bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the effects of social environment on blood pressure and heart rates of baboons
Authors: Coelho Anthony M. , Carey K. Dee , Shade Robert E.
Published: June 2005

The objective of this publication is to report on the feasibility of using a tether system for obtaining data on blood pressure and heart rates of socially housed primates and to evaluate the extent to which housing environment alters cardiovascular responses (mean arterial blood pressure and heart rate). Blood pressure and heart rates of adult male baboons (Papio cynocephalus hamadryas) were evaluated over a 6 week period under three different housing conditions: social companion, individual, and socially unfamiliar. Social environment was manipulated in a specially designed cage that incorporated removable panels of either woven wire or solid sheet metal. The design of the cage permitted nonhuman primates to engage in species‐typical social behaviors such as grooming and aggression. Using a tether and catheter system, we monitored cardiovascular physiology. We tested the hypothesis that individual housing, housing with social companions, and housing with social strangers would produce different mean arterial blood pressure and heart rate responses. Individual housing and housing with strangers produced resting mean arterial blood pressures that were elevated relative to blood pressure responses with social companions. Individual housing and housing with social strangers produced different patterns of cardiovascular response. Individual housing resulted in lowered heart rates and elevated blood pressures relative to the social companion condition. Housing with social strangers resulted in both elevated blood pressure and elevated heart rate, relative to the social companion condition. Responses observed during this study demonstrated the sensitivity of blood pressure and heart rates to differences in social environment.
Immunological response and ovarian histology of squirrel monkeys (Saimiri sciureus) immunized with porcine zona pellucida ZP3 (Mr = 55,000) macromolecules
Authors: Sacco A. G. , Yurewicz E. C. , Subramanian M. G. , Lian Ye , Dukelow W. R.
Published: June 2005

ZP3 (M, = 55,000) is the major electrophoretic component of the porcine zona pellucida (ZP). In a continuing assessment of ZP3 as a candidate antigen for contraceptive vaccine development, female squirrel monkeys were immunized with 200 μg ZP3 using either Freund's adjuvant (FA) or muramyl dipeptide (MDP) and the effect of such immunization on ovarian histology examined. Two experimental and three control groups were immunized: Group 1 (n = 4), ZP3 plus FA; Group 2 (n = 4),ZP3 plus MDP; and controls—Group 3 (n = 2), ZP3 alone; Group 4 (n = 4), FA alone; and Group 5 (n = 4), saline. High antibody response to ZP3 was detected in the ZP3/FA and ZP3/MDP groups, and a very low response, in the ZP3‐alone group. Immune profiles for the ZP3iFA and ZP3/MDP groups were comparable, but titers in the MDP group were consistently lower and decreased more rapidly after 300 days post‐immunization (PI) than in the FA group. At 6 months PI, all ovaries from the ZP3/FA group revealed a deficiency of zona‐encased oocytes and a reduction in secondary and tertiary follicles compared to controls. At 18–24 months PI, normal ovarian histology in one ZP3/FA injected monkey and the presence of zona‐encased oocytes in a second monkey suggested ovarian recovery. Normal ovarian histology was present in all monkeys in the ZP3/MDP group as well as in all controls. These findings indicate that while immunization with ZP3/FA does initially perturb normal ovarian histology, such adverse effects appear to be reversible. Furthermore, immunization using ZP3 with MDP has no adverse effect on the ovary, indicating the importance of proper adjuvant selection in immunocontraceptive (IC) studies. These data encourage continued investigation of the zona IC approach using well‐characterized zona immunogens with non‐Freund's adjuvants.
Monitoring the ovarian cycles of Pan troglodytes and P. paniscus: A comparative approach
Authors: Dahl Jeremy F. , Nadler Ronald D. , Collins Delwood C.
Published: June 2005

Females of both species of chimpanzee, Pan troglodytes and P. paniscus, exhibit conspicuous anogenital sex swellings that are useful external markers for assessing ovarian cyclicity. A new, quantitative method for describing these swelling cycles was refined during laboratory studies of four P. paniscus and nine P. troglodytes and was used to analyze variability in swelling patterns. Clear‐cut anatomical changes of the perineum were found to have both interindividual and interspecific reliability. The swollen phase of the cycle was defined as the period when the medial surfaces of the labia minora are pressed against each other so the aperture leading to the vagina appears as a slit (labial occlusion). When defined with this precision, comparisons within and between the species revealed two types of cycle for both species; swollen phases of P. paniscus were about 24 or 39 days in duration, on average, whereas those of P. troglodytes were about 14 or 18 days. Urine samples from the P. troglodytes were collected and analyzed for luteinizing hormone (LH) (34 cycles), estrone glucuronide (E1G), and pregnanediol‐3‐glucuronide (PdG) (18 cycles). When the two types of cycle were separated in analysis, it was found that the day when labial occlusion occurred served as a predictor of the preovulatory LH peak in the cycles with a long swollen phase. Levels of E1G correlated closely with swelling scores in multiparous females regardless of phase lengths, suggesting that the new swelling scores are a reliable indicator of E1G excretion in multipara. Cycles with long swollen phases had relatively high levels of PdG during the luteal phase, whereas cycles with short swollen phases had relatively low levels of PdG and a shorter luteal phase. The marker of labial occlusion and the duration of the preswollen phase defined by the marker appear to be potentially useful in studies of reproduction in Pan, for monitoring female fertility, and in artificial insemination procedures. If it is confirmed that swelling pattern predicts progesterone levels during the luteal phase, it would make interventions possible in the case of low levels so that a potential pregnancy could be maintained to term.
Improved sperm collection from the lowland gorilla: Recovery of sperm from bladder and urethra following electroejaculation
Authors: Schaffer Nan , Jeyendran R. S. , Beehler Bruce
Published: June 2005

Rectal probe electroejaculation of lowland gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) consistently yields poor quality semen. To improve the semen parameters of these specimens, changes in the methodology of electroejaculation were studied. Retrograde ejaculation during electro‐stimulation may contribute to poor semen quality. It was found that: (1) large numbers of sperm were retroejaculated during electroejaculation and (2) that these sperm could be recovered from the bladder. The retrieval of residual semen present in the posterior urethra by massaging per rectum following electroejaculation was also examined. Massaging the posterior urethra post‐electroejaculation: (1) reduced the number of stimulations needed to obtain the first ejaculation, (2) decreased the current density needed to retrieve the first ejaculate, and (3) produced ejaculate that was comparable to the ejaculate of standard procedures. Thus, the changes in the methodology improved the overall seminal parameters of electroejaculated semen.
Reactive erosive arthritis in chimpanzees
Authors: Rothschild Bruce M. , Woods Robert J.
Published: June 2005

Diagnosis of diseases of bone, without benefit of soft tissue, in vivo observation, or blood component analysis requires the development of new criteria for diagnosis. Analyzing chimpanzee skeletal populations, applying such criteria (e.g., lesion character, distribution, radiologic appearance, and sex ratios), revealed a picture indistinguishable from human spondyloarthropathy. As Africa has been shown to manifest this condition in indigenous human, chimpanzee, and lowland gorilla populations, the possibility of a non‐species specific etiology is suggested.
“Environmental stress” and reproductive success in the common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus jacchus)
Authors: Johnson Elizabeth O. , Kamilaris Themis C. , Carter Sue , Gold Philip W. , Chrousos George P.
Published: June 2005

The present report documents the breeding success of a new colony of common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus jacchus) and demonstrates a correlation between environmental stress and reproductive success. Environmental conditions ranged chronologically over 40 months, through four periods: I) the initial period, when the colony was formed; II) a phase of relative environmental stability; III) a stage of “environmental stress” (when the colony was disrupted by nearby construction); and IV) a return to a stable environment. Examination of reproductive status during each period indicated that the colony exhibited severe reproductive suppression during the time of the environmental disruption. Parity and the number of live births decreased and the number of spontaneous abortions increased during this period. Reproductive success remained low during period IV. More triplets than twins were born during the period of relative environmental stability.
Weight and age in wild olive baboons
Authors: Strum S. C.
Published: June 2005

Data on weight, toothwear, cape length, testes size, canine size, and age from wild olive baboons are presented in order to consider the nature of the growth curve, the differences between males and females in a sexually dimorphic species, and the effect of nutrition on growth parameters. Longitudinal and cross‐sectional data on weight and age in three troops that lived under a variety of ecological circumstances showed a good fit to the von Bertalanffy growth equation. Male and female baboons have different growth constants (K) and different asymptotic weights and ages resulting in the observed baboon sexual dimorphism. Within sexes, growth constants and asymptotic weights varied between troops in the same year and for the same troop in different years. Improvements in nutrition increased growth rate and final weight and decreased age at asymptote in both naturally foraging and in food‐enhanced wild groups. Testes and cape length follow the same growth pattern and have the same asymptotic age as body mass among naturally foraging males. Canine growth is different with full size achieved nearly 2 years earlier. Toothwear is an accurate relative age indicator for immature and adult females and for immature males but not for adult males because of the role that large canines play in occlusion and wear. The data suggest that creating a dichotomy between captive and wild primates is overly simplistic since conditions for growth in the wild can overlap those of captivity, not just for food enhanced individuals but also among naturally foraging troops. The nutritional perspective on primate growth exposes inherent problems in our present system of primate age classification which have serious implications for the use of age classes in behavioral analyses.
Detection of nonhuman primate gonadotropins in polyacrylamide gels: An alternative to the western blot
Authors: Matteri Robert L. , Ziegler Toni E.
Published: June 2005

The lack of appropriate antibodies restricts the use of western blots in studies of nonhuman primate gonadotropins. We now present the evaluation of an alternative method that can be applied in situations in which antibody is limiting or nonexistent. The use of nonreducing sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) sample buffer (Swack et al., 1987) retains a significant degree of α‐β subunit association, as determined by the western blot analysis of human and rhesus luteinizing hormone (LH; 33 and 36 kD, respectively). This observation was confirmed when eluates of gel slices were analyzed by specific gonadotropin immuno‐ and bioassays. The molecular weight of rhesus LH in pituitary protein was found to be 36 kD by bioassay and immunoassay. Similarly, the molecular weight of rhesus follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) did not differ between assay systems (36 kD). The analysis of chorionic gonadotropin (CG)/LH activity in gel eluates of pregnant rhesus and tamarin urinary protein revealed major activity at 43 kD, with lesser bands between 34 and 39 kD. Guanidine‐induced dissociation of gonadotropin subunits in pregnant rhesus urinary protein resulted in the disappearance of dimer at 43 and 36 kD and the appearance of 25 and 16 kD subunit peaks. This alternative to the western blot is not limited to SDS‐PAGE. Native gel electrophoresis (no SDS) showed that rhesus FSH possesses a greater negative charge than rheus LH (Rf = 0.49 vs. 0.35). Isoelectric focusing PAGE resolved distinct isoforms of rhesus LH and FSH (pl range 5.2–7.2 and 4.0–5.8, respectively). The electrophoretic analysis of nonhuman primate gonadotropins in impure protein samples will provide fundamental data on the comparative biochemistry of these hormones. Applications will be found in biomedical and comparative studies.
The benefits of helpers: Effects of group and litter size on infant care in tamarins (Saguinus oedipus)
Authors: Price Eluned C.
Published: June 2005

The Callitrichidae (marmosets and tamarins) typically give birth to twins, and infant care is shared by all group members. The potential benefits to callitrichids of having helpers were investigated in a study of 21 captive cotton‐top tamarin (Saguinus oedipus) infants, living in groups with two to 12 older members. Time carried and suckled and amount of food received from other family members were recorded for each infant during the first 12 weeks of life. The results showed that infants in larger groups were carried more and received more food than those in smaller groups. Twin infants in larger families were less likely to be on the same carrier. Singleton infants were carried more than twins but did not receive more food. On average, individual caretakers in larger groups carried less and shared less food with infants than those in smaller groups. When parental contributions to care were analyzed, no effects of group size were found on mothers' contributions to carrying or food sharing, but fathers in larger groups both carried infants less and shared less food with them. There appear to be several benefits of a communal rearing system to cotton‐top tamarins. 1) Infants may receive more care in larger families, thus increasing their chances of survival. 2) The burden of care is spread over several animals, reducing the costs to a given individual. 3) The parents, particularly fathers, may benefit most from reducing the costs of investing in the present litter and increasing their ability to invest in future litters.
Pygmy chimpanzee social organization: Variation with party size and between study sites
Authors: White Frances J.
Published: June 2005

Descriptions of social organization based on interactions are difficult for fission‐fusion primates, such as pygmy chimpanzees, as interactions may depend on association in parties. Frequencies of male‐male and male‐female affiliative and female‐male and female‐female aggressive interactions among Lomako pygmy chimpanzees occurred in proportion to the presence of each sex in parties. Male‐male aggression and female‐male affiliation, however, were more frequent than expected on the basis of party membership. Females with small swellings received more grooming and less mating than expected. Patterns of interactions at Lomako also varied with party size. Female‐female affiliation predominated in small parties, while male‐female affiliation predominated in larger parties. This trend parallels observed differences between the Lomako and Wamba study sites. Male‐female affiliation is more frequent at Wamba where party sizes are larger. Differences between study sites may also reflect provisioning, habituation, predator threat, and habitat. Provisioning at Wamba may result in higher frequencies of aggression among males and lower levels of aggression among females. Comparison between earlier and later Lomako studies suggests that increased habituation is associated with greater differences from, rather than more similarity to, results from Wamba. Differences between Lomako and Wamba in habitat, provisioning, and human (but not non‐human) predation, by affecting party size and composition, most likely account for the observed differences in social organization between the two sites.
Activity Budgets, feeding behavior, and habitat use of pygmy chimpanzees at Lomako, Zaire
Authors: White Frances J.
Published: June 2005

Data from 250 hours of focal animal sampling in the Lomako Forest of central Zaire show pygmy chimpanzees spent 70% of feeding time on fruit and 25% on young leaves. Feeding and resting each accounted for about 40% and traveling less than 20% of the time. Sitting was the most frequent feeding posture. Locomotion was predominantly quadrupedal walking and quadrumanous climbing. Most feeding and resting occurred above 30 m. Pygmy chimpanzees spent most time in primary forest. Activity budgets varied with forest type. Most levels were used in each forest type. Pygmy chimpanzees spent most time in the canopy when in primary and slope (Bolafa) forests, and on the ground in secondary forest. These results show pygmy chimpanzees as arboreal, but habituation may have influenced the results. Pygmy chimpanzees at Lomako and Wamba have similar diets, despite differences in methods of data collection. At Wamba and Lomako, pygmy chimpanzees use secondary forest more and swamp forest less than expected given the abundance of each forest type at both sites.
Genetic structure of three populations of rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta): Implications for genetic management
Authors: Gill P. S. , Blangero J. , Manis G. S. , Scheffler J. , Keeling M. E. , Stone W. H.
Published: June 2005

One of the prime concerns at zoos and at primate breeding facilities is to maintain genetic variability. This can be accomplished by avoiding inbreeding. It is relatively easy to assess genetic variability and the level of inbreeding by using pedigree information and genetic markers. In this study we used genetic markers controlled by 6 independent polymorphic loci (GPI, PGD, CA2, MPI, DIA1, Tf) to ascertain genetic variation in two captive and one wild population of rhesus monkeys. Two other loci ADA and NP were also examined and found to be monomorphic in the three populations. F‐statistics and contingency chi‐square analyses indicated that there was significant genetic differentiation among the populations. We also found that the mean heterozygosities were very similar in the three populations, in spite of the diverse breeding strategies. These data are important because rhesus monkeys are frequently used for biomedical research; and the genetic markers provide useful information for genetic management of captive colonies of nonhuman primates. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Uncertain paternity in primate quantitative genetic studies
Authors: Konigsberg Lyle W. , Cheverud James M.
Published: June 2005

Quantitative genetic studies in primates have generally been based on varying amounts of genealogical information. We consider the case where maternal relationships are known, but paternal relationships are only probabilistic (i.e., a limited number of males can be enumerated as equally likely sires for a given offspring). Using Henderson's [1988] average numerator relationship matrix method, we show for craniometric data from the Cayo Santiago macaque colony that heritability estimates are not greatly affected by the addition of incomplete paternal information. We then show through simulation studies that in order for there to be a substantial increase in power to detect significant heritabilities, the number of possible sires per offspring must be quite small. Given this restriction, we conclude that the current method of ignoring paternal relationships is probably adequate and that considerable effort would have to be expended in performing paternal exclusions before there would be a substantial increase in the precision of heritability estimates. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Differential patterns in flower feeding by Eulemur fulvus rufus and Eulemur rubriventer in Madagascar
Authors: Overdorff Deborah J.
Published: June 2005

In this paper, I describe the differential patterns of flower feeding observed in rufous lemurs (Eulemur fulvus rufus) and red‐bellied lemurs (E. rubriventer) in the Ranomafana National Park, Madagascar. Red‐bellied lemurs licked nectar from flowers while rufous lemurs ate all flower parts from the same flower species. Several hypotheses are examined to explain the significance of flower feeding in these two species. In many primate species, flower feeding functions as a keystone resource and/or primates act as pollinators while feeding on flowers. Although peak flower feeding occurred during a decline in food availability, fruit was always (the preferred food item so that flowers did not function as a keystone resource. Second, red‐bellied lemurs appear to be potentially better pollinators compared to the rufous lemurs because 1) they left flower reproductive parts intact while feeding, 2) they visited more than one tree or liana of the same plant species in the same day, 3) pollen was observed on the faces of individuals as they traveled from plant to plant, and 4) they have a feathered, brush‐like tip on their tongue which rufous lemurs lack. Finally, the difference in flower feeding styles between the lemur species also affected three aspects of diet: 1) feeding bout duration, 2) the size of feeding subgroups, and 3) return visits to flowering sources. These subtle differences in diet within food categories can allow these two otherwise similar lemur species to coexist. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Chromosome studies in Chiropotes satanas utahicki hershkovitz, 1985 (cebidae, platyrrhini): A comparison with Chiropotes satanas chiropotes
Authors: Seuánez H. N. , Alves G. , Lima M. M. C. , Barros R. de Souza , Barros C. M. L. , Muniz J. A. P. C.
Published: June 2005

Karyological characterizations of C. s. utahicki (2n = 54) and C. s. chiropotes (2n = 54) showed that these two subspecies are chromosomally very similar. In a single, isolated specimen of C s. utahicki, however, a derived, biarmed, chromosome 14 was found in the heterozygous condition. This variant chromosome was identical with pair 10 in C. s. chiropotes in which this chromosome type was apparently fixed. Chromosome differences between these subspecies might be transitional, leading to the establishment of two different karyomorphic populations derived from a once uniform karyotypic group that split into separate allopatric subspecies. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Predation by jaguar on howler monkeys (Alouatta seniculus) in Venezuela
Authors: Peetz Angela , Norconk Marilyn A. , Kinzey Warren G.
Published: June 2005

We document the loss of all but the youngest member of a troop of six howler monkeys due to probable jaguar predation during a 7‐month period in 1988. The formation of Guri Lake resulted in forest fragmentation which forced monkeys into new and unfamiliar areas and altered the balance of predator and prey populations, and may thus have contributed indirectly to the success of the jaguar. The selection of defoliated (dead) trees for sleeping sites by the howlers may have directly increased the risk of predation. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Seasonal changes in body weight of Macaca thibetana at Mt. Emei, China
Authors: Zhao Qi‐Kun
Published: June 2005

This 1991–1992 study was designed to expand previous research on body weight (BW) in Tibetan macaques (Macaca thibetana) at Mt. Emei. Data on BW were collected in late autumn (LA) and late winter (LW) in groups ranging above 1,200 m. Over the winter, the BW fell significantly from a mean of 16.8 to 11.4 kg in females and from 19.5 to 17.0 kg in males. The previously reported BW means of 12.8 kg for females and 18.3 kg for males, measured in late spring, are near the center of the annual BW range for this species. In addition, with the sharper decline of female BW (−32% vs. −13% seen in males), the sexual dimorphism (M/F) in BW increased from 1.16 in LA to 1.49 in LW. This finding may be related to differential parental investment by two sexes. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Craniodental allometry and heterochrony in two howler monkeys: Alouatta seniculus and A. palliata
Authors: Ravosa Matthew J. , Ross Callum F.
Published: June 2005

Cranial dimensions were collected from growth series for two sexually dimorphic congeners: Alouatta seniculus, the red howler monkey, and Alouatta palliata, the mantled howler monkey. In both A. seniculus and A. palliata, ontogenetic series for males and females were compared to evaluate if sexual dimorphism in skull form results from the differential extension of common patterns of relative growth. Subsequently, growth series for both species were compared to investigate whether morphological differences between species also result from the ontogenetic scaling of cranial proportions.

Analyses indicate that cranial proportions for both sexes of Alouatta palliata are ontogenetically scaled. In mantled howlers, males apparently reach larger terminal size by growing for a longer duration and, to a lesser extent, at a faster rate than females. Data for both sexes of Alouatta seniculus indicate that cranial proportions are also ontogenetically scaled. In particular, male red howlers apparently reach larger adult size by growing at a faster rate and, perhaps, to an equivalent or longer duration than females. The Alouatta seniculus data underscore apparent differences in the rate and timing components of sex dimorphism, possibly due to sexual differences among dental eruption patterns, cranial development, somatic growth, and socioecological factors. Results for both species indicate that intrasexual selection for size differentiation has a minimal effect on brain size and postcanine tooth size dimorphism. Lastly, comparisons of allometric trajectories for both species further demonstrate a strong pattern of ontogenetic scaling of cranial proportions. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Optimal conditions for blastogenic response of peripheral blood lymphocytes to T and B cell mitogens in cynomolgus monkeys
Authors: Al‐Kurdi‐Norimine Wafa , Ochikubo Fumiko , Ami Yasushi , Yamanouchi Kazuya , Kai Chieko
Published: June 2005

Optimal conditions for the mitogen‐induced proliferation of T and B lymphocytes of cynomolgus monkeys were determined. The T cell mitogens concanavalin A and phytohemagglutinin, at concentrations of 1.25–10 μg/ml and 1.25–10 μg/ml, respectively, and the T and B cell mitogen pokeweed mitogen, at concentrations of 0.2–10 μg/ml, induced high lymphoproliferative responses, the average stimulation index (SI) being 34–93. Since suitable mitogens have not been reported for monkey B cells, we tested three types of lipopolysaccharide (LPS): two derived from Escherichia coli—one extracted with phenol and one extracted with trichloroacetic acid (TCA); and one derived from Salmonella typhimurium, extracted with phenol. All three LPS had a high mitogenic effect for monkey lymphocytes, with SI of 2.3–6.4. The highest response was observed for 25 μg/ml of Salmonella LPS, and the addition of trypsin to the culture augmented the proliferative response of low or non‐responder lymphocytes. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Karyotype of Callithrix mauesi (Callitrichidae, Primates) and its relations with those of C. emiliae and C. jacchus
Authors: Nagamachi Cleusa Y. , Pieczarka Julio Cesar , Schwarz Marco , Paiva Cristiane M. C. , Barros Regina M. S. , Mattevi Margarete S.
Published: June 2005

A study was conducted on the most recently described marmoset species, Callithrix mauesi, and the results obtained were compared to those previously reported for the karyotypes of C. jacchus and C. emiliae. No mechanism of chromosome rearrangement differentiates the karyotypes of C. mauesi (2n = 44) and C. emiliae (2n = 44), which diverge from C. jacchus (2n = 46) by a Robertsonian translocation and a paracentric inversion. C. mauesi, like C. emiliae, presents telomeric constitutive heterochromatin in various chromosomes, forming large heterochromatic blocks in some. This does not occur in C. jacchus, which basically presents centromeric constitutive heterochromatin. The karyotype of C. mauesi differs from that of C. emiliae only by the amount and distribution of this telomeric constitutive heterochromatin. One of the chromosomes presenting a heterochromatic block in C. mauesi is chromosome X, a fact not previously reported in the Order Primates. The present chromosome data show that C. mauesi is closer to C. emiliae than to C. jacchus, in agreement with its inclusion in the C. argentata group. In the present paper, we describe for the first time, at the chromosome level, chimerism between fraternal twins of the same sex (XY/XY), with the heterochromatic block of pair 2 being the marker. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Study of spontaneous infectious diseases of primates: Contributions of the regional primate research centers program to conservation and new scientific opportunities
Authors: Hunt Ronald D. , Desrosiers Ronald C.
Published: June 2005

Careful investigation of spontaneous diseases of nonhuman primates is critical to maintaining the health of captive breeding colonies and, therefore, conservation. Without an understanding of those infectious agents to which nonhuman primates are susceptible and their sources, all colonies are at risk of catastrophic illness. Such studies also regularly generate new opportunities for improved studies of the causes and nature of diseases of human beings. Inquiries into an epizootic in owl monkeys (Aotus trivirgatus) led to the identification of fatal herpes virus infections transmitted by squirrel monkeys (Herpesvirus T) and human beings (H. simplex), and to mechanisms for their prevention. This also paved the way for the discovery of a new virus, H. saimiri, which has provided a unique opportunity to study mechanisms of viral oncogenesis. Research on spontaneous immunodeficiency disease of macaques led to uncovering a new group of viral diseases (type D retrovirus) of major importance to colony health, and subsequently to the identification of another new virus (simian immunodeficiency virus) which has provided an exquisite system in which to investigate AIDS of human beings. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
New world primates for research in human reproductive health
Authors: Hearn John P.
Published: June 2005

The New World primates are relatively new to studies in reproductive health. The essential factors in their reproductive physiology and endocrinology are now established for the three species considered here: Saimiri sciureus, Cebus apella, and Callithrix jacchus. Our studies to date in C. jacchus have concentrated on developmental biology (gametogenesis, fertilization, implantation, neonatal growth) and on strategic studies of new pharmacological agents for the regulation of fertility (vaccines, steroids, lactation). There are also species‐specific mechanisms evident, such as reproductive suppression in female marmosets, that give insights to the evolution of reproductive mechanisms in the primates. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Interovarian communication for the control of follicular growth and corpus luteum function in the cebus monkey
Authors: Nagle C. A. , Digiano L. , Paul N. , Terlato M. , Quiroga S. , Mendizabal A. F.
Published: June 2005

We have investigated the role of the utero‐ovarian ligament (UOL) in the alternating ovulatory performance of the ovaries in the capuchin monkey. In intact animals, the ovulation rate was near 90%, with 67.5% of ovulations occurring in the left ovary. Sectioning the UOL in any phase of the cycle decreased the ovulation rate by 40%, and restricted ovulations to the ovary still connected to the uterus by the UOL. Estradiol and progesterone levels were significantly reduced throughout the following cycles in treated monkeys. Removal of the ovary that had been disconnected 18‐20 months previous, restored both the ovulation rate and normal steroid levels. Histological study of the UOL revealed the presence of arteries, veins, lymph vessels, and nerves. Electrical stimulation of the UOL was followed by an abrupt discharge of estradiol by the ovary bearing the follicle, advancing ovulation which was followed by a normal luteal development. Conversely, stimulation of the ovary bearing a corpus luteum did not modify either the ovarian or the peripheral levels of ovarian steroids. The UOL ligament appeared to be functional for products arising from the uterus. The distribution and effects of hCG injected intrauterinely depended upon the day of the luteal phase. In the early luteal phase, hCG was distributed symmetrically between both ovaries, and increased the progesterone secretion by the ovulatory ovary only. In the late luteal phase, hCG was preferentially distributed to the ovulatory ovary, and increased the progesterone secretion by both ovaries. The present findings provide evidence for a local mechanism, throughout the UOL, controlling both the alternation of ovulation and the transfer of substances originating in the uterus that regulate the ovarian function in primates. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Diurnal urinary corticoid excretion in the human and gorilla
Authors: Czekala N. M. , Lance V. A. , Sutherland‐Smith M.
Published: June 2005

Urinary corticoids were measured in humans (n = 9) in frequently collected urine samples taken during a 48 hr period, and in captive western lowland gorillas (n = 5) and free‐ranging mountain gorillas (n = 3) from samples taken from 0700 to 1800 hr. In each study, the highest concentrations occurred in the morning hours, then declined gradually, reaching the lowest levels in the afternoon to evening. These data show that a similar diurnal pattern of corticoid excretion does occur in these species. We suggest that if single‐sample urine collection for determination of hyperadrenal activity is to be used, urine is best collected during hours of low corticoid excretion. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Infant mortality: The role of the macaque as a model for human disease
Authors: Hendrickx Andrew G. , Tarantal Alice F.
Published: June 2005

Factors which have been identified as the leading causes of infant mortality include birth defects, hemoglobinopathies, prematurity, and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). In order to further our understanding of the specific causes of infant mortality and the mechanisms by which they occur, suitable animal models will be required. Studies with nonhuman primates (specifically the macaque) have addressed malformation/functional deficit syndromes such as those associated with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS), nutritional deficiencies, and retinoid teratogenicity. These studies have provided critical information for further basic and preventive research. In addition, efforts to evaluate the safety of diagnostic ultrasound continue to aid in identifying safe methods for exposure. From a prenatal perspective, cellular transplantation has been shown to be a feasible method for treating individuals with inherited defects in utero, thereby avoiding postnatal transplantation and the associated risks. Longterm complications of prematurity have also been pursued with growth factors (i.e., epidermal growth factor) noted to play an important role in both pre‐ and postnatal development of the gastrointestinal tract and lung. As one of the most distressing causes of death in infancy, SIDS will require a concentrated effort to understand the basic mechanism(s) responsible for the characteristic respiratory complications. The nonhuman primate will continue to provide critical information as the model of choice for the human in determining the causes, mechanisms, and treatments for these significant causes of infant death. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Use of neotropical and Malagasy primate species in biomedical research
Authors: Mittermeier Russell A. , Konstant William R. , Mast Roderic B.
Published: June 2005

There are 16 genera with 87 species of Neotropical primates, of which 18 (20.7%) are endangered. Only a handful of Neotropical species are utilized in biomedical research, and, of these, none are currently endangered. The few species utilized in biomedicine that are threatened in the wild are now bred largely from captive colonies. In Madagascar, there are 14 genera and 32 species, none of which are utilized widely in biomedical research. The current position should not induce complacency, as it presents an opportunity. Where knowledge is being gained, in laboratories and zoos, concerning the reproduction, genetics, social organization, behavior, and diseases of primates, it is vital that the relevant knowledge be transferred as far as possible to improve management of the same or related species in the field. Challenges for the future will require action plans for species and for habitats. There is a need for sound scientific knowledge on which to base such plans. In addition, the technological advances developed in laboratories, such as non‐invasive assays, assisted reproduction, genetic profiles, and vaccines, are likely to play a growing part in future conservation programs. Finally, knowledge gained from field studies can greatly improve the care and management of species in captivity. Greater cooperation and more efficient mechanisms of communication between laboratory and field, zoos and the wild, and the many scientific disciplines involved are vital to ensure that global primate diversity is maintained. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Imports: Current trends and usage
Authors: Held J. R. , Wolfle T. L.
Published: June 2005

Nonhuman primates are essential to the advancement of some areas of biomedical research and testing. Some populations of these species in the wild may be threatened with extinction because of habitat destruction; therefore, the biomedical community has been monitoring trends in their importation and use, and supporting various conservation activities. During the past 25 years, there has been a marked decrease in importations into the United States, a large proportion of which is the result of a 1975 ban on their importation for the pet trade. During the same period, the need for biomedical purposes has remained fairly constant. Nonetheless, the reductions in imports have been augmented by the biomedical community through reducing losses during quarantine and conditioning, ensuring a more judicious use of these animals, and by increasing the availability of animals from breeding programs both in source countries and the United States. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Seasonal variation in reproduction, juvenile growth, and adult body mass in golden lion tamarins (Leontopithecus rosalia)
Authors: Dietz James M. , Baker Andrew J. , Miglioretti Diana
Published: June 2005

Data on the ecology, demography, and morphology of 465 golden lion tamarins in 22 wild groups suggest that avoidance of reproduction and weaning of infants during the dry season shaped the pattern of female reproduction. Post‐partum estrus may have evolved to allow females to produce and wean two successive litters during the 7‐month season of abundant food resources. Support for these hypotheses includes observations that nearly all births, lactation, and weaning of infants occurred during the wet season, a period of relatively abundant trophic resources. Litter sizes in the wild were smaller than for the captive population. Evidence that food limitation may have a greater negative impact on young juveniles than lactating females includes observations that female weight did not decrease with lactation, and that many births occurred during the transition between dry and wet seasons. Juveniles gained less weight during the dry season than during the wet season; however, there was no significant difference between weights of adults born early vs. late in the wet season. For females producing two litters/year, litter size and infant mortality did not differ for litters born early and late in the wet season. Adult males gained weight before and lost weight during the month of highest probability of female estrus, suggesting that competition for mates is energetically expensive for males. Although resources were abundant, adult males did not gain weight during months when most infant carrying took place, suggesting that this activity is also energetically expensive. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sodium, potassium, and protein concentrations and 2D‐SDS‐page of epididymal luminal and ejaculated seminal fluids of the adult chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes)
Authors: Young L. G. , Hinton B. T. , Smithwick E. B. , Gould K. G.
Published: June 2005

The concentration of soluble protein and of sodium and potassium ions was estimated in chimpanzee caput epididymal luminal fluid, cauda epididymal luminal fluid, and ejaculated seminal fluid. Protein concentration was 48.5 ± 1.5 μg/μl in caput fluid, 26.8 ± 2.0 μg/μl in cauda fluid, and 53.0 ± 7.9 μg/μl in seminal fluid. Sodium concentration was 127.0 ± 7.0 mM in caput fluid, 34.5 ± 1.8 mM in cauda fluid, and 18.8 ± 1.8 mM in seminal fluid. Potassium concentration was 58.0 ± 0.0 mM in caput fluid, 56.8 ± 5.2 mM in cauda fluid, and 77.0 ± 1.7 mM in seminal fluid. Proteins in caput epididymal, cauda epididymal, and ejaculated seminal fluids, with approximate molecular weights (kDa) between <14.4 and 45.0 kDa and apparent isoelectric points (pIs) between 4.5 and 7.5, were resolved by two‐dimensional SDS‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (2D‐SDS‐PAGE) and silver stained. In caput fluid, the most intensely stained polypeptides resolved between 14.4 and 21.5 kDa (pI 5.4–7.4). In cauda fluid, the number and intensity of stained components increased markedly, and the most intensely stained polypeptides resolved between 21.5 and 31.0 kDa (pI 5.7–7.3). In seminal fluid, polypeptides between <14.4 and 45.0 kDa (pI 5.7–7.4) appeared characteristically diffuse and distributed. These results demonstrate that the ions and the polypeptides in the luminal microenvironment change significantly along the epididymal duct of the male chimpanzee. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Environmental variation and developmental rate among free ranging yellow baboons (Papio cynocephalus)
Authors: Wasser Lauren M. , Wasser Samuel K.
Published: June 2005

Behavioral development was observed for the first 3 months of life on 18 infants from three troops of yellow balloons (Papio cynocephalus) in Mikumi National Park, Tanzania. Developmental rates were determined for each subject on six major behaviors using the slope from regression equations performed on developmental functions changes in behavior with age. These slopes were examined statistically for associations with social and physical variables that were hypothesized to influence developmental rates. Results showed that faster rates of development were significantly associated with certain environmental and social conditions. Infants born late in their cohort, infants born in a more physically immature state, infants living in a large troop, and female infants of low ranking mothers all had significantly faster rates of development than infants at the other extreme in these categories. These results are interpreted as evidence for developmental processes that compensate for environmental or physical conditions that negatively influence survivorship. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Endocrine monitoring of the ovarian cycle and pregnancy in the saddle‐back tamarin (Saguinus fuscicollis) by measurement of steroid conjugates in urine
Authors: Heistermann M. , Hodges J. K.
Published: June 2005

Direct measurements of urinary immunoreactive estrone conjugates (E1C) and pregnanediol glucuronide (PdG), were applied to monitoring the ovarian cycle (n = 9) and pregnancy (3 full term pregnancies, 2 mid‐term abortions) in Saguinus fuscicollis. During the ovarian cycle, urinary E1C concentrations revealed a high degree of day‐to‐day variability and appeared to be uninformative in reflecting cyclic ovarian function. In contrast, PdG was a reliable indicator of ovarian cyclicity with excretion patterns corresponding well with plasma progesterone profiles. Luteal phase PdG concentrations were on average 4–7–fold higher than corresponding follicular phase values. On the basis of changes in circulating progesterone, a mean cycle length of 25.7 ±1.0 days with an average follicular phase of 7.1 ± 0.6 days and a mean luteal phase of 18.6 ± 0.7 days, was found (n = 14 cycles). Following conception, both urinary steroid conjugate concentrations increased and elevated levels were maintained beyond the normal luteal phase length, allowing pregnancy to be determined at around day 25–30. During mid‐ to late pregnancy, PdG levels declined while E1C concentrations continued to be elevated until approximately 6 weeks before parturition when a decrease occurred. Both hormones showed a clear and rapid fall to follicular phase values following termination of pregnancy at either parturition or mid‐term abortion. Post partum ovulations (n = 5) occurred on average 17–18 days following birth with four ovulations leading to conceptions. The results demonstrate the potential of urinary steroid conjugate analysis as a practical and reliable method for non‐invasive monitoring of reproductive status in the female saddle‐back tamarin. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Feeding sites for extractive foraging by the aye‐aye, Daubentonia madagascariensis
Authors: Erickson Carl J.
Published: June 2005

The aye‐aye, Daubentonia madagascariensis, uses its middle digit to tap on woody sources in search of subsurface cavities containing prey. The acoustical properties of these cavities are thought to be important to this percussive foraging, but the contributions of cavity size, configuration, and contents to efficient prey capture are not known. The purpose of this study was to characterize these cavities and their residents. An analysis of foraged trees at two sites in Madagascar revealed that many of the foraged cavities are mines bored by large cerambycid beetle larvae. Apparently cerambycids, as well as inquiline residents of their mines, are major targets of aye‐aye foraging behavior. The larvae bore extended mines that course approximately parallel to the long axes of the trees in which they reside. The orientation and large size of the mines offer an acoustical trail that the aye‐aye may follow to its prey. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Supra‐annual variation in the influence of Myrica rubra fruit on the behavior of a troop of Japanese macaques in Yakushima
Authors: Hill David A. , Agetsuma Naoki
Published: June 2005

Observations were made on a well‐habituated natural troop of Japanese macaques (Macaca fuscata yakui), living in warm‐temperate, lowland forest in Yakushima. Between mid‐May and the end of June the macaques feed on the fruit of the evergreen tree Myrica rubra (Myricaceae). The fruit of this species are abundant in some years and scarce in others. Data were compared for two heavy‐fruiting years (1988 and 1990) and one poor‐fruiting year (1991) to examine the influence of fruit availability on patterns of foraging, ranging, and the frequency of inter‐troop encounters. In both heavy‐fruiting years M. rubra fruit accounted for a maximum of over 70% of foraging time, compared with a maximum of <5% in the poor‐fruiting year. Heavy fruiting was also associated with a marked decrease in the overall time spent foraging. In early May of all three years troop movements were largely confined to northern parts of the home range. By early June of both heavy‐fruiting years ranging had shifted to the south‐west, and included an area with a high concentration of M. rubra trees. This area was rarely visited at other times, and was not visited during the study period in the poor‐fruiting year. The overlap in range‐use between the two heavy‐fruiting years was significantly greater than that between the heavy‐fruiting years and the poor‐fruiting year. Heavy fruiting was also associated with an increase in the frequency of inter‐troop encounters. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.