bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Induction of diaphorase‐1 by dicoumarol in Drosophila virilis larvae
Authors: Georgieva T. G. , Jankulova E. D. , Ralchev K. H. , Dunkov B. C.
Published: February 2005

Drosophila diaphorase‐1 (DIA‐1) is an enzyme similar to mammalian DT‐diaphorase and is inhibitied in vitro by dicoumarol. However, a ten‐fold increase in DIA‐1 activity was observed when third instar Drosophila virilis larvae were fed on a diet containing 0.1 M dicoumarol for 48 h. This induction was shown to be dose dependent and immunoprecipitation experiments with DIA‐1 antiserum demonstrated an increase in the DIA‐1 protein level in dicoumarol‐treated larvae. The induction of DIA1 by dicoumarol was found to be blocked by actinomycin D, which suggests a transcriptional mechanism of regulation. The opposite effect of dicoumarol on DIA‐1 in vitro vs. in vivo suggests that a metabolic conversion takes place after the ingestion of this compound by D. virilis larvae. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Antioxidant systems in insects
Authors: Felton Gary W. , Summers Clinton B.
Published: February 2005

Insects possess a suite of antioxidant enzymes and small molecular weight antioxidants that may form a concatenated response to an onslaught of dietary and endogenously produced oxidants. Antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione transferase, and glutathione reductase have been characterized in insects. Water‐soluble and lipid‐soluble antioxidants such as ascorbate, glutathione, tocopherols, and carotenoids have not been well studied in insects but may play very important antioxidant roles. Additionally, the peritrophic matrix and trehalose may possess important antioxidant functions in insects. The enzymatic recycling of ascorbate, first noted in green plants, may also exist in insects. A greater understanding of these antioxidant systems may provide greater understanding about the ecological relationships of insects with their hosts. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
An insect model for assessing oxidative stress related to arsenic toxicity
Authors: Zaman Khalequz , MacGill Randall S. , Johnson James E. , Ahmad Sami , Pardini Ronald S.
Published: February 2005

The potential usefulness of an insect model to evaluate oxidative stress induced by environmental pollutants was examined with trivalent arsenic (As3+, NaAsO2) and pentavalent arsenic (As5+, Na2HAsO4) in adult female house flies, Musca domestica, and fourth‐instar cabbage loopers, Trichoplusia ni. M. domestica was highly susceptible to both forms of arsenic following 48 h exposure in the drinking water with LC50s of 0.008 and 0.011% w/v for As3+ and As5+, respectively. T. ni larvae were susceptible to dietary As3+ with an LC50 of 0.032% w/w but seem to tolerate As5+ well with an LC50 of 0.794% concentration after 48 h exposure. The minimally acute LC5 dose of both As3+ and As5+ varied considerably but averaged 0.005% for both insects. The potential of both valencies of arsenic for inducing oxidative stress in the insects exposed ad libitum to approximately LC5 levels was assessed. The parameters examined were the alterations of the antioxidant enzyme activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione transferase (GST), the peroxidase activity of glutathione transferase (GSTPX), and glutathione reductase (GR), and increases in lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation. SOD (1.3‐fold), GST (1.6‐fold), and GR (1.5‐fold) were induced by As3+ in M. domestica but CAT and GSTPX were not affected. As5+ had no effect on M. domestica. In T. ni, the antioxidant enzyme activities were not affected by As3+ except for SOD which was suppressed by 29.4% and GST which was induced by 1.4‐fold. As5+ had no effect except the suppression of SOD by 41.2%. Lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation, which represent stronger indices of oxidative stress, were elevated in both insects by up to 2.9‐fold. However, based on the antioxidant enzyme response to the arsenic anions, the mode of action of arsenic induced oxidative stress may differ between the two insects. Until this aspect is further clarified, evidence at this time favors the prospect of As3+ as a pro‐oxidant, especially for M. domestica. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Identification, purification, and partial characterization of vitellin from the eggs of Eurygaster integriceps putton (heteroptera, pentatomidae)
Authors: Daskalova Sasha M.
Published: February 2005

A single vitellin was identified in the eggs of the wheat bug, Eurygaster integriceps, and purified by a two‐step procedure including ion exchange and gel permeation chromatography. Its nondenatured molecular mass is estimated to be 385 kDa. Under reducing conditions—SDS‐PAGE—the wheat bug vitellin gives five polypeptides at 110 kDa, 80 kDa, 69 kDa, 53 kDa, and 38 kDa. Its amino acid composition is characterized by high content of aspartic acid/asparagine and glutamic acid/glutamine and low content of methionine and histidine. The lipid moiety (5.65% by weight) includes diacylglycerols, cholesterol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylcholine, and sphingomyelin. Carbohydrate content amounts to 4.54% by weight. A part of the wheat bug vitellin is dimerized during the course of deposition into the yolk granules. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Characterization of oxidase(s) associated with the sex pheromone gland in Manduca sexta (L.) females
Authors: Fang Nianbai , Teal Peter E. A. , Tumlinson James H.
Published: February 2005

An oxidase that converts primary aliphatic alcohols into aldehydes was discovered in the cuticle of the sex pheromone gland and in the papillae anales on the tip of the abdomen of Manduca sexta females. Oxidase activity was not found in the epidermal cells of the pheromone gland where fatty acid precursors of the pheromonal aldehydes are found. This oxidase requires oxygen and water to function and appears to have a rather broad substrate specificity. The activity of the oxidase is reduced by the application of piperonyl butoxide, which also interferes with the PBAN induced production of the natural pheromone aldehydes. However, endogenous alcohols cannot be found in the pheromone gland. Thus, it is not yet clear whether or not the oxidase is involved in the terminal step of biosynthesis of the pheromone aldehydes in M. sexta females. © Wiley‐Liss, Inc.

This article is a U.S. Government work and, a such, is in the public domain in the United States of America.
Regulation of free arachidonic acid levels in isolated salivary glands from the lone star tick: A role for dopamine
Authors: Bowman Alan S. , Dillwith Jack W. , Madden Robin D. , Sauer John R.
Published: February 2005

An important regulatory step for prostaglandin synthesis is the availability of the precursor, free arachidonic acid (AA). In isolated salivary glands of the lone star tick, Amblyomma americanum (L.), the level of free AA appears to depend on higher phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activity rather than decreased rates of re‐esterification by lysophosphatide acyl transferase (LAT). This conclusion is supported by experiments where inhibition of LAT with merthiolate was without effect, while the calcium ionophore A23187, a PLA2 stimulant, increased levels of free AA. The PLA2 activity in A. americanum was reduced by the substrate analog, PLA2 inhibitor, oleyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine in a dose‐dependent manner, but was insensitive to the other mammalian PLA2 inhibitors mepacrine (20μM), aristolochic acid (45μM), and dexamethasone (50μM). No substrate preference was observed for the functional group of the phospholipid, with phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine being equal sources of AA in A23187‐stimulated glands. Compared to phospholipids containing other fatty acids, only arachidonyl‐phospholipid (arachidonyl‐PL) was significantly hydrolyzed by PLA2 activity in A23187‐stimulated glands. Dopamine was as effective as A23187 as a stimulant of PLA2 activity in isolated glands, but this effect was abolished in the presence of the calcium channel blocking agent verapamil. It is concluded that free AA levels in tick salivary glands are increased through activation of a Type IV‐like PLA2 following an increase of intracellular calcium caused by the opening of voltage‐dependent calcium channels due to dopamine stimulation. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hypolipemia, hypoglycemia, and inactivation of glycogen phosphorylase in Locusta migratoria
Authors: Siegert Karl J.
Published: February 2005

Feeding starved adult migratory locusts, Locusta migratoria, caused decreases of hemolymph lipid concentrations and of the percentage of active fat body glycogen phosphorylase which suggested that a molecule(s) from the neurosecretory system or the midgut may have been released to regulate metabolism. Fat body phosphorylase was also inactivated after insects were transferred from 0 to 25 ° C. In adults with elevated hemolymph lipid levels after the injection of small doses of corpus cardiacum extract (CC), feeding did not induce a decrease in hemolymph lipid concentrations. It appears that the processes initiated by feeding could not override the effects of the continued presence of adipokinetic hormone(s) (AKHs) in the hemolymph or their long‐term effects.

Aqueous, methanolic, or ethanolic extracts of brains or storage lobes (SL) of fed locust CC did not lead to decreases of hemolymph lipid concentrations. Bovine insulin was equally inactive when tested at doses which were previously reported to reduce lipid levels. Fractions of ethanolic brain extracts from 3‐day‐starved males collected after high‐performance size‐exclusion chromatography, however, produced hypoglycemic effects in fed males. Two biologically active fractions were found, one with high (≥ 10 kDa) and one with low molecular weight (approximately 1 kDa). © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Chemical basis of differential oviposition by lepidopterous insects
Authors: Honda Keiichi
Published: February 2005

Phytochemical mediators serving as attractants, repellents, stimulants, or deterrents in oviposition behavior of moths and butterflies are reviewed in regard to the chemical mechanism of host selection. Ovipositing females seem generally to utilize plant volatiles as cues for orientation to host plants, and the subsequent contact evaluation of plants by means of less‐ or non‐volatile secondary metabolites is usually of great significance in host recognition. Most lepidopterans appear to be induced to oviposit in response to a single host‐specific compound, while extreme synergism of multiple components features the stimulatory system of oviposition enacted by some butterflies. Recent investigations clearly demonstrate that acceptance or rejection of a particular plant by females is regulated not only by the presence or absence of oviposition stimulants but by negative stimuli evoked by co‐occurring deterrents. The epideictic pheromones implicated in host assessment by females are also referred to in this review. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Uptake of high‐density lipoprotein by Y‐organs of the crab, Cancer antennarius. I. characterization in vitro and effects of stimulators and inhibitors
Authors: Kang Byoung K. , Spaziani Eugene
Published: February 2005

Cholesterol is the obligate precursor for ecdysteroid hormone synthesis by the ecdysial glands (Y‐organs) in crustaceans, and all cholesterol in the hemolymph is bound to high‐density lipoprotein (HDL). The mechanism was studied of how Y‐organ cells acquire cholesterol. Y‐organ segments were incubated with HDL isolated from hemolymph and labeled with 125I. After incubation, tissue was homogenized in acid to determine radioactivity in acid‐precipitable (cell associated, intact) HDL and in acid‐soluble (degraded) HDL. Both HDL uptake and degradation showed saturation kinetics. At saturation most of the total counts represented degraded HDL; by 3 h, degradation was 80%. Rates of HDL uptake and breakdown were higher in Y‐organs from de‐eyestalked crabs (deprived thereby of molt‐inhibiting hormone, MIH) than in glands from intact crabs. Both parameters were depressed by inhibitors of glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation dose dependently and by low temperature. HDL uptake also was depressed by cAMP added to the medium experimentally or through efflux from the tissue during incubation. These results indicate a mechanism for HDL uptake that entails receptor‐mediated, energy‐dependent endocytosis of the entire HDL‐cholesterol complex. Also the results suggest that HDL uptake and degradation are mediated by cAMP and depressed by an eyestalk factor, presumably MIH. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Uptake of high‐density lipoprotein by Y‐organs of the crab, cancer antennarius. II. formal characterization of receptor‐mediation with isolated membranes
Authors: Kang Byoung K. , Spaziani Eugene
Published: February 2005

Y‐organs are the ecdysial glands of crustaceans, responsible for synthesis and secretion of ecdysteroid hormones. For this purpose, the glands acquire cholesterol as obligate precursor entirely from circulating high‐density lipoprotein (HDL). A preceding study provided evidence for the mechanism of acquisition: Y‐organs take up cholesterol bound to HDL by an energy‐requiring process, receptor‐mediated absorptive endocytosis. The present study characterized the receptors involved utilizing isolated Y‐organ membranes. HDL binding was saturable and specific; a dissociation constant (Kd) of 1.08 × 10−7 M and a binding maximum at equilibrium (Bmax) of 70 μg HDL protein/mg membrane protein, were obtained. Binding was decreased by protease and was dependent upon calcium. Y‐organs are regulated negatively by a peptide hormone from the eystalks, molt‐inhibiting hormone (MIH). Y‐organ membranes from de‐eyestalked crabs (MIH absent) exhibited the same Kd value as membranes from intact crabs, but a Bmax 17% higher. Thus, MIH activity apparently does not change the binding affinity of HDL, but decreases the number of binding sites. These results agree with our previous findings that MIH depresses ecdysteroid synthesis in part by inhibiting cholesterol uptake. Generally, Y‐organ cells appear to contain receptors for HDL that are of high affinity and high binding capacity, similar to the characteristics reported for the binding of insect HDL (vitellogenin) to fat bodies and oocytes. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Immunological studies on the developmental and chromosomal distribution of ecdysteroid receptor protein in Chironomus tentans
Authors: Wegmann Ines S. , Quack Stephanie , Spindler Klaus‐Dieter , Dorsch‐Häsler Karoline , Vögtli Martin , Lezzi Markus
Published: February 2005

Antisera were raised against different domains of a putative ecdysteroid receptor (cEcRH) of Chironomus tentans. All the antisera reacted with a 68,000 dalton protein exhibiting DNA binding properties. Additionally, we were able to demonstrate that the antisera immunoprecipitate protein which binds a radioactively labeled ecdysteroid (Ec), i.e., [3H]ponasterone A, with high specificity. These properties indicate that the antisera recognize specifically an endogenous ecdysteroid receptor protein (cEcR) in C. tentans cells and thus are suitable for the following quantitative and qualitative immunological and immunohistochemical investigations. The cellular level of cEcR varies during development, and it is particularly low in oligopausing larvae. In polytene chromosomes of prepupal salivary glands, cEcR is located at approximately 50 transcriptionally active loci. These loci include both early ecdysteroid (Ec)‐inducible puff sites, such as the locus containing the gene coding for the homolog of the E75 protein in Drosophila melanogaster, as well as late Ec‐inducible puff‐sites. The latter group comprises a locus of a gene specifying the homolog of the D. melanogaster ultraspiracle protein. However, loci of genes coding for salivary gland secretory proteins (e.g., Balbiani ring forming chromosome regions) do not specifically react with the antisera. Thus, the developmental regulation of these genes is not directly controlled by Ec. Polytene chromosomes of oligopausing larvae show hardly any loci that contain cEcR. The few detected correspond, with few exceptions, to the most potent cEcR binding sites found in prepupae. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
RNA polymerases and transcriptional activity of the fat body during the final larval instar of the tobacco hornworm Manduca sexta
Authors: Sridhara S.
Published: February 2005

The activities of RNA polymerases I and II in the fat body of the tobacco hornworm larva increased during feeding and then declined during wandering in the fifth instar (Sridhara and Gilbert, Dev Biol 45:7–21 [1975]). RNA polymerase II activity was much higher than that of RNA polymerase I. To determine how the differences in the activities of the two enzymes and their developmental changes correlate with changes in RNA and protein, the contents of these macromolecules were determined during the same period. RNA and protein increased by about 8 to 10‐fold during the feeding period. Activities of RNA polymerases I and II in nuclei, as well as those present in “free” (not transcribing) and “engaged” (transcribing) pools, were measured. Incorporation of labeled uridine into RNA by fat body cells in vitro was correlated to nuclear enzyme activities. The amounts of RNA polymerases I, II, and III were determined by the application of an ELISA with subunit‐specific monoclonal antibodies. Results showed that even though the in vitro activity of RNA polymerase II and its amounts are higher than those of RNA polymerase I and III, rRNA and tRNA syntheses predominated over mRNA synthesis in vivo. The activities and amounts of RNA polymerase II in the “free” pool were higher than those for RNA polymerase I. The “free” pools of the two enzymes increased as the larva progressed through the fifth instar. There appears to be little correlation between RNA polymerase activities and RNA synthesis during wandering, as RNA synthesis by the tissue and nuclear RNA polymerase activities declined faster than the amounts of the enzymes. The amount of RNA remained fairly steady during the same period. 20‐hydroxyecdysone did not affect either the RNA polymerase activities or RNA synthesis of the fat body cultured in vitro. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Corpora allata of the larval tobacco hornworm contain a calcium/calmodulin‐sensitive adenylyl cyclase
Authors: Granger Noelle A. , Allen L. Gregory , Sturgis Sheri L. , Combest Wendell , Ebersohl Richard
Published: February 2005

An assay was developed with which to study basic characteristics of an adenylyl cyclase in the corpora allata (CA) of the tobacco hornworm, Manduca sexta. The assay used glands collected and frozen at −80°C, to circumvent the problem of tissue availability. With this protocol for storage of tissue, less than 25% of the enzyme activity in fresh tissue was lost. Substances such as sodium fluoride (NaF) and Gpp(NH)p (a non‐hydrolyzable GTP analog), which typically stimulate the adenylyl cyclases in other insect tissues, increased enzyme activity several‐fold. There was a progressive decrease in the capacity of the CA adenylyl cyclase to be stimulated by NaF during the fifth stadium, suggesting a possible developmental change in the capacity of the associated G protein to be stimulated by NaF. The calcium/calmodulin (CaM) dependence of adenylyl cyclase activity was also investigated. The results demonstrated that addition of up to 10−4 M calcium to assays of enzyme activity in whole gland homogenates of both larval (day O) and prepupal (day 6) CA resulted in only a slight increase in the activity of the enzyme over basal rates in the presence of the calcium chelator EGTA. However, addition of as little as 5 m̈M CaM in the presence of 10−4 to 10−3 M calcium increased adenylyl cyclase activity three to five‐fold. A similar stimulation was obtained with washed membrane preparations of day 0 and day 6 glands, but required a substantially higher concentration of CaM. Results demonstrated that the CA possess a calcium/CaM‐dependent adenylyl cyclase from day 0 through day 6. A preliminary investigation of the effect of two biogenic amines on the CA adenylyl cyclase revealed that enzyme activity was not affected by octopamine, but a stage‐specific effect was obtained with dopamine. Concentrations of 10−6 and 10−7 M stimulated enzyme activity in hornogenates of day 0 glands but inhibited activity in homogenates of day 6 CA. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparison of ecdysteroid production in Drosophila and Manduca: Pharmacology and cross‐species neural reactivity
Authors: Henrich Vincent C.
Published: February 2005

In both Manduca sexta and Drosophila melanogaster, metamorphic events are driven by ecdysteroids whose production in prothoracic gland (PGs) is stimulated periodically by neural factors. Differences in the life cycle of moths and flies have made it difficult to compare the regulation of ecdysteroid biosynthesis in these two species.

As in Manduca, at least two neural factors in the larval Drosophila BVG complex were separable by molecular weight, and they stimulated increased ecdysteroid biosynthesis from the ring gland, a composite organ that includes PG cells. Drosophila neural extracts accelerated ecdysteroid biosynthesis in Manduca PGs and, conversely, partially purified Manduca PTTH preparations elevated ecdysteroid biosynthesis in Drosophila ring glands, suggesting that the two species may share structurally similar prothoracicotropic factors. Drosophila ring glands required the presence of calcium ions to respond to neural extracts, but the phosphodiesterase inhibitor MIX and cAMP analogues exerted little, if any, positive effect on production.

Mean ecdysteroid production rates of BVG‐ring gland complexes taken from Drosophila larvae during various phases of the wandering period were often submaximal and highly variable, suggesting that they fluctuate widely prior to pupariation. Based on available data in Drosophila and the Manduca model for the control of ecdysteroid biosynthesis, a developmental scheme for neuroendocrine control in Drosophila is proposed. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Characterization of the juvenile hormone epoxide hydrolase (JHEH) and juvenile hormone diol phosphotransferase (JHDPT) from Manduca sexta Malpighian tubules
Authors: Grieneisen Michael L. , Kieckbusch Travis D. , Mok Amy , Dorman György , Latli Bachir , Prestwich Glenn D. , Schooley David A.
Published: February 2005

Juvenile hormone epoxide hydrolase (JHEH) and juvenile hormone diol phosphotransferase (JHDPT) were characterized from the Malpighian tubules of day 1 fifth instar Manduca sexta. An improved RP‐HPLC assay is described for the major metabolites of (10R, 11S) juvenile hormone I: diol, acid, aciddiol, and diol‐phosphate. JHEH is strictly associated with membrane fractions, while JHDPT is cytosolic. JHEH may be solubilized in active form by the nonionic detergents Thesit or MEGA‐8. Separation of Malpighian tubule cytosol proteins using preparative isoelectric focusing yields two zones which contain JHDPT activity, at pl 4.8–5.1 and 6.8–8.2. The partially purified JHDPT from either zone requires both ATP and Mg2+ for activity, so this enzyme may be formally called either ATP:juvenile hormone diol phosphotransferase or juvenile hormone diol kinase (EC 2.1.7.3.). Metabolites more polar than JH I aciddiol and JH I diol‐phosphate are generated in vivo from either [3H]JH I or [3H]JH I diol. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Regulation and consequences of cellular changes in the prothoracic glands of Manduca sexta during the last larval instar: A review
Authors: Smith Wendy A.
Published: February 2005

The prothoracic glands of the tobacco hornworm, Manduca sexta, respond to prothoracicotropic hormone (PTTH) by a regulatory pathway involving cAMP, protein phosphorylation, protein synthesis, and enhanced secretion of ecdysteroids including ecdysone and 3‐dehydroecdysone. Recent investigations have revealed that PTTH acts by this general mechanism throughout the fifth larval instar, i.e., during the transition from larva to pupa. However, the glands undergo developmental changes in size, steroidogenic capacity, and in elements of the signalling pathway associated with synthesis, degradation, and intracellular action of cAMP. The present review describes such changes, and their possible regulation and consequences, in the general context of endocrine events underlying larval‐pupal metamorphosis during the fifth larval stage. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
PBAN‐induced sex pheromone biosynthesis in Heliothis peltigera: Structure, dose, and time dependent analysis
Authors: Altstein Miriam , Dunkelblum Ezra , Gabay Tal , Aziz Orna Ben , Schafler Irit , Gazit Yoav
Published: February 2005

A structure‐activity relationship study of Hez‐PBAN was performed with respect to its pheromonotropic activity, using Heliothis peltigera as the test animal. The activity of N‐ and C‐terminally derived sequences was examined in a time‐ and dose‐dependent mode. Using a variety of Hez‐PBAN‐derived fragments at two doses (1 and 10 pmol) and at different times post‐injection (5–120 min), we were able to demonstrate that peptides lacking 12 and 16 amino acids from their N‐terminus are as potent as the full length PBAN, and that the C‐terminally derived hexapeptide was capable of stimulating sex pheromone production to a similar extent as PBAN 1–33NH2, when its activity was analyzed at shorter post‐injection times. Within the C‐terminal sequence, the amide was found to play a crucial role. In addition, it was observed that the region between amino acids 9 and 13 is important for the biological activity of the full length PBAN. The fact that the pheromonotropic activity of the hexapeptide was similar to that of the full length PBAN, under specific conditions, suggests that this sequence constitutes the biologically active site of the neuropeptide. The discovery that PBAN‐derived peptides reacted in a time‐ and dose‐dependent mode, strengthens the assumption that proteolytic enzymes interfere with the pheromonotropic activity of the PBAN‐derived fragments. The ability of a variety of peptides to stimulate sex pheromone biosynthesis suggests two possible mechanisms: (1) Existence of multiple pheromonotropic mechanisms which may be mediated by multiple PBAN receptors that are activated at different kinetics; (2) Existence of only one mechanism mediated by short C‐terminally derived peptides. In the first case, the C‐terminally derived sequences fulfill the conformational requirement of only one class of receptors, and other regions in the PBAN molecule (e.g., 9–13) fulfill the conformational requirements of a second (or other) class of receptors. In the second case, the C‐terminally derived sequence is the only conformationally important sequence, and other sequences, which were found to be essential for the biological activity, serve other non‐conformational purposes (e.g., protection against proteolytic degradation). © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Surgical anatomy of hepatic venous system
Authors: Ger Ralph
Published: February 2005

Surgeons are comfortable with nearly all the intraabdominal structures except the liver. The reason for this is an unfamiliarity with the large intrahepatic venous structures. This arises because current educational methods, illustrations, and prepared casts are relatively unhelpful. The intrahepatic anatomy is best studied by specially prepared dissections that show the vascular structures, with their interrelationships, and the routes of access to these vessels. Forty formalin‐hardened livers were thus dissected. The fissures and portal and hepatic veins have been displayed to emphasize their relations to each other with a view to facilitating their exposure at surgery.
Microsurgical anatomy of the pituitary gland (hypophysis cerebri) and the sellar region. Part three: The meninges
Authors: Ouaknine Georges E. , Hardy Jules
Published: February 2005

The diaphragma sellae, the pituitary foramen, and the perisellar arachnoid were studied in cadaver sphenoid blocks. Special attention was paid to the dissection of the perforated arachnoid membrane (of Lilliequist). Results were compared with observations made during surgery and with data reported in the literature. The pathophysiology of the intrasellar arachnoid diverticulum, the empty sella syndrome, and the intrasellar arachnoid cyst are discussed. Precise knowledge of the microsurgical anatomy and anatomic variations of the dura mater and arachnoid is imperative for a safe trans‐sphenoidal approach to the hypophysis cerebri (pituitary gland) and transcranial approach to the sellar region.
A method for locating the external ramus of the accessory nerve in the posterior cervical triangle
Authors: Peck David , Luce Edward A.
Published: February 2005

Injury to the external ramus of the accessory nerve during surgery in the posterior triangle of the neck results in a disfiguring and incapacitating paralysis of the trapezius. In order to avoid this, a simple method for locating the ramus was devised. In 17 cadavers the anterior border of the trapezius was palpated and the skin marked at a point 5 cm above its clavicular attachment. A second point, situated over the posterior border of the sternocleidomastoid 6.5 cm below the tip of the mastoid process was similarly marked. A line joining these two points overlies the course of the ramus. As the ramus may lie superficially in this region, the skin incision along this line was followed by blunt dissection of the underlying fascia. The ramus was thus identified at the anterior border of the trapezius 5 cm above its clavicular attachment. This method was successful in all 17 cadavers (34 exposures), even though 3 of these were very obese with short necks. Using this surface marking, injury to the external ramus of the accessory nerve in the posterior triangle can be avoided.
Clinical anatomy of the flexor hallucis brevis muscle
Authors: Ger Ralph
Published: February 2005

Ulcerative lesions of the sole of the foot are common, especially in diabetic patients. The management of these lesions, particularly when ulcerating deeply, is difficult. Recent publications describe the neurovascular supply of the sole of the foot with special reference to rotation flaps (Shaw and Hidalgo: Plast. Reconstr. Surg., 78:5, 1986; Hidalgo and Shaw: Plast. Reconstr. Surg., 78:5, 1986). However, these flaps refer to lesions of the heel and midfoot and do not describe flaps to cover the forefoot, especially the common perforating ulcers over the first metatarsophalangeal (M‐P) joint.

Previously (Ger: Clin. Orthop., 175:186, 1983) muscle transposition procedures were described in which the flexor hallucis brevis (FHB) muscle was used to close a forefoot ulcer. At that time mention was made of the ability to divide the neurovascular pedicle without producing muscle necrosis and the possible routes of alternative supply were described. Since that time further dissections have been carried out and additional clinical experience has been obtained.
The effect of testicular biopsy on the regional lymph node of the testis in rats
Authors: McDonald S. W. , Scothorne R. J.
Published: February 2005

The immunological effects of testicular biopsy are largely unknown. This study on young adult Albino Swiss rats shows no changes in the regional testicular lymph nodes compared to those from sham‐operated controls at either 1 or 3 months after operation. The findings contrast markedly with those of vasectomy after which there are obvious histological changes in the nodes consistent with antisperm antibody formation. The difference is likely to be related to the absence of sperm granulomas or other inflammatory changes in the testis after testicular biopsy.
Sex differences in the morphology of the auricular surfaces of the human sacroiliac joint
Authors: Valojerdy M. R. , Hogg D. A.
Published: February 2005

To investigate sex differences in the morphology of the auricular surfaces of the human sacroiliac joint, 153 dried bone sets of unknown ages, and of Indian origin were studied, and various measurements were made of the corresponding iliac and sacral auricular surfaces. Some significant differences. The sacral and iliac auricular surfaces was larger and longer in males. The most prominent point on the ventral border of the iliac auricular surface was situated more caudally in females. The iliac angle was larger in males. The deepest point of the dorsal border of the iliac auricular surface was more caudal in females.
The transverse cervical artery: New origins and pathways
Authors: Phillips Lloyd G.
Published: February 2005

Most areas of the body demonstrate variations in vascular pattern with regard to origin, course, and distribution. Vascular damage is especially likely if an unexpected vascular pattern occurs in a common surgical site. The supra‐clavicular region is one such site: the many types of operative procedures performed here provide ample opportunity for inadvertent discovery of such variations. Standard textbook descriptions of the subclavian artery and its proximal branches and their relationships are usually sufficient to inform the surgeon of the predominate patterns, but leave him ill‐prepared for encounters with less common varieties. Previous studies, some extensive, have detailed many of these variations, but emphasis has been placed on the vascular configurations themselves, rather than on their clinical significance. The present study first reviews the common patterns and then outlines several heretofore undescribed variations in the thyrocervical trunk‐transverse cervical artery complex encountered in 74 unilateral and 38 bilateral neck‐shoulder specimens. Specific reference is made regarding their discovery during surgical procedures.
Neuromuscular spindles relative to joint movement complexities
Authors: Buxton Donald F. , Peck David
Published: February 2005

Small muscles, such as those producing movements of the digits, are known to contain high densities of muscle spindles compared to larger muscles of the limb. These high densities have been associated with an increased need for proprioceptive feedback during precise manipulative movements. A recent study has indicated that spindle densities are related to muscle size rather than to functional capability. By contrast, the current study examined whether spindle numbers, actual spindle densities and relative spindle densities correlated with the complexity of joint movements in two species with different muscle sizes, human and guinea pig. Published data were used for the histological parameters of each species and measurements were made of movement range in each kinematic degree of freedom for each joint of the human and guinea pig pectoral and pelvic limbs. Muscle weights of newborn humans were 315 times greater than those of guinea pigs but joint movement complexities were almost the same in the two species and actual spindle numbers of human were only 7.3 times those of guinea pig. Joint movement complexity tended to be greatest most proximally on each limb and progressively decreased more distally. Regardless of muscle weight differences, actual spindle numbers and relative spindle densities correlated positively and significantly with joint movement complexity and actual spindle densities correlated negatively in each species. Hence muscle spindle numbers and densities around joints appear to reflect joint functional capability for appropriate proprioceptive feedback to the central nervous system in the control of joint movement.
Fascial planes and compartments of the posterior abdomen: The perirenal and pararenal pathways
Authors: Lei Q. F. , Marks S. C. , Touliopoulos P. , Raptopoulos V.
Published: February 2005

Our objective was to describe the boundaries and sites of communication of the posterior peritoneal compartments in order to explain extensions of pathological processes in retroperitoneal areas. To this end we examined these distinct bilateral compartments [anterior (AP) and posterior (PP) pararenal and perirenal (P) spaces] in four bodies by CT scans, dissections, crosssections, latex injections, and light microscopy. Perirenal areas bilaterally were closed spaces which extended from the inferior surface of the diaphragm to the superior pelvic aperture (pelvic inlet) tapering superiorly and inferiorly in the shape of two cones with a common base at the midrenal area where they communicated across the median plane. The AP is a potential space on the right but contains the pancreas on the left. Each has shorter superior and inferior extensions than the corresponding PP space. Tough, often multilaminar, fasciae surrounded these spaces and limited the spread of injected latex except where vascular pathways permitted inter‐compartmental spread. Computer‐assisted 3‐D reconstructions showed that these spaces extended potentially from the diaphragm into the pelvis. These compartments and their fasciae help explain the predictable yet restricted clinical extensions of pancreatitis, renal infections, and aortic aneurysms in the posterior abdomen.
The profunda femoris artery: Variations and clinical applications
Authors: Chleborad William P. , Dawson David L.
Published: February 2005

Percutaneous femoral artery cannulation can cause pseudoaneurysms. When this occurs, the puncture site is frequently in the profunda femoris artery (PFA) or femoral artery (FA) distal to the PFA origin, where anatomic relationships make hemostasis difficult to achieve. Two such complications prompted a study of the relations of this arterial complex to palpable landmarks. Four measurements were made on 101 cadaver extremities (61 males, 40 females; 45 left, 56 right). The measurements and results (mean ± S.D.) are: (1) horizontal distance from pubic tubercle (PT) to perpendicular extending inferiorly from anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS), 9.44 ± 1.34 cm; (2) horizontal distance from PT to middle of FA, 5.15 ± 0.87 cm; (3) distance from inguinal ligament to origin of PFA, 5.31 ± 1.46 cm; (4) distance from level of PT to origin of PFA, 2.37 ± 1.40 cm. When males and females were compared, significant differences were found between means of measurements 3 and 4; likewise, the means for measurement 1 were significantly different between left and right sides. The PFA originated superior to the level of PT in only three extremities, but the distance was never more than 0.5 cm. These data indicate that (1) the FA is typically located about 5 cm lateral to PT, (2) the origin of PFA is usually inferior to the level of PT, and (3) the frequency of complications of percutaneous FA cannulation can be diminished by insertion of the needle or cannula 1 cm or more superior to the level of PT.
Morphology of nerve fibers regenerating through freeze‐thawed autogenous skeletal muscle grafts in rats
Authors: Gschmeissner S. E. , Gattuso J. M. , Glasby M. A.
Published: February 2005

This paper describes the morphological appearances of long‐term nerve repair using freeze‐thawed, coaxially aligned autogenous skeletal muscle grafts in rats. The presence of minifascicles (compartmentation) within the muscle grafts confirms earlier reports of compartmentation whenever nerve regeneration occurs in a nonnerural environment. However, in contrast to the reports in the literature, there was no evidence of a loss of compartmentation at long intervals after nerve repair. It was found that a number of minifascicles became enclosed by a further proliferation of perineural cell to form distinct minifascicular groups. The term “midfascicle” is used to describe these larger perineural defined groups of minifascicles. The role of the perineurium is discussed.
Study of inter‐metacarpo‐phalangeal spaces
Authors: Jovanovic M. S. , Royer J. , Roy P. E. , Houde G. , Houde J. P. , Falardeau J. , Pusterla A.
Published: February 2005

A study of the inter‐metacarpo‐phalangeal spaces on 20 human bodies was carried out to establish the existence of bursae at this level. Recent studies (Bossley and Cairney: J. Bone Joint Surg. [Br.], 62‐B:184–187, 1980; Midy et al.: Bull. Assoc. Anat., 70:37–41, 1986) suggest that such bursae are present at this level in the foot.

Careful dissection and histologic studies revealed characteristics compatible with both of the following hypotheses: either these are bursae not previously described in anatomy texts, or these are virtual spaces limited by a cul‐de‐sac of the aponeuroses of the hand in the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th spaces.

Tissue analyses that could determine more specifically the nature of the limiting membrane of these spaces, as well as pathologic studies demonstrating the occurrence of common anomalies of bursae in these spaces, are required in order to unequivocally establish the nature of the inter‐metacarpo‐phalangeal spaces.
A course in gross anatomy, notes and comment, 1990
Authors: Cahill Donald R. , Dalley Arthur F.
Published: February 2005

This paper documents and describes a contemporary course in gross anatomy, traditional in approach yet well‐suited to today's medical curriculum and practice. In so doing, it looks beyond the “course catalog” description of the curriculum into the complexities and rationale of the gross anatomical teaching program. The purpose and methods of the course, such as dissection of the entire body in a clinically‐relevant context, are examined. The value of the dissection process is discussed in terms of gaining anatomical knowledge, the team approach to learning and problem‐solving, and student‐faculty interactio at the dissection table. The significance of the dissection experience in terms of its often being the students' first encounter with death and serious pathology is recongnized and discussed in relationship to donor programs and the Convocation of Thanks. Comments on examination technique and stragety and examples of facilitating lectures and laboratory experinces are also included. In spite of its time‐tested rationale, we wonder if the continued quest for the grant dollar, the current penchant for computer‐aided instruction and curricular machinations, and—importantly—a dwindling supply of well‐trained anatomists, is relegating this type of gross anatomy course to the passing parade?
Partial hepatectomy in the mouse
Authors: Doerr R. J. , Castillo M. H. , Luchette F. A. , Caruana J.
Published: February 2005

As interest in the immunologic and energy substrate effect of partial hepatectomy has increased, a need for a reproducible model of hepatic resection has become necessary. The classic description for hepatectomy in small animals is the rat. In this report, we standardize the percentages of varying liver resection.

C3H 8‐week‐old mice were subjected to 42% hepatectomy by removal of the right lobe and lateral aspect of the median lobe of the liver. Particular care was taken in ligation to avoid the gallbladder and to preserve the portal vein flow to the remaining lobes. The mortality rate for this procedure was 4%. Addition of the medial segment of the median lobe provided a 63% hepatectomy with 75% mortality. Using the operating microscope reduced this latter mortality to 17%.

Important species differences exist between rat and mouse liver anatomy. The presence of the gallbladder in the mouse requires attention when employing mass ligature technique to avoid obstruction to the extrahepatic biliary tree. This can be safely and reproducibly accomplished if the hepatectomy is confined to the right lobe and lateral aspect of the median lobe. A more extensive hepatectomy in the mouse requires the operating microscope.
Does the direct lateral approach to the hip joint jeopardize the superior gluteal nerve?
Authors: Goodman S. B.
Published: February 2005

The purpose of this anatomical study was to determine the location and course of the superior gluteal nerve in relation to the superior pole of the greater trochanter and the surgical pathway for the direct lateral approach to the hip joint. Twenty adult cadaveric lower extremities in ten patients (five male and five female) were carefully dissected to identify the location of the superior gluteal nerve and its terminal branches. The most inferior branch of the superior gluteal nerve was variable, could be asymmetrical, and was located 3–6.5 cm above the superior tip of the greater trochanter. During the lateral approach to the hip, it is recommended that the proximal extension be limited to 3 cm above the most superior aspect of the greater trochanter.
Cartilage failure in osteoarthritis: Relevance of normal structure and function. A review
Authors: Stockwell R. A.
Published: February 2005

Osteoarthritis is a multifactorial condition of diverse etiology affecting synovial joints, in which the final common pathway is destruction and loss of articular cartilage (and changes in other joint structures), which normally protects the bone against compressive and shearing forces. Known causes of secondary osteoarthritis can be grouped into those that cause abnormal stresses and those that produce an abnormal cartilage. The resulting imbalance between tissue texture and mechanical environment may eventually lead to cartilage destruction.

The histopathology of cartilage fibrillation is described and related to its normal structure, particularly collagen fibril orientation. Load carriage in normal cartilage involves an interaction between the fibril mesh, proteoglycan, and water. Possible defects in normal matrix organization may lead to failure of this mechanism and to structural breakdown of the cartilage. Biochemical changes in the matrix in early osteoarthritis, particularly in experimental models, are described. The initial change, before loss of proteoglycan or fibril breakage, is an increased water content. A similar change is seen in normal cartilage after brief exercise. There may be a mechanism common to both the normal reversible change (thus providing a means for adaption to changed stresses) and the pathological prolonged change.

Chondrocyte metabolism and its modification in early degenerative change are described. Factors regulating metabolism include nutrition, growth factors and cytokines, ionic constitution of the matrix, and mechanical stimuli. Known causes of secondary osteoarthritis may act via these factors to cause changes in cell metabolism that play a part in the initiation and ongoing pathogenesis of cartilage failure.
Anatomical basis for celiac trunk and superior mesenteric artery entrapment
Authors: Paz Zvia , Rak Yoel , Rosen Ada
Published: February 2005

Forty‐six cadaveric specimens were dissected in order to study the anatomical relations between the median arcuate ligament (MAL), the celiac ganglion, and the origin of both the celiac and superior mesenteric arteries.

We found that in 40 cases (87.5%) both vessels were held together by the ganglionic mass, and in 90.6%, the celiac trunk was covered, either partially or completely, by the MAL. These data indicated that this is a normal occurrence. In 10% of the cases both vessels were covered by the MAL. These anatomical findings may possibly contribute to the understanding of the socalled “median arcuate ligament syndrome.”