Embryo transfer and embryonic capsules in the bobcat (Lynx rufus).

Bobcats (Lynx rufus) (n=22) were used to test a surgical embryo transfer protocol for wild felines. Five blastocysts were collected 8-14 days post-initial copulation (PIC). Translucent capsule-like structures were recovered at 12 days PIC and are the first report of such a structure in a felid. Endometrial fibrosis was observed in one cat but, in general, post-surgical fibrosis of the uterus did not seem to impede ova or embryo transport. One embryo underwent cryopreservation and this embryo plus two other transferrable embryos were placed in recipient cats during the course of the study. No pregnancies were maintained; but one non-cryopreserved embryo was detected by ultrasound examination at 2 weeks post-transfer. This study provides valuable groundwork for future studies and warrants optimism for continued research in this area.

Bringing information technology into the veterinary curriculum.

The personal computer has been available to medical education for many years, but the role of the computer has changed. We have required students to purchase a personal computer since 1984, and used this tool in several ways throughout the intervening years. Our experience has shown that students and faculty derive greatest benefit from personal computers as information retrieval and communication devices. Requiring students to purchase computers has many benefits including student attitudes, employer's perception of computer literacy, and institutional access to current technological advancements in hardware and software.

Embryo transfer in the White-tailed deer: A reproductive model for endangered deer species of the world.

A model for artificial propagation of wild, seasonal breeding deer was developed using the White-tailed deer, Odocoileus , virginianus . Preseason estrus induction following removal of vaginal pessaries containing medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) was successful in four of seven animals. Synchronization of estrus was achieved in seven of nine attempts when does were treated with prostaglandin F(2) alpha (PGF(2)alpha) 7 to 14 d following observed estrus. Superovulation was achieved in two of five does treated with 1000 IU of pregnant mare's serum gonadotropin (PMSG) at the time of vaginal pessary MPA withdrawal. Superovulation was achieved in two of three does treated with 1000 IU of PMSG at the time of estrus induction with PGF(2)alpha. Surgical embryo recoveries attempted on six does resulted in a 68% embryo recovery rate based on numbers of corpora lutea observed. Surgical embryo transfers from two donors to three recipient does resulted in one pregnancy maintained to full term.

Patterns of oviducal motility in the cow during the oestrous cycle.

Microtransducers sensitive to changes in internal diameter were chronically implanted in the oviducts of 5 dairy cows. Motility patterns were recorded throughout 9 oestrous cycles. Cyclic variations in patterns of motility were observed and compared with circulating concentrations of plasma progesterone. Luteal-phase motility patterns were of low amplitude and frequency. The frequency and amplitude of motility increased 3-5 days before behavioural oestrus. This activity consisted primarily of longitudinal muscle contractions, with an interspacing of circular muscle activity occurring during oestrus. Patterns of activity after oestrus were similar to those before oestrus, with activity decreasing 3-5 days after oestrus. Transducers implanted bilaterally in 2 animals permitted observation of asynchronous patterns between right and left oviducts. Preliminary data suggested a higher level of activity in the oviduct ipsilateral to the active ovary. These variations may be due to a local effect, possibly mediated by the functional ovary or the ovum.

Blood flow to the uterine tube (oviduct) of the early pregnant and pseudopregnant rabbit.

Blood flow to the uterus and uterine tube was measured in 46 rabbits in estrus and early pregnancy or pseudopregnancy. Uterine blood flow in estrus averaged 0.910 +/- 0.253 (SD) ml/g/minute and remained unchanged through postcoital day (PCD) 15. Blood flow to the uterine tube in estrus was 0.810 +/- 0.287 ml/g/minute. A peak blood flow of 1.323 +/- 0.424 ml/g/minute, was measured in the uterine tube on PCD 4, followed by a decrease of blood flow to estrous levels on PCD 8 to 15. The gross blood vasculature of the uterus uterine tube, and ovary was studied by intravascular silicone rubber injection in 17 rabbits. The architecture of the blood vascular system remained unchanged from estrus through early pregnancy or pseudopregnancy. The differences were vascularization of the corpus luteum, vascular accommodation of uterine distension, and enlargement of the lateral arcuate vein which spans the uterotubal junction.