bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lumbosacral Plexus: A Histological Study
Authors: Ebraheim N.A. , Lu J. , Yang H. , Huntoon M. , Yeasting R.A.
Published: July 2008

Two hundred and forty histological paraffin sections were obtained from the midportion of the spinal nerve roots of 20 lumbosacral plexus (from L·4 to S3) bilaterally. All microscopic images were digitized using the NIH image software with a Nikon microscope and Sony videocamera. The total, fascicular as well as epineurial cross-sectional areas of the nerve roots in the lumbosacral plexus were determined. The total cross-sectional area of the lumbosacral trunk (LST) was the largest (28.56 ± 12.28 mm2) followed by the SI (21.97 ± 11.22 mm2) and L5 (21.00 ± 8.79 mm2) nerve roots. The total cross-sectional areas of the L4 (6.93 ± 3.32 mm2), S2 (13.93 ± 5.86 mm2) and S3 (6.03 ± 3.74 mm2) were significantly lower. Statistical differences were found among all absolute values at different levels (p < 0.0001) with the exception of the levels between L4 and S3, L5 and SI, and LST and SI (p > 0.05). The total areas occupied by the fascicles in L5 (7.78 ± 3.26 mm2), LST (9.97 ± 4.01 mm2) and SI (8.55 ± 3.27 mm2) nerve roots were greater than those in L4 (2.96 ± 1.50 mm2), S2 (5.56 ± 2.34 mm2) and S3 (2.28 ± 1.14 mm2). However, the percentages of the total cross-sectional areas occupied by the fascicles in the L5 nerve root (38%) and LST (36.4%) were smaller compared to other nerve roots (44.9% at L4, 40.5% at SI, 40.8% at S2 and 41.6% at S3). The cross-sectional areas and percentages of the epineurium were greater in L5 (13.22 ± 6.48 mm2, 62.0%), LST (18.58 + 9.31 mm2, 63,6%) and SI (13.42 + 8.88 mm2, 59.5%) roots. The L5 (12.1 ± 5.0), LST (27.5 ± 11.4) and SI (15.0 ± 7.3) roots contained more fascicles than L4 (6.3 ± 3.3), S2 (9.5 ± 4.1) and S3 (7.1 ± 2.7). Statistical differences were found among all absolute values at different levels (p < 0.0001) with the exception of the levels between L4 and S3, L5 and SI and LST and S1 (p > 0.05). No statistical differences were found for percentages among different levels (p > 0.05) with the exception of the levels between L4 and L5, L4 and LST, LST and SI, LST and S2, and LST and S3 (p < 0.05). The histological structure of nerve roots of the lumbosacral plexus is identical to that of the peripheral nerve. The midportions of L5 and SI roots and the LST have a relatively higher epineurial content. These nerve roots also have a greater number of the fasicles, but the total cross-sectional area occupied by the fascicles is less than in L4, S2 and S3 nerve roots.
A Fifth Pharyngeal Arch Artery Does Not Exist in Rat
Authors: Knackstedt T. , Mangold U.
Published: July 2008

The development of the caudal pharyngeal arch arteries was studied in perfused rat embryos in the interval of embryonic day 12½to embryonic day 13¾ using semithin serial sections and computer-aided 3-dimensional reconstructions. The fourth pharyngeal arch artery was already developed at embryonic day 12½. The sixth developed from cystic enlarged vascular sprouts at embryonic day 13¾. A real fifth pharyngeal arch artery was not found between the fourth and sixth artery. Instead a vascular plexus was present at embryonic day 12½which was interposed between the epithelial sheets of the fourth pharyngeal pouch and the lower cervical sinus. At the onset of development this plexus arose ventrally and dorsally from the fourth pharyngeal arch artery only. Subsequent to the development of the sixth pharyngeal arch artery, vascular branches arose ventrally and dorsally from this artery, too. The plexus underwent incipient involution from embryonic day 13¼. It arose either from the fourth or the sixth pharyngeal arch artery only from embryonic day 13¾. It drained to the venous system. Branches of the plexus which ran towards the epithelial sheet of the lower cervical sinus became prominent.
Development of Lung, Kidney and Skin in the Brushtail Possum, Trichosurus vulpecula
Authors: Buaboocha W. , Gemmell R.T.
Published: July 2008

The thyroid gland is not present at birth in marsupials and thyroid function begins during the latter half of pouch life. The hormonal output of the thyroid gland is important for normal development. In this study the structure of the lung, kidney and skin of the developing possum was examined and the structural development of these three organs was described. The lung of the newborn brushtail possum was functional and continued to develop during pouch life, alveolar formation beginning at day 39 and concluding at day 113 postpartum. The mesonephric kidneys of the newborn possum degenerated and were replaced by the metanephric kidneys, the nephrogenic zone of the metanephric kidney being present from 35 to 96 days postpartum. No new nephrons were formed after day 96. After the completion of nephrogenesis, the kidney increases in size through glomerular and tubular growth. The sequence of steps in the development of the possum skin was identical to that observed in other marsupials. The epidermis of the possum was thickest at 60 µm on about day 28 postpartum and as development proceeded the epidermis gradually decreased in thickness. A sparse number of primordia of hair follicles were observed at day 10 and the possum had a good covering of hair by day 129 postpartum. Correlation between the development of the lung, kidney and skin with the previously published plasma thyroxine concentration in the young possum suggests that thyroxine from the mother and from the young is important in the development of these three organs.
Accessory Extensor carpi radialis Muscle and Interconnecting Muscular Bundle
Authors: Gümüşalan Y. , Kalaycıoğlu A. , Yazar F. , Arifoğlu Y. , Sinav A.
Published: July 2008

An accessory muscle and a muscular bundle were found and prepared in both forearms of a 55-year-old male cadaver. On the left side, the accessory muscle originated from the medial aspect of the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) muscle, coursed downwards, crossed posterior to the tendon of ECRB, passed through the second chamber of the extensor retinaculum and inserted into the base of second metacarpal bone. Additionally, a muscular bundle was observed between the extensor carpi radialis longus (ECRL) and ECRB muscles. On the right side, both ECRL and ECRB had bifid tendons. The long and thin additional tendon of ECRL coursed downwards and joined the accessory tendon of the ECRB before entering the second chamber of the extensor retinaculum and the common tendon inserted into the base of the second metacarpal bone.
Appearance of Complex Branched Muscle Fibers Is Associated with a Shift to Slow Muscle Characteristics
Authors: Tamaki T. , Akatsuka A. , Uchiyama S. , Uchiyama Y. , Shiraishi T.
Published: July 2008

To examine the effects of numerous complex branched fibers (CBF) on whole muscle contractile properties, we established a model of myopathic muscles containing a large number of CBF by repeated local injection of bupivacaine hydrochloride (Marcaine) into the plantaris (PLA) muscle. Marcaine injections were administered once weekly for 10 weeks into the right PLA muscles of Wistar male rats. The in situ contractile properties of Marcaine-injected PLA muscles (I-PLA) were examined under urethane anesthesia, and compared with the contralateral (control) PLA muscle (C-PLA). Numerical and morphological examination using the modified nitric acid fiber digestion method and scanning electron microscopy showed that Marcaine resulted in an 8-fold increase in the number of branched fibers in the I-PLA muscles and about 70% of these fibers were CBF. The latter were composed of ten or more muscle fibers fused together along with many thin and thick, long and short daughter branches. The time to peak tension of twitch and tetanus, and 1/2 relaxation time were significantly longer in I-PLA muscles, representing a shift to slow muscle characteristics. However, the total area of slow fibers/muscle cross-sectional area was similar in I-PLA and C-PLA muscles. Aggregates of same-type fibers (slow fibers) with small and large diameters were observed, reflecting an expected cross-sectional property of CBF. Our results suggest that the appearance of several CBF in a muscle is associated with a shift towards slower contractile properties in the affected muscle.
Architecture and the Division of Labor in the Extensor carpi radialis Muscle of Horses
Authors: Hermanson J.W.
Published: July 2008

The extensor carpi radialis muscle of the horse is deceptive at first appearance. It has a fusiform shape similar to other forearm extensor muscles. The fiber arrangement also appears long and relatively parallel. However, it may contain two or more compartments that correlate with differing functional roles. Histochemical and immunocytochemical analysis of proximal and distal regions of the muscle (n = 9) demonstrate that the proximal portion of the muscle is composed of a mean of 13% type I, presumed slow twitch, and 61% type lib, presumed fast twitch fibers. In contrast, the distal compartment is composed of a mean of about 43% type I and only 22% type lib fibers. The type I and IIa fibers are all highly aerobic based on nicotinamide dinucleotide tetrazolium reductase reactions. Correlative data regarding the myosin isoforms has been obtained with 4% SDS-PAGE analysis of myosin heavy chain isoforms which demonstrate isoforms migrating at rates similar to rat type I, IIa, and IIx. The latter has been referred to as type IIB/X in a study of the horse’s gluteus medius muscle. We propose that the in-series ‘compartmentalization’ of the muscle, while not conforming strictly to the definitions of neuromuscular compartments, relates to the insertion of the lacertus fibrosus, a distal slip of the biceps brachii, upon the extensor carpi radialis. Earlier studies demonstrated a high proportion of type I fibers in the equine lateral biceps brachii which were thought to stabilize the shoulder during long periods of quiet standing. Because of action imposed on the distal compartment by the biceps brachii, slow and fatigue-resistant functions are part of the limb’s passive stay apparatus to effect long-term standing by the horse. Thus, the fatigue-resistant compartments of biceps brachii and extensor carpi radialis may constitute an in-series arrangement of the two muscles. The proximal compartment is suited to provide powerful, more fatigable contractions during locomotion and likely affects stress or strain within the distal postural compartment.
Platelet-Derived Growth Factor-Receptor-β in Pig and Cattle Blastocysts
Authors: Kim E. , Fischer B.
Published: July 2008

Presence and localization of the platelet-derived growth factor-receptor-β (PDGF-Rβ) was investigated in preimplantation bovine and porcine embryos. Blastocyst stages before and at the time of elongation were chosen, i.e. 9- to 13-day-old pig blastocysts and 14- to 16-day-old cattle blastocysts. Immunohistochemistry was carried out with monoclonal antibodies directed against the β-chain of the PDGF receptor. Staining was examined by light microscopy. PDGF-Rβ was found in all cell types of the investigated stages in both species. Staining was mainly cytoplasmatically with cell membranes most likely being positive as well. Staining was very constant in all the stages and cell types investigated, except for mesoderm cells and for trophoblast cells adjacent to the embryoblast in some pig embryos. Because PDGF-Rβ is almost constitutively expressed in all cell types of bovine and porcine blastocysts, it is likely that PDGF participates in cellular differentiation and blastocyst elongation preceding implantation in these species.
Autonomic Innervation of the Bovine Testis
Authors: Wrobel K.-H. , Abu-Ghali N.
Published: July 2008

The autonomic nerve supply of the bovine testis is investigated in animals of different ages by means of immunohistochemistry. Staining with antiserum to protein gene product 9.5 gives the most complete results for the study of the general innervation pattern. Autonomic nerves reach the testis by three different routes: with the blood vessels of the spermatic cord (funicular nervous contribution), by the mesorchium (mesorchial nervous contribution) and by the ligamentous bridge between epididymal tail and testis (caudal nervous contribution). The vessels of the spermatic cord are densely innervated. The large vessels of the vascular layer within the tunica albuginea display a discontinuous innervation pattern. In the interior of the testis, the caudal half of the gonad is completely free of any innervation. Slight differences in arrangement and fiber composition of testicular nerves in calves and bulls point to a reduction of the innervation with advancing age. The vast majority of bovine testicular nerves are dopamine-β-hydroxylase-positive postganglionic sympathetic axons with vasomotor function. There is no evidence for a cholinergic innervation of the bovine testis. About half of the bovine testicular nerves are neuropeptide Y-immunoreactive. In the adult, solitary calcitonin gene-related peptide-immunoreactive fibers are the only ones independent of blood vessels. The absence of an innervation in the caudal half of the testis underlines the importance of local factors and blood-borne substances for the regulation of intratesticular blood flow in the bovine.
Congenital Tibial Aplasia with Preaxial Polydactyly
Authors: Rodríguez-Baeza A. , Minguella J. , Soldado F. , Ortega M. , Escolà J.
Published: July 2008

An anatomical study of a left lower limb with congenital tibial aplasia and preaxial polydactyly amputated at 10 months of age was carried out. The tibia was replaced by a fibrous band (a band of connective tissue) and there were four cuneiforms, six metatarsal bones and seven toes. The second metatarsal bone showed characteristics of the hallux. An intermuscular septum which showed an orifice for the anterior tibial artery was found on the medial side of the leg and foot. All the muscles of the leg and foot were present except for the tibialis posterior muscle, which was replaced by two atypical muscles. No muscular attachments reached the fibrous band. Several intertendinous connection bands were found. Also, an accessory muscular belly split from the tibialis anterior tendon and attached to the common flexor tendinous sheet of the foot. An unusual motor branch of the deep peroneal nerve ran togther with this belly to supply the intrinsic muscles of the hallux. We also observed other minor anomalies of the nerve pattern. The arterial pattern was complete, except for some arteries which showed both an anomalous origin and course. The findings of this study suggest that the development of the skeletal elements plays an important role in the differentiation of the muscles, tendons, arteries and nerves. We postulate that a dysmorphogenic event involving the development of the tibial field of the limb could give rise to both defective histodifferentiation of the tibia and defective programmed cell death in the pre-hallucial anlage. These anomalies would determine secondary adaptations of muscles, tendons, vessels and nerves of the limb.
Nutritional and Functional Blood Vessels of Anagen and Telogen Vibrissal Follicles in the Cat
Authors: Godynicki S. , Gasse H. , Schwarz R. , Wenthe M.
Published: July 2008

The nutritional blood vessel system in the anagen (growing) vibrissal follicle consists of a rete capillare papillae pili, rete capillare bulbi pili, rete capillare folliculi pili, and rete capillare canalis pili. Due to degeneration of papilla and bulb during the sinus hair cycle, the basal capillary networks are absent in the telogen (resting) vibrissal follicle. Thus, nonpermanent and permanent capillary networks have to be distinguished. A functional blood vessel system originates from arterioles that enter the sinus cavernosus at its basolateral side. Blood flow continues into the sinus anularis. Efferent capillaries, originating from the apical-axial area of the sinus anularis, build up a separate network for the collection of blood from the sinuses. These capillaries continue towards the dermis, contribute to the nutritional vascularization of the sebaceous gland, and finally connect with the subepidermal capillary loops.
Morphometric Analysis of Satellite Cells in Rat Skeletal Muscles: Soleus and Extensor digitorum longus
Authors: Barańska W. , Baran W. , Skopiński P. , Ziemba H.
Published: July 2008

Satellite cells (SC) are present in all types of skeletal muscles. They can exhibit DNA replication and mitotic divisions throughout their life. Depending on the kind of muscle, a different number of SC is present. The aim of this study was to establish whether the differences in muscle metabolism are reflected in the quantitative ultrastructural evaluation of their SC. Two skeletal muscles of rats, soleus (SOL) with predominant slow fibers and extensor digitorum longus (EDL) with predominant fast ones, were studied. Morphometric analysis was performed according to the modified method of Weibel [Stereological Methods, vol 1: Practical Methods for Biological Morphometry. London, Academic Press, 1979]. In the SC of EDL mitochondria, rough endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus were less frequent as compared with the SOL. The volume fractions of these organelles were much higher in SC of SOL than in EDL. The ribosomes and polyribosomes were more densely packed in SC of SOL than in EDL. Ultrastructural morphometric evaluation demonstrated significant differences between the SC components of two different muscles: a slow (SOL) and a fast (EDL) one.
A Generic Morphological Model of a Muscle Group – Application to the Muscles of the Forearm
Authors: Leijnse J.N.A.L.
Published: July 2008

In the present paper some aspects of the morphology of muscles in muscle groups are investigated modelwise. The analysis is initiated by the observation that the skeletal surfaces of the body are too small to provide the origin area for all muscles, and that therefore they must be enlarged by aponeuroses of muscular origin. These aponeuroses provide flexible surfaces of origin which allow to adapt the individual muscle shape to the various spaces available in the body, and to optimize their configuration in muscle groups. The shape of these origin surfaces determines the shape of the muscles and of their end tendons; this relationship is closely investigated. The models are illustrated by dissection examples of the muscle groups at the elbow, and may find an application in the teaching of clinical anatomy.
Connections between the Tendons of the Musculus flexor digitorum profundus Involving the Synovial Sheaths in the Carpal Tunnel
Authors: Leijnse J.N.A.L. , Walbeehm E.T. , Sonneveld G.J. , Hovius S.E.R. , Kauer J.M.G.
Published: July 2008

In the carpal tunnel anatomical interconnections between the tendons of the musculus flexor digitorum profundus are systematically present. These interconnections limit the mutual tendon displacements, which decreases finger independence and may be problematic in a musician’s hand. The present study investigates a possible role of the synovial sheaths in the formation of these intertendinous connections in the carpal tunnel. To this end a morphological model is provided which correlates the often distinctly fibrous structure of the deep flexor tendons in the carpal tunnel and the frequent exchange of tendon fibres between the tendons to the different fingers, with the tendency of the synovial membranes to strongly adhere to the tendons. This model is validated by gross dissection results, and by cross sections of the flexor tendons in the carpal tunnel. In agreement with the model, the anatomic data show that the synovial membranes tend to invade and become trapped in tendons made up from individualised tendon strands, and also strongly adhere to the substantial amounts of tendon fibres which may be exchanged between the flexor tendons proximal to the lumbrical origins. These fibres and the synovial membranes may form a strong fabric able to withstand substantial stretching forces of interconnected oppositely pulled flexor tendons.
Initial Innervation of Embryonic Rat Tongue and Developing Taste Papillae: Nerves Follow Distinctive and Spatially Restricted Pathways
Authors: Mbiene J.-P. , Mistretta C.M.
Published: July 2008

The rat tongue has an extensive, complex innervation from four cranial nerves. However, the precise developmental time course and spatial routes of these nerves into the embryonic tongue are not known, although this knowledge is crucial for studying mechanisms that regulate development and innervation of the lingual taste organs, gustatory papillae and resident taste buds. We determined the initial spatial course of nerves in the developing tongue and papillae, and tested the hypothesis that sensory nerves first innervate the tongue homogeneously and then retract to more densely innervate papillae and taste buds. Antibodies to GAP-43 and neurofilaments were used to label nerve fibers in rat embryo heads from gestational day 11 through 16 (E11-E16). Serial sagittal sections were traced and reconstructed to follow paths of each nerve. In E11 rat, geniculate, trigeminal and petrosal ganglia were labeled and fibers left the ganglia and extended toward respective branchial arches. At E13 when the developing tongue is still a set of tissue swellings, the combined chorda/lingual, hypoglossal and petrosal nerves approached the lingual swellings from separate positions. Only the chorda/lingual entered the tongue base at this stage. At E14 and E15, the well-developed tongue was innervated by all four cranial nerves. However, the nerves maintained distinctive entry points and relatively restricted mesenchymal territories within the tongue, and did not follow one another in common early pathways. Furthermore, the chorda/lingual and glossopharyngeal nerves did not set up an obvious prepattern for gustatory papilla development, but rather seemed attracted to developing papillae which became very densely innervated compared to surrounding epithelium at El5. To effect this dense papilla innervation, sensory nerves did not first innervate the tongue in a homogeneous manner with subsequent retraction and/or extensive redirection of fibers into the taste organs. Results contribute to a set of working principles for development of tongue innervation. Points of entry and initial neural pathways are restricted from time of tongue formation through morphogenesis, suggesting distinctive lingual territories for each nerve. Thus, sensory and motor nerves distribute independently of each other, and sensory innervation to anterior and posterior tongue remains discrete. For taste organ innervation, gustatory papillae are not induced by a prepatterned nerve distribution. In fact, papillae might attract dense sensory innervation because neither chorda/lingual nor glossopharyngeal nerve grows homogeneously to the lingual epithelium and then redistributes to individual papillae.
Microvasculature of the Gastric Mucosa in Dogs
Authors: Martin-Alguacil N. , Gaspar-Simón I. , Martin R. , Gomez-García J. , Martín-Orti R.
Published: July 2008

A corrosion casting technique was used to study differences in the microvascular architecture of the pars cardiaca, the fundus ventriculi, the corpus ventriculi and the pars pylorica of the canine gastric mucosa. This technique revealed an unusual arrangement of the microvascular architecture in the nonglandular region surrounding the esophageal opening. Capillaries run tortuously along the mucosal surface parallel to the long axis of the esophagus, and some capillaries form a polygonal network that extends around the seromucous glands. In contrast, the mucosal capillaries of the glandular regions of the stomach are arranged in a symmetric pattern associated with the gastric glands. There are also differences in the mucosal microvessels of the cardiac and fundic areas compared to the corpus and the antrum. In the cardiac and fundic regions, a sparse microvascular pattern was observed and fewer capillaries drained into a single venule. However, the vessels surrounding the gastric glands in the corpus and antral areas drained into venules perpendicular to the hexagonal arrangement of the capillaries.
TSH Expression in Murine Hypophyseal Pars tuberalis-Specific Cells
Authors: Bockmann J. , Kreutz M.R. , Wittkowski W. , Böckers T.M.
Published: July 2008

Several experiments in photoperiod-dependent species suggest that the hypophyseal pars tuberalis (PT) plays a key role in transducing light/dark information to the endocrine system. In rat and hamster it has been shown that both TSH subunits (TSH-α and -β) are expressed in PT-specific cells, a morphologically distinct cell type which does not resemble thyrotropes of the pars distalis (PD). In order to investigate whether TSH expression is a characteristic and common feature of PT-specific cells we studied cellular morphology and TSH subunit expression in mouse pars tuberalis by electron microscopy, immunocytochemistry and in situ hybridization. In contrast to all other species investigated so far the number and size of secretory granules in mouse PT-specific cells is enlarged. As in rat and hamster, however, TSH subunit expression (mRNA and protein) was found in thyrotropes of the PD and throughout the whole extent of the PT cell layer. We conclude that although mouse PT-specific cells display an ultra-structural morphology that is different from other species, they are nevertheless characterized by TSH subunit expression. Further studies are needed to determine the physiological role of ‘PT-specific cell TSH’ and to elucidate whether TSH is the only PT-specific cell secretory product.
The Retrotransverse Foramen of the Human Atlas Vertebra
Authors: Le Minor J.M.
Published: July 2008

The occurrence of a retrotransverse foramen of the atlas has been investigated in a series of 409 nonhuman primates representative of 40 genera, and in a series of 500 human atlases (dried bones). In nonhuman primates, no retrotransverse foramen was found in any of the individuals studied. In humans, the retrotransverse foramen was observed in 71 cases (14.2%). It was present bilaterally in 21 cases (29.6% of the 71 foramina), and unilaterally in 50 cases (70.4%). The foramen was present in 44 cases on the right side, and 48 on the left side. The character was noted as present only if it was complete; partial forms were not recorded. Various aspects of the retrotransverse foramen were observed. The present observations suggest that the retrotransverse foramen is a uniquely derived trait (autapomorphy) within primates which is restricted to some individuals in Homo sapiens. Appearance of this foramen in human evolution can be related to the acquisition of the erect posture and bipedal locomotion, and consecutive modifications of the regional venous circulation.
The Guanylin and Uroguanylin Peptide Hormones and Their Receptors
Authors: Krause W.J. , London R.M. , Freeman R.H. , Forte L.R.
Published: July 2008

Guanylin and uroguanylin are newly discovered, related peptides that activate common guanylyl cyclase signaling molecules and via 3’,5’-guanosine cyclic monophosphate regulate the activity of a variety of tissues and organs. Additionally, the message for both peptides is expressed in a variety of tissues and organs, including the intestinal tract and kidney, and thus may serve as part of a functional endocrine axis linking these two major organ systems in fluid/volume homeostasis. This manuscript reviews the discovery and nature of the guanylin and uroguanylin peptides, their actions on the intestinal mucosa and kidney, the distribution and molecular biology of the guanylyl cyclase C receptor, and explores the future directions of this rapidly developing, expanding field of inquiry.
Mitochondrial Density of Ventral Horn Neurons in the Rat Spinal Cord
Authors: Ishihara A. , Hayashi S. , Roy R.R. , Tamada Y. , Yokoyama C. , Ohira Y. , Edgerton V.R. , Ibata Y.
Published: July 2008

Mitochondrial density in neurons of the dorsolateral region of the ventral horn at the L5 spinal cord segment in rats was examined using electron microscopy. The gamma motoneurons had a higher density of mitochondria (25.1 ± 4.2%, n = 19) in the cytoplasm compared to the alpha motoneurons which had a mitochondrial density of 19.4 ± 4.5% (n = 38). An inverse relationship between cell body size and mitochondrial density was found for alpha (n = 38) and alpha plus gamma (n = 57), but not for gamma (n = 19), motoneuron populations. The higher densities of mitochondria in the smaller neurons correspond well with their metabolic properties since the smaller neurons have the highest oxidative enzyme activities.
Postnatal Development of the Cruciate Ligament Insertions in the Rat Knee
Authors: Messner K.
Published: July 2008

The postnatal structural remodelling and calcification patterns in the insertions (entheses) of both cruciate ligaments were studied in a rat model with histology and immunohistochemical analysis of collagens types I and II. In the neonate, both ligaments which labelled only for type I collagen attached to epiphyseal cartilage which solely labelled for collagen type II. The entheses calcified between days 20 and 35, and a subchondral bone plate formed under the entheses between days 30 and 55. Thus, within a period of 35 days the tissue to which the ligaments attached increased multifold in stiffness. Interestingly, the process of enthesial calcification and formation of compact bone did not happen simultaneously in both ligaments, not even synchronous at both ends of the same ligament or within a single insertion. This asynchronous calcification of the different knee ligament insertions may make the sudden change in mechanical environment at the entheses less dramatic for the ligaments and knee joint surfaces as anticipated from mechanical models. In addition, a fibrocartilaginous tissue, rich in collagen type II, formed in the ligament at a time when the epiphyseal cartilage was replaced by bone, and grew wider with time. The interposition of a fibrocartilaginous zone in the insertion may diminish the sudden change in stiffness between ligament soft tissue and hard bone.
A Calculation of the Forces Acting on the Human Acetabulum during Walking
Authors: Wtte H. , Eckstein F. , Recknagel S.
Published: July 2008

Information about the loading of the human acetabulum during walking is necessary for a functional understanding of the morphology of the pelvic girdle and the hip joint as well as for the optimization of endoprosthetic therapy in osteo-arthritis. For this purpose, experimental data of the forces acting on the femur in walking taken from the literature [Bergmann et al.: J. Biomech. 1993;26: 969–990] were combined with our own kinematic and morphometric data, to transform the force vectors from the femoral into a pelvic and an acetabular frame. During the walking cycle, the resultant force vector takes a rather constant course relative to the pelvis and its orientation seems to be highly regulated to act within a small range of angles. Only small deviations occur from the angles against the vertical which the resultant peak force forms in the frontal plane (F=11°, medially orientated) and in the sagittal plane (S = 5°, ventrally orientated). The experimental results form the basis for a model of the incongruous hip joint as an elastic joint, the femoral head being centered between compliant elements.
A New Bulk Shallow-Cumulus Model and Implications for Penetrative Entrainment Feedback on Updraft Buoyancy
Authors: Bretherton Christopher S. , Park Sungsu
Published: July 2008

A new refinement of Albrecht et al.’s bulk model for shallow-cumulus convection is presented. It is used to illuminate fundamental aspects of oceanic shallow-cumulus boundary layer structure, including updraft buoyancy and vertical velocity scales, cumulus mass flux, temperature and humidity profiles, and trade-inversion height.

The new model, like Albrecht et al.’s, includes a subcloud mixed layer and a cumulus layer with linear gradients of conserved thermodynamic variables, topped by a sharp capping inversion. Albrecht et al.’s model was not mathematically well posed, leading to an inconsistency between its heat and moisture balances at the inversion base. The new bulk model resolves this problem by diagnosing, rather than prognosing, the cumulus-layer gradients and introducing a penetrative entrainment closure to determine the growth of the cumulus layer into the overlying free troposphere. It uses more realistic assumptions about lateral cumulus entrainment and detrainment and a simplified sub-cloud-layer entrainment closure. When applied to a Barbados Oceanographic and Meteorological Experiment (BOMEX) trade-cumulus case, the steady state and the transient response of the bulk model to a sudden increase in sea surface temperature both compare favorably to a large-eddy simulation (LES).

The new closure shows that penetrative entrainment constantly adjusts the cumulus-layer temperature and moisture profiles to keep the updraft buoyancy and vertical velocity small in inverse proportion to a penetrative entrainment efficiency A, estimated to be 5 from LES. Energy-balance arguments provide a skillful prediction of the steady-state bulk-model trade-inversion height. They also show that penetrative entrainment is driven by destabilization of the cumulus layer by radiative cooling and Lagrangian surface temperature increases.
Stratified Turbulence: A Possible Interpretation of Some Geophysical Turbulence Measurements
Authors: Riley James J. , Lindborg Erik
Published: July 2008

Several existing sets of smaller-scale ocean and atmospheric data appear to display Kolmogorov–Obukov–Corrsin inertial ranges in horizontal spectra for length scales up to at least a few hundred meters. It is argued here that these data are inconsistent with the assumptions for these inertial range theories. Instead, it is hypothesized that the dynamics of stratified turbulence explain these data. If valid, these dynamics may also explain the behavior of strongly stratified flows in similar dynamic ranges of other geophysical flows.
A Bulk Parameterization of Giant CCN
Authors: Mechem David B. , Kogan Yefim L.
Published: July 2008

A parameterization for giant cloud condensation nuclei (GCCN), suitable for use in bulk microphysical models, has been developed that uses precise representations of the condensational growth of aerosol particles in the subcloud layer. The formulation employs an observationally based GCCN distribution function and directly observable parameters of GCCN, such as concentration and the shape of the aerosol spectra. The parameterization couples naturally to parameterizations of sea salt flux from the ocean surface. The behavior of the GCCN parameterization in a large eddy simulation (LES) framework is consistent with simulations employing explicit, size-resolving microphysical methods. The parameterization properly represents the sensitivity of cloud, drizzle, turbulence, and radiative properties to changes in GCCN concentration for polluted and clean background CCN environments.
Wind–Evaporation Feedback and Abrupt Seasonal Transitions of Weak, Axisymmetric Hadley Circulations
Authors: Boos William R. , Emanuel Kerry A.
Published: July 2008

For an imposed thermal forcing localized off the equator, it is known that conservation of absolute angular momentum in axisymmetric flow produces a nonlinear response once the forcing exceeds a critical amplitude. It is shown here that, for a moist atmosphere in convective quasi-equilibrium, the combination of wind-dependent ocean surface enthalpy fluxes and zonal momentum advection can provide a separate feedback that causes the meridional flow to evolve nonlinearly as a function of a sea surface temperature (SST) forcing, even if an angular momentum–conserving response is not achieved. This wind–evaporation feedback is examined in both an axisymmetric primitive equation model and a simple model that retains only a barotropic and single baroclinic mode. Only SST forcings that do not produce an angular momentum–conserving response are examined here. The wind–evaporation feedback is found to be inhibited in models with linear dynamics because the barotropic component of the Hadley circulation, which is coupled to the baroclinic circulation via surface drag, keeps surface winds small compared to upper-level winds. In models with nonlinear dynamics, the convergence of zonal momentum into the ascending branch of the cross-equatorial Hadley cell can create barotropic westerlies that constructively add to the baroclinic wind at the surface, thereby eliminating the inhibition of the wind–evaporation feedback. The possible relevance of these results to the onset of monsoons is discussed.
Influenza and RSV among returning travellers
Authors: Rashid H. , Shafi S. , Haworth E. , El Bashir H. , Booy R.
Published: July 2008

Annually about 45,000 European Muslims attend the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. One in seven pilgrims with respiratory symptoms suffers from proven influenza and upwards of one in 25 from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) (Rashid et al, 2008). To investigate whether travellers bring these infections back home we conducted a pilot survey on pilgrims with flulike illness who returned home after the Hajj 2005 by setting up clinics at two UK mosques. The East London and the Aylesbury mosques situated in London and in Buckinghamshire were chosen to represent dense and moderately dense Muslim populations respectively.
Infection control team workforce project
Authors: Barrett C. , Hilder D. , Prieto J.
Published: July 2008

Many features of the NHS conspire to make workforce planning different and difficult. It is often integrated with other planning processes. There are few available guidelines for workforce configurations of infection control (IC) teams or evidence that assesses the effectiveness of different staffing configurations. A telephone survey of IC practice in four NHS trusts in England was undertaken to assist an NHS foundation trust to evaluate the workforce options for reconfiguring their IC team. The calls were semi-structured, recorded qualitative data and lasted 30-40 minutes. The thematic analysis revealed three IC themes: working practices, workforce profiles and governance issues, and suggested that multi-disciplinary, hospital-based IC teams have a strategic approach to engagement with clinical areas. The background, purpose and findings of the survey are reported and the implications for the future evidence base of IC practice.
A Bayesian analysis of relative cancer survival with geoadditive models
Authors: Hennerfeind Andrea , Held Leonhard , Sauleau Erik A
Published: July 2008

In this paper, we develop a so-called relative survival analysis that is used to model the excess risk of a certain sub-population relative to the natural mortality risk which is present in the whole population. Such models are typically used in population-based studies that aim at identifying prognostic factors for disease-specific mortality, with data on specific causes of death not being available. This paper combines relative survival with Bayesian geoadditive regression allowing for a flexible semiparametric analysis. Our work has been motivated by continuous-time spatially referenced survival data on breast cancer where causes of death are not known. A detailed analysis of these data is given. The usefulness of the approach is further illustrated by means of a simulated data set.
An Alternative Method to Fabricate Metal Nanohole Arrays
Authors: Chen Shuoshuo , Ling Zhiyuan , Li Yi , Wang Jinchi
Published: July 2008

A new replication method was developed to produce metal nanohole arrays with highly ordered honeycomb-like structure. In this process, porous anodic alumina was used as template; hot-press and electroless plating techniques were introduced to fabricate polycarbonate nanopillar arrays and Ni metal nanohole arrays, separately. With this method, metal nanohole arrays with precise replication of the porous anodic alumina can be fabricated on a large scale simply and rapidly.
Water-soluble Porphyrin Easily Derived from Tetraphenylporphyrin: Alkyloxo(methoxo)porphyrinatoantimony Bromides
Authors: Matsumoto Jin , Shiragami Tsutomu , Yasuda Masahide
Published: July 2008

In order to develop water-soluble porphyrins, alkyloxo(methoxo)porphyrinatoantimony bromides (alkyl = decyl, dodecyl, and octadecyl) were prepared. These complexes have more than 200 mg/100 g of solubility in aqueous solution. From the analysis of absorption spectra and surface tension, it was elucidated that the porphyrin complexes are present as aggregates in aqueous solution.
Ceramium periconicum sp. nov. (Ceramiaceae, Rhodophyta): a new subtidal species from Baja California Sur, Mexico
Authors: Cho Tae Oh , Riosmena-Rodriguez Rafael
Published: July 2008

Ceramium periconicum sp. nov. is described from Baja California Sur, Mexico based on the developmental morphology of vegetative and reproductive plants. The new species is characterized by 4–5 periaxial cells, three cortical initials per periaxial cell (a third of which are produced by vertical division and situated between adjacent periaxial cells), absence of basipetal cortical filaments, and by projecting tetrahedral tetrasporangia in seriate series in an abaxial row. Thalli are less than 3 mm tall and occur in dense tufts. C. periconicum differs from most incompletely corticated Ceramium species in that each periaxial cell divides to produce three cortical initials. Within the genus, three cortical initials per periaxial cell have been reported in C. codii and C. reptans. C. periconicum differs from these species in that two cortical initials are directed acropetally and the third is directed laterally, having been cut off vertically from the periaxial cell and maturing without further divisions between the two adjacent periaxial cells. C. periconicum is also distinguishable from other Ceramium species, such as C. australe, C. clarionense, C. macilentum, C. shepherdii, C. caudatum, C. mazatlanense, and C. personatum by the absence of basipetal cortical filaments and by the sequential production of tetrasporangia from the abaxial sides of fertile axes.
Structural characterization of milled wood lignins from different eucalypt species
Authors: Rencoret Jorge , Marques Gisela , Gutiérrez Ana , Ibarra David , Li Jiebing , Gellerstedt Göran , Santos J. Ignacio , Jiménez-Barbero Jesús , Martínez Ángel T. , del Río José C.
Published: July 2008

The chemical structure of milled-wood lignins fromEucalyptus globulus,E. nitens,E. maidenii,E. grandis, andE. dunniiwas investigated. The lignins were characterized by analytical pyrolysis, thioacidolysis, and 2D-NMR that confirmed the predominance of syringyl over guaiacyl units and only showed traces ofp-hydroxyphenyl units.E. globuluslignin had the highest syringyl content. The heteronuclear single quantum correlation (HSQC) NMR spectra yielded information about relative abundances of inter-unit linkages in the whole polymer. All the lignins showed a predominance of β-O-4′ ether linkages (66–72% of total side-chains), followed by β-β′ resinol-type linkages (16–19%) and lower amounts of β-5′ phenylcoumaran-type (3–7%) and β-1′ spirodienone-type linkages (1–4%). The analysis of desulfurated thioacidolysis dimers provided additional information on the relative abundances of the various carbon-carbon and diaryl ether bonds, and the type of units (syringyl or guaiacyl) involved in each of the above linkage types. Interestingly, 93–94% of the total β-β′ dimers included two syringyl units indicating that most of the β-β′ substructures identified in the HSQC spectra were of the syringaresinol type. Moreover, three isomers of a major trimeric compound were found which were tentatively identified as arising from a β-β′ syringaresinol substructure attached to a guaiacyl unit through a 4-O-5′ linkage.
Latitudinal Influence on First-Year Growth and Survival of Largemouth Bass
Authors: Slaughter Joe E. , Wright Russell A. , DeVries Dennis R.
Published: July 2008

We examined the effects of latitude of origin on the first-year growth and survival of largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides. We brought largemouth bass from three latitudinally disparate populations (northern largemouth bass M. s. salmoides from south-central Wisconsin; Florida largemouth bass M. s. floridanus, originally from central Florida but currently stocked throughout Alabama; and native northern largemouth bass from southern Alabama) to a common rearing environment to compare their age-0 growth over two replicate growing seasons. During 1999, the northern subspecies from Wisconsin grew faster than the northern or Florida subspecies from Alabama. However, in 2000 the Florida subspecies grew faster than the age-0 fish from either northern subspecies population. Our results indicate that the effects of prey availability and age-0 density can overwhelm any predisposition for growth based on latitudinal or genetic origin. Given concerns about the genetic consequences of largemouth bass stockings, the lack of any consistent growth advantage in the first year represents an important piece of information to be taken into account when deciding about stocking nonnative subspecies of largemouth bass.
Lake Trout Population Dynamics at Drummond Island Refuge in Lake Huron: Implications for Future Rehabilitation
Authors: Madenjian Charles P. , Ebener Mark P. , Desorcie Timothy J.
Published: July 2008

The Drummond Island Refuge (DIR) was established in 1985 as part of the rehabilitation effort for lake trout Salvelinus namaycush in Lake Huron. Since then, several strains of hatchery-reared lake trout have been stocked annually at the DIR. An intensive lampricide treatment of the St. Marys River during 1998–2001 was expected to lower the abundance of sea lamprey Petromyzon marinus within the DIR by 2000. We conducted annual gill-net surveys during spring and fall to evaluate the performance of each of the strains of lake trout as well as that of the entire lake trout population (all strains pooled) in the DIR during 1991–2005. The criteria to evaluate performance included the proportion of “wild” fish within the population, spawner density, adult survival, growth, maturity, and wounding rate by sea lampreys. Wild lake trout did not recruit to the adult population to any detectable degree. During 1991–2005, the average density of spawning lake trout appeared to be marginally sufficient to initiate a self-sustaining population. Survival of the Seneca Lake (SEN) strain of lake trout was significantly higher than that of the Superior–Marquette (SUP) strain, in part because of the higher sea-lamprey-induced mortality suffered by the SUP strain. However, other factors were also involved. Apparently SUP fish were more vulnerable to fishing conducted in waters near the refuge boundaries than SEN fish. The St. Marys River treatment appeared to be effective in reducing the sea lamprey wounding rate on SEN fish. We recommend that the stocking of SEN lake trout in the DIR, control of sea lampreys in the St. Marys River, and reduction of commercial fishery effort in waters near the DIR be maintained.
Ayyalonia dimentmani n. g., n. sp. (Ayyaloniini n. Trib., Chthoniidae, Pseudoscorpiones) from a cave in Israel
Authors: Curcic B.P.M.
Published: July 2008

A new eyeless troglobitic pseudoscorpion, Ayyalonia dimentmani n. g., n. sp., is described from inside karstic voids in Israel that form a completely isolated, old underground ecosystem with living populations of blind pseudoscorpions, crustaceans, collembolans, thysanurans and mites. The scorpions, of which only empty carcasses have been found may represent extinct derives or recently dead specimens belonging to an unknown population existing somewhere in the Ayyalon underground spaces. The pseudoscorpions analyzed prove to differ from all other pseudoscorpions and are placed in a new tribe, new genus, and a new species. The possibility is suggested that the subterranean false scorpions are relicts of an old circum-tropical pattern of distribution (either of early Miocene or late Mesozoic age and origin) that differs from the present Mediterranean location of Israel.