Ultrasonographic and morphological sequelae to repeated testicular biopsies in stallions in relation to the lateral branching of the testicular artery

The objectives of this study were to investigate the sequelae to repeated testicular biopsies in stallions and to determine if arterial injuries can be prevented. This study was part of a larger project focused on the antispermatogenic effects of an oral contraceptive compound, RTI‐4587‐073(l), which was given to 3 mature Miniature horse stallions, while another 3 received a placebo treatment. Testicular biopsies were taken once before treatment and 3 times after treatment. They were obtained from alternating testes, 2 procedures per testis, 2 samples each time, using a 18 gauge split‐needle core biopsy instrument (penetration depth: 22 mm). Colour Doppler ultrasonography was performed prior to the procedure to detect and thus avoid lateral branches of the testicular artery. Testicular parenchyma was evaluated ultrasonographically just before, and 2–6 h, 3 days and weekly after the biopsies were obtained. Changes in testicular volumes and semen parameters were monitored. All stallions were then castrated and the testes were evaluated for any gross pathology. There was no major scrotal swelling or gross haemorrhage after the procedures. Only mild, focal lesions were found in the testicular parenchyma 3 and 7 days after taking the biopsies. Three lateral branches of the testicular arteries were punctured, but there was no evidence of significant bleeding or other complications associated with these injuries. We conclude that repeated testicular biopsies may be taken from stallions without causing major complications, regardless of a presence or absence of the lateral branches of the testicular artery. Furthermore, we conclude that using colour Doppler ultrasonography to detect the lateral branches of the testicular arteries is unreliable; however, puncturing these vessels during a biopsy procedure does not necessarily result in significant haemorrhage.     

Interactions between the microbiota and the immune system

The large numbers of microorganisms that inhabit mammalian body surfaces have a highly coevolved relationship with the immune system. Although many of these microbes carry out functions that are critical for host physiology, they nevertheless pose the threat of breach with ensuing pathologies. The mammalian immune system plays an essential role in maintaining homeostasis with resident microbial communities, thus ensuring that the mutualistic nature of the host-microbial relationship is maintained. At the same time, resident bacteria profoundly shape mammalian immunity. Here, we review advances in our understanding of the interactions between resident microbes and the immune system and the implications of these findings for human health.     

Use of continuous positive airway pressure in the acute management of laryngeal paralysis in a cat

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) has been is used widely in humans to manage obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome, but it has not been widely used in animals. A brachycephalic cat, with previously undiagnosed laryngeal paralysis, that developed acute upper respiratory tract obstruction on recovery from anaesthesia, is presented. The condition was managed by CPAP, delivered via a facial mask.     

CORRECTION

In a revision of the proof a serious omission was made in the inadvertent dropping of "and 1 ml. of 0.1% CuSO4 5H2O solution" after "Aliquots of 2.0 ml are mixed with 6 ml of clear 12.5 per cent Na2C03 solution" on p. 405. Addition of copper is essential in enhancing the sensitivity of the Folin reagent, as already noted by others.     

Intramedullary spinal cord metastasis of a primary lung tumour in a dog

A dog was presented with signs of subacute, progressive myelopathy. A tentative diagnosis of a diffuse intramedullary spinal cord mass was made using contrast radiography (myelography). At autopsy a solitary, large bronchoalveolar carcinoma was detected in a lung lobe. Histological examination of the cranial thoracic spinal cord revealed a tumour which was similar, but not identical, to the lung tumour. Immunohistochemistry helped to confirm that the spinal lesion was a metastasis of the lung tumour.     

Canine Reproduction: I. Reaction of Animals to Collection of Semen and Insemination Procedures

Two methods of semen collection were attempted on ten untrained dogs of several breeds. Manual manipulation as described proved most reliable for untrained dogs. Electro-ejaculation was attempted unsucessfully with twelve additional dogs.

Two methods of insemination were compared. Equipment found most satisfactory is described and a modification suggested.

     

The Reproductive Tract of the Turkey Hen (A Biometrical Study)

A biometrical study of the reproductive tracts of 173 hens was carried out after slaughter at 53 weeks of age.

Mean weights and total lengths of the reproductive tracts of four strains of actively laying turkey hens were 265 - 279.5 grams and 80.9 - 84.5 centimetres. Mean measurements in centimetres of oviduct anatomical divisions were: infundibulum 10.9 - 11.7, magnum 44.5 - 45.2, isthmus 12.6 - 14.5, uterus 9.6 - 10.8, and vagina 2.6 - 3.5.