe decir que, hasta tiempos recientes, se consideró que una población representativa (miles de millones) de espermatozoides estaba formada por células "equivalentes" con un objetivo común: ser el que finalmente pudiese fecundar el ovocito. La comprobación de que el conjunto de espermatozoides se agrupa en subpoblaciones bien definidas de acuerdo con sus características cinéticas y/o morfométricas, ha abierto el camino hacia una visión más cooperativa. Además, se ha visto que la distribución subpoblacional es diferente entre individuos, lo que parece indicar diferentes estrategias que se pueden entender dentro de otro paradigma: el de la competencia espermática entre diferentes eyaculados. A pesar de que aún no se conoce el papel de las diferentes subpoblaciones, se deben continuar los trabajos en esa dirección. En esta revisión, se caracterizó la evaluación de la fertilidad con la tecnología CASA y se examinaron los principales métodos multivariados en la evaluación de subpoblaciones de espermatozoides analizados mediante un sistema CASA.

In recent years, there has been a substantive change in the conceptual paradigm regarding what an ejaculate is. Until recently, it was considered that a representative population (billions) of sperm was made up of "equivalent" cells with a common goal: to be the one that could finally fertilize the oocyte. New data suggesting that a set of spermatozoa is grouped in distinct subpopulations, according to their kinematic and morphometric characteristics, has opened the way towards a more cooperative vision. In addition, recently, it has been established that the subpopulation distribution is different among males, which seems to indicate that there are different strategies that can be understood within another paradigm: sperm competition between different ejaculates. These heterogeneous subpopulations of spermatozoa in the ejaculate, that show kinematics and morphometric patterns, has been widely known for a while, but the biological meaning of these different sperm subpopulations is still not clear. For this reason, the subjective evaluation of seminal quality is being displaced by objective assessment techniques using CASA technology (computer-assisted semen analysis). Also, the application of principal components (PC) and clustering methods to reveal subpopulations of spermatozoa are complementary tools used to characterize raw semen and processed cell suspensions. Despite the advances in such powerful tools, researchers are not well versed on such techniques and its advantages. For instance, PC analysis is a multivariate statistical method that reduces the number of variables used in subsequent calculations for describing the data. By integrating the original data into new complex mathematical variables, homogenous subpopulations of spermatozoa can define clearly. Furthermore, kinematic, morphometric, morphological or DNA integrity tests can be also applied to characterize and understand the reproductive biology of the spermatozoon. Although the role of the different subpopulations of spermatozoa remains unknown, the work should continue by implementing novel technologies and coordinated tools. In this review, we characterize the fertility evaluation with CASA technology and examine the main multivariate methods in the assessment of sperm subpopulations analyzed by CASA systems.

Acreditación de los laboratorios de Andrología en la República Argentina / Accreditation of Andrology laboratories in Argentina / Credenciamento dos laboratórios de Andrologia na República Argentina

La acreditación de laboratorios especializados en Andrología tiene como objetivo promover, mejorar y asegurar la calidad del servicio. Las especialidades requieren de la participación de expertos que asesoren a los organismos autónomos que efectúan las auditorías de tercera parte. El objetivo del trabajo es comunicar la experiencia de trabajo cooperativo llevado a cabo por una sociedad científica, la Sociedad Argentina de Andrología (SAA) y el Programa de Acreditación de Laboratorios (PAL) de la Fundación Bioquímica Argentina (FBA) para el aseguramiento de la calidad de la prestación bioquímica en el área andrológica. Con tal fin se firmó un convenio marco y específico de colaboración para la acreditación de laboratorios especializados en Andrología. La FBA llevaría a cabo la logística del proceso, con su plantel de auditores, aplicando como instrumento el Manual de Acreditación MA3 y la SAA proveería asesoramiento científico. Junto con las autoridades del PAL se elaboró un documento que especifica los apartados correspondientes al MA3 capítulo Nº 4 Anexo Nº 4, "Estándares para la acreditación de laboratorios especializados". Se realizó capacitación para la elaboración de la documentación y formación de los auditores en la especialidad. Esta experiencia demuestra que el trabajo cooperativo entre organizaciones permite alcanzar logros a favor de la seguridad del paciente.

Laboratory accreditation aims to promote, improve and ensure the quality of the service. The specialties require the participation of experts who advise the autonomous bodies that carry out third-party audits. The objective is to communicate the experience of cooperative work carried out by a scientific society, the Sociedad Argentina de Andrología (SAA) (Argentine Society of Andrology) and the Laboratory Certification Programme (PAL for its name in Spanish) of Fundación Bioquímica Argentina (FBA) (Argentine Biochemistry Foundation) for quality assurance of the biochemical work in the andrology area. To reach this goal, a framework and specific collaboration agreement was signed for the certification of specialized laboratories in Andrology. The FBA will carry out the logistics of the process, with its auditors' staff, applying the MA3 Accreditation Manual as an instrument, and the SAA will provide scientific advice. Together with the PAL authorities, a document was drawn to specify the sections corresponding to the MA3 chapter No. 4 Annex No. 4, "Standards for the certification of specialized laboratories". Training was carried out to prepare the documentation and the auditors in the specialty were trained as well. This experience has proven that cooperative work between organizations can achieve results favouring the patient's safety.

O credenciamento dos laboratórios visa promover, melhorar e garantir a qualidade do serviço. As especialidades requerem a participação de profissionais que assessoram os órgãos autônomos que realizam auditorias de terceiros. O objetivo é comunicar a experiência do trabalho cooperativo realizado por uma sociedade científica, a Sociedade Argentina de Andrologia (SAA) e o Programa de Credenciamento (PAL) da Fundação Bioquímica Argentina (FBA) para garantir a qualidade do trabalho bioquímico na área andrológica. Para esse fim, foi assinado um acordo-quadro e específico de cooperação para o credenciamento de laboratórios especializados em Andrologia. A FBA iria executar a logística do processo, com a sua equipe de auditores, por meio do Manual de Credenciamento MA3 como instrumento e a SAA como um instrumento e a SAA forneceria assessoramento científico. Junto com as autoridades do PAL foi elaborado um documento especificando as seções relativas ao MA3 capítulo Nº 4 Anexo Nº 4, "Normas para a credenciamento de laboratórios especializados". O treinamento foi realizado para a elaboração da documentação e formação dos auditores na especialidade. Essa experiência tem demonstrado que o trabalho cooperativo entre organizações permite atingir resultados positivos para a segurança do paciente.

Use of testicular tone and echogenicity in identifying boars with low sperm quality / Uso de tônus e ecogenicidade testiculares na identificação de reprodutores suínos com baixa qualidade espermática

This study aimed to evaluate the use of some testicular traits to identify boars with low sperm morphological quality. The consistency (scores from 1 to 5), tone with tonometry (mm), parenchyma echogenicity and heterogeneity with ultrasound (pixel) were assessed in 402 mature boars (18.5 months on average). Sperm abnormality thresholds (≤ 25% of total sperm abnormalities, ≤ 5% of heads, acrosome, neck or midpiece defects, ≤ 10% tail defects, and 15% cytoplasmic droplets) were used to classify boars as approved or disapproved. Three classes of testicular traits were formed (extremely low and high values, approximately 15% each, were kept in separated classes). When the traits were individually evaluated, fewer boars were approved if the echogenicity or heterogeneity were high, or if the tone was rigid. When evaluated in combination, the interaction between heterogeneity and tone, and between heterogeneity and echogenicity were significant. The high heterogeneity combined with soft tone or with hypo-echogenicity resulted in lower approval of boars. Tonometry and ultrasonography have a moderate potential to be included in breeding soundness examination of boars. When combined, they provide more reliable information about the impact of testicular parenchymal alterations on morphology of sperm cells.(AU)

O estudo objetivou avaliar o uso de características testiculares para identificar reprodutores com baixa qualidade de morfologia espermática. A consistência (escore de 1 a 5), o tônus por tonometria (mm), a ecogenicidade e a heterogeneidade do parênquima testicular por ultrassonografia (pixel) foram avaliados em 402 machos suínos maduros (18,5 meses, em média). Limiares máximos de anormalidades espermáticas (≤ 25% de defeitos totais, ≤ 5% de defeitos de cabeça, acrossoma, colo e peça intermediária, ≤ 10% de defeitos de cauda e 15% de gota citoplasmática) foram utilizados para classificar os machos como aprovados ou reprovados. Três classes de características testiculares foram formadas (valores extremamente baixos e altos, aproximadamente 15% em cada, foram mantidos em classes separadas). Quando as características testiculares foram avaliadas individualmente, menos machos foram aprovados se a ecogenicidade ou a heterogeneidade foram altas, ou se o tônus era rígido. Quando avaliadas em combinação, a interação entre heterogeneidade e tônus e a interação entre heterogeneidade e ecogenicidade foram significativas. A alta heterogeneidade combinada com testículos flácidos ou com testículos hipoecogênicos resultou em menor aprovação de cachaços. A tonometria e a ultrassonografia possuem potencial moderado para serem incluídas no exame andrológico de cachaços. Quando combinadas, as técnicas fornecem uma informação mais consistente do impacto das alterações do parênquima testicular na morfologia das células espermáticas.(AU)

Parâmetros reprodutivos de touros Nelore (Bos taurus indicus) criados a pasto, em de diferentes faixas etárias / Reproductive parameters of pasture-raised Nelore bulls (Bos taurus indicus) in different age

Este estudo teve o objetivo de demonstrar o efeito da idade sobre as características de circunferência escrotal, cor de pelagem e qualidade seminal, desde a puberdade até após a maturidade sexual. Foram utilizados dados de 6607 exames andrológicos de touros da raça Nelore criados a pasto. Os animais eram de diferentes faixas etárias, variando de 12 até 80 meses. O exame andrológico consistiu em exame clínico reprodutivo, perímetro escrotal (PE), avaliação do sêmen e nota para cor do pelame (COR; 1-4). Estabeleceram-se quatro faixas etárias, que foram comparadas pelo teste de Bonferroni. Os parâmetros seminais PE e COR variaram (P<0,05) conforme a faixa etária dos animais: A) 12-18m: COR=1,45±0,64a, PE=31,63±3,51cma, motilidade total (Mot)=67,73±17,99%a, total de defeitos espermáticos (TDE)=16,22±16,95%a; B) 18-24m: COR=1,50±0,57b, PE=32,00±3,47cma, Mot=69,60±29,13%a, TDE=14,49±15,00%b; C) 24-36m: COR=1,51±0,66b, PE=33,56±3,91cmb, Mot=69,46±15,52%a, TDE=12,29±12,92%c; D) 36-48m: COR=1,60±0,57c, PE=36,66±3,50cmc, Mot=71,04±16,19%b, TDE=10,87±12,97%d; E) >48m: COR=1,64±0,72c, PE=38,00±3,22d, Mot=71,54±15,30b, TDE=9,70±16,95d. Concluiu-se que a faixa etária influencia o tamanho testicular, a cor da pelagem e os parâmetros de qualidade seminal. Com o avançar da idade, ocorre escurecimento do pelo, aumento do perímetro escrotal, da motilidade e do vigor, e redução dos defeitos espermáticos de touros Nelores criados a pasto, avaliados a partir de 12 meses de idade.(AU)

This study aimed to demonstrate the effect of age on bull traits such as scrotal circumference, pelage color, and semen quality, from puberty to post sexual maturity. Data from 6607 breeding soundness examinations of pasture raised Nelore bulls were used. The animals presented different age groups ranging from 12 to 80 months. The andrological examination consisted in reproductive clinical evaluation, assessment of scrotal perimeter (PE). In addition, color of pelage (COR; 1-4) was recorded for each animal. Four age groups were established, which were compared by Bonferroni test. Semen parameters, scrotal circumference (PE) and color of the pelage (COR) varied (P< 0.05) according to the age range: A) 12-18m: COR=1.45±0.64 a , PE=31.63±3.51cm a , Total Motility (Mot)=67.73±17.99% a , Total os sperm defects (TDE)=16.22±16.95% a ; B) 18-24m: COR=1.50±0.57 b , PE=32.00±3.47cm a , Mot=69.60±29.13% a , TDE=14.49±15.00% b ; C) 24-36m: COR=1.51±0.66 b , PE=33.56±3.91cm b , Mot=69.46±15.52% a , TDE=12.29±12.92% c ; D) 36-48m: COR=1.60±0.57 c , PE=36.66±3.50cm c , Mot=71.04±16.19% b , TDE=10.87±12.97% d ; E) >48m: COR=1.64±0.72 c , PE=38.00±3.22 d , Mot=71.54±15.30 b , TDE=9.70±16.95 d . It was concluded that age influences testicular size, pelage color, and semen quality parameters. As the age progresses, there is an increase in scrotal perimeter, hair darkening, sperm motility and vigor, and reduction of sperm morphological defects of pasture raised Nelore bulls, assessed as from as 12 months of age.(AU)

Changes in Sperm Morphology and Characteristics of Experimentally-induced Hypertensive Wistar Rats Treated with Lagenaria breviflora Roberty or Xanthosoma sagittifolium Exell

Aims: This study was designed to evaluate the male reproductive toxicity that may accompany treatment of hypertension in Wistar rats with methanol extracts of whole fruit of Lagenaria breviflora Roberty or corm of Xanthosoma sagittifolium Schott. Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out at the Animal House of the Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology between November, 2016 and January, 2017. Methodology: Antihypertensive study was carried out in 40 adult male Wistar rats equally and randomly distributed into 8 groups. First group was normotensive rats administered with distilled water, while hypertension was induced in groups 2-7 intraperitoneal administration of DOCA-salt twice weekly and daily inclusion of 1% sodium chloride in drinking water. Group 2 was hypertensive but untreated rats. Two hypertensive groups were administered with Lisinopril (5 mg/70 kg) or Hydrochlorothiazide (12.5 mg/70 kg). Two hypertensive groups were assigned to each extract and these rats were administered with the extracts at doses of 100 or 200 mg/kg body weight. The rats were treated per os for 5 weeks and sacrificed at the end of this period. The testes were harvested and semen samples were obtained from the left cauda epididymis. Semen analysis were carried out to determine sperm morphology and characteristics. Results: Result showed 1 primary and 7 secondary sperm abnormality types were observed with a non-significant (p>0.05) increase in total abnormal sperm cells. Live/dead ratio and sperm volume were unchanged but, sperm motility and count were significantly (p<0.05) reduced. Conclusion: It was inferred from the study that hypertension in itself induced infertility and also treatment of the medical condition with the extracts of L. breviflora or X. sagittifolium did not reverse the infertility. Therefore, caution should be exercised when treating hypertension with these medicinal plants, particularly in male animals used for breeding.

Review of Guidelines for the Evaluation and Treatment of Leukocytospermia in Male Infertility

Leukocytospermia is an ill-defined and poorly understood condition affecting up to 30% of male factor infertility. Current guidelines on leukocytospermia vary significantly, although it has been linked to increased rates of infertility, uncertainty about its clinical significance, diagnosis, and treatment remains. The guidelines are conflicting with sparse data scattered across different specialties and continents. This study aims to compare and contrast available international guidelines and recommendations. In addition to these guidelines, we sought to consolidate the findings of trials over the last several decades. English language articles on human observational studies, retrospective, prospective, clinical trials and randomized control trials were searched for using the following terms: “leukocytospermia, pyospermia, and male infertility.” Articles about treatment and management of leukocytospermia that were published between January 2010 and April 2018 were included, as well as four articles referenced in best practice and guideline statements from urological and andrological associations. Disagreements on this topic are highlighted as some guidelines describe no correlation between leukocytospermia and infertility while others show that treatment leads to improvement of sperm quality by many measures including improved pregnancy rate. Various treatments have been suggested including antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, and frequent ejaculation. There is a need for definitive characterization of Leukocytospermia as an infectious or inflammatory marker and a re-evaluation of the leukocyte concentration threshold. Additional studies investigating rates of conception as a measure of outcome are needed, to provide greater level of evidence and generalizability of leukocytopsermia management.

Disease-syndrome combination in integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine in andrology: Confusions and countermeasures in studies / 中华男科学杂志

Researches on the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of the disease-syndrome combination approach in integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine are becoming a hot spot in andrology, but many recent studies of this kind have failed to explain the connotation of integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine in andrology. Related existing problems include repeated researches into the same indexes of action mechanisms of different therapeutic principles of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Chinese herbal compound and special prescriptions, studies focusing on individual diseases but ignoring symptoms, immature syndrome models for studies of mechanisms, and too much attention to uncertain or immature target mechanisms. The stress should be placed on the action mechanisms of Chinese herbal compound and special prescriptions on male diseases and, what is more important, on the clarification of the essential principles of differentiation and treatment of TCM syndromes. In the recent years, proteomics, genomics, transcriptomics and metabolomics have shed some light upon researches into the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of the disease-syndrome combination approach in integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine in andrology. An insight into the TCM syndrome, a macroscopic inductive analysis, and a comprehension of such microcosmic aspects as the gene, protein, metabolism and metagenome may contribute to some breakthroughs and new ideas in the studies of disease-syndrome combination in integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine in andrology.

Effect of varicocele on semen characteristics according to the new 2010 World Health Organization criteria: A systematic review and meta-analysis / 亚洲男科学杂志(英文版)

This study investigated the effects of varicocele on semen parameters in infertile men based on the new 2010 World Health Organization laboratory manual for the examination of human semen. Semen analysis results (volume, sperm count, motility, and morphology) were the primary outcomes. An electronic search to collect the data was conducted using the Medline/PubMed, SJU discover, and Google Scholar databases. We searched articles published from 2010 to August 2015, i.e., after the publication of the 2010 WHO manual. We included only those studies that reported the actual semen parameters of adult infertile men diagnosed with clinical varicocele and contained a control group of either fertile men or normozoospermic men who were not diagnosed with varicocele. Ten studies were included in the meta-analysis, involving 1232 men. Varicocele was associated with reduced sperm count (mean difference: -44.48 × 10 [6] ml-1 ; 95% CI: -61.45, -27.51 × 10 [6] ml-1 ; P < 0.001), motility (mean difference: -26.67%; 95% CI: -34.27, -19.08; P < 0.001), and morphology (mean difference: -19.68%; 95% CI: -29.28, -10.07; P < 0.001) but not semen volume (mean difference: -0.23 ml; 95% CI: -0.64, 0.17). Subgroup analyses indicated that the magnitude of effect was influenced by control subtype but not WHO laboratory manual edition used for semen assessment. We conclude that varicocele is a significant risk factor that negatively affects semen quality, but the observed pooled effect size on semen parameters does not seem to be affected by the WHO laboratory manual edition. Given most of the studies published after 2010 still utilized the 1999 manual for semen analysis, further research is required to fully understand the clinical implication of the 2010 WHO laboratory manual on the association between varicocele and semen parameters.

Augmented reality assisted surgery: A urologic training tool / 亚洲男科学杂志(英文版)

Augmented reality is widely used in aeronautics and is a developing concept within surgery. In this pilot study, we developed an application for use on Google Glass ® optical head-mounted display to train urology residents in how to place an inflatable penile prosthesis. We use the phrase Augmented Reality Assisted Surgery to describe this novel application of augmented reality in the setting of surgery. The application demonstrates the steps of the surgical procedure of inflatable penile prosthesis placement. It also contains software that allows for detection of interest points using a camera feed from the optical head-mounted display to enable faculty to interact with residents during placement of the penile prosthesis. Urology trainees and faculty who volunteered to take part in the study were given time to experience the technology in the operative or perioperative setting and asked to complete a feedback survey. From 30 total participants using a 10-point scale, educational usefulness was rated 8.6, ease of navigation was rated 7.6, likelihood to use was rated 7.4, and distraction in operating room was rated 4.9. When stratified between trainees and faculty, trainees found the technology more educationally useful, and less distracting. Overall, 81% of the participants want this technology in their residency program, and 93% see this technology in the operating room in the future. Further development of this technology is warranted before full release, and further studies are necessary to better characterize the effectiveness of Augmented Reality Assisted Surgery in urologic surgical training.

Traditional Chinese Medicine promotes the development of andrology / 中华男科学杂志

Andrology is an ancient branch of science which has gained a new development in the recent years and therefore has both traditional and modern characteristics. On the one hand, andrology keeps benefiting from the achievements of modern medicine and, on the other hand, it relies on the support of the theories of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). An integration of Chinese and Western medical principles may further facilitate the development of andrology. TCM may contribute to the development of andrology by giving full play to its advantage as a psychosomatic medicine, enriching treatment strategies for male diseases with comprehensive TCM therapies, integrating the advantages of Western medicine to improve clinical efficacy, and normalizing the use of patent TCM drugs.

Clinical relevance of routine semen analysis and controversies surrounding the 2010 World Health Organization criteria for semen examination

Semen analysis is the corner stone of infertility evaluation as it provides information on the functional status of the seminiferous tubules, epididymis and accessory sex glands. The methods on how the human semen should be evaluated are provided by the World Health Organization, which periodically releases manuals that include specific protocols and reference standards. In 2010, the WHO published new criteria for human semen characteristics that were markedly lower than those previously reported. In this review initially it is discussed the limitations of semen analysis as a surrogate measure of a man’s ability to father a pregnancy. Secondly, it is analyzed methodology issues that could explain why the newly released reference values were different from those earlier reported. Thirdly, it is speculated on the likely effects of the 2010 WHO criteria in the management of male infertility. Due to the several inherent limitations of semen analysis as a surrogate marker of male infertility, physicians should exercise caution when interpreting results. A template for semen analysis reports that incorporates the distribution of the semen characteristics of recent fathers in centiles rather than solely the minimum thresholds could aid clinicians to better understand how a given patient results compare with the reference population. Importantly, a male infertility evaluation must go far beyond a simple semen analysis, as it has to be complemented with a proper physical examination, a comprehensive history taking, and relevant endocrine, genetic, and other investigations.

65th Practice of Translational Medicine at Peking Union Medical College / 现代检验医学杂志

This text makes a brief introduction on the overview of translational medicine at home and abroad,especially the author’s laboratorial experience and clinical case study of bacteriology,parasitology and andrology during a period of more than 65 years.The author’s work started with the setup of model of“close relation of laboratory and clinic by Bacteriology Dept.and Parasitology Dept.of Peking Union Medical College (PUMC)in 1940s.The author interprets the correlation and feasibility of the model in laboratorial and clinical practice.This text also introduces the achievement of close coordination between laboratory and ward based on “patient-centered spirit in macro and micro innovation of view,model,method and thinking.The text aims at starting discussion,inspiring the future researchers,encouraging pioneering and innovation.Loo-king forward to the future,the author makes suggestions on the personnel training of laboratorians and applications of coop-erative model of laboratory and ward,in order to further advance the medical laboratory and andrology.

Establishing the hypoosmotic swelling test for sperm analysis in collared peccaries (Pecari tajacu) / Estabelecimento do teste hiposmótico para a análise de sêmen de catetos (Pecari tajacu)

Soluções hiposmóticas com diferentes concentrações (0, 50, 100, 150, 200mOsm/L) foram testadas para a avaliação funcional da membrana espermática de catetos (n=13). Foi verificado que o número de espermatozoides reagidos diminuía (P<0,05) de acordo com o aumento da osmolaridade do meio. A maior porcentagem (71,8%) de espermatozoides reagidos, bem como a menor variação nas respostas osmóticas, foi detectada com o uso de água destilada (0mOsm/L) (P<0,05), a qual também apresentou a menor variação nos resultados, de acordo com os erros padrão verificados. Em conclusão, a água destilada aparenta ser uma solução adequada para o uso no teste hiposmótico para sêmen de catetos.

Maturidade sexual e classificação andrológica por pontos (CAP) em touros jovens da raça nelore puros de origem (PO) / Sexual maturity and breeding soundness evaluation (BSE) in purebred nelore young bulls

O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar o estádio de maturidade sexual e avaliar o perímetro escrotal e as características seminais de touros jovens da raça Nelore, puros de origem (PO), através da classificação andrológica por pontos (CAP). Trinta e oito touros, com média de 25,38 ± 2,16 meses, foram submetidos ao exame andrológico completo e a classificação andrológica por pontos (CAP). O valor médio observado para perímetro escrotal foi de 34,34 ± 2,17 cm. A média observada para turbilhonamento, vigor espermático e motilidade espermática progressiva retilínea foi de 4,03 ± 0,76, 4,35 ± 0,75 e 84,32 ± 7,18 %, respectivamente. Quanto às características morfológicas, foi observada média de 10,66 ± 5,26 e 16,78 ± 5,68 %, para os defeitos maiores e defeitos espermáticos totais, respectivamente. Com relação ao estádio de maturidade sexual, 97,37 % (n = 37) dos touros foram considerados maturos sexualmente (classes 1 e 2) e, somente um touro (2,63 %), foi considerado sexualmente imaturo (classe 3). Os touros avaliados pelo CAP foram classificados como muito bons (78,63 ± 9,38). As estimativas de correlações simples de Pearson entre o CAP e o perímetro escrotal e entre as características físicas do sêmen foram consideradas positivas e significativas. Já, para as características morfológicas do sêmen as correlações foram consideradas negativas e significativas.

The aim of this study was to determine the stage of sexual maturity and evaluate scrotal circumference and semen traits of in purebred Nelore young bulls, through the breeding soundness evaluation (BSE). Thirty-eight bulls, averaging 25.38 ± 2.16 months, underwent through breeding soundness evaluation (BSE). The average value observed for scrotal circumference was 34.34 ± 2.17 cm. The average observed for individual sperm motility, vigor e mass activity motility, were 4.03 ± 0.76, 4.35 ± 0.75 and 84.32 ± 7.18 %, respectively. A abnormal morphology was observed an average of 10.66 ± 5.26 and 16.78 ± 5.68% for major defects and total sperm defects, respectively. About the stage of sexual maturity, 97.37% (n = 37) bulls were considered sexually mature (classes 1 and 2) and only one bull (2.63 %) were considered sexually immature (class 3). Bulls assessed by BSE were classified as very good (78.63 ± 9.38). The estimated simple correlations by Pearson between the BSE and scrotal circumference and between the physical characteristics of semen were positive and significant. However, the morphological characteristics of semen correlations were negative and significant.