bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing patterns of geographic variation in cave crickets by combining geostatistic methods and Mantel tests
Authors: Cesaroni Donatella , Matarazzo Pasquale , Allegrucci Giuliana , Sbordoni Valerio
Published: December 2003

Geographic variation patterns of biological characters and environmental variables are compared by using a procedure employing multivariate analyses, production of contour maps by the kriging method with enclosed validation of estimates, and Mantel tests to assess the significance of comparisons. As biological material we chose a sample of Dolichopoda cave crickets populations from Central‐Southern Italy. The kriging technique provides estimates of the interpolation error for each true and estimated point. This profitable feature offers the opportunity to use, with ascertained levels of confidence, the estimated z‐scores for further analysis and to compare data collected within the same area, but not exactly coincident in location or number. In such a way, we were able to use for subsequent comparisons by means of Mantel tests the maximum number of data points for all data sets, which originally differed in sampling sites. The interpretation of the contour maps and their statistical comparison suggested that allozymes and epiphallus shape data sets follow the phylogenetic pathways within the Dolichopoda populations, whereas variation in leg elongation is almost entirely under the control of an environmental gradient, synthetically described by the cave temperature.
Biogeography of the Helicoidea (Mollusca: Gastropoda: Pulmonata): land snails with a Pangean distribution
Authors: Scott Bronwen
Published: December 2003

The biogeography of helicoid land snails was investigated using cladistic methods. Parsimony analysis under Assumption 0 yielded twelve area cladograms (length=25, c.i.=0.76, r.i.=0.86). The pattern of vicariance for the Helicoidea indicated that families originated with the break up of eastern Gondwana and Laurasia between the late Mesozoic and mid‐Tertiary, and possible vicariance events are identified. It is proposed that Asian terranes, located between India and Australia, maintained contact with northern Australia until the late Cretaceous, which is later than is suggested in current palaeogeographical hypotheses.
Is there an influence of historical events on contemporary fish species richness in rivers? Comparisons between Western Europe and North America
Authors: Oberdorff Thierry , Hugueny Bernard , Guégan Jean‐François
Published: December 2003

Freshwater fish species richness on 132 West European and North American rivers is analysed using eleven variables related to contemporary ecology (nine) and history (two). This is done in order to examine the relative and joint effects of both historical and ongoing processes on the contemporary richness of these two regional fish faunas. Relationships are quantified by simple and stepwise multiple regression procedures. Species‐area curves are presented for the fish faunas within both continents. We show that ecological factors statistically explain most of the variation in freshwater fish species richness for both continents. Effects of historical factors are shown to be statistically significant, but add only a little to the variance already explained by ecological factors. Our analyses further indicate that rivers (which flow directly into the ocean) support fewer species of fish than do similarly sized tributaries. The immigration‐extinction hypothesis appears to provide a plausible explanation for this observed pattern. The fact that in our final model, a continental effect is still highly significant, leads us not to exclude the possibility of some other historical influences in generating different overall species richness levels on the two continents.
Plant species coexistence in cliff habitats
Authors: Cooper Alan
Published: December 2003

An ecological analysis of the ledge and crevice vegetation of cliffs in north‐east Ireland was carried out using a sampling programme based on multivariate land classification. The composition of the vegetation was shown to be determined primarily by distance from the sea, elevation and rock type. The chemical composition and physical structure of the cliffs, together with environmental gradients associated with aspect, elevation and nearness to the sea provide a wide range of habitats in which plants coexist. Certain types of cliff vegetation contained associations of species with a contrasting ecology, such as arctic–montane, maritime, woodland, calcicole and calcifuge plants. The positions of these species in ordination space were found to be unique but overlapping. A model is described to account for these observations. It proposes that species dominance in cliff habitats is prevented by factors such as physical disturbance and that plants are able to coexist in cliff habitats which meet their common environmental tolerances and preferences. The model predicts that cliff habitats with the greatest diversity of species are likely to be subject to less extremes of environmental variability. These habitats include inland sites with nutrient enrichment by sea spray, north‐facing sites, seepage sites, base‐rich sites, low elevation sites and sites with a heterogeneous physical structure.
Using GIS to model tree population parameters in the Rocky Mountain National Park forest–tundra ecotone
Authors: Baker William , Weisberg Peter
Published: December 2003

Climatic change may alter vegetation composition and structure, but the response to climatic change can be expected to be spatially heterogeneous. Tree populations in the alpine forest–tundra ecotone, for example, may find only certain locations to be favourable for regeneration and growth. If monitoring and detection of vegetation responses to climatic change is to be most successful, the monitoring system must be tuned to the locations where a response is most likely. We used the grass geographical information system (gis) to map population parameters indicating potential change throughout the forest–tundra ecotone (FTE) of Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP). Seedling density in patch forest and krummholz openings, as well as annual krummholz height growth, were measured in the field. These parameters were then modelled over the heterogeneity of the FTE environment, using principle components regression analysis. The grass gis was used to extrapolate the resulting predictive equations to the entire RMNP FTE. Potential FTE responses to climate change were evaluated in the context of species‐specific differences in how tree seedling density and krummholz height growth are associated with the present environment. For example, climate change leading towards moister conditions, causing currently xeric environments to become more mesic, might increase the spatial extent of existing tree invasion into patch forest openings. This would increase the potential for widespread conversion of patch forest to closed forest. Present population parameters extrapolated spatially may provide a useful guide to where future change is likely.
Does the rare Banksia goodii have inferior vegetative, reproductive or ecological attributes compared with its widespread co‐occurring relative B. gardneri?
Authors: Witkowski E. T. F , Lamont Byron
Published: December 2003

Banksia goodii (rare) and B. gardneri var. gardneri (widespread) are closely related rhizomatous evergreen subshrubs of south western Australian scrub‐heath and woodland. B. goodii is restricted to sixteen populations, most of which are remnants on roadsides due to landscape fragmentation from agricultural activities. Bioclimatic profiles indicate that B. gardneri spans a wider range of climates than B. goodii. However, their post‐fire survival and resprouting vigour, rates of seedling growth and soil penetration and susceptibility to seedling predators are similar. Both have the potential for geographic range extension, especially B. goodi. Seedlings of both species survived for at least 3 years at sites with 2 (but not 3) months shorter and 1 month longer growing seasons than experienced by natural B. goodii populations. Seedling establishment did not occur in the absence of fire and was low (1.3% of released intact seeds for B. goodii) even following en masse release of seeds after fire. Sowing of intact seeds, especially in cleared areas and with protection from herbivores, increased this to 35%. Fire survival among adults of both species was 100% following two fires. B. goodii, which roots along its rhizomes, produces ramets, while B. gardneri, with a lignotuber instead, does not. Seed production, pre‐dispersal granivory and canopy seed storage are low but similar for both species, although B. gardneri has a superior level of germination. The biology of B. gardneri thus provides few insights as to why B. goodii is rare. There were no differences in topo‐edaphic attributes, community structure, shading or litter cover between localized sites where either species occurred alone or together. Differences in present or prehistoric fire regimes, clearing (habitat fragmentation), susceptibility to generalist fungal pathogens, or impacts of alien invasives, cannot explain the distribution of B. goodii relative to B. gardneri. The rarity of B. goodii may be a result of its recent origin, habitat specialization (dense woodland), and the impacts of habitat fragmentation within its current range, rather than inferior vegetative, reproductive and/or ecological attributes.
Regeneration of planted conifers across climatic moisture gradients on the Canadian prairies: implications for distribution and climate change
Authors: (Ted) Hogg E. H , Schwarz A. G
Published: December 2003

The influence of dry climates on white spruce (Picea glauca (Moench) Voss)) regeneration was examined by conducting surveys of seedlings and small trees that had regenerated naturally at 100 farm shelterbelts and plantations in southern Saskatchewan, Canada. The sites surveyed were located along a climate moisture gradient extending from the relatively moist boreal forest, across the aspen parkland, to the semi‐arid prairie grasslands. Natural regeneration was greatest at sites in the boreal forest and northern aspen parkland, decreased in the southern aspen parkland, and was negligible in the grassland zone. Furthermore, the few seedlings found in the drier zones were usually in poor condition. Similar results were obtained for the introduced Colorado spruce (Picea pungens Engelm.) and Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.). It is concluded that the present climate of the southern parkland and grassland is too dry to permit natural regeneration of white spruce and other conifers. If increases in atmospheric CO2 levels lead to a drier future climate in the southern boreal forest of western Canada, the ability of conifers to regenerate naturally may be significantly reduced.
Geographic and ecological patterns in Turkish land snails
Authors: Cook L. M.
Published: December 2003

The distribution of Turkish land snails has been examined, using data from a monograph by H. Schütt (1993). Turkey has been divided into eight regions for purposes of describing localization of fauna. On average, species occupy 1.7 regions. About 36% of the fauna is known from Turkey alone. There are affinities with Europe, the Caucasus, the eastern Mediterranean and the Levant and Middle East. The influence of neighbouring faunas shows up when the similarities of the eight regions are clustered. As usual, the fauna contains a high spired and a discoidal mode of shell shape, with species covering a wide range of sizes. Clausiliacea occupy a higher mode than other high spired species, while Helicacea become progressively more equidimensional from small to large species. The pattern of shell size and shape varies between regions, smaller and high spired species being most common in cooler and damper parts, larger discoidal species in parts with Mediterranean or continental dry climates. A test for evidence that animals of the same shape and size are more likely to be allopatric than sympatric failed to show that they were. The fauna is dominated by a few families to a greater extent than that of Europe, and is more like that of the isolated Madeiran archipelago. It is suggested that the Turkish fauna still shows evidence of external penetration with some local radiation, in the manner of the oceanic islands, and has not evolved to become a balanced assemblage such as is seen in Europe.
Vegetation dynamics in central Africa since 18,000 yr BP: pollen records from the interlacustrine highlands of Burundi, Rwanda and western Uganda
Authors: Jolly Dominique , Taylor David , Marchant Robert , Hamilton Alan , Bonnefille Raymonde , Buchet Guillaume , Riollet Guy
Published: December 2003

A standardized analysis of palaeoecological data, in the form of six pollen sequences and forty‐ four radiocarbon ages, has permitted a region‐wide reconstruction of Late Quaternary vegetation dynamics for the interlacustrine highlands of central Africa.

A landscape widely dominated by ericaceous scrub and grasslands, but also supporting sparse patches of open‐canopied montane forest, possibly in those areas with a topography most favourable to the growth of trees, is indicated for the last glacial maximum of 18,000 yr bp. Major expansions in the extent of upper altitudinal forms of montane forest occurred from around 12,500 yr bp, while lower moist montane forest—the expected climax for much of the region today—did not become prominent until 11,000 yr bp to 10,000 yr bp. From the palaeoecological evidence at least, it appears that the major east Central forest refuge, proposed by some workers on the basis of current species’ distribution patterns, did not extend to the eastern flanks of the Albertine Rift.

A late glacial–early Holocene transition is only fully chronicled in two of the sites. However, it appears that the expansion of lower montane forest had a time‐transgressive pattern across the region, and was not simply from low to high altitude. The composition of forests during the early Holocene appears to have been different to that in the later stages of the present interglacial, as taxa presently associated with wetter and/or more open forest types were much more common. Pollen data also indicate that higher altitude parts of the interlacustrine highlands were more attractive to the earliest (possibly Bantu‐speaking) farmers and metal‐workers. There is evidence of wide‐spread forest clearance around the beginning of the present millennium, possibly as a result of substantial changes in socio‐economic conditions, and patterns of settlement, associated with the onset of the Late Iron Age.
High‐pressure freezing of epithelial cells on sapphire coverslips
Authors: Reipert S. , Fischer I. , Wiche G.
Published: December 2003

Rapid freezing of cell monolayers at ambient pressure is limited regarding the thickness of ice crystal damage‐free freezing. The specific freezing conditions of the cells under investigation are decisive for the success of such methods. Improved reproducibility of results could be expected by cryoimmobilization at high pressure because this achieves a greater thickness of adequate freezing. In a novel approach, we tested the suitability of sapphire discs as cell substrata for high‐pressure freezing. Frozen samples on sapphire were subjected to freeze‐substitution while in the same flat sample holders as used for high‐pressure freezing. We obtained cells that displayed an excellent preservation of fine structure. Because sapphire is a tissue culture substratum suitable for light microscopy, its use in combination with high‐pressure freezing could become a powerful tool in correlative studies of cell dynamics at light and electron microscopic levels.
A recombinant 31.5 kDa keratinase and a crude exo‐antigen fromMicrosporum canisfail to protect against a homologous experimental infection in guinea pigs
Authors: Descamps Frédéric F. , Brouta Frédéric , Vermout Sandy M. , Willame Corinne , Losson Bertrand J. , Mignon Bernard R.
Published: December 2003

Abstract AMicrosporum canisrecombinant 31.5 kDa keratinase and aM. caniscrude exo‐antigen were tested as vaccines in an experimental infection model in guinea pigs. Animals were vaccinated subcutaneously three times at two‐week intervals with either the keratinase, the exo‐antigen or the adjuvant alone. Cutaneous challenge was performed blindly. Both humoral and cellular‐specific immune responses toM. canisantigens were evaluated every 14 days, while a blind evaluation of clinical lesion development and fungal persistency in skin were monitored weekly. Vaccination induced very high and significant (P < 0.01) antibody responses towards both antigens. High cell‐mediated immune responses to both immunogens were also induced by vaccination. After challenge, however, scores reflecting the severity of dermatophytic lesions did not differ significantly between vaccinated and control groups at any time after challenge. These results suggest that, in the guinea pig, the induction of specific immune responses against theM. canis‐secreted antigens used in this study are not protective against challenge exposure.
Cutaneous paraneoplastic syndromes in dogs and cats: a review of the literature
Authors: Turek Michelle M.
Published: December 2003

Abstract Cutaneous paraneoplastic syndromes are a group of noncancerous dermatoses associated with internal malignancy. Their recognition can facilitate detection and timely treatment of underlying cancer. More than 30 such disorders have been identified in the human scientific literature, whereas only a few are described in veterinary medicine. This may reflect a lower incidence in animals than in people or may be the result of failure to recognize an association between certain skin lesions and neoplasia. Establishing a relationship between a cutaneous disorder and neoplasia can be difficult unless the skin lesions are rare and almost always associated with a particular tumour type, as is the case for most recognized veterinary paraneoplastic dermatoses. Among these are feline paraneoplastic alopecia, feline thymoma‐associated exfoliative dermatitis, nodular dermatofibrosis, feminization syndrome associated with testicular tumours, superficial necrolytic dermatitis and paraneoplastic pemphigus. The aetiology of most cutaneous paraneoplastic syndromes has remained elusive in both people and animals.
Feline pemphigus foliaceus: a retrospective analysis of 57 cases
Authors: Preziosi Diane E. , Goldschmidt Michael H. , Greek Jean S. , Jeffers Jim G. , Shanley Kevin S. , Drobatz Kenneth , Mauldin Elizabeth A.
Published: December 2003

Abstract Fifty‐seven cases of feline pemphigus foliaceus were identified from biopsy specimens submitted to University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine's Laboratory of Pathology and Toxicology by veterinary dermatologists from 1991 to 2002. Age at onset ranged from less than 1 year to 17 years; median 5 years. Eighty per cent of cats were reported to have been pruritic. At the time of biopsy, the distribution of lesions varied, but included some combination of face/head, paws, dorsum or ventrum and consisted of crusts, erosions, scale and alopecia. The histological features of 208 biopsy specimens were reviewed and included the following. Acantholytic cells were found in large numbers in both intact and degenerating pustules in most cases. Mast cells were found in the dermal infiltrate more often than reported previously. Seventeen cases were receiving corticosteroids at the time of biopsy; reducing the percentage of diagnostic biopsies per case. Forty‐four cases were followed for 1–54 months (median 9 months). Triamcinolone was more successful at inducing remission without significant adverse effects than prednisone or prednisone in combination with chlorambucil. Only 4/44 cats died from their disease or therapy during the study period.
Evaluation of intravenous fluorescein in intradermal allergy testing in psittacines
Authors: Nett Claudia S. , Hosgood Giselle , Heatley J. Jill , Foil Carol S. , Tully Thomas N.
Published: December 2003

Abstract  This study was designed to improve the clinical feasibility of intradermal skin testing of psittacine birds using intravenous fluorescein stain. Twenty‐five healthy, anaesthetized Hispaniolan Amazon parrots (Amazona ventralis) were injected intravenously with 10 mg kg−1 fluorescein–sodium 1% followed by intradermal injections of 0.02 mL phosphate‐buffered saline, histamine phosphate (1:100 000 w/v) and codeine phosphate (1:100 000 w/v) at the sternal apteria. Wheal diameters of reaction sites were measured grossly and under illumination with a Wood's lamp after 5 and 10 min. Fluorescence‐enhanced injection sites were scored between 0 and 2, with 0 equivalent to normal skin and 2 equivalent to a plucked feather follicle. The presence of a fluorescent halo around intradermal injections was also recorded. Under Wood's light illumination at 10 min, histamine and saline were evaluated as positive and negative controls, respectively, based on a positive test having a halo and a score of 2. Sensitivity and specificity were each 76% for halo, 84 and 42% for score and 64 and 77% for combination of score and halo, respectively. Further, mean histamine reactions were significantly larger than codeine phosphate and saline (8.8 ± 0.4 mm; 7.2 ± 0.3 mm; 5.9 ± 0.6 mm); however, this finding was not consistent in individual birds. Wheal size, halo presence and score were affected by site location independent from the injected compound. Intravenous fluorescein improved the readability of avian skin tests; however, the compounds tested raised inconsistent reactions in wheal size, score or halo presence. The compound‐independent site effect raises concern on the validity of avian skin testing and warrants investigation of other techniques such as in vitro allergy testing. Based on our findings, intradermal allergy testing in psittacines with or without fluorescein is unreliable and cannot be recommended for practical clinical use.
Feline plasma cell pododermatitis: a study of 8 cases
Authors: Dias Pereira Patrícia , Faustino Augusto M. R.
Published: December 2003

Abstract Eight cases of feline plasma cell pododermatitis, collected over a 3‐year period, were studied using histological (haematoxylin and eosin), histochemical (methyl green–pyronin) and immunohistochemical (antibody against lambda light chains of immunoglobulins) techniques. No sex, breed or age predisposition, or paw predilection was observed. The disease began as a swelling of the footpads, followed by ulceration. Histologically, lesions were characterized by the presence of a large number of plasma cells in a predominantly perivascular pattern. Binucleated plasma cells and mitotic figures were observed. Clinical follow‐up for over 1 year revealed total remission of the lesions both after glucocorticoid therapy in four cases, and total surgical excision in two animals. Follow‐up studies were not possible in one case.
Notoedric mange in free‐ranging masked palm civets (Paguma larvata) in Japan
Authors: Ninomiya Hiroyoshi , Ogata Munetsugu , Makino Takashi
Published: December 2003

Abstract   Fifty‐one masked palm civets (Paguma larvata) were trapped as part of a nuisance wildlife control programme between July 2001 and August 2002 in Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. Eleven civets had characteristic mange lesions with marked alopecia and crusts, caused by the burrowing epidermal mite Notoedres cati. The diagnosis was confirmed by histology and examination of mites obtained from skin scrapings of affected civets. Histopathology of lesions demonstrated moderate hyperplastic epidermis, parakeratosis and acanthosis. Occasionally microvascular angiogenesis was observed in the epidermis. Tunnels were excavated in the hair follicles, reaching the hair roots. The tunnels were located between the hair shaft and the inner root sheath. Female mites, eggs and nymphs were demonstrated in their tunnels using scanning electron microscopy.
Ultrastructural study of cutaneous lesions in feline eosinophilic granuloma complex
Authors: Bardagí Mar , Fondati Alessandra , Fondevila Dolors , Ferrer Lluís
Published: December 2003

Abstract  The purpose of this study was to investigate the ultrastructural appearance of flame figures, reported to comprise a mixture of degenerate collagen and degranulated eosinophils, in feline eosinophilic granuloma complex (EGC). Skin specimens from eight cats with EGC and from two clinically healthy cats were examined by transmission electron microscopy. Flame figures appeared to comprise ultrastructurally normal collagen fibrils separated by oedema and surrounded by large numbers of degranulating eosinophils. Longitudinal sections of collagen fibrils displayed the characteristic cross‐striation of normal dermal collagen. Feline eosinophils, analogous to human eosinophils, degranulated both by cytolysis and piecemeal degranulation. The results of this study suggest that flame figures form in feline EGC due to eosinophil recruitment and degranulation, and that collagen fibres are partially disrupted but collagen fibrils are not damaged. These findings suggest that eosinophil accumulation and the release of granule contents represent the primary events in feline EGC.
Zur funktionellen Morphologie der Dickdarm‐Mukosa von Rind (Bos primigenius f. taurus), Schaf (Ovis ammon f. aries) und Ziege (Capra aegagrus f. hircus)*
Authors: Wille K.‐H
Published: December 2003

On the functional morphology of the large intestinal mucosa of the ox (

Bos primigenius

f. taurus), sheep (

Ovis ammon

f. aries) and goat (

Capra aegagrus

f. hircus)

The mucous membrane of the large intestine of the ox, sheep and goat was studied using light and electron microscopy. The surface epithelium possesses the well‐known complement of organelles with a conspicuous number of mitochondria as a source of energy for absorptive activities. Occasionally, brush cells are found in the epithelium; the functional significance of this type of cell is still under discussion. In the present material, electron‐lucid spheroids (diameter: 45 × 35 nm), which tend to fuse, appear in the supranuclearly located osmiophilic granules. The structure and appearance of the epithelium cells in the crypts of these species correspond to previous descriptions in other mammals. In the epithelial cells of the deep glandular region, dense accumulations of mainly rounded granules (diameter up to 400 nm) are found apically in the cytoplasm. Their functional significance is still under discussion. Acid phosphatase activity, as a marker enzyme for lysosomes, points to degenerative processes in connection with the physiological death of enterocytes. In contrast, the negative alkaline phosphatase reaction indicates that, according to our findings, the epithelial transport of substances in the large intestine of ruminants – in principle contrary to the situation in the small intestinal enterocytes – occurs without the aid of this enzyme. The demonstrated ATPase activity on the other hand, is related to a primary active ion transport linked with membrane exchange of non‐electrolytes in connection with transepithelial events of absorption and secretion in the large intestine.
Light and Electron Microscope Studies on the Nasopharynx and Nasopharyngeal Tonsil of the Horse
Authors: Kumar P , Timoney J F
Published: December 2003

Light and electron microscope studies were conducted on the nasopharynx and the nasopharyngeal tonsil of 15 young horses. The nasopharynx and nasopharyngeal tonsil was lined with pseudostratified columnar ciliated epithelium and goblet cells. The lymphoepithelium of the nasopharyngeal tonsil was folded forming crypts, the mucosa of which was modified into follicle associated epithelium characterized by stratified cuboidal epithelium, loss of cilia, absence of goblet cells and infiltration of lymphocytes. The lamina propria mucosae of the nasopharyngeal tonsil contained well‐developed lymphoid tissue and clusters of seromucus acini. Scanning electron‐microscopy revealed a dense mat of cilia covering the nasopharynx and nasopharyngeal tonsil. The follicle‐associated epithelium consisted of different populations of microvillus cells in addition to M cells with very short microvilli and a few squamous and intermediate cells. Microvillus cells in the deeper part of the FAE had larger microvilli and their cytoplasm contained a dense population of mitochondria, smooth and rough endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi complexes and lysosomes. The flat surfaced M cell had a more electron‐dense cytoplasm and contained small supranuclear vacuoles in addition to the organelles seen in microvillus cells.
The Intermesenteric Plexus in the Pigeon (Columba livia GM)
Authors: Kuder T , Nowak E , Szczurkowski A
Published: December 2003

Using the thiocholine method and histological techniques the intermesenteric plexus of the pigeon was studied. The intermesenteric plexus of this species is a plexo‐ganglionic structure with several (five to seven) ganglia and nerve fibres. The ganglia have an oval‐, spindle‐ or star‐like shape. Single nerve cells along the nerve fibres were observed. The intermesenteric plexus of the pigeon is situated on the ventrolateral surface of the aorta, between the cranial mesenteric artery and caudal mesenteric artery. The connections between the intermesenteric and other vegetative plexuses (coeliac plexus, mesenteric inferior plexus) and the pelvic nerve were observed.
Konstruktionsprinzipien an der Vorder‐ und Hinterpfote der Hauskatze (Felis catus). III. Mitteilung: Muskulatur
Authors: Vollmerhaus B , Roos H
Published: December 2003

Principles of construction in the forepaw and hindpaw of the domestic cat (

Felis catus

). III: Musculature

With regard to muscular mass and inner structure, the muscles of the forepaw and hindpaw of the domestic cat are grouped functionally, compared and evaluated. A high degree of functional adaptation is present in these muscles, for example in the passive locomotion apparatus of the paws. The domestic cat is not a ‘running animal’ like other domestic mammals. Also, in domestication it has preserved a strongly individual way of life and has remained a quick, ambushing hunter and climber on the run. Hence its forepaw is a flexible guiding and gripping apparatus, while its hindpaw provides stability for sprinting and non‐skid pushing. The partly re‐interpreted functions of the muscles are described and listed in four tables.
Different Patterns in the Histology and Autofluorescence of the Harderian Glands of the Syrian Hamster, Rat, Mouse, Mongolian Gerbil and Guinea Pig
Authors: Ortiz G G , Feria‐Velasco A , Falcón‐Franco M A , Bitzer‐Quintero O K , García J J , Rosales A , Ruiz‐Rizo A , Reiter R J
Published: December 2003

The purpose of this study was to compare the natural fluorescence in the Harderian glands of the Syrian hamster, rat, mouse, Mongolian gerbil and guinea pig (both sexes). For each species, 10 animals (five males and five females) were used. Histological autofluorescence studies were performed using a fluorescence microscope (450–490 nm filter). Two different types of fluorescent cells were observed in both hamster (type AFI high intensity and type AFII, low fluorescence) and rat (type AFI, low fluorescence and type AFII, high fluorescence) Harderian glands. The fluorescence was basally located in all mice cells, whereas it was observed near the epithelial cell nuclei in the Mongolian gerbil (occupying two‐thirds and one‐third of the cells in males and females, respectively). A high intensity of fluorescence was present throughout the acinar cells in the guinea pig. The patterns of fluorescence identified exhibited a sexual dimorphism in all species studied. These results demonstrate that the Harderian glands of the animal species examined exhibit a variety of histological autofluorescence patterns.
Distribution of Lymphocyte Subsets in the Small Intestine Lymphoid Tissue of 1‐Month‐Old Lambs
Authors: Corpa J M , Juste R A , Marín J. F. García , Reyes E , González J , Pérez V
Published: December 2003

Distribution of lymphocyte subpopulations along the small intestine lymphoid tissue has been examined in 1‐month‐old lambs using flow cytometric and immunohistochemical techniques. Monoclonal antibodies against CD4, CD8, γδ, CD45R and B receptors have been employed in samples from continuous ileal Peyer’s patch (IPP), discrete jejunal Peyer’s patches (JPP), ileocaecal valve lymphoid tissue (ICVPP), mesenteric lymph node (MLN) and intra‐epithelial (IEL) and lamina propria (LPL) lymphocytes. Histological studies were also done. Differences in the lymphocyte distribution have been observed between some of the regions examined, especially between IPP and JPP for most of the markers. A remarkable feature was the existence of morphological and lymphocyte distribution differences between ICVPP and IPP, locations that had been traditionally considered as similar. The antibody against CD45R receptor used in this study, that was supposed to mark B cells and some T cells, detected cell populations located in the dome of the follicles in all the samples, whereas the centre was negative. Lymphocytes positive to the B marker employed were located mainly in the centre, suggesting that both antibodies would mark B cells in different maturation status.
Distribution of Serotonin Immunoreactivitiy in the Main Olfactory Bulb of the Mongolian Gerbil
Authors: Kang T C , Lee J C , Choi K Y , Park S K , Jeong Y G , Jo S M , Won M H
Published: December 2003

The distribution of serotonin immunoreactivity in the main olfactory bulb (MOB) of the Mongolian gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus) was examined by immunohistochemistry. Seven distinct layers of the Mongolian gerbil MOB‐stained with cresyl violet were identified. Serotonin‐immunoreactive (IR) cell bodies were not found in the MOB. The serotonin‐IR nerve fibres had a specific laminar distribution and morphology in the gerbil MOB. Serotonin‐IR nerve fibres were observed in the glomerular, external plexiform and granule cell layers of the MOB. These serotonin‐IR nerve fibres showed varicosities that were larger than the thickness of the axon. The highest density of serotonin‐IR nerve fibres was in glomeruli of the glomerular layer. The average fibre density in the glomerular layer was more than three to four times the density in the infraglomerular layers. Glomerular serotonin‐IR fibres were much more intensively stained than infraglomerular serotonin‐IR fibres. This result suggests that serotonin‐IR nerve fibres of Mongolian gerbil MOB are extrinsic and may act to modulate the olfactory transmission.
The nutrient status of Nong Han, a shallow tropical lake in north‐eastern Thailand: Spatial and temporal variations
Authors: Settacharnwit Surattana , Buckney Rodney T. , Lim Richard P.
Published: December 2003

Spatial and temporal patterns of nutrient (nitrate‐N, ammonia‐N and phosphate) concentrations in the Nong Han water column were examined during the dry (January – May) and wet (August – October) seasons in 2001. Low nitrate‐N concentrations in the water were common. High ammonia‐N concentrations were found on all occasions, but particularly in the early wet season. Phosphate concentrations in the water column were very high. The very low nitrate‐N and low ammonia‐N concentrations (in early dry, late dry and late wet seasons), and low phosphate concentrations (in the early dry season) were attributed to assimilation by dense stands of macrophytes, in particular submerged types during the low water season. Additionally, higher nitrate‐N concentrations found in the late wet season might be related to increases in the water level and nitrification activity at the sediment–water interface. The very high ammonia‐N and phosphate concentrations in the water during the early wet season possibly reflect run‐off from agricultural areas in the Nong Han catchment and the regeneration of ammonia‐N and phosphate from recently degraded organic matter (particularly decaying macrophytes) in the surface sediment layer. Also, higher phosphate concentrations in the bottom water of most samples in the late dry and late wet seasons were attributed to temporary anaerobic conditions caused by submerged macrophyte decomposition and aerobic conditions, respectively. These hypotheses are consistent with dissolved oxygen and pH conditions found in both seasons.
A fish kill event, hypoxia and other limnological impacts associated with early wet season flow into a lake on the Mary River floodplain, tropical northern Australia
Authors: Townsend Simon A. , Edwards C. A.
Published: December 2003

The Mary River, in the Australian wet/dry tropics, flows seasonally to inundate a coastal floodplain. In the dry season, the river reduces to a series of disconnected lakes located along the main river channel. This paper examines the impact of riverine inflow, at the beginning of the wet season, on the limnology of Shady Camp Lake, and addresses broader water quality management issues. The first wet season flow of Mary River carried a high biological oxygen demand that reduced the lake's oxygen concentration. The resulting hypoxic conditions prompted fish avoidance behaviour and caused the death of at least 200 fish. There is no evidence of any direct anthropogenic pollution causing the event. After reaching near anoxic conditions, dissolved oxygen concentrations recovered several weeks later, although they remained low. The water quality of the Mary River was characterized by an initial pulse of water with high concentrations of organic carbon, suspended particulate material, colour, total nitrogen and total phosphorus. Phytoplankton biomass, measured as chlorophyll a, did not increase because of nitrogen limitation attributed to low nitrate and ammonia concentrations in the inflow waters. The low concentrations of available nitrogen were probably a result of denitrification, which would have been enhanced by the warm temperatures and low oxygen concentrations. The oxygen sag in Shady Camp Lake caused by the inflow of the Mary River exemplifies the vulnerability of floodplain channel lakes to riverine waters and underscores the need to manage catchment practices to minimize the concentration of labile organic material in the river and its associated oxygen demand.
The restoration of a shallow lake by introducing Potamogeton spp.: The impact of waterfowl grazing
Authors: Lauridsen Torben L. , Sandsten Håkan , Hald Møller Poul
Published: December 2003

Submerged macrophytes were introduced by transplantation and enclosure experiments were performed in shallow, eutrophic Lake Engelsholm, Denmark. We investigated whether or not transplantations were possible, whether protection from grazing had a significant positive influence on the recolonization potential of plants and whether the impact of grazing on macrophytes differed over the season. Enclosure experiments showed that transplanted Potamogeton crispus disappeared in early summer if not protected against waterfowl grazing. The results were supported by subsequent experiments that showed partial disappearance of Potamogeton pectinatus in early summer and a significant biomass reduction later in the season. We suggest that it is primarily waterfowl (coot, Fulica atra, and mallard, Anas platyrhynchos) that up‐root young plants and graze on larger plants. Therefore, in order to promote recolonization of submerged, vascular macrophytes after fish manipulation, P. pectinatus, Potamogeton perfoliatus and Potamogeton lucens were transplanted into protected areas. During the first two years following transplantation, plant density development varied widely, from a decrease in initial density to an overall six‐fold increase. We conclude that macrophytes can be introduced by means of transplantation, although grazing might have a significantly negative influence even when waterfowl densities are relatively low (< 5.6 individuals ha−1). Therefore, we suggest that transplants should be protected from waterfowl until established stands are formed to facilitate submerged macrophyte growth and dispersal, and to optimize their positive effects on the lake ecosystem as a whole. Furthermore, we suggest that protection from grazing is more important in early summer than in late summer and autumn.
The resting eggs of zooplankton from a tropical, eutrophic reservoir (Pampulha Reservoir, south‐east Brazil)
Authors: Maia‐Barbosa P. M. , Eskinazi‐Sant'Anna E. M. , Valadares C. F. , Pessoa G. C. D.
Published: December 2003

Resting eggs of rotifers and cladocerans were collected within 5 cm of sediments from the eutrophic Pampulha Reservoir. All the collected species were successfully hatched and reared in the laboratory. Although the hatching success of rotifer eggs was high (60–80%), it constituted only about 10% of the level of cladoceran eggs. The egg abundance in Pampulha Reservoir varied from 203.2 × 103 eggs m−2 to 80 × 103 eggs m−2. The low densities of resting eggs suggest that the recovery activities directed to the reservoir, such as constant dredging of the sediment, might be affecting this potential genetic pool and, consequently, the maintenance of the remaining and pioneer zooplanktonic populations.
Development of a psychosomatic complaints scale for adolescents
Authors: TAKATA YURIKO , SAKATA YUMIKO
Published: December 2003

Abstract  There have been only a few questionnaires that can be used to comprehend the psychosomatic complaints of adolescents. Therefore, the objective of the present investigation was to develop a scale for high school students in order to comprehend psychosomatic complaints deriving from psychologic problems. The collection of scale items was performed referring to the health actual situation survey carried out on Japanese school children in the past, and 30 items with a high incidence of psychosomatic complaints were selected out of them and were set as scale items. A survey to assess reliability and validity of the 30 items of the psychosomatic complaint scale was then conducted on the subjects of 759 high school students in total over 3 years. At assessment of validity of the scale, one‐factor structure was confirmed by factor analysis and both the eigenvalue and factor loading were found to be at acceptable levels. Further, at assessment of the reliability of the scale, both Cronbach's α coefficient indicating internal consistency and the correlation coefficient indicating reproducibility were found to be high. It was concluded that the psychosomatic complaint scale developed in the present investigation was excellent in validity and reliability and was highly practical, having a reduced number of items.
Socioeconomic and familial factors in the involuntary hospitalization of patients with schizophrenia
Authors: HATTORI ISAO , HIGASHI TAKAHIRO
Published: December 2003

Abstract  In the catchment area of Matsumoto Public Health Center in Japan, 44 schizophrenic patients admitted between April 1992 and March 1997 under the national policy Involuntary Hospitalization Ordered by Prefectural Governor (IHOPG) were compared with 61 schizophrenic patients admitted under another policy, Hospitalization for Medical Care and Protection (HMCP), during the same period. The socioeconomic and familial factors that led patients to IHOPG were evaluated in detail. The results revealed the following characteristics of IHOPG patients as opposed to HMCP patients: (i) their morbidity was of longer duration; (ii) they were more likely to live in a densely populated area; (iii) they were less likely to be financially self‐sufficient; (iv) prior to admission they were more likely than HMCP patients to have avoided psychiatric examination and to have refused to take medication, and most had received no treatment before their hospitalization under IHOPG; (v) their relationships with family members were more likely to be poor; and (vi) the family was less likely to have cooperated with treatment or to have solved the patient's problematic behaviors. This investigation and the ensuing discussion revealed that a patient's schizophrenia‐based danger to hurt self or others, which is an essential impetus for admission to IHOPG, does not arise suddenly but rather stems from multiple factors developing over time.
Association between EEG alpha power and visuospatial function in obsessive–compulsive disorder
Authors: SHIN YONG‐WOOK , HA TAE HYON , KIM SEONG YOON , KWON JUN SOO
Published: December 2003

Abstract  The purpose of the present paper was to determine if frontal activity, measured as electroencephalogram alpha power, correlates with visuospatial functions in obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD). Electroencephalography and the Rey–Osterrieth Complex Figure Test (RCFT) were performed on 23 patients meeting the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th edn; DSM‐IV) OCD criteria. After quantitatively analyzing EEG recordings taken over the frontal, temporal, parietal and occipital regions (F1, F2, T3, T4, P3, P4, O1 and O2), the log transformed absolute power values of the alpha frequencies of the regions were regressed with each RCFT index (copy, immediate recall and delayed recall score). On the frontal region (F1, F2), the RCFT copy score was found to be correlated with the alpha power with regression coefficients that had different directions according to hemisphere (F1, 5.62; F2, −5.26). The result that visuo‐constructional ability represented by the RCFT copy score correlated with frontal activation as measured by decreased alpha power, supports the opinion that visuospatial dysfunction in OCD is not in the visuospatial memory per se but rather that it is mediated by executive function deficit. The opposite correlation directions indicate that greater left frontal activation correlates with a poorer RCFT copy score and that greater right frontal activation correlates with a better copy score. These relationships provide indirect evidence of the possibility that the main pathology of OCD is located in  the left hyperfrontality and that the right hyperfrontality of OCD occurs by a compensatory mechanism.
No evidence for an association of the CTLA4 gene with bipolar I disorder
Authors: JUN TAE‐YOUN , LEE KYOUNG‐UK , PAE CHI‐UN , KWEON YONG‐SIL , CHAE JEONG‐HO , BAHK WON‐MYONG , KIM KWANG‐SOO , LEW TAE‐YUL , HAN HOON
Published: December 2003

Abstract  The purpose of the present paper was to investigate the relationship between the first exon at position +49 (A/G) polymorphism of the cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA4) gene and bipolar disorder. Among the Korean patients diagnosed with bipolar disorder according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th edn; DSM‐IV), 90 patients without serious medical illness, neurologic illness, hormonal disorder, or concomitant mental illness were selected. The normal control group consisted of 149 age‐ and sex‐matched subjects without current or past history of autoimmune diseases or mental disorder. DNA was extracted from peripheral blood using proteinase K; and the exon 1 region of the CTLA4 gene was amplified by polymerase chain reaction. Gene typing was performed using single strand conformation polymorphism. There were no significant differences in genotype frequencies of CTLA4*G/G, CTLA4*G/A, and CTLA4*A/A between the patients with bipolar disorder and the control group (48.9% vs 46.3%, 44.4% vs 39.6%, and 6.7% vs 14.1%, respectively). There were no significant differences in allelic frequencies of CTLA4*G and CTLA4*A between the patients with bipolar disorder and the control group (71.1% vs 66.1%; 28.9% vs 33.9%, respectively). In the present study an association was not found of exon 1 (+49) polymorphism of CTLA4 gene with bipolar disorder in the Korean population.