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Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) abuse is often associated with metabolic disorders and infertility. However, the current evidence on AAS-induced reproductive toxicity is mainly based on male studies. Thus, AAS repercussions on female reproductive capacity remain poorly understood, despite scarce evidence that fertility determinants may be more severely impaired in females than males exposed to these drugs. Accordingly, this study used an integrated framework to investigate the impact of different testosterone 17ß-cyclopentylpropionate (TC) doses on pain sensitivity, aggressiveness, anxiety, sexual behavior, ovarian, oviductal, uterine and reproductive morphofunctional and molecular outcomes. These parameters were used to explore the reproductive capacity in female mice exposed to this synthetic testosterone ester. The animals were untreated or intraperitoneally treated with 5, 10 and 20 mg/kg TC every 48 h for 12 weeks. Our findings indicated that testosterone was upregulated while the hormones luteinizing, follicle-stimulating, estrogen and progesterone were down-regulated by TC. This AAS also exerted deleterious effects on anxiety, aggressivity, nociception, exploratory and sexual behavior in female mice. Concurrently, TC attenuated ovarian follicle maturation, interrupted the estrous cycle, induced oviductal and uterine hypotrophy. Estrous cyclicity was reestablished 60 days after AAS treatment. However, TC-treated mice still exhibited impaired reproductive capacity, a disturbance potentially related to deficiency in folliculogenesis, sex hormones production, and endometrial receptivity mediate by ER-α, PR, HOXA-10 and LIF down-regulation. Taken together, our findings indicated that in addition to female behavior, reproductive organs microstructure and function are markedly impaired by TC in a dose-dependent manner, whose time-dependent reversibility remains to be clarified.

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Acquired disorders and congenital defects of the male and female reproductive systems can have profound impacts on patients, causing sexual and endocrine dysfunction and infertility, as well as psychosocial consequences that affect their self-esteem, identity, sexuality, and relationships. Reproductive tissue engineering (REPROTEN) is a promising approach to restore fertility and improve the quality of life of patients with reproductive disorders by developing, replacing, or regenerating cells, tissues, and organs from the reproductive and urinary systems. In this review, we explore the latest advancements in REPROTEN techniques and their applications for addressing degenerative conditions in male and female reproductive organs. We discuss current research and clinical outcomes and highlight the potential of 3D constructs utilizing biomaterials such as scaffolds, cells, and biologically active molecules. Our review offers a comprehensive guide for researchers and clinicians, providing insights into how to reestablish reproductive tissue structure and function using innovative surgical approaches and biomaterials. We highlight the benefits of REPROTEN for patients, including preservation of fertility and hormonal production, reconstruction of uterine and cervical structures, and restoration of sexual and urinary functions. Despite significant progress, REPROTEN still faces ethical and technical challenges that need to be addressed. Our review underscores the importance of continued research in this field to advance the development of effective and safe REPROTEN approaches for patients with reproductive disorders.

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Trachemys scripta elegans is an American underwater chelonian illegally marketed in Brazilian pet shops. When abandoned in nature, it compromises native species, threatening local biodiversity. However, little is known about the body development and structure of its reproductive tract. The objective of the present study was to investigate the morphology and biometry of testis, epididymis and penis, as well as the biometry of the body and secondary sexual characters in this species. Twenty-seven adult males were used aiming to contribute to preservation actions in captivity, population control, and scientific research, as well as to interspecific comparisons. Sex identification by the third claw length was effective, and the specimens presented harmonious and positive body development between mass, carapace, plastron, and height, with unimodal tendency and higher frequency of maximum carapace length at 15cm. The testes and epididymides presented biometric similarity between the antimeres and anatomical and histological structure similar to that of other species of chelonians and mammals, except for the type of epithelium. The findings suggest that there is conserved morphology between slider turtles and homology in relation to mammals. Histological similarity to the reproductive organs of other amniotes, including humans, may give rise to scientific and comparative studies, essential for the establishment of conservation strategies in reptiles.(AU)

Trachemys scripta elegans é um quelônio subaquático americano ilegalmente comercializado em pet shops brasileiros. Ao ser abandonado na natureza, compromete as espécies nativas, ameaçando à biodiversidade local. No entanto, pouco se conhece sobre o desenvolvimento corporal e a estrutura do seu aparelho reprodutor. O objetivo do presente trabalho foi investigar a morfologia e a biometria dos testículos, epidídimos e pênis, a biometria corporal e dos caracteres sexuais secundários. Foram utilizados 27 machos adultos desta espécie, visando contribuir com ações de preservação em cativeiro, controle populacional e pesquisas científicas, além de comparações interespecíficas. A identificação sexual pelo comprimento da terceira garra foi efetiva e os espécimes apresentaram desenvolvimento corporal harmônico e positivo entre massa, carapaça, plastrão e altura, com tendência unimodal e maior frequência de comprimento máximo de carapaça em 15,0cm. Testículos e epidídimos apresentaram semelhança biométrica entre os antímeros e estrutura anatômica e histológica semelhantes à de outras espécies de quelônios e mamíferos, excetuando-se pelo tipo de epitélio. Os achados sugerem haver morfologia conservada entre os cágados e homologia em relação aos mamíferos. A semelhança histológica com os órgãos reprodutivos de outros amniotas, incluindo os humanos, pode dar ensejo a estudos científicos e comparativos, essenciais para estabelecimento de estratégias de conservação em répteis.(AU)

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Trachemys scripta elegans is an American underwater chelonian illegally marketed in Brazilian pet shops. When abandoned in nature, it compromises native species, threatening local biodiversity. However, little is known about the body development and structure of its reproductive tract. The objective of the present study was to investigate the morphology and biometry of testis, epididymis and penis, as well as the biometry of the body and secondary sexual characters in this species. Twenty-seven adult males were used aiming to contribute to preservation actions in captivity, population control, and scientific research, as well as to interspecific comparisons. Sex identification by the third claw length was effective, and the specimens presented harmonious and positive body development between mass, carapace, plastron, and height, with unimodal tendency and higher frequency of maximum carapace length at 15cm. The testes and epididymides presented biometric similarity between the antimeres and anatomical and histological structure similar to that of other species of chelonians and mammals, except for the type of epithelium. The findings suggest that there is conserved morphology between slider turtles and homology in relation to mammals. Histological similarity to the reproductive organs of other amniotes, including humans, may give rise to scientific and comparative studies, essential for the establishment of conservation strategies in reptiles.(AU)

Trachemys scripta elegans é um quelônio subaquático americano ilegalmente comercializado em pet shops brasileiros. Ao ser abandonado na natureza, compromete as espécies nativas, ameaçando à biodiversidade local. No entanto, pouco se conhece sobre o desenvolvimento corporal e a estrutura do seu aparelho reprodutor. O objetivo do presente trabalho foi investigar a morfologia e a biometria dos testículos, epidídimos e pênis, a biometria corporal e dos caracteres sexuais secundários. Foram utilizados 27 machos adultos desta espécie, visando contribuir com ações de preservação em cativeiro, controle populacional e pesquisas científicas, além de comparações interespecíficas. A identificação sexual pelo comprimento da terceira garra foi efetiva e os espécimes apresentaram desenvolvimento corporal harmônico e positivo entre massa, carapaça, plastrão e altura, com tendência unimodal e maior frequência de comprimento máximo de carapaça em 15,0cm. Testículos e epidídimos apresentaram semelhança biométrica entre os antímeros e estrutura anatômica e histológica semelhantes à de outras espécies de quelônios e mamíferos, excetuando-se pelo tipo de epitélio. Os achados sugerem haver morfologia conservada entre os cágados e homologia em relação aos mamíferos. A semelhança histológica com os órgãos reprodutivos de outros amniotas, incluindo os humanos, pode dar ensejo a estudos científicos e comparativos, essenciais para estabelecimento de estratégias de conservação em répteis.(AU)

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The study investigated the gross and microscopic anatomy of the genital organs of 20 agoutis at different stages of the estrous cycle and four in the final trimester of pregnancy. Specimens were euthanized and their reproductive organs were fixed in a 4% paraformaldehyde or 2.5% glutaraldehyde solution and submitted to routine histological techniques for light and scanning electron microscopy. In the ovary, during the proestrus phase, we observed developing follicles and corpus luteum (CL) in regression; during estrus, there were Graafian follicles; during metestrus, there was a hemorrhagic corpus, whereas in diestrus, there was a mature CL. The uterus was partially double because the cervix was cranially septate but caudally, the septum disappeared, forming a single ostium that opened into the vagina. Changes occurred along the estrous cycle in the uterine and vaginal epithelia, that is, an increase in the uterine epithelium height accompanied by an increase of thickness of the vaginal epithelium during the follicular phase and a decrease of thickness of both epithelia during the luteal phase. The endometrial lining was composed of a simple cuboidal epithelium to simple columnar epithelium with basal nuclei. The vaginal mucosa consisted of epithelium that varied from nonkeratinized stratified squamous (luteal phase) to keratinized stratified squamous (follicular phase). The clitoris was external to the vagina. It presented two protruding lateral keratinized spicules and a centralized urethra, with no common parts between the urinary and genital tracts. Anatomical and histological changes were observed mainly in the cervix, vagina and spicules of the clitoris during the EC.

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Introducción: La infertilidad ha aumentado a nivel mundial como consecuencia del incremento de las infecciones de transmisión sexual y la enfermedad inflamatoria pélvica producidas fundamentalmente por Chlamydia trachomatis. Objetivo: Describir la relación existente entre la Chlamydia trachomatis y sus daños y consecuencias en mujeres infértiles. Métodos: Se estudiaron 552 mujeres, con diagnóstico de infertilidad y se selecciona una muestra de 175, con diagnóstico de infección por Chlamydia trachomatis. Resultados: Las mujeres en el estudio tenían una escolaridad media superior. La mayoría de las mujeres a pesar de padecer una infección por Chlamydia trachomatis no presentaron daño a órganos reproductores; y en las que sí, predominó la obstrucción tubaria bilateral. En los casos en que se diagnosticó daño al cuello uterino predominó la cervicitis. Conclusiones: La mayoría de las mujeres infértiles con infección por Chlamydia trachomatis eran adultas jóvenes con nivel escolar medio superior, con una infertilidad secundaria y sin daños estructurales en las trompas de Falopio y el cérvix uterino. Existe relación entre la Chlamydia trachomatis y la afección a las trompas de Falopio y el cérvix uterino(AU)

Introduction: Infertility has increased worldwide because of the increase in sexually transmitted infections and pelvic inflammatory disease caused mainly by Chlamydia trachomatis. Objective: To describe the relationship between Chlamydia trachomatis and its damages and consequences in infertile women. Methods: We studied 552 women with a diagnosis of infertility and we selected a sample of 175, with diagnosis of Chlamydia trachomatis infection. Results: The women in the study had high school level. Most of them did not have reproductive organ damage despite suffering from Chlamydia trachomatis infection. However, those who did not have this damage had bilateral tubal obstruction. Cervicitis predominated in those cases in which damage to the cervix was diagnosed. Conclusions: Most of the infertile women with Chlamydia trachomatis infection were young adults with a high school level, suffering secondary infertility and with no structural damage to the fallopian tubes and uterine cervix. There is a relationship between Chlamydia trachomatis and the affection to the fallopian tubes and uterine cervix(AU)

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ABSTRACT: Trachemys scripta elegans is an American underwater chelonian illegally marketed in Brazilian pet shops. When abandoned in nature, it compromises native species, threatening local biodiversity. However, little is known about the body development and structure of its reproductive tract. The objective of the present study was to investigate the morphology and biometry of testis, epididymis and penis, as well as the biometry of the body and secondary sexual characters in this species. Twenty-seven adult males were used aiming to contribute to preservation actions in captivity, population control, and scientific research, as well as to interspecific comparisons. Sex identification by the third claw length was effective, and the specimens presented harmonious and positive body development between mass, carapace, plastron, and height, with unimodal tendency and higher frequency of maximum carapace length at 15cm. The testes and epididymides presented biometric similarity between the antimeres and anatomical and histological structure similar to that of other species of chelonians and mammals, except for the type of epithelium. The findings suggest that there is conserved morphology between slider turtles and homology in relation to mammals. Histological similarity to the reproductive organs of other amniotes, including humans, may give rise to scientific and comparative studies, essential for the establishment of conservation strategies in reptiles.

RESUMO: Trachemys scripta elegans é um quelônio subaquático americano ilegalmente comercializado em pet shops brasileiros. Ao ser abandonado na natureza, compromete as espécies nativas, ameaçando à biodiversidade local. No entanto, pouco se conhece sobre o desenvolvimento corporal e a estrutura do seu aparelho reprodutor. O objetivo do presente trabalho foi investigar a morfologia e a biometria dos testículos, epidídimos e pênis, a biometria corporal e dos caracteres sexuais secundários. Foram utilizados 27 machos adultos desta espécie, visando contribuir com ações de preservação em cativeiro, controle populacional e pesquisas científicas, além de comparações interespecíficas. A identificação sexual pelo comprimento da terceira garra foi efetiva e os espécimes apresentaram desenvolvimento corporal harmônico e positivo entre massa, carapaça, plastrão e altura, com tendência unimodal e maior frequência de comprimento máximo de carapaça em 15,0cm. Testículos e epidídimos apresentaram semelhança biométrica entre os antímeros e estrutura anatômica e histológica semelhantes à de outras espécies de quelônios e mamíferos, excetuando-se pelo tipo de epitélio. Os achados sugerem haver morfologia conservada entre os cágados e homologia em relação aos mamíferos. A semelhança histológica com os órgãos reprodutivos de outros amniotas, incluindo os humanos, pode dar ensejo a estudos científicos e comparativos, essenciais para estabelecimento de estratégias de conservação em répteis.

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BACKGROUND: The present study evaluates the effects of energy drinks on the reproductive and biochemical parameters of adult male rats. METHODS: A total of 40 male rats (Wistar) were exposed to an energy drink mixed with the drinking water for a period of 120 days. The animals were divided into four groups and exposed to increasing therapeutic doses (DT) of an energy drink, based on allometric extrapolation, resulting in values (mL/day) per animal of 250 g: DT1 2.36 mL, DT3 7.47 mL, and DT6 14.16 mL. The control group (CTRL) consumed water only. During the treatment, the rats were assessed for signs of toxicity. After treatment, the animals were sacrificed and their organs were weighed. Sperm parameters (motility, concentration, and morphology) were evaluated. The biochemical markers alanine eamino transferase, aspartate amino transferase, alkaline phosphatase, lactic dehydrogenase, urea, creatinine, creatine phosphokinase, and creatine kinase MB fraction were measured, in addition to total cholesterol and testosterone. RESULTS: There was a significant decrease (p< 0.05) in the concentration of sperm in the treated groups (DT18.5 ± 0.7; DT3 7.2 ± 0.9; DT6 8.4 ± 0.9) compared to the control group (12.3 ± 1.2). No difference was observed with respect to relative weights of the animals'organs, water consumption, signs of toxicity, behavioral changes, biochemical markers, and sperm motility and morphology. CONCLUSION: The long-term consumption of energy drinks interferes negatively with sperm concentration, without affecting sperm motility and morphology or altering the hepatic, cardiac, or renal functions

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Yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius, Asteraceae) is an ancient andean crop that has numerous dietary and medicinal properties. Morphological and anatomical features and developmental changes of the capitulum were studied. A ray floret is a pistillate, female flower, while a disc floret is a staminate male flower, and the former opens before the latter, being pseudanthium protogynous. The capitulum presents interesting attributes for pollinators such as flower structure, nectaries and pollenkitt. Gynoecial nectaries were found on undeveloped ovary in the disc floret, but not in the ray floret. Glandular trichomes were observed on the abaxial epidermis of corolla in the ray floret, but not in the disc floret. Capitulum development was divided into eight stages. Stigma receptivity varied with these stages. Pollen viability was low (15%). In accordance with low viability, pollen grains exhibit diverse sizes and shapes, reduction in length of spines, and abnormal protoplasm. Examination of ovary development in the ray floret showed that a mature ovule was formed, but fertilization did not occur. In advanced developmental stages, the capitulum showed proliferation of the endothelium, degeneration of the embryo sac, and all harvested cypselae had aborted seeds. Problems found in pollen viability and aborted cypselae could be the result of a history of vegetative propagation in the domestication process.

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Background: The appearance of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is connect with oxidative energy production particularlyin reproductive organs. They characterize by increased metabolism, which may change during ageing. Their increasecould be dangerous for germ cells. That is why the antioxidant protection is need. One of the main antioxidative enzymeis superoxide dismutase (SOD) which could be regulated by steroid hormones through genomic mechanism of action. Buttheir level changed during ageing and maturation. However, there is still lack information about ageing alteration of SODactivity in bovine especially in reproductive organs.Materials, Methods & Results: The material for experiment consisted of reproductive organs: uterus (which was separatedinto endometrium and myometrium), both ovaries and corpus luteum collected immediately after slaughter at the slaughterhouse. Samples were taken from healthy cows aged between 16-24 months (n = 15) during luteal phase of cycle and femalecalves aged between 2 weeks and 2 months (n = 12) Total SOD activity was measured in homogenates of reproductiveorgans by use of the spectrophotometric method. PAGE electrophoresis was performed and Western blotting techniquewith specific anti-SOD antibodies as well as zymography confirmed the presence of enzymatic protein and the activity ofSOD isoenzymes. The results of spectrophotometric determinations showed significant influence of age on SOD activityin examined tissues. The SOD activity not indicate significant differences between examined reproductive organs in thegroup of cows but higher level was noticed in myometrium while the lowest in corpus luteum but the differences betweenovaries in cows were not observed. In the group of female calves as well as in the group of cows the differences betweenSOD activity in reproductive organs were not observed. The higher level was noticed in ovaries but the lower level wasobserved in myometrium...

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Background: The appearance of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is connect with oxidative energy production particularlyin reproductive organs. They characterize by increased metabolism, which may change during ageing. Their increasecould be dangerous for germ cells. That is why the antioxidant protection is need. One of the main antioxidative enzymeis superoxide dismutase (SOD) which could be regulated by steroid hormones through genomic mechanism of action. Buttheir level changed during ageing and maturation. However, there is still lack information about ageing alteration of SODactivity in bovine especially in reproductive organs.Materials, Methods & Results: The material for experiment consisted of reproductive organs: uterus (which was separatedinto endometrium and myometrium), both ovaries and corpus luteum collected immediately after slaughter at the slaughterhouse. Samples were taken from healthy cows aged between 16-24 months (n = 15) during luteal phase of cycle and femalecalves aged between 2 weeks and 2 months (n = 12) Total SOD activity was measured in homogenates of reproductiveorgans by use of the spectrophotometric method. PAGE electrophoresis was performed and Western blotting techniquewith specific anti-SOD antibodies as well as zymography confirmed the presence of enzymatic protein and the activity ofSOD isoenzymes. The results of spectrophotometric determinations showed significant influence of age on SOD activityin examined tissues. The SOD activity not indicate significant differences between examined reproductive organs in thegroup of cows but higher level was noticed in myometrium while the lowest in corpus luteum but the differences betweenovaries in cows were not observed. In the group of female calves as well as in the group of cows the differences betweenSOD activity in reproductive organs were not observed. The higher level was noticed in ovaries but the lower level wasobserved in myometrium...(AU)

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The effects produced by the new synthetic carbamates ethyl-(4-bromophenyl) carbamate and ethyl-(4-chlorophenyl) carbamate on the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, egg structure and reproductive organs of two Rhipicephalus microplus strains were evaluated. Inhibition kinetic parameters showed that the studied carbamates are weak inhibitors and have a low affinity for R. microplus AChE. Histologically, in oocytes from carbamate-treated engorged female ticks, a loss of shape, cytoplasmic vacuoles, decreased chorion deposition, alterations in cytoplasmic granularity and irregular membranes were observed. In oocyte germinal vesicles, a loss of shape, nucleolar fragmentation and membrane alterations with degenerative signs were observed. The ovarian epithelium was vacuolated, flattened, eroded and contained pyknotic nuclei. These alterations were observed from the first day and persisted and increased in severity until day 7 post-treatment. The ovaries from carbamate-treated ticks had fewer stage IV-V oocytes and more stage I-II oocytes. Additionally, eggs produced by the treated ticks had a modified appearance, decreased size, a reduced superficial waxy layer and a loss of viability. The results of this study show that the effects of carbamates on R. microplus were independent of AChE inhibition and show that the morphological alterations in the reproductive organs were due to carbamate actions on the vitellogenesis and viability of the ovarian cells.

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Objetivou-se com esse estudo detectar o DNA genômico de T. gondii em amostras de testículo e epidídimo de ovinos comercializados em abatedouros do Estado de Pernambuco Região Nordeste do Brasil. Foram coletadas 50 amostras de soro sanguíneo, 50 amostras de testículos e 50 de epidídimos. Para a triagem dos animais foi utilizada a técnica de Imunofluorescência Indireta (RIFI) e posteriormente empregou-se a Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase (PCR) nos animais positivos na sorologia. Observou-se 24% (12/50) dos animais positivos na RIFI e o DNA genômico foi detectado no epidídimo em 8,3% (1/12) das amostras. A identidade molecular dos produtos amplificados foi confirmada por sequenciamento. Relata-se a primeira ocorrência da presença do DNA de T. gondii em órgãos do sistema reprodutivo de carneiros naturalmente infectados no Brasil.(AU)

The aim of the study was to detect genomic DNA of Toxoplasma gondii in testicle and epididymis samples from rams sold in abattoirs in the state of Pernambuco, Northeast Brazil. Fifty (50) blood serum samples were collected, as well as 50 testicle and epididymis samples. Indirect Immunofluorescence (IIF) was used during screening of the rams. The Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) was used with animals that were positive in serology. Our results confirmed that 24% (12/50) of the rams were positive in IIF. Genomic DNA was detected in the epididymis at 8.3% (1/12) of the animals. The molecular identity of the amplified products was confirmed through sequencing. This paper reports the first occurrence of T. gondii DNA in the reproductive organs of naturally infected rams in Brazil.(AU)

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Objetivou-se com esse estudo detectar o DNA genômico de T. gondii em amostras de testículo e epidídimo de ovinos comercializados em abatedouros do Estado de Pernambuco Região Nordeste do Brasil. Foram coletadas 50 amostras de soro sanguíneo, 50 amostras de testículos e 50 de epidídimos. Para a triagem dos animais foi utilizada a técnica de Imunofluorescência Indireta (RIFI) e posteriormente empregou-se a Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase (PCR) nos animais positivos na sorologia. Observou-se 24% (12/50) dos animais positivos na RIFI e o DNA genômico foi detectado no epidídimo em 8,3% (1/12) das amostras. A identidade molecular dos produtos amplificados foi confirmada por sequenciamento. Relata-se a primeira ocorrência da presença do DNA de T. gondii em órgãos do sistema reprodutivo de carneiros naturalmente infectados no Brasil.

The aim of the study was to detect genomic DNA of Toxoplasma gondii in testicle and epididymis samples from rams sold in abattoirs in the state of Pernambuco, Northeast Brazil. Fifty (50) blood serum samples were collected, as well as 50 testicle and epididymis samples. Indirect Immunofluorescence (IIF) was used during screening of the rams. The Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) was used with animals that were positive in serology. Our results confirmed that 24% (12/50) of the rams were positive in IIF. Genomic DNA was detected in the epididymis at 8.3% (1/12) of the animals. The molecular identity of the amplified products was confirmed through sequencing. This paper reports the first occurrence of T. gondii DNA in the reproductive organs of naturally infected rams in Brazil.

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The study was carried out to determine the effect of season on the female reproductive organs of the African Giant rat using the standard methods, with the aim of obtaining the base-line values. The weights of the oviduct/uterus, vagina and the entire tubular organ were consistently higher during the harmattan season (0.789 +/- 0.07 g, 2.708 +/- 0.19 g and 3.455 +/- 0.25 g, respectively) than the hot ­ dry (0.591 +/- 0.02 g, 2.239 +/- 0.13 g and 2.831 +/- 0.14 g, respectively) and the rainy season (0.723 +/- 0.04 g, 2.412 +/- 0.01 g and 3.148 +/- 0.12 g, respectively). The mean weight and length of the ovary were not significantly different throughout the season, suggesting that the AGR may breed throughout the year. The slight increase in the weight of the tubular organ during the harmattan (November ­ February) and the rainy (June ­ October) season suggests that the seasons may be favourable for breeding, probably because of the abundance of food available to the rodents in the wild during the seasons. The decrease in weights of the organs during the hot-dry season (March ­ May) was, apparently, due to the unfavourable climatic conditions and food scarcity during the season. In conclusion, the results of the present study provide base -line morphometric data on the female reproductive organs of the AGR across the seasons.

Este estudio se llevó a cabo para determinar el efecto de las estaciones en los órganos reproductores femeninos de la rata gigante Africana mediante los métodos estándar, con el objetivo de obtener los valores basales. El peso del oviducto/útero, vagina y el órgano tubular completo fueron consistentemente más altos durante harmattan (la estación seca en Nigeria) (0,789 +/- 0,07 g, 2,708 +/- 0,19g y 3,455 +/- 0,25, respectivamente) que la estación seca-calurosa (0,591 +/- 0,02 g, 2.239 +/- 0,13g y 2.831 +/- 0,14, respectivamente) y la estación de lluvias (0,723 +/- 0,04 g, 2,412 +/- 0,01 y 3,148 +/- 0,12 g, respectivamente). La media de peso y longitud del ovario no fueron significativamente diferentes a lo largo de las estaciones, lo que sugiere que la rata gigante africana puede reproducirse durante todo el año. El ligero aumento en el peso del órgano tubular en las estaciones de harmattan (noviembre - febrero) y de lluvias (junio-octubre), sugiere que las estaciones pueden ser favorables para la reproducción, probablemente debido a la abundancia de alimentos disponibles para los roedores silvestres durante estas temporadas. La disminución en el peso de los órganos durante la estación cálida y seca (marzo - mayo) fue, al parecer, debido a las desfavorables condiciones climáticas y la escasez de alimentos durante la estación. En conclusión, los resultados de este estudio proporcionan una línea base de datos morfométricos para los órganos reproductores de la rata gigante africana hembra a través de las estaciones.

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Organotin compounds are typical environmental contaminants and suspected endocrine-disrupting substances, which cause irreversible sexual abnormality in female mollusks, called "imposex". However, little is known about the capability of triorganotin compounds, such as tributyltin and triphenyltin, to cause disorders in the sexual development and reproductive functions of mammals, including humans and rodents. Moreover, these compounds can act as potential competitive inhibitors of aromatase enzyme and other steroidogenic enzymes, affecting the reproductive capacity of male and female mammals. In this review, we discuss the cellular, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms by which triorganotin compounds induce adverse effects in the mammalian reproductive function.

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En ratones sometidos a hipoxia hipobárica intermitente (HI) producto de una exposición simulada a la altura, en cámara hipobárica (asemejándose a condiciones laborales de faena minera del norte de Chile), se evaluó recuento espermático total y cambios en el peso corporal y de órganos reproductivos.El grupo experimental se sometió a HI y el control permaneció en normoxia,ambos durante 108 días. No existieron cambios estadísticamente significativos (p > 0,05) en los pesos pos HI, posiblemente por pequeñas compensaciones durante el periodo de normoxia normobárica o los intervalos de hipoxia hipobárica no fueron lo suficientemente prolongados como para generar cambios. No hubo cambios en el recuento espermático testicular, pero sí en cauda epididimaria, donde el grupo control fue estadísticamente superior,debido posiblemente a enlentecimiento del tránsito entre el testículo y la cauda epididimaria o que ésta no está cumpliendo su función de almacenamiento (tránsito acelerado y depleción de la vía seminal). Por tanto, resulta imprescindible profundizar el estudio de la HI y su repercusión en la reproducción, ya que esta situación afectaría a trabajadores de las faenas mineras en Chile.

Total sperm count and changes in body and reproductive organs weight were evaluated in mice subjected to intermittent hypobaric hypoxia (IHH) product of a simulated exposure to high altitudes, in hypobaric chamber (in a similar situation to that of working conditions of mining activities in the north of Chile). The experimental group was exposed to IHH and the control group maintained in conditions of normoxia, both for 108 days. There were no statistically significant changes (p>0,05) in weights post IHH, possibly because of small compensations during the normobaric normoxia period or the alternant exposure to a hypoxic environment was not sufficient for changes to develop. No changes in testicular sperm count were noted but in epididymal cauda, where control group was statistically higher due to a possible slowness of transit between testicle and epididymal cauda or because the spermstorage function of epididymis is not adequate (accelerated transit and seminal vesicle depletion). Therefore, it is essential to study in depth the IHH and its impact on reproduction, because this situation may affect Chilean mining workers.

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Some compounds present in therapeutic plants may be responsible for the occurrence of adverse side effects. Coumarin and flavonoids are substances found in many plant species that showed antifertility activity in female rats and dogs, respectively. Mikania glomerata Spreng., Asteraceae, known as guaco in Brazil, is a plant largely used in folk medicine and its leaves are reported to have coumarin and flavonoids. This work analyzes the effect of chronic administration of M. glomerata on the reproductive system of male rats. Thirty-day-old Wistar rats were treated with M. glomerata hydroalcoholic extract at a dose of 3.3 g/kg of body weight for ninety days. Body and organ weights, gamete concentration on the epididymis cauda, serum testosterone level and food consumption were evaluated. No significant alteration was observed in any of the variables analyzed, suggesting the absence of toxic action or antifertility activity of the M. glomerata hydroalcoholic extract.

As plantas medicinais podem apresentar na sua constituição compostos capazes de causar efeitos adversos no organismo. Cumarina e flavonoides são substâncias encontradas em muitas espécies vegetais, cuja interferência na fertilidade de ratas e cadelas, respectivamente, foi evidenciada em estudos prévios. Mikania glomerata Spreng., Asteraceae, (guaco) é uma planta usada no tratamento de doenças respiratórias e em suas folhas foi detectada a presença de cumarina e flavonoides. Neste estudo, avaliou-se o efeito do extrato hidroalcoólico, preparado com partes aéreas de guaco, no sistema reprodutor de ratos submetidos a tratamento crônico. Ratos Wistar (trinta dias de idade) foram tratados com extrato hidroalcoólico de guaco na dose de 3,3 g/kg de peso corporal durante noventa dias. O peso corporal e de órgãos, a produção de espermatozoides, a concentração de testosterona plasmática e o consumo de ração foram avaliados. Não foi observada nenhuma alteração significativa das variáveis analisadas e o tratamento não afetou o consumo de ração. Estes dados sugerem que, na dose utilizada, o extrato hidroalcoólico de guaco não teve efeito tóxico e nem interferiu com a fertilidade de ratos Wistar submetidos a um tratamento de longa duração.

RESUMO

Clusia lanceolata Cambess é espécie arbustiva da Mata Atlântica. Caracteriza-se porser dioica, com flores estaminadas e pistiladas grandes, vistosas, de coloração rosa, apresentando aparte interna vinácea. Foram descritos aspectos morfológicos e estruturais dos frutos e sementesdessa espécie, visando classificar corretamente o seu tipo de fruto e, também, confirmar a origemdo apêndice carnoso que envolve as sementes. O material botânico utilizado constou de floresem antese e frutos, em quatro estádios de desenvolvimento, coletados de dois espécimes. Osestudos morfológicos e anatômicos foram realizados segundo técnicas usuais. O fruto é cápsulaseptífraga, esférica, de coloração verde-avermelhado. O exocarpo é unisseriado; o mesocarpoparenquimático contém numerosos ductos secretores e feixes vasculares, de disposiçãoprincipalmente longitudinal. O endocarpo é derivado da epiderme interna do ovário e de três aquatro camadas subepidérmicas, cujas células alongam-se tangencialmente e a parede quedelimita o lóculo sofre lignificação. A abertura se faz pela sutura carpelar, por meio de uma faixade células parenquimáticas de tamanho reduzido, que se bifurca em direção aos lóculos no meiodos septos. Os óvulos anátropos bitegumentados, com endotélio e hipóstase, originam sementestambém anátropas, exotégmicas e envolvidas por arilo de origem funicular e exostomal. Oembrião é hipocotilar.(AU)

Clusia lanceolata Cambess. is a shrub species native to theAtlantic Forest. The plant is dioecious, with large, showy, pink staminate and pistillate flowersthat are wine-colored internally. The morphological and structural aspects of the fruits and seedsof this species are described here in order to correctly classify the fruit type and to determine theorigin of the fleshy appendage that surrounds the seeds. The botanical material utilized herecontained flowers in anthesis and fruits in four stages of development, and were collected fromtwo different plants. The morphological and anatomical studies were performed according totraditional techniques. The fruit is a septifrage, spherical capsule with a reddish-green coloration.The exocarp is uniseriate; the parenchymatous mesocarp contains numerous secretory ducts andvascular bundles arranged in predominantly longitudinal positions. The endocarp is derivedfrom the internal epidermis of the ovary and has from three to four subepidermal layers whosecomponent cells are tangentially elongated, and the cell walls lining the locule become lignified.The fruits open by means of the carpelar suture, along a stand of small parenchymous cells thatbifurcate in the direction of the locules, in the midst of the septum. The anatropous bitegumentedovules, with an endothelium and hypostase, give rise to seeds that are likewiseanatropous, exotegmic, and wrapped in an aril that has a funicular and exostomal origin. Theembryo is hypocotylar.(AU)

Assuntos

RESUMO

Morphometric characteristics were determined from female reproductive organs of New Zealand rabbits with different body weight in order to understand the anatomical changes of the various organs of the reproductive tract of this breed in the peripuberal period of transition. Four groups were formed according to a percentage of adult weight (AW), Group A with 2 ± 0.1 kg (40% of AW), Group B with 3 ± 0.1 kg (60% of AW), Group C with 3.5 ± 0.1 kg (70% of AW) and Group D with 4 ± 0.1 kg (80% of AW). The rabbits were euthanized according to the required weight for each group and ovaries, uterine horns, cervix and vagina were removed, in order to measure their length. Ovarian tissue fragments were obtained and processed by paraffin embedding for histological analysis using Masson's trichrome stain. Primordial, primary, secundary and tertiary follicles were counted in the ovarian cortex and medulla. Regarding the length of the left and right ovary there were differences between Group A with respect to B, C and D (P < 0.05). Regarding the length of the uterine horns there were differences between Group A with respect to groups B, C and D in both horns (P < 0.05). Regarding the length of the cervix there was difference between Group B and the others (P < 0.05) and the vagina showed difference between Group A and the other groups (P < 0.05). With respect to the variable number of primordial follicles there was difference between Group A and the other groups (P < 0.05). For primary and secondary follicles there were no differences between the four groups (P > 0.05). In tertiary follicles there were differences between Group A and the others (P < 0.05). Based on the results of this study it is concluded that in New Zealand rabbits the histological and morphometric changes of the reproductive tract associated with body weight, are more dramatic in the transition range from 40% to 60% (groups A and B) of AW, hence, it is a critical period in the maturation of the female reproductive system.

Se determinaron las características morfométricas de los órganos genitales de conejas de la raza Nueva Zelanda con distintos pesos corporales en el periodo de transición peripuberal. Se formaron cuatro grupos de acuerdo con un porcentaje del peso adulto (PA); Grupo A con 2 ± 0.1 kg (40% del PA); Grupo B con 3 ± 0.1 kg (60% del PA); Grupo C con 3.5 ± 0.1 kg (70% del PA) y Grupo D con 4 ± 0.1 kg (80% del PA). A las conejas se les sometió a eutanasia de acuerdo con el peso requerido para cada grupo. Se removieron ambos ovarios, cuernos uterinos, cérvix y vagina con el fin de medir su longitud. Se obtuvieron fragmentos de tejido ovárico que se procesaron por inclusión en parafina para efectuar cortes histológicos que se tiñeron con tricrómica de Masson. Se contaron los folículos primordiales, primarios, secundarios y terciarios presentes en la corteza y médula ovárica. Respecto de la longitud de los ovarios derecho e izquierdo, se encontraron diferencias entre el Grupo A y los grupos B, C y D (P < 0.05). En cuanto a la longitud de los cuernos uterinos, se encontraron diferencias entre el Grupo A y los grupos B, C y D, en ambos cuernos (P < 0.05). En relación con la longitud del cérvix, hubo diferencia entre el Grupo A y los demás grupos (P < 0.05); en la vagina se encontró diferencia entre el Grupo A y el resto de los grupos (P < 0.05). Acerca del número de folículos primordiales, hubo diferencia entre el Grupo A y los otros grupos (P < 0.05). Para los folículos primarios y secundarios no se encontraron diferencias entre los cuatro grupos (P > 0.05). En los folículos terciarios hubo diferencias entre el Grupo A y los demás grupos (P < 0.05). Con base en los resultados obtenidos se concluye que en la coneja Nueva Zelanda los cambios histológicos y morfométricos de los órganos genitales asociados con el peso corporal, son más drásticos en el rango de transición de 40% al 60% (grupos A y B) del PA. Se concluye que se trata de un periodo crítico en el proceso de maduración del aparato reproductor femenino.