Histological and Endocrine Effects of Chronic Exposure to MP2.5 Derived from Wood Smoke in the Uterus of Nulliparous Adult Rats

SUMMARY: The study explores the relationship between chronic exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5), sourced from wood smoke, and the histological structure and endocrine function of the uterus in nulliparous adult rats. It assesses potential structural changes in the uterus that could impact reproductive health, viewing PM2.5 exposure as a possible risk factor. A controlled experiment was conducted in a city known for high air pollution levels, exposing rats to filtered and unfiltered air conditions, thus mimicking human PM2.5 exposure. Histological findings indicated a significant increase in collagen density and uterine wall thickness in PM2.5 exposed subjects, suggesting a reproductive function risk. However, no significant differences were observed in progesterone and estradiol hormone levels, pointing to the complex relationship between PM2.5 exposure and its endocrine impact, and emphasizing the need for further studies for a deeper understanding. This work highlights the importance of thoroughly investigating the long-term effects of PM2.5 pollution on reproductive health, underlining the significance of considering environmental exposure as a critical factor in reproductive health research.

El estudio explora la relación entre la exposición crónica a partículas finas (PM2,5), procedentes del humo de leña, y la estructura histológica y la función endocrina del útero en ratas adultas nulíparas. Evalúa posibles cambios estructurales en el útero que podrían afectar la salud reproductiva, considerando la exposición a PM2,5 como un posible factor de riesgo. Se llevó a cabo un experimento controlado en una ciudad conocida por sus altos niveles de contaminación del aire, exponiendo ratas a condiciones de aire filtrado y sin filtrar, imitando así la exposición humana a PM2,5. Los hallazgos histológicos indicaron un aumento significativo en la densidad del colágeno y el grosor de la pared uterina en sujetos expuestos a PM2,5, lo que sugiere un riesgo para la función reproductiva. Sin embargo, no se observaron diferencias significativas en los niveles de las hormonas progesterona y estradiol, lo que apunta a la compleja relación entre la exposición a PM2,5 y su impacto endocrino, y enfatiza la necesidad de realizar más estudios para una comprensión más profunda. Este trabajo destaca la importancia de investigar a fondo los efectos a largo plazo de la contaminación por PM2,5 en la salud reproductiva, subrayando la importancia de considerar la exposición ambiental como un factor crítico en la investigación de la salud reproductiva.

Mechanisms of male reproductive function damage induced by heavy metal cadmium / 实用医学杂志

Cadmium is one of the heavy metals with severe reproductive toxicity,whose half-life lasts 20 to 40 years.Cadmium could induce dysfunction of testis and epididymis for its significant accumulation in human testis,and the amount,motility parameters and morphology of sperm change abnormally.The adverse change could also extend to male offspring and cause the impairment of their reproductive system.There has been no clear mecha-nism of how cadmium induces dysfunction of male reproductive system,and treatment for the adverse influence on male reproductive system by cadmium has not yet been found.Therefore,this problem has been discussed in repro-ductive and environmental field for a long time.A number of previous investigations showed that cadmium could damage male fertility by followed pathways,including interfering with hormone secretion,inducing oxidative stress,activating inflammation and apoptosis,and causing energy metabolism disorder,etc.In order to enlighten new ideas for therapeutic targets of male reproductive function damage induced by cadmium,we systematically reviewed and summarized the findings of previous publications in this paper.

Pharmacological Effects of Icariin on Male Reproductive System:A Review and Literature Visualization / 医药导报

Icariin,which belongs to the class of flavonoids,is the main active ingredient of the traditional tonic Chinese herb Epimedii Folium.Modern studies have shown that icariin has a wide range of effects on the male reproductive system.It has various pharmacological activities such as regulating cell proliferation and apoptosis,antioxidants,promoting testosterone secretion,improving erectile function,inhibiting prostate cancer cell migration,invasion,and regulating cell cycle.It has research value and application prospects in the field of urology and assisted reproduction.Therefore,Icariin's pharmacological effects and molecular mechanisms on the male reproductive system are reviewed in this paper combined with literature visualization analysis.It is expected to provide a theoretical basis for the therapeutic value development and application of icariin in male reproductive health.

Professor ZENG Qingqi's Experience about Insomnia Combined with Reproductive System Diseases Treated with Classical Pre-scription / 浙江中医药大学学报

[Objective]To summarize the academic experience of Professor ZENG Qingqi in the use of classical prescription in the diagnosis and treatment of insomnia combined with reproductive system diseases.[Methods]Through clinical follow-up studying,reading ancient books,Professor ZENG's clinical experience in treating insomnia and reproductive system diseases was analyzed from the aspects of the treatment of insomnia with classical prescription,the treatment ideas of reproductive system diseases with classical prescription,and the concept of homotherapy for heteropathy in Chinese medicine for insomnia combined with reproductive system diseases,which was supported by medical cases.[Results]Professor ZENG's treatment of insomnia combined with reproductive system diseases follows the concept of homotherapy for heteropathy in Chinese medicine,advocating the use of the"five differentiation"diagnostic and treatment mode based on Chinese medicine viewpoint,such as body differentiation,disease differentiation,syndrome differentiation,local differentiation and micro differentiation,and paying attention to promoting medication according to the situation,combining warming and clearing,dredging and tonifying.It is believed that the key to the effectiveness of classical prescription in treating insomnia combined with reproductive system diseases lies in dealing with the problems of"suppressing hyperactivity"and"releasing",emphasizing the reconciliation between the relationship of heart(brain),heart and kidney,and not only dredging to treat the symptoms,but also cultivating and replenishing to treat the root cause.The patient in case one was of insomnia combined with impotence,identified as liver depression and Qi stagnation,spleen and kidney deficiency syndrome,modified Sini Powder and Shenqi Pills was used in treatment.Case two was of insomnia combined with menstruation,identified as disconnection of the heart and kidney,deficiency cold of Chong Ren and blood stasis blocking the uterus,treated with Huanglian Ejiao Decoction and Zhizishi Decoction combined with Wenjing Decoction.Both used classical prescriptions and achieved good results.[Conclusion]Professor ZENG specializes in the treatment of insomnia combined with reproductive system diseases with the use of meridian prescription,flexible identification,and appropriate prescription,with precise efficacy,its rich clinical experience is worth clinical learning and further promotion.

Histología testicular y morfología de la vejiga natatoria del pez neotropical Plagioscion magdalenae (Acanthuriformes: Sciaenidae): implicaciones en su taxonomía y distribución / Testicular histology and morphology of the swim bladder of the neotropical fish Plagioscion magdalenae (Acanthuriformes: Sciaenidae): implications in taxonomy and distribution

Introducción: La Pácora (Plagioscion magdalenae) es una especie nativa de Colombia y en categoría de casi amenazada a nivel del país, de la que poco se conoce acerca de las estructuras con aporte etológico en su historia de vida. Objetivo: Analizar el desarrollo gonadal relacionado con la espermatogénesis de P. magdalenae y las implicaciones taxonómicas a partir de la vejiga natatoria. Métodos: Realizamos siete muestreos en dos periodos climáticos: el primero en octubre de 2019 a febrero de 2020 de recolectas bimensuales y la segunda de octubre 2020 a enero 2021 de recolectas mensuales; con el fin de abarcar cada momento del pulso de inundación de la cuenca baja del Magdalena. Describimos la histomorfología testicular y las características macroscópicas de la vejiga natatoria de la especie. Además, analizamos aspectos como relaciones morfométricas, clases de tallas por sexos, la proporción sexual y la época de madurez sexual. Resultados: Analizamos 142 ejemplares y 4 intervalos de tallas fueron establecidos (entre 145 y 575 mm LE), 66 fueron machos y 73 hembras con una proporción sexual global 1.1:0.9 (hembra-macho) sin diferencias. Los machos tienen testículos de tipo tubular, protegidos por el peritoneo que se encuentra recubierto por la musculatura sónica de la vejiga natatoria, la cual posee forma de ''zanahoria'' sin apéndices, con dos bandas laterales de músculos intrínsecos (promedio entre 6.75 cm de largo y 1.48 cm de ancho) unidos por una aponeurosis y que solo se encuentran en machos sexualmente maduros. Conclusión: Los testículos poseen una organización de tipo lobular irrestricto y la espermatogénesis se da en lóbulos seminíferos. La vejiga natatoria de la Pácora es simple y no tiene estructuras accesorias. La distribución geográfica de P. magdalenae se restringe a la cuenca del río Magdalena en Colombia.

Introduction: The Pácora (Plagioscion magdalenae) is a species native to Colombia and in near-threatened category at the country level, of which little is known about the structures with ethological contribution in its life history. Objective: To analyze the gonadal development related to spermatogenesis of P. magdalenae and the taxonomic implications from the swim bladder. Methods: We collected seven samples in two climatic periods: the first from October 2019 to February 2020 of bimonthly collections, and the second from October 2020 to January 2021 of monthly collections; to cover every moment of the flood pulse of the lower Magdalena basin. We described the testicular histomorphology and macroscopic characteristics of the swim bladder of the species. In addition, we analyzed aspects such as morphometric relationships, size classes by sex, sex ratio and time of sexual maturity. Results: We analyzed 142 specimens and established 4 size intervals (between 145 and 575 mm SL), 66 were males and 73 females with an overall sex ratio of 1.1:0.9 (female-male) with no differences. Males have tubular testes protected by the peritoneum covered by the sonic musculature of the swim bladder, which has a ''carrot'' shape without appendages, with two lateral bands of intrinsic muscles (average between 6.75 cm long and 1.48 cm wide) connected by an aponeurosis and found only in sexually mature males. Conclusion: The testes have an unrestricted lobular organization and spermatogenesis occurs in the seminiferous lobes. The swim bladder of the Pácora is simple and has no accessory structures. The geographic distribution of P. magdalenae is restricted to the Magdalena River basin in Colombia.

Effects of SARS-CoV-2 on male reproductive system and sexual health / 现代泌尿外科杂志

SARS-CoV-2 may have potential effects on the male reproductive system. Evidence has shown that SARS-CoV-2 is not likely to transmit through sexual intercouse. However, male infected with SARS-CoV-2 may experience sexual dysfunction, semen quality decline, testicular damage and abnormal sex hormones. The extent and duration of these damages are still unclear, and further multidimensional research is necessary.

Antioxidants Role Against Acrylamide Toxicity on Urogenital System: An Overview

@#Acrylamide (AA) is a chemical substance which is used as a soil stabilizing agent and in the production of copolymers and polymers since 1970. The presence of an AA adduct in food was observed in rats fed with fried food which led to a substantial increase in levels of hemoglobin adduct. Foods that are rich in carbohydrate when prepared at high temperature (above 120 ºC) by baking, toasting, frying, roasting or cooking results in the production of AA by the reaction of the amino acid with glucose present in it. Several studies observed AA toxicity on nervous system, reproductive system, and immune system. To justify this toxicity there is not a clear mechanism described. In this review article the mechanisms of AA toxicity on urogenital system and role of antioxidants against its toxicity has been reviewed. According to previous studies the main factor that induces AA toxicity is oxidative stress. AA treated groups revealed degeneration of the kidney’s epithelial lining and the glomerular tuft. Adverse effect on reproductive system by AA has been evidenced by sperm-head abnormalities, dominant lethal effects, and testicular epithelial tissue degeneration. Therefore, it is advised that modifying of food processing methods and consuming lot of vegetables and fruits containing antioxidants. These antioxidants give us some supports to the cells of our body organs against the AA sources which cause cell defects.

Experience of Professor You Zhaoling in Application of the Lotus Medicinal Herbs for Reproductive System Diseases / 中医杂志

Lotus medicinal herbs have the effects of resolving blood stasis and stopping bleeding， invigorating the spleen and benefiting the kidneys， restoring coordination between heart and kidney， and tranquilizing the fetus. Lotus root， lotus leaf， lotus seed， Lotus plumule， Shilianzi（Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn） and other lotus herbs are used to treat various female reproductive system diseases. For example， lotus leaf tip with modified Youshi Pangxing Shuangtu Decoction （伍尤氏胖型双土汤）， lotus root section with modified Youshi Shouxing Shuangteng Decoction （尤氏瘦型双藤汤） were used for polycystic ovary syndrome； Youshi Yangchao Formula （尤氏养巢方） （containing lotus seed）， Gengnian Formula （更年方） （containing lotus plumule） for ovarian reserve dysfunction； Lotus seed - Shihu （Dendrobium nobile） as the herb-pair， lotus stamen with ginseng flowers and Sanqi Flower for thin endometrium； Shilianzi（Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn）， lotus leaf tip， lotus stamen， lotus seed， lotus room， lotus root section can be used for premature abortion， and we summarized the characteristics of clinical medication， compounding experience， drug dosage and precautions of each lotus drug in different diseases.

Impact of Metal and Metal Oxide Nanoparticles on Male Reproductive System: A Comprehensive Review

Technological advancements and increased use of chemically hazardous materials have become a concern for human health. Environmental pollutants such as engineered metal and metal oxide nanoparticles (M&MONPs) are reported to contribute to significant health-related problems, particularly reproductive health. Reduction in male individuals' reproductive potential is one of the important causes of concern. Literature suggests that exposure to M&MONPs considerably impacts alteration in male reproductive parameters. Therefore, it is required to analyze and understand their effects on male reproductive toxicity. Oxidative stress and changes in redox equilibrium are the significant factors via M&MONPs induce changes in sperm parameters or the reproductive system. Act as endocrine disruptors and interfere with the secretion and function of reproductive hormones such as testosterone and LH, affecting spermatogenesis. Likewise, M&MONPs accumulate in organs as they can pass through the blood-testis barrier, affect Sertoli and Leydig cells, and cause reproductive dysfunction. In this review, we have analyzed the effects of M&MONPs on the male reproductive system and the underlying mechanism of action

Research progress on reproductive toxicity and reproductive system tumors induced by environmental endocrine disrupting chemicals / 环境与职业医学

Environmental endocrine disrupting chemicals are a kind of exogenous chemicals that generally exist in the environment, and can disturb the endocrine homeostasis and adversely affect reproductive, immune, neurological, and other functions after entering the body, among which the damage to the reproductive system is the most significant one. Studies have confirmed that the long-term exposure to environmental endocrine disrupting chemicals have irreversible and harmful effects on primordial germ cell growth, reproductive organ development, and reproductive endocrine regulation, and also have obvious correlations with the occurrence and development of various reproductive system tumors. This paper reviewed various reproductive toxicities induced by common environmental endocrine disrupting chemicals in the developmental and reproductive stages, and associated mechanisms involved in the occurrence and development of reproductive system tumors.

Recent research development on human health associated with organophosphorus flame retardants / 环境与职业医学

Organophosphorus flame retardants (OPFRs) pollution and its impacts on human health are of global concern. The review briefly reviewed the current state-of-knowledge on exposure assessment and epidemiological evidence of OPFRs-related health effects. Specifically, this paper provided an overview and comparison of the levels of respiratory and gastrointestinal exposure to OPFRs and their body burden in different populations worldwide; summarized potential adverse effects of long-term low-level OPFRs exposure on children's neurodevelopment, adults' reproductive system, and thyroid function. Available epidemiological studies have revealed that the OPFRs exposure level of Chinese population is low, and rice consumption may be a potential source of exposure to OPFRs; OPFRs such as tris (1-chloro-2-propyl) phosphate (TCIPP) and tris (2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP) have both neurotoxicity and reproductive toxicity, and possibly affect the thyroid function in adults and increase the risk of wheezing and eczema in children. Finally, the future research focus on population exposure and health effects of OPFRs was prospected.

Clinical, sonographic and anatomopathological aspects of ovarian teratoma in a heifer / Aspectos clínicos, ultrassonográficos e anatomopatológicos do teratoma ovariano em uma novilha

Teratomas rarely occur in domestic species, especially in cattle. These tumors originate in fetal life and are characterized by rapid growth, which justifies their frequent detection in young animals. This study reported a case of ovarian teratoma in a heifer. On physical examination, the main signs identified were apathy, abdominal distention and tension, empty rumen, and mushy diarrhea. During rectal palpation, a mass was identified in the pelvic region, which was suggestive of cysts on ultrasound examination. The animal underwent laparotomy, followed by euthanasia due to a poor prognosis. At necropsy, a 54 x 43 x 52 cm (length x width x thickness) tumor was observed in the right ovary with multiple cystic areas, in addition to masses associated with multiple adhesions of the intestinal loops and peritonitis. On histopathology, muscle, cartilage, bone, nervous and epithelial tissue, glands, hair with follicles, were identified in the affected ovary. There was mixed inflammation and foci of necrosis observed with a complete absence of ovarian architecture in both the ovaries. Infiltrations were identified in the lymph nodes and mesenteric vessels. Glandular ducts were seen from the serosa to the intestinal mucosa. A locally infiltrative and expansile ovarian teratoma was diagnosed accordingly. It is considered that this kind of tumor can induce abdominal distension and absence of estrus in previously healthy, non-pregnant heifers.

Os teratomas são tumores raros nas espécies domésticas, sobretudo em bovinos. Esses tumores são caracterizados por crescimento rápido e origem durante a vida fetal, o que justifica seu diagnóstico frequente em animais jovens. O presente trabalho relata um caso de teratoma ovariano em uma novilha. No exame físico, os principais sinais identificados foram apatia, distensão e tensão abdominal, rúmen vazio e diarreia pastosa. Durante a palpação retal, uma massa foi identificada na região pélvica. Ao exame ultrassonográfico, a massa era sugestiva de cistos. O animal foi submetido a laparotomia, seguido de eutanásia devido ao mau prognóstico. Na necropsia foi observado um tumor de 54 x 43 x 52 cm (comprimento x largura x espessura) no ovário direito com múltiplas áreas císticas, além de massas associadas à múltiplas aderências das alças intestinais e peritonite. Na histopatologia foram identificados no ovário acometido a presença de tecidos muscular, cartilaginoso, ósseo, nervoso e epitelial, com glândulas, pelos e folículos. Havia inflamação mista e focos de necrose com ausência completa de arquitetura ovariana em ambos os ovários. Infiltrações foram identificadas em linfonodos e vasos mesentéricos. Ductos glandulares foram vistos desde a serosa até mucosa intestinal. Diagnosticou-se um teratoma ovariano localmente infiltrativo e expansivo. Considera-se que este tumor pode induzir distensão abdominal e ausência de estro em novilhas previamente sadias e não gestantes.

Mesenteric metastasis of granulosa cell tumor in a bitch: a case report / Metástasis mesentérica de tumor de células de granulosa en una perra: reporte de caso / Metástase mesentérica de tumor das células da granulosa em uma cadela: relato de caso

Abstract Anamnesis: A 5-year-old mixed breed entire bitch was presented with bloody vaginal discharge and abdominal distension. Clinical and laboratory findings: Physical examination and abdominal ultrasonography suggested the presence of a left ovarian tumor. At histopathological examination it was diagnosed as granulosa cell tumor. Treatment approach: An exploratory laparotomy was performed followed by ovariohysterectomy to remove the intra-abdominal mass. Conclusion: The clinical, ultrasonographic and histologic signs in this case support other literature reports. Ultrasonography, in combination with histopathologic analysis is a fundamental tool for detection of ovarian tumors, especially tumors of the granulosa cells.

Resumen Anamnesis: Una perra entera sin raza definida, con cinco años de edad, presentando secreción vaginal sanguinolenta con una distensión abdominal acentuada. Hallazgos clínicos y de laboratorio: El examen clínico y la ultrasonografía abdominal sugirieron la presencia de la neoformación ovárica izquierda. En el examen histopatológico fue diagnosticado como tumor de células de la granulosa. Aproximación terapéutica: Se realizó una laparotomía exploratoria seguida de ovariohisterectomía para eliminar la masa intra-abdominal. Conclusión: Los signos clínicos, ecográficos e histológicos en este caso respaldan otros informes de la literatura. La ecografía, en combinación con el análisis histopatológico, es una herramienta fundamental para la detección de tumores ováricos, especialmente tumores de las células de la granulosa.

Resumo Anamnese: Uma cadela sem raça definida, com cinco anos de idade, não castrada, apresentando secreção vaginal sanguinolenta com acentuada distensão abdominal. Achados clínicos e laboratoriais: O exame clínico e ultrassonografia abdominal sugeriram a presença de neoformação ovariana esquerda. No exame histopatológico foi diagnosticado como tumor de células da granulosa. Abordagem terapêutica: Foi realizada laparotomia exploratória seguida de ovariohisterectomia para remoção da massa intra-abdominal. Conclusão: Os sinais clínicos, ultrassonográficos e histológicos corroboram a literatura, concluindo que a modalidade ultrassonográfica, em associação a análise histopatológica é uma ferramenta fundamental na detecção de neoformações ovarianas, contribuindo significativamente no diagnóstico final.

The in-vivo assessment of Turkish propolis and its nano form on testicular damage induced by cisplatin / 中西医结合学报

OBJECTIVE@#Chemotherapeutic drugs, such as cisplatin (CP), which are associated with oxidative stress and apoptosis, may adversely affect the reproductive system. This study tests whether administration of propolis and nano-propolis (NP) can alleviate oxidative stress and apoptosis in rats with testicular damage induced by CP.@*METHODS@#In this study, polymeric nanoparticles including propolis were synthesized with a green sonication method and characterized using Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller, and wet scanning transmission electron microscopy techniques. In total, 56 rats were divided into the following seven groups: control, CP, propolis, NP-10, CP + propolis, CP + NP-10, and CP + NP-30. Propolis (100 mg/kg), NP-10 (10 mg/kg), and NP-30 (30 mg/kg) treatments were administered by gavage daily for 21 d, and CP (3 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally in a single dose. After the experiment, oxidative stress parameters, namely, malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT), and apoptotic pathways including B cell leukemia/lymphoma-2 protein (Bcl-2) and Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax) were measured in testicular tissues. Furthermore, sperm quality and weights of the testis, epididymis, right cauda epididymis, seminal vesicles and prostate were evaluated.@*RESULTS@#Propolis and NP (especially NP-30) were able to preserve oxidative balance (decreased MDA levels and increased GSH, CAT, and GPx activities) and activate apoptotic pathways (decreased Bax and increased Bcl-2) in the testes of CP-treated rats. Sperm motility in the control, CP, and CP + NP-30 groups were 60%, 48.75%, and 78%, respectively (P < 0.001). Especially, NP-30 application completely corrected the deterioration in sperm features induced by CP.@*CONCLUSION@#The results show that propolis and NP treatments mitigated the side effects of CP on spermatogenic activity, antioxidant situation, and apoptosis in rats.

Morphology of the male reproductive tract in the water scavenger beetle Tropisternus collaris Fabricius, 1775 (Coleoptera: Hydrophilidae)

ABSTRACT Members of the Hydrophilidae, one of the largest families of aquatic insects, are potential models for the biomonitoring of freshwater habitats and global climate change. In this study, we describe the morphology of the male reproductive tract in the water scavenger beetle Tropisternus collaris. The reproductive tract in sexually mature males comprised a pair of testes, each with at least 30 follicles, vasa efferentia, vasa deferentia, seminal vesicles, two pairs of accessory glands (a bean-shaped pair and a tubular pair with a forked end), and an ejaculatory duct. Characters such as the number of testicular follicles and accessory glands, as well as their shape, origin, and type of secretion, differ between Coleoptera taxa and have potential to help elucidate reproductive strategies and the evolutionary history of the group.

Lesions of the sheep reproductive system found in a slaughterhouse in the state of Bahia, Brazil / Lesões do sistema reprodutor em ovelhas de abatedouros frigoríficos no estado da Bahia

The present study aimed to evaluate and diagnose pathologies of the reproductive system of slaughtered sheep in slaughterhouses in the state of Bahia since there are few data on the subject as well as it is important to note the diagnosis of these diseases to apply appropriate control and prophylaxis measures. The research was carried out in slaughterhouses in the state of Bahia according to the "Serviço de Inspeção Federal" and "Serviço de Inspeção Estadual" for sheep slaughter. From July 2018 to February 2019, visits and monitoring of 1,072 slaughtered sheep were carried out. The animals came from 22 municipalities in the state of Bahia, aged from six to 18 months. During slaughter, the sheep reproductive systems were sectioned for evisceration and lesion collection. Additionally, epidemiological surveys related to origin, age, and race were obtained. For bacteriological examination, collections were performed with sterile scalpel slides and swabs in Stuart medium sterile tubes and refrigerated in a thermal box. For histopathological analysis, fragments were fixed in 10% formaldehyde and routinely processed for histology, stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin (HE). A study of the sheep's main pathological changes in slaughterhouses in the state of Bahia was carried out, in which 1.072 genital systems were evaluated, and 211 alterations were identified. The most affected reproductive organs were the ovaries (65.3%), followed by the uterus (29.4%) and uterine tubes (5.3%). In the ovaries, the most frequent lesion was a follicular cyst (34.1%); in the fallopian tubes, the cysts represented 3.3% of the lesions, and in the womb, endometritis was observed in 9% of the animals. Other pathologies identified in the ovaries were: luteinized cyst (2.3%); cystic granulosa cell tumor (0.5%); benign lesion (0.5%); agenesis unilateral (0.5%), in addition to other changes of little clinical significance, such as corpus luteum cysts (11.8%) and paraovarian cysts (15.6%). In the fallopian tubes, hydrosalpinx was observed (1%), as well as adenoma (0.5%), agenesis (0.5%), and cysts (3.3%). Uterine lesions included hydrometra (2.3%); Cystic Endometrial Hyperplasia (CEH), abscess, and pyometra (1.4% each); adenomyosis, womb sera petechiae, and total segmental aplasia (1% each); two pregnant uterus, in early pregnancy, presented pyometra (0.9%), however, no change was observed in the fetuses; and uterine polyp (0.5%). Ectopic pregnancy with fetal maceration (0.5%) was observed; vaginitis occurred in 0.5% of the animals, and endometrial melanosis in 8.5%. The high incidence of follicular cysts and endometritis are characterized as diseases that reduce the reproductive efficiency in herds, causing infertility and economic losses in production.(AU)

O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar e diagnosticar alterações do sistema reprodutor de ovelhas abatidas em abatedouros frigoríficos no estado da Bahia. A pesquisa foi realizada em abatedouros frigoríficos do estado da Bahia com Serviços de Inspeção Federal e Estadual no abate de ovinos. No período de julho de 2018 a fevereiro de 2019 foram realizadas visitas e acompanhamento do abate de 1.072 ovelhas. Os animais eram provenientes de 22 municípios do estado da Bahia, com idade entre 6 a 18 meses. Durante o abate, na evisceração foram seccionados os sistemas reprodutores das ovelhas para avaliação e coleta das lesões. Adicionalmente foram obtidos inquéritos epidemiológicos relacionados à procedência, idade e raça. Para o exame bacteriológico, as coletas foram realizadas com lâminas de bisturi estéreis e swabs em tubos estéreis com meio Stuart e refrigeradas em caixa térmica. Para análise histopatológica, os fragmentos foram fixados em formol a 10% e processados de forma rotineira para histologia e corados pela hematoxilina e eosina (HE). Entre 1.072 sistemas genitais avaliados, identificou-se 211 alterações. Os órgãos do sistema reprodutor mais acometidos foram os ovários (65,3%), útero (29,4%) e tubas uterinas (5,3%). Nos ovários, a lesão mais frequente foi o cisto folicular (34,1%); no útero a endometrite (9%) e nas tubas uterinas, os cistos representaram (3,3%). Outras lesões identificadas nos ovários foram: cisto luteinizado (2,3%); tumor de células da granulosa (0,5%); adenoma (0,5%); agenesia unilateral (0,5%), além de outras alterações de pouco significado clínico, como cistos paraovarianos (15,6%) e corpo lúteo cístico (11,8%). Nas tubas uterinas observou-se, além dos cistos tubo-ovarianos (3,3%), hidrossalpinge (1%), adenoma (0,5%) e agenesia (0,5%). As lesões uterinas foram endometrite (9%), hidrometra (2,3%); hiperplasia endometrial cística, abscesso e piometra (1,4% cada); adenomiose, petéquias na serosa do útero e aplasia segmentar (1% cada); dois úteros gravídicos, em início de gestação, apresentaram piometra (0,9%), porém os fetos não apresentaram alterações; e pólipo uterino (0,5%). Observou-se uma gestação ectópica com maceração fetal (0,5%); a vaginite ocorreu em 0,5%, e melanose endometrial em 8,5%. Destaca-se a elevada incidência de cistos foliculares e endometrite que são doenças que reduzem a eficiência reprodutiva dos rebanhos, provocando infertilidade e perdas econômicas na produção.(AU)

Review on Metformin Effect on Male Reproductive System

Male infertility and issues of impaired fecundity have been currently a global problem. Diabetes mellitus caninfluence male fertility either directly or indirectly due to abnormal spermatogenesis, which results in reducedsperm quality. Most reported cases of diabetes are of type 2 DM cases, frequently treated with oral anti-diabeticdrugs. Metformin is considered first-line therapy for the treatment of T2DM. This drug is an oral insulinsensitizing agent that can elevate insulin sensitivity and reduce plasma fasting insulin. The main metabolic actionof metformin target the liver. However, it was indicated that metformin acts on many organs of the body whichinclude the male reproductive system. With the increasing numbers of diabetic individuals among younger people,there is an enhancement in the utilizaton of metformin in individuals of this age group. Therefore, it is critical torecognize the role of metformin in male fertility. In this review, we are presented with the most recent dataaccessible regarding the investigation of the influences of metformin on the male reproductive system. Togetherwith the discussion of these influences, their importance to male fertility is also argued.

Effect of Tripterygium Glycosides Tablets on reproductive toxicity in male rats with Ⅱ type collagen induced arthritis / 中国中药杂志

The aim of this paper was to observe the toxic effect of Tripterygium Glycosides Tablets on the reproductive system of Ⅱ type collagen induced arthritis(CIA) male rats, and to explore the toxic mechanism preliminarily. Fifty SD rats were randomly divided into normal control group(Con), model group(CIA), Tripterygium Glycosides Tablets clinical equivalent dose groups of 1, 2, 4 times(9, 18, 36 mg·kg~(-1)), 10 rats in each group, and were given by gavage once a day for 42 days after the first immunization. The organ index of testis and epididymis were calculated on days 21 and 42. Histopathological and morphological changes of testis and epididymis were observed under optical microscope. Sperm count, sperm malformation rate and sperm kinetic parameters in epididymal tissues were observed by computer assisted sperm analysis(CASA). The concentration of testosterone(T), nitric oxide synthase(NOS) and aromatase(CYP19 A1) in serum were detected by ELISA. Immunohistochemistry was used to observe the expression of Bax and Bcl-2 related proteins in the apoptosis pathway of testis and epididymis. The results showed that, compared with Con group, CIA group significantly increased the rate of testicular spermatogenic tubule lesion and sperm malformation, decreased the average path speed, and no significant changes were observed in other groups. Tripterygium Glycosides Tablets at 4 times clinical equivalent dose can significantly reduce the testis index(P<0.01), each dose group can reduce the epididymis index(P<0.05). Each dose group of Tripterygium Glycosides Tablets could cause different degrees of damage to the testis and epididymis, the proportion of testicular histopathology lesions increased, the number of spermatogenic cells in the seminiferous tubules decreased, and so on. It could reduce the number of sperm, increase the rate of sperm deformity, make the parameters of sperm dynamics abnormal, and so on. Tripterygium Glycosides Tablets at 4 times dose could significantly reduce the content of serum sex hormone T and key enzyme of androgen synthesis(P<0.05 or P<0.01), but had no effect on CYP19 A1. The expression of Bax and Bcl-2 in testis and epididymis were increased by 2 and 4 times doses of Tripterygium Glycosides Tablets(P<0.05, P<0.01 or P<0.01). The results showed that 21 d administration of Tripterygium Glycosides Tablets at equal or higher doses could induce obvious toxic effect to the reproductive organs of CIA male rats, and lower the level of serum sex hormone T and the key enzyme of androgen synthesis, NOS. The mechanism of abnormal changes of Bax and Bcl-2 in Testis and epididymis is still to be elucidated.

Evaluation of antioxidant capacity and reproductive toxicity of aqueous extract of Thai Mucuna pruriens seeds / 中西医结合学报

OBJECTIVE@#In traditional medicine, the seeds of Thai Mucuna pruriens (T-MP) are used to treat male dysuria and are believed to enhance fertility. However, information pertaining to the toxicity of T-MP and its interaction with other properties is limited. This study was thus conducted to evaluate the antioxidant capacity and subacute toxicity of T-MP in the reproductive system.@*METHODS@#Total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity of T-MP seed extract were determined using total phenolic content, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and ferric reducing antioxidant power assays. Male and female adult rats were treated orally with T-MP at a dosage of 150 or 300 mg/kg body weight for 14 consecutive days. Sex hormones and functional parameters in the liver and kidney were evaluated. Histopathology of all tissue was conducted using Masson's trichrome staining. Sperm parameters, including concentration, morphology, acrosome reaction status and DNA damage, were also examined. Expression of tyrosine phosphorylated protein (TyrPho), androgen receptor and A-kinase-anchoring protein 4 (AKAP4) were investigated using the Western blot technique.@*RESULTS@#T-MP seed extract contained phenolic compounds and exhibited high antioxidant capacity with no toxicity at the tested doses. It did not affect liver or kidney function parameters in the male rats, but increased estradiol, aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase levels in the females. Additionally, it decreased serum progesterone and alkaline phosphatase levels in female rats. Serum and intratesticular testosterone levels were significantly lower in male rats that received a high dosage of T-MP. Histopathological changes were not observed in any tissue treated with T-MP. T-MP also significantly increased sperm concentration (but did not affect sperm parameters), and enhanced testicular TyrPho protein and androgen receptor and expression of AKAP4 in sperms.@*CONCLUSION@#T-MP seed extract exhibited antioxidant capacity and was not harmful to reproductive tissues. It also had a phytoestrogenic effect on females and increased the expression of testicular and sperm markers of male fertility.

Data Analysis of the Risks of Abnormal Female Reproductive System Haemorrhages Induced by Novel Oral An- ticoagulants Based on FAERS / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE：To eva luate the risk of abno rmal female reproductive system haemorrhage induced by novel oral anticoagulants （NOACs）. METHODS ：The abnormal female reproductive system haemorrhage reports induced by 4 kinds of NOACs as “dabigatran etexilate ”，“rivaroxaban”，“apixaban”and“edoxaban”were used as the first suspected dugs to collected from FDA adverse event reporting system （FAERS）database during Jan. 1st，2004-May 31st，2019. The report odd ratio （ROR） method was used to detect the signal of abnormal female reproductive system haemorrhage induced by NOACs. RESULTS ：A total of 2 658 adverse events related to abnormal female reproductive system haemorrhage were collected from FAERS database ， involving 330 reports of dabigatran etexilate ，2 049 reports of rivaroxaban ，267 reports of apixaban ，and 12 reports of edoxaban. The abnormal female reproductive system haemorrhage caused by dabigatran etexilate ，apixaban and edoxaban mainly occurred in patients aged 75 and older ，accounting for 37.27％，36.70％ and 58.33％ respectively；that of rivaroxaban mainly occurred in patients with 45-64 years old ，accounting for 33.04％. The incidence of severe adverse events （SAE）induced by dabigatran etexilate，rivaroxaban，apixaban and edoxaban were 96.36％，84.53％，47.19％ and 58.33％，respectively. All of patients in the included reports were mainly hospitalized and hospitalization stay wa s prolonged ，accounting for 64.78％，90.01％，86.51％ and 71.43％ ，respectively. A total of 12 suspected signals were detected，involving cervix uteri ，fallopian tube ，ovary，pelvis cavity，uterus，vagina，urinary tract ，etc. Among them ，there were 11 positive signals of rivaroxaban ，and the bleeding events were concentrated in vaginal hematoma [ROR ＝12.07， 药。95％CI（8.51，17.12）]，postmenopausal hemorrhage [ROR ＝ 9.89，95％CI（8.31，11.77）]，pelvic hematoma [ROR ＝7.68，95％CI（5.66，10.43）]. There were 4，4 and 2 suspicious signals for dabigatran etexilate ，apixaban and edoxaban. The main bleeding events of both apixaban [ ROR＝5.18，95％CI（1.81，5.85）] and edoxaban [ROR ＝48.19，95％CI（6.76，343.77）] were vaginal hematoma ；dabigatran etexilate-induced pelvic hematoma [ROR ＝ 12.56，95％CI（8.92，17.70）] had the strongest signal ，followed by urinary tract bleeding [ROR ＝5.41，95％CI（3.34，8.76）] and pelvic hemorrhage [ ROR＝2.53，95％CI（1.88，3.40）]. CONCLUSIONS ：Totally 4 kinds of NOACs can cause abnormal female reproductive system haemorrhage ，and the incidence of SAE is high ，of requiring hospitalization or prolonging hospitalization time. The risk of haemorrhage in rivaroxaban is the highest ，usually manifesting as vaginal hematoma ，postmenopausal hemorrhage and pelvic hematoma. Dabigatran etexilate mainly induce pelvic hematoma ，while apixaban and edoxaban are mainly cause vaginal hematoma.