bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative study of the forelimbs of the semifossorial prairie dog, Cynomys gunnisoni, and the scansorial fox squirrel, Sciurus nlger
Authors: Stalheim‐Smith Ann
Published: February 2005

A comparative study of the forelimbs of the semifossorial prairie dog, Cynomys gunnisoni, and the scansorial tree squirrel, Sciurus niger, was focused on the musculoskeletal design for digging in the former and climbing in the latter. Based on lever arm mechanics, it was expected that the forelimb of the prairie dog would show features appropriate to the production of relatively large forces and that of the fox squirrel to relatively great velocity. Force and lever arm measurements were made of select forelimb muscles at the shoulder, elbow, and wrist joints for a series of angles in both species. Contraction time and fatigue indexes were determined for the same forelimb muscles. Contrary to expectation, in the few cases in which significant (P < .05) differences were found, the forces, lever arms, and torques (force times its lever arm) were greater in the smaller fox squirrel. The observed variation in the torques produced fits the demands on the forelimb during climbing and digging as estimated from films. Several forelimb muscles of the fox squirrel show significantly higher mean contraction times than do the homologous muscles of the prairie dog. There were no significant differences between the two species in the fatigability of the selected forelimb muscles, although the mean fatigue index was always higher (less fatigable muscle) in the prairie dog. Similarities in the forelimbs of these two sciurids suggest that only minor modifications may have been required of the ancestral forelimb in order for descendent forms to operate successfully as climbers and diggers.
Ultrastructure of a complex epithelial system: The pharyngeal lining of the larval lamprey Petromyzon marinus
Authors: Mallatt Jon , Ridgway Richard L.
Published: February 2005

Electron microscopy shows that the pharyngeal lining of the larval lamprey Petromyzon marinus is a structurally complex epithelial system that can be separated into eight epithelial types: gill lamellar, gill interlamellar, goblet cell, protective, terminal (taste) bud, preciliated, ciliated in tracts, and ciliated in grooves. Furthermore, these epithelial types encompass at least sixteen different cell types based on ultrastructure and, in some cases, correlative histochemistry (PAS, Alcian blue). Common to nearly all the epithelial types are basal cells and intermediate cells. These two cell types are seen as undifferentiated. Among mature cells, structural specialization as proceeded in three directions: (1) elaboration of mitochondria, probably related to molecular transport (ion‐uptake cells, chloride cells); (2) ciliogenesis (preciliated and ciliated cell types); and (3) production of mucous secretory granules (mucous‐platelet cells, goblet cells, superficial protective cells, columnar mucous cells, “cobblestone” cells, and marginal and dark cells in the terminal buds). Many of the functions of the cell types relate to the process of suspension feeding in this animal.
Morphology and ultrastructure of the organ of Bellonci in the marine amphipod Gammarus setosus
Authors: Steele V. J.
Published: February 2005

The three‐dimensional structure of the organ of Bellonci in the marine amphipod Gammarus setosus and the relationship between its sensory cells and concretion are described using light, transmission, and scanning electron microscopy, with chemical treatment for cell lysis, calcium chelation, glycogen staining, and lanthanum labelling. The organ is encapsulated and has three units called fuselli. Each is enclosed by two fusellar cells which generate and release calcium granule strands into the cores of the fusellar concretions, which are united in the center of the organ. The surface of each fusellus is traversed by spiral dendrites entering dorsally and ending ventrally. The spiral dendrites arise from sensory neurons contained in a palm‐shaped ganglion in the center of the capsule, beyond which they are twisted like a rope before reaching the concretion. The spiral dendrites are linked in pairs by gap and tight junctions and each gives origin to two pairs of 9+0 sensory cilia 30 μm apart. The ciliary distal segments give rise to long tubules which are in contact with the calcium granule strands. The ciliary proximal segments are expanded by many long mitochondria which interdigitate with the branched striated ciliary rootlets. The concretion is suspended in the capsule cavity by axons originating from four neurons of a remote mechanoreceptor. The structure of the organ suggests that it is a sensory organ involved in the reception and integration of a variety of stimuli.
The venous system of the terrestrial crab Ocypode cordimanus (Desmarest 1825) with particular reference to the vasculature of the lungs
Authors: Greenaway Peter , Farrelly C. A.
Published: February 2005

The respiratory system of Ocypode cordimanus consists of seven pairs of gills, modified for aerial gas exchange, and a single pair of lungs. Each lung is formed from the inner surface of the branchiostegite and the thoracic wall of the branchial chamber. The branchiostegal surface is increased by a fleshy infolding, the branchiostegal shelf, whilst the surface area of the thoracic lung wall is enhanced by a large flaplike fold.

The anatomy of the major sinus systems and the vascular supply to the lungs were investigated. Venous hemolymph is supplied to the lungs potentially from all the major body sinuses. The dorsal, ventral, hepatic, and infrabranchial sinuses are all connected anteriorly to the two eye sinuses which distribute hemolymph to the lungs. Each eye sinus gives off five branches to the branchiostegal lung surface and one to the thoracic lung wall. These afferent vessels are highly branched and interdigitate closely with efferent vessels. The two systems are connected by flat lacunae lying just beneath the respiratory epithelium and these are believed to be the site of gas exchange. The efferent vessels empty into two pulmonary veins on each side, one serving the branchiostegal lung wall and the other the thoracic wall. The two vessels on each side fuse before joining the pericardial cavity as a single trunk on each side.
Motor units of the primary ankle extensor muscles of the opossum (Didelphis virginiana): Functional properties and fiber types
Authors: Peters S. E. , Mulkey R. , Rasmussen S. A. , Goslow G. E.
Published: February 2005

Motor units of the medial gastrocnemius (MG) and the single lateral gastrocnemius/soleus (LG/S) muscles of the opssum (Didelphis virginiana) were found to have uniformly slow contraction times relative to homologous muscles of the cat. Though a broad range of peak tetanic tensions was found among motor units from both muscles, most of the motor units were quite large relative to tension of the whole muscle. Comparison of the relative sizes of motor units showed that those of LG/S are significantly larger and slower than the units of MG. This suggests that the motor units of the two muscles may be differentially recurited during different behaviors.

All of the MG and LG/S motor units were highly or moderately resistant to fatigue. Histochemical staining for NADH‐diaphorase activity indicated consistently high levels of the enzyme in all of the fibers of both muscles. Apparently, all of the fast motor units consist of fast oxidative/glycolytic (FOG)‐type muscle fibers. Our data provide functional evidence that the types of myofibrillar ATPase demonstrated by Brooke and Kaiser ('70), are not necessarily correlated to physiological classification of fiber types as slow oxidative (SO), fast oxidative/glycolytic (FOG), and fast glycolytic (FG) (Peter et al., '72).

Perhaps compartmentalization of muscle fiber types may be a first step in the separation of muscles into multiple heads during the evolution of specialization to diverse locomotor habits among the mammals.
Ultrastructure of osmoregulatory organs in larvae of the brackish‐water mosquito, Culiseta inornata (Williston)
Authors: Garrett Margaret A. , Bradley Timothy J.
Published: February 2005

The ultrastructure of the Malpighian tubules, ileum, rectum, anal canal, and anal papillae of larvae of the mosquito Culiseta inornata was examined. The Malpighian tubules, rectum, and anal papillae have many of the ultrastructural features characteristic of ion transport tissues, i.e., elaboration of the basal and apical membranes and a close association of these membranes with mitochondria. The Malpighian tubules possess two cell types, primary and stellate. The larval rectum of C. inornata is composed of a single segment containing a homogenous population of cells. In this respect, the larval rectum of C. inornata is distinct from that of saline‐water species of Aedes. The cells in the larval rectum of C. inornata, however, closely resemble those of one cell type, the anterior rectal cells, of the saline‐water mosquito Aedes campestris with regard to cell and nuclear size, the percentage of the cell occupied by apical folds, and mitochondrial density and distribution. No similarities can be found between the rectum of C. inornata and the posterior segment of the saline‐water Aedes, which functions as a salt gland. On this basis, we have postulated that the rectum of C. inornata does not function as a site of hyperosmotic fluid secretion. The ultrastructure of the anal papillae of C. inornata is consistent with a role in ion transport. The significance of these findings to comparative aspects of osmoregulatory strategies in mosquito larvae is discussed.
Morphology of the head skeleton and muscles of the mosquito, Culiseta inornata (Williston) (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Owen William B.
Published: February 2005

The objectives of this research were to investigate the morphology of the head skeleton and muscles of the female mosquito, Culiseta inornata (Williston). The skeletal parts were examined after maceration in KOH. The attachments of muscles were determined by dissection. Observations were made with the aid of a dissecting microscope at 70× and lower. Each skeletal part and muscle is illustrated and described. Conclusions regarding the skeleton are as follows: (1) the clypeal area is composed of an anteclypeus and postclypeus, (2) the suture between the anteclypeus and postclypeus is rigid and cannot function as a hinge, (3) the dorsal wall of the labrum terminates at its union with the anteclypeus, (4) the dorsal and epipharyngeal walls of the labrum are united apically, (5) the gena and postclypeus are not separated by a suture, and (6) the labellum is composed of three segments and the furca, of some authors, is absent. Twenty‐five muscles were identified, and the origin, insertion, and action of each is described. The tormo‐epipharyngalis muscle is attached anterior to the cibarium and fulcral plates. Its origin is on the clypeal apodeme and the insertion is on the epipharynx. This result confirms earlier reports and disagrees with some recent authors. The maxillary teeth are not designed to draw the fascicle into the tissues, but the cervical and leg muscles accomplish the probing process during feeding on a host. An undescribed muscle of the mandible is reported.
Facial morphology and vibrissal movement in the golden hamster
Authors: Wineski Lawrence E.
Published: February 2005

The major cranial vibrissae in the golden hamster can be moved in complex ways that suggest they are served by a finely controlled motor system. Movements are hypothesized to be the products of (1) differential blood flow and pressure regulation in the sinus surrounding each vibrissal follicle, (2) contractions of the striated facial muscles, and (3) elastic rebound in the connective tissues. The vasculature contributes hydrostatic forces that (a) erect the vibrissae slightly and distort their connective tissue bedding, (b) rigidify the vibrissal capsules, thus forming firm bases of attachment for certain facial muscles, and (c) theoretically provide a pressure plate around the follicle, important in lowering the firing thresholds of receptor endings. The facial muscles supply the major forces in erection and protraction of the vibrissae by acting on both the capsules and the connective tissue bedding. The connective tissues are organized into capsular and extracapsular systems that serve to stabilize the vibrissae and return them to initial rest positions.

The slight movements of the genal vibrissa are the effects of vascular and connective tissue dynamics, the musculature being uninvolved. Wide angle movements of the supraorbital vibrissae are products of the vasculature and connective tissues, plus contractions of the Mm. orbicularis oculi and frontalis. Mystacial vibrissal movement is quite complex. The vasculature supplies a small degree of capsular erection and mystacial pad distortion, but primarily rigidifies the capsules. The bulk of erection and protraction is produced by the M. nasolabialis profundus (NLP) and the vibrissal capsular muscles (VCM). The NLP distorts the mystacial pad; the VCM tilt the capsules relative to the pad. Retraction is mainly accomplished by elastic rebound in the pad, this being aided in its extreme degrees by the Mm. nasolabialis and maxillolabialis. The Mm. nasolabialis superficialis and buccinator pars orbicularis oris help to spread the vibrissae into a dorsoventral fan and stabilize the mystacial pad during whisking.
The ontogeny of shell secrtion in Terebratalia transversa (brachiopoda, articulata) II. Formation of the protegulum and juvenile shell
Authors: Stricker Stephen A. , Reed Christopher G.
Published: February 2005

The fine structure of the shell and underlying mantle in young juveniles of the articulate brachiopod Terebratalia transversa has been examined by electron microscopy. The first shell produced by the mantle consists of a nonhinged protegulum that lacks concentric growth lines. The protegulum is secreted within a day after larval metamorphosis and typically measures 140–150 μm long. A thin organic periostracum constitutes the outer layer of the protegulum, and finely granular shell material occurs beneath the periostracum. Protegula resist digestion in sodium hypochlorite and are refractory to sectioning, suggesting that the subperiostracal portion of the primordial shell is mineralized. The juvenile shell at 4 days postmetamorphosis possesses incomplete sockets and rudimentary teeth that consist of nonfibrous material. The secondary layer occurring in the inner part of the juvenile shell contains imbricated fibers, whereas the outer portion of the shell comprises a bipartite periostracum and an underlying primary layer of nonfibrous shell. Deposition of the periostracum takes place within a slot that is situated between the socalled lobate and vesicular cells of the outer mantle lobe. Vesicular cells deposit the basal layer of the periostracum, while lobate cells contribute materials to the overlying periostracal superstructure. Cells with numerous tonofibrils and hemidesmosomes differentiate in the outer mantle epithelium at sites of muscle attachments, and unbranched punctae that surround mantle caeca develop throughout the subperiostracal portion of the shell. Three weeks after metamorphosis, the juvenile shell averages about 320 μm in length and is similar in ultrastructure to the shells secreted by adult articulates.
Energy of the oscillating legs of a fast‐moving cheetah, pronghorn, jackrabbit, and elephant
Authors: Hildebrand Milton , Hurley James P.
Published: February 2005

Lifelike models of the oscillating legs treated as three‐segment systems show the course of kinetic and potential energy over the locomotor cycle for a cheetah, pronghorn, jackrabbit, and elephant running at speeds approaching their maxima. The models can be adjusted to eliminate differences among the animals in time intervals, mass or length of limb, and joint angles. This facilitates analysis of the influence on total energy of each of these variables and of the distribution of mass among leg segments. Fast‐cycling legs of the carnivore type have significantly more energy than those of the hoofed type. This may contribute to the lesser endurance that is usual for carnivores that hunt using a high‐speed dash.
Intricate sutures as fractal curves
Authors: Long Charles A.
Published: February 2005

The study of fractal dimensionality for complex sutures in deer skulls and ammonites reveals their extremely long and elaborate lengths in relation to the defined areas they bound. These sutures often show various scales of self‐similarity (where the parent pattern is elaborated in miniature, again and again), and empirical fractal dimensions calculated lie between one and two. In the scaling elaborations of Cervid sutures, some elaborations seem isolated from the continuous suture. Small “islands” are seen in similar theoretical fractal curves as well. The evolutionary and developmental specialization of intricate sutures improves the bonds; such fitness is essential owing to extraordinary stresses. Autocorrelation (where nearby sides or elaborations tend to resemble a basic pattern and, therefore, resemble one another) of the elaborations of the sutures serves to lengthen the boundaries and theoretically enhances the development of self‐similar patterns. When autocorrelation and self‐similarity in the sutures are favored by an evolutionary process plastic enough to elaborate intricate form, ensuring fitness, and natural selection does not directly limit the lengths while concomitantly defining the bounded areas, then the intricacy is manifest as fractal phenomena, and practically described as such.
Surface ultrastructure of the gill arch of the killifish, Fundulus heteroclitus, from seawater and freshwater, with special reference to the morphology of apical crypts of chloride cells
Authors: Hossler Fred E. , Musil George , Karnaky Karl J. , Epstein Franklin H.
Published: February 2005

The surface ultrastructure of the gill arches of the killifish, Fundulus heteroclitus, adapted to seawater or freshwater, was found to be similar to that reported for other euryhaline teleosts. Two rows of gill filaments (about 42 filaments per row) extended posterolaterally, and two rows of gill rakers (about 10 rakers per row) extended anteromedially from each arch. Leaf‐like respiratory lamellae protruded along both sides of each filament, from its base to its apex. The distributions, sizes, and numbers of various surface cells and structures were also determined. All surfaces were covered by a mosaic of pavement cells, which measured about 7 × 4 μm and exhibited concentrically arranged surface ridges. Taste buds were especially prominent on the rakers and the pharyngeal surfaces of the first and second gill arches, but were often replaced by horny spines on the third and fourth gill arches. Apical crypts of chloride cells occurred mostly on the surfaces of the gill filaments adjacent to the afferent artery of the filament. In seawater adapted killifish, crypts resembled narrow, deep holes along the borders of adjacent pavement cells, had openings of about 2 μm2, and occurred at a frequency of about 1 per 70 μ2 of surface area. In freshwater fish, the crypts usually had larger openings (about 10 μ2), occurred less frequently (1 per 123 μ2), and exhibited many cellular projections in their interiors. Changes in crypt morphology may be related to the ion transport function of chloride cells.
The silk and silk production system of the funnel‐web mygalomorph spider Euagrus (Araneae, Dipluridae)
Authors: Palmer Jacqueline M.
Published: February 2005

The silk production systems of several specimens representing at least three species of the mygalomorph genus Euagrus were examined by dissection and by a variety of absorption and fluorescent histochemical techniques. The intrageneric variation is primarily restricted to gland number, with larger numbers of glands in the larger‐bodied species. The silk glands are arranged in four groups each serving one of four spinnerets. Spigot morphology is uniform, consisting of a long, slender shaft of slightly variable length emerging from an enlarged sac‐shaped base. Only one gland type is identified histochemically, although a considerable range in size and shape is observed. Each gland has three secretory zones, a distal one that produces a largely hydrophobic protein core and medial and proximal zones that produce distinct charged protein coatings. Amino acid analysis of the silk indicates a composition very similar to the frame threads and draglines of araneomorph spiders. The high percentage of short side‐chain amino acids implies a polymer structure able to support the suspended entrapment web found in Euagrus and its relatives (but which is rare in most other nonaraneomorph families). Dry silk examined under high magnification appears smooth and homogenous. The fact that in the web larger threads appear to fibrillate suggests that Euagrus silk is polyfilamentous.
New data on the structure and the growth of the osteoderms in the reptile Anguis fragilis L. (Anguidae, Squamata)
Authors: Zylberberg L. , Castanet J.
Published: February 2005

Light and electron microscopy shows the osteoderms of Anguis fragilis to be small, flat disks located in the dermis along the adult trunk: microradiography established the extent of the mineralization.

Each osteoderm coincides exactly with an epidermal fold forming the keratinized scales characteristic of the skin of reptiles.

Sections perpendicular to the surface show two mineralized layers differing in histological and histochemical characteristics and in fine structure, although both contain collagen fibrils. The structure of each layer can be related to that of the surrounding dermis.

The outer superficial layer located in the loose dermis contains few collagen bundles that form a discontinuous sheet at the upper surface of the osteoderms. This superficial layer appears to be constituted of units separated by furrows and is composed of woven fibered bone.

The basal plate comprises stratified lamellae formed of parallel‐oriented collagen fibrils; the fibrils of successive lamellae lie at right angles. The densely packed collagen fibrils of the basal plate are distributed similarly to those of the dense dermis within which it lies. This layer exhibits structural and histochemical characteristics of a lamellar bone.

The presence of two different layers in the osteoderms of Anguis fragilis may reflect their mode of formation, which consists of the deposit of mineral crystals in the preexisting dermal tissue. This mineralization process, considered as a “metaplastic ossification,” may reflect the potentiality retained by the dermis of reptiles to form mineralized structures.
Comparative limb myology of four arvicolid rodent genera (mammalia, rodentia)
Authors: Stein Barbara R.
Published: February 2005

A comparative study of four genera of arvicolid rodents (Clethrionomys, Eothenomys, Alticola, and Synaptomys) presents the first complete description of limb myology for any member of this recently evolved, highly successful family. The study also identifies four forelimb and four hind‐limb muscles that exhibit characters of value to systematic analyses within the group. In no instance was postcranial myology sufficient to distinguish among species of Clethrionomys or to distinguish Clethrionomys from Eothenomys. Moreover, in some instances Synaptomys, a genus traditionally presumed primitive within the family, possessed the apomorphic condition for a myological character when compared to the four genera of cricetine rodents that served for outgroup comparisons.
Cytoskeletal organization and tissue patterns of epithelia in the sponge Ephydatia mülleri
Authors: De Ceccatty Max Pavans
Published: February 2005

Comparative morphological studies on cytoskeletal patterns of sponge basal epithelium at the tissue level have been performed by diverse methods, including immunofluorescence microscopy, and scanning and transmission electron microscopy of stained whole mounts, thin sections or replicas. These methods give results consistent with each other and show the importance of actin assemblies, which function in addition to the microtubular system and in the absence of intermediate filaments. Actin microfilaments indeed are involved in the formation of cables and networks closely associated with the plasma membrane. Both the cables and the networks result from arrangements of microfilaments into bundles of variable size, and the two types of assembly are probably interconvertible. Microfilaments appear to be implicated in the establishment of spot desmosomes and as devices for cell‐to‐substratum attachment. Due to the desmosomal articulations from cell to cell, the actin cytoskeleton is framed throughout the complete epithelium. It supports the unitary nature of the entire tissue, which is constructed and functions as a whole. It therefore establishes the “histoskeleton” of basic epithelial tissues. The histoskeleton is involved in all epithelial activities but is not uniformly organized into identical cell patterns at the tissue level because activities are sequential and not synchronized in all cells. Similar cytoskeletal patterns exist only in groups of cells, and this suggests that, at a given time, the multiple functions of the epithelium may be mediated by the occurrence of several multicellular functional units within a single epithelial tissue.
Anterior alimentary canal of the pear Psylla,Psylla pyricolafoerster (Homoptera, Psyllidae)
Authors: Ullman Diane E. , McLean Donald L.
Published: February 2005

Scanning and light microscopy investigations of the anterior alimentary canal of the pear psylla,Psylla pyricolaFoerster (Homoptera: Psyllidae), revealed the morphology of the labium and stylets, as well as the presence of sensory structures and a valve in the precibarium. The labium consists of three telescoping segments with an internal labial groove, which surrounds and supports the stylet bundle. Also a part of the labial groove is the internal labial clamp. The stylet bundle is comprised of paired styliform mandibles and maxillae, which interlock to form the food and salivary canals. The stylet bundle proximal to the labium forms a large loop within a membranous crumena. When fully retracted the coiled stylets are under tension. Stylet extension generates increasing tension so that when retracted the stylets readily recoil within the crumena. Penetration of leaf tissues by the stylet bundle is dependent on the interaction between stylet muscles, opening and closing of the labial clamp, the barbed stylet tips, and the ventral position of the labium.

Proximal to the crumena the paired stylets separate and diverge at the entrance of the precibarium, which is formed by the interlocking of the epi‐and hypopharynges. There are 18 sensory structures in the precibarium, as well as a precibarial valve. These structures appear to be homologous to similar structures observed previously in aphids and leafhoppers. The morphology and the location of the precibarial sensilla suggest that, like the precibarial sensory organs of aphids and leafhoppers, they are gustatory and probably mediate acceptance or rejection of plant fluids, thus playing a major role in locating tissues for feeding.
Cell wall structure and composition in the comb built by hornets and wasps (Vespinae, hymenoptera)
Authors: Ganor Eliezer , Barenholz–Paniry Vered , Ishay Jacob S.
Published: February 2005

Morphological, mineralogical, and chemical investigations were undertaken to determine the structure and composition of the cell walls of the comb in the nest of Vespa orientalis, Paravespula germanica, and Vespacrabro. Nests of V. orientalis were from three sites having different soil types, namely, Khamra soil, Gramosol soil, and organically rich soil from the city dump in Tel Aviv. Nests of P. germanica were from areas rich in organic matter, and those of V. crabro, shipped from Austria, were similarly comprised of organic matter. Structure and composition of cell walls in the three species differed; furthermore, grain size in the combs differed from that of particles in the surrounding soil.
Soft‐tissue bone interface: How do attachments of muscles, tendons, and ligaments change during growth? A light microscopic study
Authors: Hurov Jack R.
Published: February 2005

This study addressed the problem of how soft structures maintain approximately the same relative positional relationships during long bone growth. Attachments of the popliteus muscle, semitendinosus tendon, medial collateral knee ligament, and extensor retinaculum were examined histologically in rabbits, aged 2–60 days, to determine the manner in which soft structures attached to long bones during growth. Soft structures inserted principally into fibrous periosteum or perichondrium in the age range studied. However, an extensive collagen fiber framework within the cellular periosteum and perichondrium, present by at least 2 days of age, linked the fibrous periosteum or perichondrium to subjacent bone or cartilage. Maturation of soft tissue‐bone interfaces was viewed from two related perspectives. The first stressed temporal patterning of cartilage and bone differentiation. The second emphasized incorporation of attachments of soft structures into bone and cartilage matrices during growth and remodeling. Differentiation and remodeling of bone and cartilage varied not only with age, but also between regions of attachment of single muscles and ligaments. Insertion regions were characterized by the presence of coarse‐fibered periosteal bone and chondroid bone, both morphologically intermediate between fibrocartilage and lamellar bone. These results provide evidence that periosteal attachments, characterizing the soft‐tissue bone interface, are a necessary structural prerequisite for compensatory movement and invariance of the relative positions of muscles, tendons, and ligaments during long bone growth.
Gut‐associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) of the goldfish, Carassius auratus
Authors: Temkin Robert J. , McMillan Donald B.
Published: February 2005

The head kidney and spleen are major sites of haemopoiesis in fish; a secondary center is found in loose connective tissue of the intestine. In this study we determined the nature of gut‐associated haemopoietic tissue in the goldfish, Carassius auratus, using light and electron microscopy. This tissue is a loose stroma of reticular cells and fibers vascularized by capillaries, venules, and arterioles. The cellular population includes lymphoblasts, small and medium‐sized lymphocytes, plasmocytes, macrophages, and various granulocytes. The most abundant granulocyte is the mast cell, whose large granules stain with Alcian blue and toluidine blue. Heterophils are found in the intestinal connective tissue as well as two other granulocytes: one with ovoid granules having dense parallel lamellae and another with granules containing crystalline inclusions. Immature forms of both granulocytes were also noted. Macrophages containing phagocytosed debris were often located close to the epithelium; they were observed forming clusters with lymphocytes. The epithelium contained a number of migrating leucocytes including lymphocytes and lymphoblasts, macrophages, and heterophils. Although many granulocytes were found in the connective tissue, granulopoiesis does not seem to be a major function. Gut‐associated haemopoietic tissue in goldfish resembles diffuse lymphoid tissue and may be involved in intestinal immune responses.
Comparative morphology of the amphibian opercularis system: I. General design features and functional interpretation
Authors: Hetherington Thomas E. , Jaslow Alan P. , Lombard R. Eric
Published: February 2005

The morphology of the opercularis system of anuran and caudate amphibians suggests that it acts to produce motion of the operculum that in turn produces fluid motion within the inner ear. The operculum and opercularis muscle form a lever system, with a narrow connection between the operculum and otic capsule acting as a fulcrum about which the operculum moves in response to forces applied via the muscle. The opercula of many species possess a muscular process on which the muscle inserts, thereby increasing the moment arm through which the muscle acts. The tonicity of the opercularis muscle allows tensile forces produced by substrate vibration or other mechanical energy applied to the forelimb to be effectively transmitted to the operculum; the elasticity of the connective tissue holding the operculum in place should act to return the operculum to its original position. The opercularis systems of frogs and non‐plethodontid salamanders are similar structurally and functionally; that of plethodontid salamanders is structurally distinct but also functions as a lever system. Fluid motion produced by opercular motion could stimulate various end organs of the inner ear; the saccule, lagena, and amphibian papilla are in close approximation and wave energy could directly affect their otoconial or tectorial structures. In those anurans with a tympanic ear, the stapedial footplate and operculum articulate, but this articulation allows both to move independently. The stapes‐tympanum complex and opercularis system therefore appear to be independent functional systems, and it is unlikely that the opercularis system modulates middle ear responsiveness. The general design of the opercularis system is consistent with a function in reception of substrate vibrations.
Fine structure and development of the sperm of the tickOrnithodoros(Pavlovskyella)erraticus(ixodoidea, argasidae)
Authors: El Shoura Samir M.
Published: February 2005

Sperm development inOrnithodoros (Pavlovskyella) erraticusincludes the formation of subsurface cisternae in the primary spermatocytes, which divide meiotically to secondary spermatocytes and ultimately to spermatids. During spermiogenesis the spermatid undergo morphological transformation including polarization of the nucleus and subsurface cisternae, formation of a cisternal tube, and modification of the subsurface cisternae to cellular processes surrounded by cisternal vesicles. Further transformation occurs after spermatids are introduced into the female. The spermatid cisternal tube now invaginates to form an inner cord surrounded by an outer sheath. The invaginated inner cord elongates anteriorly as the outer sheath continues to invaginate posteriorly during spermiogenesis. With further elongation, the spermatid membrane ruptures anteriorly, leaving the inner cord exposed as the outer surface of the maturing sperm. Posteriorly, the original plasma membrane invaginates to form an acrosomal canal which becomes surrounded by an acrosome. The hemispherical anterior end of the mature sperm is covered with rows of projections separated from the remainder of the sperm by a row of fringed processes. Except for the posterior end, the rest of the sperm is covered by longitudinally distributed electron‐dense cellular processes and an outer mat of more electron‐lucent tubular elements. Mitochondria and bundles of microfibrils are found beneath the cellular processes. Microfibrils are suggested to be the principal contractile organelles responsible for sperm motility. Cellular processes appear to be the main external motile structures, while movements of tubular elements and fringed processes may also contribute to sperm motility.
On the allometry of long bones in dogs (Canis familiaris)
Authors: Casinos A. , Bou J. , Castiella M. J. , Viladiu C.
Published: February 2005

The allometric relations of diameter and length of humerus, ulna, femur, and tibia of 108 specimens, from 63 different breeds of dogs and 12 specimens of wolves, were calculated by means of model II of regression or major axis method. Only for the tibia were the values of wolves included in the cluster formed for dog breeds. Consequently, separate lines of regression were calculated for the other bones.

Results agree in general with the exponents predicted by the theory of geometric similarity; however, the slope obtained for femur (0.865) differed significantly from this. Morphology of the long bones of the legs does not differentiate dogs and wolves; this probably reflects secondary convergence among wolves with relatively modern breeds of dogs.
Embryogenesis of a springtail, Tomocerus ishibashii (Collembola, tomoceridae): External morphology
Authors: Uemiya Hideyuki , Ando Hiroshi
Published: February 2005

The external features of the developing embryos of the springtail, Tomocerus ishibashii, are described. The clypeolabral anlage arises as a single, unpaired swelling. The entognathy is completed by the ventral growth of the tergal anlagen of mandibular, maxillary, and labial segments. These anlagen also form the posterior part of the cranium. The palpi of maxilla and labium are homologous with the telopodites, and proximal parts of these head appendages are homologous with the coxopodites. The sternal element of the labial segment does not participate in the postmentum formation. The anlagen of abdominal appendages appear in the first to the fourth abdominal segments. The first, third, and fourth appendage anlagen form the ventral tube, tenaculum, and furcula, respectively. The fused proximal parts of the first, third, and fourth appendage anlagen are homologous with the coxopodites, and the distal parts which do not fuse are homologous with the telopodites. The anlagen of the second abdominal appendages become flattened and spread over the ventral side of this segment. The ventral structures of the first four abdominal segments are appendicular in origin.
Ontogeny of the hyobranchial apparatus in the salamanders Ambystoma talpoideum (Ambystomatidae) and Notophthalmus viridescens (Salamandridae): The ecological morphology of two neotenic strategies
Authors: Reilly Stephen M.
Published: February 2005

Comparison of metamorphosis of skull and hyobranchial system in two species of neotenic salamanders reveals two different types of neoteny. Ambystoma talpoideum is completely neotenic owing to delayed metamorphosis. Notophthalmus viridescens exhibits limited neoteny as a result of incomplete metamorphosis. Morphological details of neoteny are compared to life history in both species in order to discuss the ecological morphology of the two neotenic strategies. Comparisons to Taricha granulosa, Triturus vulgaris, and Ambystoma gracile indicate that these two strategies are widely employed and may represent familial patterns.
Ultrastructure of the venous ampulla in the interradicular microvascular bed of the mandibular molars ofMus musculus
Authors: Sims M. R.
Published: February 2005

The interradicular periodontal ligament of mandibular molars contains an apparently unique dilated vessel straddling the interradicular alveolar bone. This structure is designated a venous ampulla. The vessel possesses a luminal length and width of approximately 200 × 100 μm, respectively. Ultrastructurally, the endothelium has an average thickness of 0.35μm, a continuous basement membrane, and an incomplete layer of pericytes. Open endothelial junctions are not present. The anatomy of the vessel wall differs markedly on the dental‐ and bone‐related aspects. Calculated ratios for the luminal diameter to wall thickness vary from 1:80 to 1:150. Postcapillary‐sized limbs from this vessel drain into the interradicular septum of bone and the ligament microvascular bed. Arterial supply to the ampulla is provided via arteriovenous anastomoses characterized by their association with myelinated and unmyelinated nerve groups.

Oxytalan fibers are present throughout the wall of the venous ampulla, penetrating to the abluminal side of the endothelium where they are associated with unmyelinated axons and free nerve endings. Elsewhere, oxytalan fibers are related to the arteriovenous anastomoses and their accompanying myelinated and unmyelinated nerves located adjacent to the endothelium. Pericytes form membranous contacts with the endothelium of the arteriovenous anastomoses and have processes penetrating the endothelium basement membrane.
Ultrastructural and quantitative dynamics of the granulosa of ovarian follicles of the lizard gerrhonotus coeruleus (family anguidae)
Authors: Klosterman Lorrie L.
Published: February 2005

The progression of ovarian follicular development in the Northern Alligator Lizard has been documented ultrastructurally and by enumeration of cells, with a focus on changes in the granulosa component of the follicle. The pattern of cellular differentiation of the granulosa entails, as in other lizards, the transformation of a simple, cuboidal epithelium in small follicles into a complex layer consisting of three types of cells. Marked differences in size and ultrastructure of the cell types indicate different functional states: the smallest cells are little differentiated and serve primarily as stem cells to other granulosa cells throughout follicular growth, whereas the larger “intermediate” and “pyriform” cells do not divide and show ultrastructural features indicative of synthetic activity. Contrary to some views that this latter cell type is the final step in cellular differentiation and provides organelles and cytoplasm to the oocyte through an intercellular bridge, the results of this study suggest that only relatively small molecules such as ribosomal RNA might pass between cells. Further, these observations support the interpretation that a heterogeneous granulosa results from the fusion in early follicular stages of some cells that are in surface contact with the oocyte. Several of the cytological features of the larger granulosa cell types are seen in the oocyte and in germ‐line cells generally, such as highly dispersed chromatin, large nucleoli, abundant nuclear pores, mitochondrial “rosettes,” annulate lamellae, “ribosome bodies,” and surface microvilli. This strongly suggests that the cytology of large granulosa cells is induced by the oocyte. The heterogeneous granulosa persists only through previtellogenesis and at the onset of exogenous yolk uptake by the oocyte it becomes a secondarily homogeneous layer. The appearance of the granulosa at this stage is similar to that of reptiles whose granulosa remains a single‐cell layer throughout folliculogenesis (e.g., turtles and crocodilians). Thus, although follicular development has been scrutinized in only a few representative genera of reptiles to date, the course of follicular development among lizards is similar in detail and involves the transitory development of a heterogeneous population of cells. This feature appears to be exclusive to the squamate reptiles.
Spicule formation in the solitary ascidian, herdmania momus
Authors: Lambert Gretchen , Lambert Charles C.
Published: February 2005

Two types of calcareous spicules occur abundantly in Herdmania momus, a solitary pyurid ascidian with a worldwide warm water distribution. The large spindle‐shaped body spicules are 1.5–2.5‐mm long and are located primarily in the mantle, siphons, and branchial basket. Each body spicule possesses 100 or more rows of overlapping, unidirectional fringing spines. Numerous body spicules occur regularly spaced within a long common sheath of complex structure, and there are many sheaths per animal. Between neighboring body spicules and overlying the fringing spines are the tightly connected pseudopodial sclerocytes. Spine formation is hypothesized to occur within these cells. The body spicules apparently continue to increase in size throughout the animal's life.

The tunic spicules are about one tenth the length of the body spicules. They have 20–40 rows of unidirectional nonoverlapping fringing spines and a mace‐shaped spiny base that anchors them at the tunic surface. They form quickly in individual spicular envelopes inside the tunic blood vessels over a 4–5‐day period. Each tunic spicule then leaves its surrounding envelope and blood vessel, passes into the tunic, and ultimately protrudes through the outer surface of the tunic. An organic covering inside the envelope closely adheres to the tunic spicules and stains with toluidine blue. Dissolution of the CaCO3 mineral phase by EDTA or EDTA‐cetylpyridinium chloride‐formaldehyde reveals an intricately patterned organic matrix within or upon which the spicules develop.
Formation of the septate junction in regenerating planarian gastrodermis
Authors: Hori Isao
Published: February 2005

Septate junctions develop initially just basad from apical junctional complexes at the apical ends of regenerating gastrodermal cells. The first morphological indication of differentiation of the junction is the appearance of gentle undulations of the plasma membranes of apposing cells. Subsequently dense dots develop at fairly regular intervals at the cytoplasmic surface of one cell, while SER cisternae become localized opposite them near the surface of the apposing cell. The dense dots are associated with bulges which narrow the intercellular space. Later the dense dots are replaced by filaments aligned along the inner leaflet of the parent cell. Strands of amorphous deposits form connections between SER cisternae and the sister membrane on the opposite side of the junction. Ruthenium red staining provides information on precursors which occupy the intercellular space between the apposed plasma membranes. As development of the junction progresses, ruthenium red stains only the newly formed septa but not the interseptal matrix. Regular arrangement of individual septa seems to be completed under the control of V‐projections from both of their surfaces. Precursors for the structural material of the septa may be a secretory product derived from the SER. Dense dots and their derived filaments probably serve as reinforcing material for strengthening the cell membrane of the junction.
Ultrastructural investigations on the labral glands of Daphnia obtusa (Crustacea, Cladocera)
Authors: Zaffagnini F. , Zeni C.
Published: February 2005

The labral glands of Daphnia consist of three distinct functional units on each side: (1) several cells at the base of the head, (2) two large cells at the base of the labrum and one large cell (cell A) in the median part of the labrum and (3) one large cell (cell B) in the median part of the labrum. These gland cells do not form a syncytium, contrary to reports by previous investigators. With the exception of cell B, they have a well‐developed rough endoplasmic reticulum and many active Golgi complexes. The Golgi activity changes during the molt cycle. The Golgi activity of the cells of the head base is different from that of the large cells of the labrum. Since clear exocytotic phenomena were not observed, the secretion can be assumed to flow into the hemolymph after accumulation in the enlarged intercellular spaces. Cell B has a distinctive cytoplasmic ultrastructure the function of which is not yet understood.

The four large cells of the labrum are in contact with a duct cell (or several duct cells) characterized by a deep infolding of the plasma membrane. This delimits a narrow lumen, which contains no secretion. No passage of substance is visible from the gland cells to the duct cell(s).
Morphology of the nervous and muscular systems in the heads of pedicellariae from the sea urchin Echinus esculentus L
Authors: Peters Brian H. , Campbell Andrew C.
Published: February 2005

Light and electron microscopy reveal that simple receptor cells in the jaw epithelium of sea urchin pedicellariae are connected by nerve tracts to the neuropile that coordinates jaw movements. The muscles responsible for jaw opening and closure and for flexion of the stem are all innervated in this neuropile. At least two types of vesicles occur at the simple synapses between neurone profiles and at neuromuscular junctions. The muscles include both striated and smooth fibres; however, their distribution varies according to pedicellaria type, and an unexpected arrangement exists in trifoliate pedicellariae.