bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A morphologic study of the ductus of the epididymis of Sus domesticus
Authors: Briz M. , Bonet S. , Fradera A.
Published: February 2005

The head, body, and tail regions of the epididymal duct (or caput, corpus, and cauda epididymis) in two healthy and sexually mature Sus domesticus males were examined by light microscopy and by scanning or transmission electron microscopy. The epididymal duct is lined with a pseudostratified epithelium with stereocilia and covered by a muscular‐connective tissue sheath that is thickest in the tail region. Diameter of the epididymal duct and height of epididymal epithelium are maximal in the head region. Length of the sterocilia and spermatic density are higher in the head and body regions. Somatic cells are abundant in the tail region. The epididymal epithelium is made up of five cell types: basal cells, principal cells, clear cells, narrow cells, and basophilic cells. Abundant secretory units are observed in the supranuclear cytoplasm of columnar principal cells. Each mature secretory unit is constituted by electron‐dense secretion granules covered by more than eight layers of cisternae of reticulum between which the mitochondria are intercalated. In the apical cytoplasm the isolated secretion granules become larger and less electron dense. The apical surface is covered by numerous sterocilia. Basal cells are pyramidal and less high than principal cells. The clear cells, arranged between the principal cells, are characterized by the presence of abundant vesicular elements and electron‐lucid secretion granules, and by an apocrine secretory process. The narrow cells are characterized by their highly vacuolized cytoplasm. Intermediate cell typologies can be found among basal, principal, clear, and narrow cells, which could be four developmental stages of the same cell type. The basophilic cells are spheroidal and are found at different levels between the epithelial cells and in the connective tissue underlying the epithelium. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Gliding flight in the American Kestrel (Falco sparverius): An electromyographic study
Authors: Meyers Ron A.
Published: February 2005

Electromyographic (EMG) activity was studied in American Kestrels (Falco sparverius) gliding in a windtunnel tilted to 8 degrees below the horizontal. Muscle activity was observed in Mm. biceps brachii, triceps humeralis, supracoracoideus, and pectoralis, and was absent in M. deltoideus major and M. thoracobrachialis (region of M. pectoralis). These active muscles are believed to function in holding the wing protracted and extended during gliding flight. Quantification of the EMG signals showed a lower level of activity during gliding than during flapping flight, supporting the idea that gliding is a metabolically less expensive form of locomotion than flapping flight. Comparison with the pectoralis musculature of specialized gliding and soaring birds suggests that the deep layer of the pectoralis is indeed used during gliding flight and that the slow tonic fibers found in soaring birds such as vultures represents a specialization for endurant gliding. It is hypothesized that these slow fibers should be present in the wing muscles that these birds use for wing protraction and extension, in addition to the deep layer of the pectoralis. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Development and fine structure of the bony scutes in Corydoras arcuatus (Siluriformes, callichthyidae)
Authors: Sire Jean‐Yves
Published: February 2005

The development and the structure of the bony scutes have been studied in a growth series of the armored catfish Corydoras arcuatus using light and electron microscopy. Fibroblast‐like cell condensations appear in the dermis, in the posterior region of the caudal peduncle, and these will constitute the scute papillae. Collagen bundles of the preexisting dermis colonized by the papilla cells are remodeled and incorporated in the papilla to form, in addition to newly synthesized woven‐fibered bony material, the initium of the scute. This process of formation differs from that described for the dermal papilla of an elasmoid scale. During growth, the osteoblasts surrounding the scute constitute the scute sac in which the scute grows. Parallel‐fibered bone is deposited on both sides of the initium, and osteoblasts are incorporated within the scute matrix. The remodeling and incorporation of collagen bundles of the preexisting dermis is maintained during growth only in the deep, anterior region of the scute. The posterior region and the upper surface of the scute are close to the epidermal‐dermal boundary. When growth slows down in the upper part of the scute, a characteristic, well‐mineralized tissue, composed of thin vertical fibrils and granules and devoid of typical striated collagen fibrils, is deposited on the scute surface. A new term, hyaloine, is introduced for this nonosseous, highly mineralized layer constituting the upper part of the scute. Hyaloine shows thin electron‐dense lines, which probably correspond to periodic growth arrests. The structure and localization of the hyaloine are compared to other well‐mineralized, similar tissues found on the surface of the dermal skeleton in lower vertebrates. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Naturally occurring diblastodermic eggs in the annual fish Cynolebias: Implications for developmental regulation and determination
Authors: Carter C. A. , Wourms J. P.
Published: February 2005

Annual fish development differs from that of other teleosts because a phase of blastomere dispersion‐reaggregation spatially and temporally separates epiboly from embryogenesis. The fate of dispersed blastomeres was assessed in diblastodermic eggs of the annual fishes Cynolebias whitei and C. nigripinnis. In typical teleosts, blastomere determination and the events of primary embryonic induction occur prior to or during epiboly, so diblastodermic eggs produce partially or completely duplicated embryos. In the diblastodermic eggs of Cynolebias, the two blastoderms are completely separate from the one cell stage to the high blastula. Blastoderm fusion begins during midepiboly. By the end of epiboly, blastoderm fusion has been completed, and the deep, embryo‐forming blastomeres of both blastoderms have completely dispersed and intermingled to form a single cell population. A typical annual fish dispersed blastomere phase ensues. Blastomeres reaggregate into a single mass, in which one embryo develops. When hatched, the young fish have no obvious structural or functional abnormalities. We suggest that the dispersed blastomeres of annual fish eggs are equivalent and that induction or determination takes place within the reaggregate. Alternatively, dispersed cells are partially determined but highly regulative, so that, when two populations fuse, the cells sort out according to tissue type and form a single embryo. In either instance, the formation of a single, normal embryo seems to corroborate the hypothesis that the dispersed cell phase of annual fishes is an adaptation that prevents environmentally induced developmental defects. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Early events in myofibrillogenesis and innervation of skeletal, sound‐generating muscle in a teleost fish
Authors: Lindholm Melissa M. , Bass Andrew H.
Published: February 2005

The plainfin midshipman, Porichthys notatus, generates acoustic communication signals through the rapid contraction of a pair of vocal (sonic) muscles attached to the walls of the swimbladder. Light and electron microscopic methods were used to study two aspects of sonic muscle ontogeny: (1) the development and transformation of myotubes into muscle fibers and (2) innervation, including the formation of sonic neuromuscular junctions and the myelination of sonic motor axons. Sonic motor axons are associated with sonic mesenchyme during its initial migration away from occipital somites. However, myofibrillogenesis, the formation of neuromuscular junctions, and axon myelination do not occur until sonic mesenchyme reaches its final destination (i.e., the swimbladder). A continuum of developing myotubes is present rather than two temporally distinct populations of primary and secondary myotubes as observed for skeletal muscles in mammalian and avian species. Potential reasons for the lack of primary and secondary myotubes are considered, including the functional homogeneity of the sonic motor system and the sonic muscle's unique architecture, namely its direct attachment to the wall of the swim‐bladder. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Entry of nephrons into the collecting duct network of the avian kidney: A comparison of chickens and desert quail
Authors: Boykin Stephani L. B. , Braun Eldon J.
Published: February 2005

The avian kidney contains a population of nephrons with and without loops of Henle. How the collecting ducts of this heterogeneous population of nephrons merge to exit as single ducts from the medullary cones has been uncertain. The results of this study show that the collecting duct tree begins with the coalescence of the distal tubules of pairs of loopless nephrons. These primary collecting ducts receive output from only loopless nephrons. Primary collecting ducts fuse in pairs and become secondary collecting ducts. They receive the distal tubules of transition nephrons. Pairs of secondary collecting ducts fuse and become tertiary collecting ducts. Tertiary collecting ducts receive the distal tubules of looped nephrons. Thus, the fluid from all nephron types comingles as it passes through the medullary cone. The results of this study also show that the anatomical arrangement of medullary cones does not permit the output from one medullary cone to enter a second medullary cone. Thus, all the medullary cones function as parallel units. This anatomical organization of the avian kidney affects its ability to produce a urine hyperosmotic to the plasma. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Histomorphometry of immature rat testis after heating
Authors: Miraglia Sandra Maria , Hayashi Hisakazu
Published: February 2005

The scrotal testes of albino rats aged 35 and 45 days were immersed in water at constant temperatures of 43°C, 44°C, or 45°C for periods of 15–45 min in a special heating device. At an age of 60 days, the rats were mated in individual cages with two primiparous rats each. At an age of 90 days, they were killed and their testes were histologically processed. Rats with testes that had been subjected to heating when the animals were 45 days old showed both alterations of the seminiferous tubules and a decrease in fertilizing capacity. The effect of heat was greater in animals at 45 than at 35 days of age. In heat‐treated testes, tubules contained PAS‐positive concretion, sometimes engulfed by macrophage‐derived giant cells and multinucleate cells derived from spermatids that failed to separate during spermiogenesis. The decrease in testicular volume observed after heat treatment was due mainly to reduced parenchymal volume. Thermic lability of seminiferous stem cells increases with age until adulthood, and recovery from heat injury declines. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Differentiation of cytoplasmic organelles and storage of yolk during vitellogenesis in Hemidiaptomus ingens and Mixodiaptomus kupelwieseri (Copepoda, Calanoida)
Authors: Cuoc Corinne , Brunet Michel , Arnaud Jean , Mazza Jacques
Published: February 2005

These investigations concern two freshwater calanoid copepods Hemidiaptomus ingens and Mixodiaptomus kupelwieseri. The first aspect of the research relates to the processes involved in the formation and the differentiation of the ooplasmic organelles at the time of primary vitellogenesis. During this phase, a number of complex associations develop in the ooplasm. They consist chiefly of nuage‐like structures, corresponding to extruded nuclear material, and vesicular formations, some arising from the nuclear envelope and the others neoformed in the ooplasm. These associations represent centers of maturation for ribosomes and synthesis for reticulum membranes. Annulate lamellae may be observed near these associations. Biogenesis of the reticulum always precedes the differentiation of the Golgi apparatus. Indeed, the dictyo‐somes develop in characteristic complexes including endoplasmic reticulum cisternae and numerous vesicles resulting from intensive blebbing from cisternae. The second aspect of this research concerns yolk synthesis and accumulation of hyaloplasmic inclusions. A preliminary synthesis of yolk occurs early in these complexes and becomes more important after achievement of Golgi apparatus biogenesis. However, the most important yolk storage results from exogenous molecules and consists of complex globules, which develop into the ooplasm during secondary vitellogenesis. Formation of these globules is associated with the accumulation of two categories of inclusions in the hyaloplasm, i.e., lipid droplets and clusters of glycogen particles. At the end of vitellogenesis, a new type of endogenous material develops into small cisternae localized in the cortical ooplasm. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Trigeminal primary afferent projections to the spinal cord of the frog, Rana ridibunda
Authors: González Agustín , Muñoz Alberto , Muñoz Margarita
Published: February 2005

The distribution in the spinal cord of the trigeminal primary projections in the frog Rana ridibunda was studied by means of the anterograde transport of horseradish peroxidase (HRP). Upon entering the medulla via the single trigeminal root, a conspicuous descending tract that reaches the cervical spinal cord segments is established. This projection arises in the ophthalmic (V1), maxillary (V2), and mandibular (V3) trigeminal nerve subdivisions. In the spinal cord, only a minor somatotopic arrangement of the trigeminal fibers was observed, with the fibers arising in V3 terminating somewhat more medially than those from V1 and V2. A dense projection to the medial aspect of the spinal cord, above the central canal, primarily involves V3. Each trigeminal branch sends projections at cervical levels to the contralateral dorsal field, and those from V2 are most abundant. Bilateral experiments with HRP application show convergence of primary trigeminal and spinal afferents within the dorsal field of the spinal cord.

The pattern of arrangement of the trigeminal primary afferent fibers in the spinal cord of this frog largely resembles that of amniotes. However, the organization seems simpler and the slight somatotopic distribution of V1, V2, and V3 fibers is similar to the condition in other anamniotes. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The horizontal septum: Mechanisms of force transfer in locomotion of scombrid fishes (Scombridae, Perciformes)
Authors: Westneat Mark W. , Hoese William , Pell Charles A. , Wainwright Stephen A.
Published: February 2005

We describe the complex shapes of myomeres and myosepta in the mackerels and tunas (Scombridae: Teleostei), and we reveal the orientation of two major systems of collagen fibers in myosepta and horizontal septa with respect to points of attachment to skeleton and skin. Our goal is to identify the likely pathways of the transmission of muscle forces during locomotion. Our primary conclusions are (1) that the collagen fibers of myosepta, horizontal septa, and skin are the organs that transfer locomotor forces from the contraction of myomeres to the backbone and caudal fin during locomotion, and (2) that locomotor muscle pulls against a three‐dimensional structure of tendons, septa, and skin that is kept in tension by the radial expansion of the contracting muscle. The main horizontal septum is formed by the convergence of myosepta and is likely to be the major transmitter of muscle force to the axial skeleton. The geometry of the myomeres, the position of red muscle, and particularly the geometric conformation of crossed‐fiber arrays of collagen in the main horizontal septum suggest specific mechanisms for the transfer of muscle force to the backbone among scombrid fishes. Morphometrics and the construction of physical models help us to identify musculoskeletal mechanisms of locomotion, and we present two quantitative models of locomotor mechanics in fishes. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Oviductal morphology and eggshell formation in the lizard, Sceloporus woodi
Authors: Palmer Brent D. , Demarco Vincent G. , Guillette Louis J.
Published: February 2005

Despite a great deal of work in recent years on the structure of reptilian eggshells, few studies have examined the structure and regulation of the female reproductive tract in the formation of eggshell components, and none have examined the entire process from ovulation to oviposition. In this study, we examined oviductal structure in the oviparous lizard, Sceloporus woodi, followed changes in oviductal structure during gravidity, and determined uterine function in the formation of eggshell components. The endometrial glands of the uterus produce the proteinaceous fibers of the eggshell membrane mainly during the first 24 hours following ovulation, and the fibers are secreted intact and subsequently wrapped around the in utero eggs. Eggshell fibers of different thicknesses are layered around each egg, ranging from an inner layer of thick fibers that gradually become thinner medially and finally forms an outer layer of densely packed particulate matter. These changes in the fibrous layer are reflected by the thickness and length of fibers released from the endometrial glands. Calcium deposition occurs from 3 days following ovulation through day 14 (oviposition) and is accompanied by cellular changes in the luminal epithelium suggestive of secretory activity. Deposition of the eggshell components within the uterus occurs on all eggs simultaneously, rather than sequentially. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Morphogenesis and ductal development of the prostatic complex of the guinea pig
Authors: Zhao C. Y. , Tam C. C. , Wong Y. C.
Published: February 2005

The morphogenesis of glandular architecture of the three lobes of prostate gland of the guinea pig, lateral, dorsal, and coagulating gland was studied from 35 days gestation to 90 postnatal days. Epithelial ductal tubules of various lobes of the gland were microdissected after treatment by collagenase and displayed two dimensionally. The number of ductal tips was counted, and the volume of the ductal network was quantified using a graphic tablet. The results show that the growth and ductal morphogenesis fall into two phases: prenatal and postnatal. The first outgrowth of prostatic buds begins at 35 days gestation (gestational length is 65 days). Ductal growth and branching continues over the next 15–20 days and by 55 days gestation, approximately 60%, 79%, and 71% of the adult number of ductal tips of the lateral and dorsal lobes and coagulating gland respectively, are formed. The figures increase to 89%, 84%, and 106%, respectively, by birth. There is little increase in number of ductal tips thereafter. Postnatal growth is accomplished mainly by elongation of existing ductal network with a little additional branching but with an increase in size (volume) of the tubules. Canalization of ductal tubules occurs prenatally in all lobes but postnatal functional cytodifferentiation takes a slightly different pace among them. Ductal morphogenesis of the guinea pig prostate gland differs significantly in time‐course from that of the mouse in which ductal development occurs mainly postnatally. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Adrenergic innervation of the heart of the bat, Miniopterus schreibersii
Authors: O'shea James E.
Published: February 2005

The adrenergic innervation of the heart of the bat (Miniopterus schreibersii) was studied with a fluorescence histochemical technique. The appearance and distribution pattern of the terminal adrenergic nerve fibers demonstrated in the atria, sinoatrial and atrioventricular nodes, and ventricles is typically mammalian. Fine varicose adrenergic fibers run in and parallel to the ventricular muscle where they are common and uniformly distributed. Indian ink perfusion of the coronary vasculature demonstrates the high density of vessels in the ventricles, but obscures the terminal innervation of the ventricular muscle. This alone, or in combination with the apparent seasonal change in the terminal innervation of the ventricles, may explain the inability of previous workers to identify an adrenergic ventricular innervation in the bat Nyctalus noctula. The adrenergic ventricular innervation might be involved in the large increases in cardiac output associated with the commencement of flight and in the massive sympathetic activation that mediates arousal from torpor. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Functional anatomy of the secondary copulatory apparatus of the male dragonfly Tramea virginia (Odonata: Anisoptera)
Authors: Andrew R. J. , Tembhare D. B.
Published: February 2005

In the dragonfly Tramea virginia, the secondary copularoty apparatus (SCA) on the venter of the second and third abdominal segments consists of the anterior and posterior laminae, a pair of gential lobes and hamules, the ligula, genital fossa, supporting frame work, and the four segmented, highly specialized penis. The penis head represnts the distal or fourth segment of the penis and bears paired lateral and apical lobes and a medial process. The medial process includes a sperm reservior, a short sperm tube, and paired cornua and inner lobes. The sperm reservoir opens into the sperm tube which bears a terminal orifice between the inner lobes. Gross morphology of the SCA of T. virginia is similar to that of other libellulids except that the gential lobes and hamules are comparatively large in size, the ligula is triangular in shape with an apical flat rectangular lobe and stiff basal setae, the penis bears a pair of cuticular denticles below the spur of the second segment, the apical lobes are inflatable without spines and bristles, and the cornua with smooth outer and spiny inner surface collectively signifying the species‐specific anatomical features and the functional specialization for sperm transfer and removal. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ultrastructure of the pseudobranch in the euryhaline Cyprinodontid fish, Rivulus marmoratus
Authors: King Judy A. C. , Smith Peter R. , Ashcraft Jan C. , Dibona Donald R.
Published: February 2005

The ultrastructure of the pseudobranch of the euryhaline, self‐fertilizing fish, Rivulus marmoratus (Cyprinodontidae) was studied with thin sectio and freeze‐fracture transmission electron microscopy. In specimens raised from birth in 1% or 200% seawater, the pseudobranch contains two mitochondria‐rich cell types, pseudobranchial cells and chloride cells, each of which has an extensive tubular system. Chloride cells only occur on the lateral aspects of the pseudobranch, with their apical crypts open to the environment. Apical crypt invagination to a “pit” structure and multicellular complexes occur in both salinity extremes. The ultrastructure of chloride cells in 1% and 200% SW is consistent with that described previously in the opercular epithelium, opercular skin, and gill of this species; elaboration of mitochondria and basolateral membrane accompanies increased environmental salinity (King et al.: Cell and Tissue Research 257:367–377, 1989). Pseudobranchial cells constitute the majority of the cells; they do not extend to the surface but have a more organized tubular system that is continuous with the basal membrane. These cells do not exhibit ultrastructural changes in response to increased salinity. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ultrastructure of the light organ and immunocytochemical localization of luciferase in luminescent marine ostracods (Crustacea: Ostracoda: Cypridinidae)
Authors: Huvard Andrea L.
Published: February 2005

The ultrastructure of the upper lip, which is the location of the light organ in luminescent ostracods, is described for two species of marine ostracods (Vargula graminicola, and V. tsujii). The light organ contains four primary cell types (here designated A–D) readily identified both by the types of vesicles that they contain and their location. Cell type A, restricted to the center of the light organ, has vesicles that are homogeneous throughout. Cell type B has vesicles with a single electron‐dense central area. This cell is most common in the lateral regions but is also found in the tusks. Immunocytochemical experiments revealed that luciferase is found in B cells, but not in any other cells or in control specimens. Cell type C has vesicles containing many electrondense microstructures; this cell type is the least common and is found along with B cells within the lateral margins of the light organ. Cell type D has granulated vesicles and is restricted to the tusks. Metachromatic staining with toluidine blue suggests that the vesicles contain acidic mucosubstances. The cells of the light organ are very long (360–460 μm) and extend through its entire length. The cells found exclusively in the tusks are shorter (ea. 150 μm). All cells possess similar polarity: proximal synthesis, middle transitional, and distal secretory regions. These cells terminate ventrally at nozzles on the anterior portion of the upper lip, and on the tusks. The upper lip and light organ possess two large longitudinal muscles, a central muscle, and several smaller “bridle” muscles that attach onto sclerotized ridges. Various hypotheses for the storage and secretion of light organ materials are suggested relative to these morphological data. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Kidney of the sumatran rhinoceros, Dicerorhinus sumatrensis
Authors: Maluf N. S. R.
Published: February 2005

The kidney of Diceros sumatrensis has the rhinocerotic form and lobation. The ureter divides intrarenally into two fibromuscular conduits which receive, at separate loci, the terminal collecting ducts of the lobes. The kidney is 67% cortex. Total renal mass is 0.46% of body mass. There are about 34 lobes and 23 primary orifices at the conduits. Glomeruli are relatively small and of the same size across the cortex. They number about 14.6 million in one kidney but the glomerular mass is relatively low. Unlike other rhinocerotic species, the kidney of D. sumatrensis lacks interlobar septa. The interlobar arteries nevertheless enter the renal parenchymas as in the other rhinoceroses, i.e., between the cortices of adjacent lobes rather than in the common mammalian manner between cortex and medulla. Thus, internal “perforator” arteries pass from cortical periphery to interior giving off cortical twigs on their way to the corticomedullary border, along which they branch while releasing centrifugal arteries back toward the cortical periphery. The arcuate veins are wide centrally where they enter the paraconduital veins. The latter form prominent central anastomoses between the large interlobar veins. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ultrastructure and protein uptake of the embryonic trophotaeniae of four species of goodeid fishes (Teleostei: Atheriniformes)
Authors: Hollenberg Frank , Wourms J. P.
Published: February 2005

Embryos of most species within the viviparous teleost family Goodeidae develop characteristics perianal processes that are considered to be derivatives of the embryonic hindgut. These processes, termed trophotaeniae, are covered with an epithelium that is continuous with the absorptive epithelium lining the hindgut. Gestation is intraovarian, and trophotaeniae mediate the uptake of maternally provided nutrients into the embryo from the ovarian fluid. Ultrastructural examination of the trophotaeniae of four goodeid species reveals substantial diversity in the organization of the epithelium within the family. The trophotaeniae of Alloophorus robustus, Zoogoneticus quitzeoensis, and Ilyodon furcidens have morphological features associated with the endocytosis of macromolecules and can be shown to endocytose the exogenous protein tracer horseradish peroxidase (HRP) rapidly. The trophotaenial epithelia of these species differ from one another with respect to other morphological features such as cell height, organization of the brush border, and the complexity of the intercellular spaces. The trophotaeniae of Goodea atripinnis lack an endocytotic apparatus and do not endocytose HRP. However, the overall organization of G. atripinnis trophotaenial cells suggests a function as a transporting epithelium. The cells have a dense brush border, numerous mitochondria, and many mitochondria that are enveloped by lamellar sheets of intracellular membrane.

Post‐fixation with osmium and potassium ferrocyanide reveals a marked difference in the complexity of the subepithelial connective tissue. Alloophorus robustus and Z. quitzeoensis exhibit an extremely electron‐dense ground substance containing many acellular components. Goodea atripinnis exhibits an electron‐lucid ground substance with few acellular components. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Molar surface morphology in Streptocephalus coomansi (Crustacea: Branchiopoda: Anostraca)
Authors: Brendonck Luc
Published: February 2005

Except for the posterio‐dorsal margin, the circumference of the molar surface exhibits flagellated processes which become simple at the posterioventral margin. Four topographic regions are distinguished: (A) a posterodorsal region, (B) a peripheral region, (C) a transitional zone, and (D) a central region. The postero‐dorsal region of the left mandible has one row of widely spaced, stout, conical teeth, while in the right mandible two rows of slender teeth, which become multi‐branched anteriorly, are present. The peripheral molar region stretches between the bordering flagellated processes and the central region and consists of several parallel, dorso‐ventral rows of armed teeth. The maximum number of teeth in one dorso‐ventral row is higher at the ventral than at the dorsal side and in the left than in the right mandible. In the transitional zone, the number of cusps on each tooth is progressively reduced. The central region, a perforated thickened cuticular plate, extends over the majority of the molar surface. This region is unique among the anostracans studied in this respect and may reflect a different feeding ecology. The strongly diversified molar surface probably allows the species to exploit a wide trophic spectrum. It remains to be tested if these observations may be extrapolated to the entire genus. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Simulation of organic shape: The roles of phenomenology and mechanism
Authors: Niklas K. J.
Published: February 2005

Models adducing mechanisms of morphogenesis from observations of geometric similarity between mathematical and natural forms must be rigorously challenged by extensive direct observations of the process being modeled. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
External morphology of the larvae of Ephydra (Hydropyrus) hians (Diptera: Ephydridae)
Authors: Cash‐Clark Cora E. , Bradley Timothy J.
Published: February 2005

Scanning electron microscopy is used to describe the ultrastructure of morphological features related to feeding, locomotion, respiration, and pigmentation in second‐ and third‐instar larvae of Ephydra hians (Ephydridae: Diptera). Using larvae fixed with the head extended, the ultrastructural details of the mandibles, maxillary papilli, and antennae are described for the first time. The larvae possess finger‐like projections at the anterior spiracle and a distensible bifurcated siphon at the posterior spiracle. Slit‐like openings are found on each. The second‐ and third‐instar larvae can be differentiated on the basis of dorsal pigmentation associated with extensive patches of spines. The larvae have regional specializations in spine distribution, particularly on the ventral and dorsal body surfaces, and the prolegs. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Buoyancy studies and microscopy of skin and subdermal extracellular matrix of the antarctic snailfish, Paraliparis devriesi
Authors: Eastman Joseph T. , Hikida Robert S. , Devries Arthur L.
Published: February 2005

The Antarctic snailfish Paraliparis devriesi (Liparididae) occupies an epibenthic habitat at a depth of 500–650 m in the subzero waters of McMurdo Sound, Antarctica. Although lacking a swim bladder, this species is neutrally buoyant through the combined effects of reduced skeletal ossification and expansion of a watery gelatinous subdermal extracellular matrix (SECM). The SECM serves as a low density buoyancy agent. It comprises a mean of 33.8% of the body weight, the largest known proportion of any adult fish. The SECM is loose connective tissue dominated by ground substance consisting of glycosaminoglycans, especially hyaluronic acid, and immobilized water. Although the SECM is 97% water, elevated levels of NaCl provide an osmotic strength greater than that of other body fluids. Only small amounts of antifreeze compounds have been identified in P. devriesi; therefore, freezing avoidance may result from the combined effects of antifreezes and the elevated osmolality of body fluids. The skin overlying the SECM is thin (85–200 μm) and loose, and unlike most other fishes, the epidermis is several times thicker than the dermis. The midepidermis, has a distinctive layer of vacuolated club cells of unknown function. Light and electron microscopy indicate that the skin is unspecialized for protection against entry of ice. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparative morphology of the myomeres and axial skeleton in four genera of centrarchid fishes
Authors: Jayne Bruce C. , Lauder George V.
Published: February 2005

We used X‐rays and dissection of myotomes to quantify the axial morphology of four species of centrarchid fishes (Micropterus salmoides, Ambloplites rupestris, Pomoxis nigromaculatus, and Lepomis macrochirus). Proceeding from dorsal to ventral, we designated the two epaxial and two hypaxial protions of the myomeres AB, BC, CD, and DE, respectively. For each of 11 myomeres, spaced at 10% increments along the length of the fish, a total of 14 variables described the length and orientation of each portion, the dorsalventral symmetry, and the overall height and longitudinal span of the entire myomere. Nine variables described the lengths, orientation, and symmetry of the vertebral centra, neural and hemal spines, and ribs. Analysis of variance revealed that, with one exception, all 23 morphological variables varied significantly both among species and among longitudinal locations within a species. However, the extent of longitudinal and interspecific variance differed considerably among different variables. Maximal myomeric height ranged from about 45% of the standard length (SL) in Lepomis to 27% SL in Micropterus. Longitudinal and interspecific increases in overall height of the trunk myomeres resulted primarily from greater lengths of CD. Compared to other portions of the myomere, the length of BC was most conservative both longitudinally and interspecifically. Dorsal‐ventral symmetry of the myomeres and axial skeleton was greater in the caudal region than in the trunk in all species, and the myomeric morphology diverged least among species in the posterior caudal region. The overall longitudinal span of superficial myomeric landmarks varied from 6% to 18% SL, and, including the deep portions of the myomeres, the longitudinal span varied from about 7 to 10 vertebrae. Within each of the species, myomeric and skeletal variables were often not significantly correlated, but for the pooled data of all species there were usually highly significant correlations between myomeric and skeletal morphology. For example, strong correlations existed between BC and the underlying neural spines, and between CD and the underlying ribs and hemal spines. In contrast, the longitudinal spans of entire myomeres and underlying axial skeletal segments were only weakly associated. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Placental structure of the Australian lizard, Niveoscincus metallicus (Squamata: Scincidae)
Authors: Stewart James R. , Thompson Michael B.
Published: February 2005

A unique type of reptilian allantoplacenta was described by Weekes [1930] (Proc. Linn. Soc. N.S.W. 55:550–576) from a single embryonic stage of the Tasmanian skink, Niveoscincus ocellatus (as Lygosoma (Liolepisma) ocellatum). She also assigned N. metallicus to this placental category but did not provide a description. Here we provide a description of allantoplacentation and yolk sac placentation of N. metallicus. The allantoplacenta is regionally differentiated and differs from other reptilian allantoplacentae by the presence of a zone of hypertrophied chorionic epithelial cells in apposition to uterine blood vessels which are contained within ridges formed from uterine epithelial cells. This zone is located dorsolaterally along the long axis of the egg at the upper margin of the yolk sac. In contrast, the cells of the chorionic epithelium dorsal to the embryo are smaller and the uterine blood vessels are not contained in ridges. The definitive yolk sac placenta is an omphaloplacenta. The bilaminar omphalopleure of the omphaloplacenta consists of an outer layer of cuboidal or columnar cells. Cells of the uterine epithelium of the omphaloplacenta are cuboidal or columnar in shape and are supported by uterine blood vessels. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cellular details of the midgut of Cryptocellus boneti (Arachnida: Ricinulei)
Authors: Ludwig Mario , Palacios‐Vargas José G. , Albertif Gerd
Published: February 2005

The midgut of Cryptocellus boneti was studied by light and electron microscopy. The epithelia of the diverticula and of the anterior part of the midgut tube are composed of two cell types: digestive and secretory. In contrast, the epithelia of posterior part of the midgut tube and of the stercoral pocket consist of one type of cells only. In some places, parts of the midgut system are connected by an intermediate tissue. Digestive cells are characterized by an apical system of tubules, nutritional vacuoles, and spherites; characteristic features of secretory cells are secretory granules and a prominent rough endoplasmic reticulum. Cells of the midgut tube appear not to be involved in the absorption of food. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Organization of motoneurons innervating the axial musculature of the brown caiman (Caiman crocodilus fuscus)
Authors: Murakami Gen , Nakasone Tadashi , Akita Keiichi , Kato Yutaka , Sato Iwao , Shimada Kazuyuki
Published: February 2005

The primary divisions of the spinal nerve in the brown caiman characteristically show the following features: (1) the medial ramus was lies in the thoraco‐lumbar and caudal regions, and (2) the first cervical and hypoglossal nerves form a single nerve complex from which the ventral and dorsal rami extend. Intramuscular injections of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) established the positions of motoneurons whose axons followed the primary rami. In the ventral horn of the thoracic and caudal spinal cord, the motoneurons of the medial ramus lie ventrally. These motoneurons lie between the epaxial and hypaxial motoneurons. At the spinomedullary junction, the pools of motoneurons innervating the infrahyoid, lingual, and dorsal muscles have a somatotopic organization similar to that observed in the thoraco‐lumbar and caudal regions. Thus clear somatotopic organization of the motoneurons that innervate the axial musculature exists at all spinal levels. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Factors governing the stickiness of cribellar prey capture threads in the spider family Uloboridae
Authors: Opell Brent D.
Published: February 2005

The surface of a cribellar prey capture thread is formed of thousands of fine, looped fibrils, each issuing from one of the spigots on an oval spinning plate termed the cribellum. This plesiomorphic capture thread is retained by members of the family Uloboridae, in which its stickiness differs among genera. An examination of five cribellar thread features in nine uloborid species shows that only the number of fibrils that form a thread explains these differences in thread stickiness. Neither the physical features of these fibrils, nor the manner in which they are combined to form threads differs among species. Threads produced by orb‐weaving species contain fewer fibrils than those produced by species that build reduced webs. Relative to spider weight, the number of fibrils that form a cribellar thread is greatest in simple‐web species of the genusMiagrammopes, less in triangle‐web species of the genusHyptiotes, and least in orb‐weaving species representing five genera. A transformational analysis shows that change in the number of cribellum spigots is directly related to change in the stickiness of cribellar thread. This direct relationship between the material invested in a cribellar thread and its stickiness may have been a limiting factor that favored the switch from the dry cribellar threads of uloborids to the adhesive capture threads produced by other orb‐weaving families. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Properties of twitch motor units of the ankle extensor muscles in the bullfrog Rana catesbeiana
Authors: Peters Susan E.
Published: February 2005

A study of the mechanical properties of the twitch motor units in the ankle extensor muscles of bullfrogs was undertaken to expand our view of the diversity of motor unit properties among vertebrates. Two muscles were chosen that represent a wide range of extensor function: the plantaris longus (PL) is a large muscle providing most of the force for ankle extension in hopping and swimming, and the tibialis posticus (TP) is relatively small and may act as an ankle stabilizer or be primarily postural in function. Both muscles have highly fatigable motor units, but also some (especially in TP) low or non‐fatigable ones. Mean tetanic tensions of motor units in both muscles are relatively large as compared with those of mammals but are especially large in PL, No clear correlations were found between contraction times and either motor unit tetanic tensions or fatigability, nor did the motor units fall into clearly defined types based on any functional parameters. Overall contraction and relaxation times are slow compared with those of mammals and are somewhat slow compared to those of other frogs; unlike results from earlier studies, the large units of PL are slower than the small units of TP. This results in PL units reaching fused tetani at lower stimulus frequencies. The twitch/tetanus and force/frequency ratios in PL motor units are much larger than those of TP, giving PL units greater relative forces at lower stimulus rates. These results are discussed in the context of motor unit function. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Relationship between muscle fiber types and sizes and muscle architectural properties in the mouse hindlimb
Authors: Burkholder Thomas J. , Fingado Brian , Baron Stephanie , Lieber Richard L.
Published: February 2005

Skeletal muscle fiber and architectural properties both contribute to the functional behavior of a muscle. This study uses discriminant analysis and mathematical modeling to identify the structurally and functionally significant properties. The architectural properties of fiber length, muscle length, and pennation angle are found to be the most structurally significant parameters, whereas fiber length, muscle length, and fiber type distribution are found to be most functionally determining. Architectural speed and fiber type do not appear to be complimentary (i.e., the architectural determinant of sspeed, fiber length, is not associated with fibers of high intrinsic velocity). However, there does seem to be a synergistic relation between the two property classes and force production. Muscles with large physiological cross sectional areas (PCSAs) tend to contain a greater proportion of larger, faster fibers. Structurally or morphologically significant parameters are not always found to have a large functional effect. Pennation angle, though one of the most structurally significant variables, was found to have very little functional effect. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
New aspect of the “mycetome” of a thrips, Bactrothrips brevitubus Takahashi (Insecta: Thysanoptera)
Authors: Tsutsumi Tadaaki , Matsuzaki Morio , Haga Kazuo
Published: February 2005

Morphology and cytochemical properties of “mycetomes” are described in the developing oocytes and eggs of an idolothripine thrips, Bactrothrips brevitubus (Thysanoptera). The “mycetome” is an aggregation of numerous granules of various sizes. We found no membrane encapsulating the aggregation of granules. Two types of granules are distinguishable: the smaller ones filled with electron‐dense material and the larger ones with inclusion of myelin‐like structures. Each of the granules has a limiting membrane. The limiting membrane is a simple unit membrane but shows no characteristics of cell walls. No nucleoid or nucleoplasm is detected in the granules. The “mycetome” takes up dyes whose specific incorporation into lysosomes has been demonstrated. In addition, a high activity of acid phosphatase is demonstrated in the “mycetome.”

These characteristics apparently indicated that the “mycetome” of Bactrothrips brevitubus is an aggregation of lysosomes but not a clump of microorganisms. Thus we propose that the structure being regarded as the mycetome should be renamed the “lysosomal aggregation.” © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Morphology of the male system and spermatophores of the arrowwormFerosagitta hispida(Chaetognatha)
Authors: Bergey M. Anne , Crowder Robert J. , Shinn George L.
Published: February 2005

Transmission electron microscopy reveals that the somatic testicular tissues and sperm ducts are elaborations of the epithelial lining of the tail coelom. The testes consist of closely packed spermatogonia embedded between specialized lateral field cells. These cells contain few organelles and appear to function mainly as a compartment boundary. Masses of spermatogenic cells are released into the tail coelom from the anterior end of the testes. The sperm ducts, lined by simple cuboidal ciliated epithelium, collect mature spermatozoa from the tail coelom and convey them to the blindly ending seminal vesicles. The sperm ducts also modify coelomic fluid entering them along with the spermatozoa. The seminal vesicles consist of a simple glandular lining epithelium embedded in the stratified epidermis. Secretions of the lining epithelium surround the enclosed sperm mass and correspond in position to a noncellular spermatophore coat visible by light microscopy around released sperm masses. Spermatophores leave the seminal vesicles through a temporary split that forms between microfilament‐containing suture cells. Maturation of spermatozoa and filling of the seminal vesicles is cyclical, occurring late each day. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.