Linear Morphometry of Male Genitalia Distinguishes the Ant Genera Monomorium and Syllophopsis (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in Madagascar.

Morphometric analyses of male genitalia are routinely used to distinguish genera and species in beetles, butterflies, and flies, but are rarely used in ants, where most morphometric analyses focus on the external morphology of the worker caste. In this work, we performed linear morphometric analysis of the male genitalia to distinguish Monomorium and Syllophopsis in Madagascar. For 80 specimens, we measured 10 morphometric characters, especially on the paramere, volsella, and penisvalvae. Three datasets were made from linear measurements: mean (raw data), the ratios of characters (ratio data), and the Removal of Allometric Variance (RAV data). The following quantitative methods were applied to these datasets: hierarchical clustering (Ward's method), unconstrained ordination methods including Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Non-Metric Multidimensional Scaling analyses (NMDS), Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA), and Conditional Inference Trees (CITs). The results from statistical analysis show that the ratios proved to be the most effective approach for genus-level differentiation. However, the RAV method exhibited overlap between the genera. Meanwhile, the raw data facilitated more nuanced distinctions at the species level compared with the ratios and RAV approaches. The CITs revealed that the ratios of denticle length of the valviceps (SeL) to the paramere height (PaH) effectively distinguished between genera and identified key variables for species-level differentiation. Overall, this study shows that linear morphometric analysis of male genitalia is a useful data source for taxonomic delimitation.

Observations on the anatomy of the funiculus spermaticus and the testis in Brachyteles sp. (SPIX, 1823) primates - Atelidae.

BACKGROUND: Analysing the literature about the reproductive anatomy on New World Primates, one can see the need of standardisation on the description methods and, more importantly, the lack of detailed information. The problem is aggravated by the difficult access to specimens of the endangered species such as Brachyteles sp. This paper's objective was to extend knowledge on the male reproductive anatomy of these primates. The testis and funiculus spermaticus of Brachyteles are described in detail. METHODS: We utilised one individual of Brachyteles arachnoides, two hybrids (B. arachnoides × Brachyteles hypoxanthus) and photographs of the testis of a third fresh specimen of a hybrid individual. RESULTS: The septum formed by tunica dartos adheres to the testis and separates the scrotum in two testicular cavities. Passed the spermatic cord, the external spermatic fascia continues with the tunica dartos, covering the cranial half of the testis. The fascia cremasterica divides itself in bundles of fibres and forms loops around the testicles creating a sac like structure that seems to be unique among Neotropical Primates. The appendix testis is described for the first time in platyrrhini. It is presented as a sessile structure in the extremitas capitata of the testis. Previous literature on the reproductive anatomy of platyrrhini is limited. Despite that, it can be said that the large size and volume of the testis, and complex structure of the cremaster, could consist of a heat loss reduction strategy in cold and humid forest environments. CONCLUSIONS: Except for the larger size of the testicles in hybrid individuals, no other significant morphological differences were found between B. arachnoides and hybrids (B. arachnoides × B. hypoxanthus).

Clinical Characteristics and Pathogen Spectrum of Male Genital Fungal Infections in Nanchang Area, South China.

The cutaneous fungal infections in male genitalia are relatively rare, and often present with various atypical clinical symptoms. It was mainly reported in a small number of case reports, while data with large number of patients were rarely reported. In this study, we reported 79 male patients with cutaneous fungal infections on scrotum or penis. The fungal infections were confirmed by microscopic examination directly and fungus culture. Clinical characteristics and predisposing factors were also collected. Of these 79 patients, 72 has lesions on scrotum, 5 on penis and 2 on both scrotum and penis. Trichophyton (T.) rubrum is the most common pathogen, found in 50 (67.6%) patients, which presented diverse clinical manifestation such as majorly erythematous, dry diffused scaly lesions without a clear border, slightly powdery and scutular scalings. Candida (C.) albicans is the secondly common pathogen, found in 21 (28.4%) patients, which also presented diverse lesions such as erythematous with dry whitish scaly lesions and erythematous erosion. The predisposing factors mainly included concomitant fungal infections on sites other than genitalia, especially inguinal region (tinea cruris), application of corticosteroid and high moisture. In conclusion, cutaneous fungal infections in male genitalia could be caused by different fungi, showed atypical or mild clinical appearances in most cases and might be a fungus reservoir, emphasizing the necessity to timely perform the fungi examinations and corresponding therapy.

A developmental atlas of male terminalia across twelve species of Drosophila.

How complex morphologies evolve is one of the central questions in evolutionary biology. Observing the morphogenetic events that occur during development provides a unique perspective on the origins and diversification of morphological novelty. One can trace the tissue of origin, emergence, and even regression of structures to resolve murky homology relationships between species. Here, we trace the developmental events that shape some of the most diverse organs in the animal kingdom-the male terminalia (genitalia and analia) of Drosophilids. Male genitalia are known for their rapid evolution with closely related species of the Drosophila genus demonstrating vast variation in their reproductive morphology. We used confocal microscopy to monitor terminalia development during metamorphosis in twelve related species of Drosophila. From this comprehensive dataset, we propose a new staging scheme for pupal terminalia development based on shared developmental landmarks, which allows one to align developmental time points between species. We were able to trace the origin of different substructures, find new morphologies and suggest possible homology of certain substructures. Additionally, we demonstrate that posterior lobe is likely originated prior to the split between the Drosophila melanogaster and the Drosophila yakuba clade. Our dataset opens up many new directions of research and provides an entry point for future studies of the Drosophila male terminalia evolution and development.

Review of the genus Prochasma Warren (Geometridae, Ennominae, Boarmiini), with description of a new species from Hainan, South China.

The few already published generic features of the genus Prochasma Warren, 1897 are reviewed and new-found characters are added to make the generic description more comprehensive. A new species, Prochasmadiaoluoensis Liu & Stüning, sp. nov. is described from Hainan Province, China. It is the only Prochasma species found on this island and exceptional for its conspicuous pattern, vivid coloration and some morphological characters not observed in other species before. Descriptions and illustrations of adults, their venation, and male and female genitalia are presented. An identification key and an annotated checklist of all presently known species of Prochasma are provided. In addition, a DNA barcode sequence is given for the new species, and preliminary phylogenetic estimations of the genus Prochasma are discussed.

Cosmetic male genital surgery: a narrative review.

Background and Objective: Through the centuries the appearance of the male genitalia has always been an important concern for men, symbolizing virility, potency and sexual contentment. Correction of perceived deficiencies and deformities of the male genitalia can be addressed by aesthetic surgery as well as the enhancement its external aspect. If the social acceptance of cosmetic surgery, particularly of women's breasts, dates from the early 1950s, male intimate cosmetic surgery emerged from the shadows about 10 years ago with a medical community still very suspicious and reproachful. The present paper aims to describe and discuss the current state of the art regarding male intimate cosmetic surgery. Methods: A narrative review of the literature was performed using publications from January 2000 to September 2022. The publications were retrieved from the PubMed database using Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms and keywords. The authors' goal is to narrate the aesthetic non-surgical and surgical enhancement procedures of the male apparatus. Key Content and Findings: This narrative review examines the diverse procedures associated with male genitalia aesthetics. Conclusions: Aesthetics of the male genitalia is now an unavoidable and important part of aesthetic surgery worldwide with an increasing demand. Nonsurgical and surgical techniques described in the literature should be reviewed.

Keloids in male genitalia-Systematic review and illustrative case report.

Keloid is the maximum expression of pathological fibroproliferative skin wound healing, whose pathophysiology is not yet fully understood. Its occurrence in the perineum and genitalia is uncommon. A systematic review was carried out regarding the occurrence and treatment of keloids on the penis. An illustrative case was also reported. The review used the PRISMA checklist and was registered in PROSPERO. The entire literature period up to April 2023 was searched in the EMBASE/Elsevier, Cochrane, Scopus, Medline, BVS, SciELO, and Lilacs databases. The inclusion criteria embraced primary studies, clinical trials, prospective or retrospective cohorts, case series, case-control studies and case reports. Three hundred and sixty-one studies were found and 12 of them were included, consisting of 9 case reports and 3 case series. The most common triggering factor for keloid formation was circumcision, in 11 of the cases, of which more than half occurred in prepubescent children. Several therapies, associated or isolated, were used to treat the cases. Only one of the reported patients had scar recurrence after surgical treatment. Studies with better scientific evidence are needed to understand the involvement of keloids in male genitalia. However, keloid formation in this topography is rare, making it difficult to carry out more elaborate studies.

Phenotypic Diversity of a Leafroller Archips podana (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae) Does Not Change along an Industrial Pollution Gradient.

Morphological polymorphism offers rich opportunities for studying the eco-evolutionary mechanisms that drive the adaptations of local populations to heterogeneous and changing environments. In this study, I explore the association between pollution load, abundance of large fruit-tree tortrix Archips podana and its within-species diversity (expressed in the presence of apical and/or lateral prongs on the phallus in male genitalia) across 26 study sites located 0.5 to 31 km from the industrial city of Lipetsk in central Russia. The Shannon diversity index, calculated from the frequencies of four morphs, correlated neither with the distance to the nearest industrial polluter (a proxy of pollution load) nor with the number of moths captured by pheromone traps (a measure of population abundance). The statistical power of the correlation analysis was sufficient (67%) to detect a medium effect (i.e., Pearson correlation coefficient with an absolute value of 0.40), if it existed. I conclude that the four phenotypes of A. podana do not differ in tolerance to industrial pollution and similarly respond to pollution-induced environmental disturbance. This is the first study of industrial pollution impacts on within-species diversity of insects expressed in the discrete traits of their male genitalia.

A new species of Kodormus Barber, with a redescription of the genus, taxonomic notes, and a key to the species of the genus (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Reduviidae, Stenopodainae).

Kodormusdavidmartinsisp. nov. is described. Taxonomic notes on the other species of Kodormus Barber, 1930, including the description of their male genitalia, are provided. The record of Kodormusbruneosus Barber, 1930 from Brazil and information about the female of the species are presented for the first time. A redescription of Kodormus and a key for its species are provided. Photographs of the holotypes of K.barberi (Costa Lima, 1941), K.bruneosus, and of a paratype of K.oscurus Maldonado & Bérenger, 1996 are presented.

A revised terminology for male genitalia in Hymenoptera (Insecta), with a special emphasis on Ichneumonoidea.

Applying consistent terminology for morphological traits across different taxa is a highly pertinent task in the study of morphology and evolution. Different terminologies for the same traits can generate bias in phylogeny and prevent correct homology assessments. This situation is exacerbated in the male genitalia of Hymenoptera, and specifically in Ichneumonoidea, in which the terminology is not standardized and has not been fully aligned with the rest of Hymenoptera. In the current contribution, we review the terms used to describe the skeletal features of the male genitalia in Hymenoptera, and provide a list of authors associated with previously used terminology. We propose a unified terminology for the male genitalia that can be utilized across the order and a list of recommended terms. Further, we review and discuss the genital musculature for the superfamily Ichneumonoidea based on previous literature and novel observations and align the terms used for muscles across the literature.

Taxonomic study on the subgenus Orientostichus, the Pterostichuspulcher species group (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Pterostichus).

The Pterostichuspulcher species group of the subgenus Orientostichus Sciaky & Allegro is defined for P.pulcher Sciaky & Allegro and six new allied species. All seven species of this group are revised on morphological characters. Six new species are described from south of Sichuan province, China: P.pemphissp. nov. (type locality: Shuihaizi, Puge county, 27.33°N, 102.45°E), P.orbicollissp. nov. (Longzhoushan, Huili county, 26.79°N, 102.20°E), P.leosp. nov. (Shizishan, Jinyang county, 27.88°N, 103.23°E), P.liyuanisp. nov. (Luojishan, Puge county, 27.58°N, 102.39°E), P.condylussp. nov. (Yele, Mianning county, 28.96°N, 102.16°E), P.jialinisp. nov. (Jiamashi, Huidong county, 26.81°N, 102.68°E). Tritrichischinensis Jedlicka, syn. nov., a species previously misplaced in the subgenus Orientostichus, is excluded from the genus Pterostichus and confirmed to be a junior synonym of Synuchusnitidusreticulatus Lindroth, 1956.

Are Appearances Deceiving? Morpho-Genetic Complexity of the Eumerus tricolor Group (Diptera: Syrphidae) in Europe, with a Focus on the Iberian Peninsula.

Eumerus Meigen, 1822 is one of the largest Syrphidae genera in the Palaearctic Region, with the highest levels of taxonomic diversity found in the Eumerus tricolor species group. Despite its high diversity, the interspecific levels of morphological variability can be low. Additionally, some species may show certain levels of intraspecific variability. Hence, species delimitation may become challenging. In this work, we assessed the diversity of the E. tricolor group in the Iberian Peninsula through an integrative analysis of nomenclature, morphology and the 5' (COI-5') and 3' (COI-3') end regions of the Cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene. Two new species, Eumerus ancylostylus Aguado-Aranda & Ricarte sp. n. and Eumerus petrarum Aguado-Aranda, Nedeljkovic & Ricarte sp. n., were described, and their intra- and interspecific variations discussed. In addition, the first barcodes of Iberian members of the E. tricolor group were obtained, and the distribution ranges of all species were mapped within the study area. The systematic position of the new species is discussed based on the resulting COI-based trees. The male genitalia of Eumerus hispanicus van der Goot, 1966 and Eumerus bayardi Séguy, 1961 were studied and illustrated. A lectotype was designated for Eumerus lateralis (Zetterstedt, 1819). An updated dichotomous key for all known European species of the E. tricolor group is provided. The egg of E. petrarum sp. n. is also described.

Redescription of Periplanetaarabica (Bey-Bienko, 1938) (Blattodea, Blattidae), with a comparative analysis of three species of Periplaneta Burmeister, 1838 (sensu stricto).

The blattid cockroach Periplanetaarabica (Bey-Bienko, 1938) has been poorly understood since its original description. In this study, male and female (including nymph) of P.arabica are paired using DNA barcoding, and their morphological characters (including both external characteristics and genitalia) are described. A detailed comparative morphological study of this species and the closely related Periplanetaamericana (Linnaeus, 1758) and Periplanetalateralis Walker, 1868 was carried out to explore phylogenetically relevant characters.

Revision of Acesines Stål and Dunnius Distant, resurrection of Mycterizon Breddin (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Pentatomidae, Pentatominae), and description of a new species from India.

The genera Acesines Stål, 1876 and Dunnius Distant, 1902 (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Pentatomidae: Pentatominae) were revised and redescribed with the description of Dunniusbarpetensis Salini & Rabbani, sp. nov., based on specimens from Assam and Meghalaya, northeastern states of India. The genus Mycterizon Breddin, 1909 is reinstated from Dunnius, removed from the tribe Menidini, and redescribed. Consequently, the following new combinations are proposed: A.sordida (Kirby, 1891), comb. nov., Dunniuslaticeps (Zheng & Liu, 1987), comb. nov., D.tridentatus (Xiong & Liu, 1995), comb. nov., and D.trifasciatus (Xiong & Liu, 1995), comb. nov. A lectotype is designated for Araductabella (Distant, 1900a). Acesinesbambusana Distant, 1918, and Mycterizonbellusstat. rev. are redescribed based on both male and female genitalia and Dunniusfulvescens (Dallas, 1851) is redescribed based on female genitalia.

Lanternflies (Hemiptera: Fulgoridae) of Taiwan.

The family Fulgoridae belongs to the order Hemiptera, superfamily Fulgoridea, with approximately 770 described species worldwide. Their extraordinary appearance attracts the attention of both entomologists and the public. In addition to the evolutionary issue of their special appearance, certain species are also considered notorious pests (e.g., Lycorma delicatula). Several issues widely exist in previous taxonomic studies of lanternflies: (1) application of uncertain morphological characters leads to synonymy or misidentification; (2) descriptions of male genitalia are incomplete; (3) information of nymphal morphology is insufficient. Therefore, this study aims to provide a comprehensive taxonomic study of Fulgoridae from Taiwan. In this study, eight species in six genera from Taiwan were reported, of which Limois westwoodii was recorded for the first time from Taiwan. Lycorma olivacea was proposed as a new junior synonym of L. meliae. The fifth-instar nymph of Saiva formosana was described for the first time. Detailed descriptions of these lanternflies and an identification key to adults of Fulgoridae from Taiwan were also included.

Extra-mammary Paget's disease of the penis.

Paget's disease was first described in 1874 as an eczematoid changes of the nipple associated with underlying breast carcinoma. Extra-mammary Paget's disease (EMPD) is rare with involvement of the male genitalia described in small case series and management options varying according to location and extent. The diagnosis of EMPD requires a high index of clinical suspicion and close liaison with the multidisciplinary team, particularly histopathology. We present two cases of EMPD affecting the male external genitalia that highlight important learnings in the presentation, diagnosis, and management of EMPD.

Male genital trauma caused by self-mutilation: A first case series report in Indonesia.

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Genital self-mutilation (GSM) is a rare phenomenon with a spectrum ranging from a superficial laceration to complete amputation of the external genitalia. These could result in severe impairment of genitourinary functions. Psychotic disorder adds to the complexity of the patients. Since GSM is underreported, we report the first case series in Indonesia. CASE PRESENTATION: Four included patients comprised different injuries to the external genitalia, from a superficial laceration to penile amputation. Notably, these patients exhibited psychotic traits. Initial management consisted of bleeding control, debridement, and primary suturing. Depending on the extent of the injury, the repair comprised of spermatic cord ligation, penile reconstruction using a skin flap, defect closure with urethral spatulation, and exploration. We successfully managed all the patients surgically before undergoing psychotherapy to improve the patient's overall well-being and to reduce the risk of similar reoccurrence of GSM behavior. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: The majority of GSM cases were associated with psychotic disorders. The current reports' injuries include penile laceration, total penile amputation, unilateral castration, and combined injury to the penis and scrotum. Although most GSM is not life-threatening, it may cause emergent, complex, and serious complications such as massive hemorrhage and severe infections. Appropriate investigations with systematic treatment strategies are required, especially in complex cases. CONCLUSION: The incidence of genital self-mutilation necessitates a prompt evaluation of organ viability and the possibility of preserving tissue for optimal urinary and sexual outcomes. Interdisciplinary collaboration is required as the primary concern for management in cases of genital self-mutilation involving male genitalia and underlying psychological disorders.

Functional morphology of the praying mantis male genitalia (Insecta: Mantodea).

Male genitalia in praying mantids are highly complex, but we know little of how they function. I combined the micro-computed tomography of a copulating pair of the European mantis (Mantis religiosa) with public videos of copulation in various species of Mantodea and an analysis of literature. The function of each major element is reviewed. Copulation is divided into three phases: opening, anchoring and deposition. The opening is achieved by pulling the female subgenital plate with the male apical process. Multiple cases of female cooperation or resistance were observed and one case of coercion by the male. In species with the reduced apical process, female cooperation is mandatory. The male subgenital plate may participate in the opening as an integral part of the genitalia. After the opening, the conformation of the genitalia drastically changes, revealing activity of the genital papilla. Tight grasp on female genitalia is maintained solely by the clamp on the right phallomere, despite the overall complexity and predictions of sexual conflict theory. Other prominent elements show rhythmic motions, but their functions are not entirely clear and evidently involve spermatophore deposition, female stimulation or rival sperm removal. The opening and anchoring are similar in Mantodea and Blattodea, but achieved with non-homologous elements.

Two new genera (Vittiblatta gen. nov. and Planiblatta gen. nov.) of Blattinae (Blattodea, Blattidae) from Southwest China and the discovery of chirally dimorphic male genitalia in Vittiblattapunctata sp. nov.

This study examines Blattinae samples from Southwest China collected in recent years. Based on morphological characters, we establish two genera, Vittiblattagen. nov. and Planiblattagen. nov., and describe four new species, Vittiblattapunctata Luo & Wang, sp. nov., Vittiblattaferruginea Luo & Wang, sp. nov., Vittiblattaundulata Luo & Wang, sp. nov., and Planiblattacrassispina Luo & Wang, sp. nov. These two new genera resemble Periplaneta s.s., but are easily distinguished from it and other genera of Blattinae by morphological characters (genital sclerite L4C). Our results indicate that sclerites L4C and R1G of male genitalia might be important in species delimitation of Blattinae. In addition, chiral dimorphism is found in male genitalia of Vittiblattapunctata sp. nov.

Reconstruction of the male external genitalia in diverse disease processes: Our reconstructive algorithm, techniques, and experience.

Background: Male genital form and function may be rendered abnormal by a number of disease processes, with profound associated psychological and functional consequences. The aim of the study is to review our reconstructive experience with cases of genital loss or distortion due to nonmalignant diseases processes and atypical neoplasia. Materials and methods: A retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database was performed to identify reconstructive cases performed from 2018 to 2020 under the care of a single surgeon. Male patients 18 years or older with a disease diagnosis other than squamous cell carcinoma affecting genital form were included. Disease processes, patient factors, surgical techniques, and both functional and cosmetic outcomes were reviewed. Results: Fourteen cases were identified. The patients had a mean age of 52.2 years (range, 21-72 years). Acquired buried penis was present in 8 patients. Etiology of genital abnormality included balanitis xerotica obliterans (n = 6), excess skin loss at circumcision (n = 2), self-injection of petroleum jelly to penile shaft (n = 1), Fournier gangrene (n = 1), hidradenitis suppurativa (n = 1), extramammary Paget disease (n = 1), idiopathic lymphoedema (n = 1), and penoscrotal webbing (n = 1). Reconstructive techniques performed included penile debridement/shaft skin release, scrotectomy, suprapubic apronectomy, and division of penoscrotal webbing, in combination with split-thickness skin grafting where required. A penile implant was inserted in one patient. Reconstructive planning, techniques, and outcomes are described. Conclusions: A variety of reconstructive techniques in andrology can be used to improve the aesthetic and functional outcomes of multiple disease processes affecting the male external genitalia.