Measurement of testicular artery blood flow is used in several species to evaluate reproductive function and testicular and scrotal pathology. In dogs there are inconsistent reports about normal flow in post-pubertal dogs and no information concerning pre-pubertal dogs. The aim of this study was to describe regional differences in testicular artery blood flow in clinically normal post-pubertal and pre-pubertal dogs with no history of reproductive tract disease. The post-pubertal dogs produced normal ejaculates throughout the study. In all dogs the three different regions of the artery were imaged and monophasic flow with an obvious systolic peak and flow throughout diastole was observed on every occasion. The highest peak systolic velocity (PSV) and end diastolic velocity (EDV) were measured within the distal supra-testicular artery and marginal artery whilst the lowest PSV and EDV were measured within the intra-testicular arteries. Flow measurements were not different between left and right testes and were consistent between dogs on different examination days. Calculated resistance index (RI) and pulsatility index (PI) were lowest in the intra-testicular arteries. The pre-pubertal dogs had significantly smaller testes than the post-pubertal dogs (p < 0.05) and were unable to ejaculate during the study. The three different artery regions were imaged at every examination time point, and flow profiles had a similar appearance to those of the post-pubertal dogs. PSV, EDV, RI and PI showed a similar trend to the post-pubertal dogs in that values were lowest in the intra-testicular arteries. Notably, values of PSV, EDV, RI and PI were significantly lower (p < 0.05) in pre-pubertal dogs compared with post-pubertal dogs. This study demonstrated important regional and pubertal differences in testicular artery blood flow of dogs, and form the basis for establishing baseline reference values that may be employed for the purposes of clinical diagnosis.

Olive mill wastewaters (OMWWs) are an environmental problem in the Mediterranean region, and it is crucial to explore strategies for their treatment and repurposing. The chemical precipitation technique (CPT) has been presented as a cost-effective wastewater treatment solution that might be applied to OMWW. The CPT-resulting precipitant subproducts (sludge) may be reprocessed (e.g., agricultural fertilizer and/or soil amendment), while the treated wastewater may be repurposed or reused (e.g., irrigation, aquaponic, or industrial processes). This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of CPT in treating wastewater from the olive oil industry from an ecotoxicological perspective. Additionally, to assess the safe use of the obtained sludge in CPT treatment, its effects on soil biota were assessed. For this, a set of ecotoxicological assays using freshwater (Raphidocelis subcapitata, Daphnia magna and Danio rerio), terrestrial invertebrates (Folsomia candida and Enchytraeus crypticus), and plants (Brassica oleracea and Lolium perenne) were used as model organisms. Results demonstrated that CPT reduced OMWW toxicity to freshwater organisms, offering a favorable outlook on CPT’s potential as a wastewater treatment method. Increasing application rates of sludge in soil reduced the shoot biomass and the hydric content of both plants compared to the control. Survival of F. candida and E. crypticus was not affected by sludge in soil at any tested application rate, yet sludge application negatively affected the reproduction of both species, even at relevant sludge application rates (2%) of sludge in soils. Overall, the applicability of this sludge obtained by the CPT treatment in soils should be carefully evaluated due to the observed adverse effects on soil biota. Although the results of CPT were promising in reducing the toxicity of OMWW for these aquatic species, some adjustments/improvements should be performed to improve this technique and use all the obtained resources (treated water and sludge) in a fully circular perspective.

This BugBook article provides an overview of edible insect toxicological concerns, focusing on exposure routes, mechanisms of toxicity, and assessment endpoints relevant to human and environmental health. Insects are exposed to contaminants through dermal, oral, injection, and inhalation routes. This article explores key toxicity mechanisms, including neurotoxicity, endocrine disruption, oxidative stress, and immune suppression, emphasising their implications for toxicity in insects. Methodological approaches to assess the toxicity of contaminants, such as topical application, dietary exposures, bioaccumulation assays, and advanced modelling techniques, are discussed, highlighting their adaptability for edible insect species. Standardised protocols, such as those from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO), are presented whenever possible (excluding bees). Data analyses, interpretation, and modelling are briefly summarised, along with examples and case studies that highlight the relevance of toxicity testing for ensuring food safety, regulatory compliance, and sustainable insect farming practices. Bioaccumulation studies using toxicokinetics modelling reveal insights into contaminant uptake and elimination in relevant edible insect species, supporting practical applications like depuration periods in rearing facilities. By addressing current gaps in methodologies and providing a roadmap for ecotoxicological research, this article aims to guide policymakers, researchers, and industry stakeholders in promoting safe and sustainable practices for the insect-based food and feed sector. The findings underscore the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in harmonising global standards, safeguarding public health, and advancing circular bioeconomy goals.