bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Light and Scanning Electron Microscope Examination of the Digestive Tract in Peppered Moray Eel, Gymnothorax pictus (Elopomorpha)
Authors: Takiue Shunpei , Akiyoshi Hideo
Published: June 2014

The morphology of the digestive tract of the peppered moray eel, Gymnothorax pictus (G. pictus) (Elopomorpha: Anguilliformes) was examined using both light and scanning electron microscopy. The digestive tract is composed of the esophagus, the stomach, and the intestines; pyloric caeca were absent. The stomach was divided into a cardiac region that was continuous with the esophagus, a body which terminated in a long blind sac, and a pyloric region that was continuous with the intestine. The short intestine possessed several partitions that were created by the mucosal folds within the posterior region. The terminal region of the stomach was characterized by the thick longitudinal muscularis and subserosa, and the gastric glands and microvilli were absent. Ciliary tufts of ciliated cells were observed on the surface of the partition‐like mucosal folds within the intestinal wall. Acidic mucus was secreted throughout the digestive tract. It was suggested that the terminal region of the stomach is specialized for storage of large food items. In addition, it is possible that the partition‐like mucosal folds within the intestine perform a function similar to that of the spiral valve and, and along with ciliated cells, facilitated digestion and absorption. The acidic mucus likely maintained surface epithelium pH and protease activity. Within a phylogenetic context, the absence of a pyloric caeca in G. pictus while possessing an intestine implies that this species is affiliated to groups that had branched off earlier than basal teleosts. Anat Rec, 296:443–451, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparative Anatomy of Mouse and Human Nail Units
Authors: Fleckman Philip , Jaeger Karin , Silva Kathleen A. , Sundberg John P.
Published: June 2014

Recent studies of mice with hair defects have resulted in major contributions to the understanding of hair disorders. To use mouse models as a tool to study nail diseases, a basic understanding of the similarities and differences between the human and mouse nail unit is required. In this study we compare the human and mouse nail unit at the macroscopic and microscopic level and use immunohistochemistry to determine the keratin expression patterns in the mouse nail unit. Both species have a proximal nail fold, cuticle, nail matrix, nail bed, nail plate, and hyponychium. Distinguishing features are the shape of the nail and the presence of an extended hyponychium in the mouse. Expression patterns of most keratins are similar. These findings indicate that the mouse nail unit shares major characteristics with the human nail unit and overall represents a very similar structure, useful for the investigation of nail diseases and nail biology. Anat Rec, 296:521–532, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Temporal Profile of Nerve Growth Factor Expression in the Partial Central Nervous System of the Yangtze Alligator Alligator sinensis (Reptilia,Crocodylia) During Early Postnatal Growth
Authors: Zheng Lanrong , Chen Fangfang , Wang Renping , Zhou Yongkang , Wu Xiaobing
Published: June 2014

Expression of nerve growth factor (NGF) in structures of the partial central nervous system of the Yangtze alligator, Alligator sinensis (Reptilia, Crocodylia) was examined during early postnatal growth using immunohistochemistry and Western blot assays. In animals 0–2 years of age NGF‐positive cells in the cerebral cortex increased gradually in number and size, and were predominantly distributed in the molecular layer. NGF‐positive cells in the midbrain showed similar increases but with predominant distribution in the ependymal layer. NGF‐positive cells increased in the cerebellum between 0 and 1 years of age, with increased NGF expression being seen during the first 2 years of life mostly in the ependymal layer. NGF‐positive cells were mainly found in the gray matter of the spinal cord with decreasing cell numbers, NGF expression levels being seen from 0 to 2 years and small processes without synaptic connection from 1 to 2 years. These results suggest that NGF is involved in the early postnatal growth of several structures of Yangtze alligator partial central nervous system, suggesting a possible role of NGF in the Yangtze alligator partial central nervous system. Anat Rec, 296:840–845, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Growth‐Inhibitory Activity of Melatonin on Murine Foregastric Carcinoma Cells In Vitro and the Underlying Molecular Mechanism
Authors: Xu Li , Liu Hui , Zhang Hui , Wang Ri‐Xiong , Song Jun , Zhou Rui‐Xiang
Published: June 2014

Melatonin (MLT) is an indolic hormone produced mainly by the pineal gland. Recent human and animal studies have shown that MLT exerts obvious oncostatic activity both in vitro and in vivo. The purpose of this study was to investigate the antiproliferative effect of MLT on the murine foregastric carcinoma (MFC) cell and to determine the underlying molecular mechanism. Cell viability was determined using the Cell Counting Kit‐8 (CCK‐8) and the results revealed that MLT exhibited a dose‐ and time‐dependent inhibitory effect on MFC cell growth. Our studies also demonstrated upregulation of p21 and Bax and downregulation of Bcl‐2 at both the mRNA and the protein levels in response to MLT treatment of MFC cells. These changes in the expression of these molecules were consistent with the results of the CCK‐8. Furthermore, the mRNA and protein expression of membranous MLT receptors was also upregulated. Taken together, these results confirm the oncostatic effect of MLT in MFC cells and the expression of membranous MLT receptors is a potential approach to tumor cells in gastric cancer therapeutic treatment. Anat Rec, 296:914–920, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Postcranial Pneumaticity and Bone Structure in Two Clades of Neognath Birds
Authors: Gutzwiller Sarah C. , Su Anne , O'Connor Patrick M.
Published: June 2014

Most living birds exhibit some degree of postcranial skeletal pneumaticity, aeration of the postcranial skeleton by pulmonary air sacs and/or directly from the lungs. The extent of pneumaticity varies greatly, ranging from taxa that are completely apneumatic to those with air filling most of the postcranial skeleton. This study examined the influence of skeletal pneumatization on bone structural parameters in a sample of two size‐ and foraging‐style diverse (e.g., subsurface diving vs. soaring specialists) clades of neognath birds (charadriiforms and pelecaniforms). Cortical bone thickness and trabecular bone volume fraction were assessed in one cervical and one thoracic vertebra in each of three pelecaniform and four charadriiform species. Results for pelecaniforms indicate that specialized subsurface dive foragers (e.g., the apneumatic anhinga) have thicker cortical bone and a higher trabecular bone volume fraction than their non‐diving clademates. Conversely, the large‐bodied, extremely pneumatic brown pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis) exhibits thinner cortical bone and a lower trabecular bone volume fraction. Such patterns in bone structural parameters are here interpreted to pertain to decreased buoyancy in birds specialized in subsurface dive foraging and decreased skeletal density (at the whole bone level) in birds of larger body size. The potential to differentially pneumatize the postcranial skeleton and alter bone structure may have played a role in relaxing constraints on body size evolution and/or habitat exploitation during the course of avian evolution. Notably, similar patterns were not observed within the equally diverse charadriiforms, suggesting that the relationship between pneumaticity and bone structure is variable among different clades of neognath birds. Anat Rec, 296:867–876, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Virtual Reconstruction of Very Large Skull Defects Featuring Partly and Completely Missing Midsagittal Planes
Authors: Senck Sascha , Coquerelle Michael , Weber Gerhard W. , Benazzi Stefano
Published: June 2014

Despite the development of computer‐based methods, cranial reconstruction of very large skull defects remains a challenge particularly if the damage affects the midsagittal region hampering the usage of mirror imaging techniques. This pilot study aims to deliver a new method that goes beyond mirror imaging, giving the possibility to reconstruct crania characterized by large missing areas, which might be useful in the fields of paleoanthropology, bioarcheology, and forensics. We test the accuracy of digital reconstructions in cases where two‐thirds or more of a human cranium were missing. A three‐dimensional (3D) virtual model of a human cranium was virtually damaged twice to compare two destruction‐reconstruction scenarios. In the first case, a small fraction of the midsagittal region was still preserved, allowing the application of mirror imaging techniques. In the second case, the damage affected the complete midsagittal region, which demands a new approach to estimate the position of the midsagittal plane. Reconstructions were carried out using CT scans from a sample of modern humans (12 males and 13 females), to which 3D digital modeling techniques and geometric morphometric methods were applied. As expected, the second simulation showed a larger variability than the first one, which underlines the fact that the individual midsagittal plane is of course preferable in order to minimize the reconstruction error. However, in both simulations the Procrustes mean shape was an effective reference for the reconstruction of the entire cranium, producing models that showed a remarkably low error of about 3 mm, given the extent of missing data. Anat Rec, 296:745–758, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Codistribution of Collagen Type IV and Laminin in Liver Fibrosis of Elderly Cadavers: Immunohistochemical Marker of Perisinusoidal Basement Membrane Formation
Authors: Mak Ki M. , Chen Lucy L. , Lee Ting‐Fang
Published: June 2014

Liver sinusoids are lined by a fenestrated endothelium that lacks a basement membrane. Formation of perisinusoidal basement membranes beneath the endothelium is an integral feature of capillarization of sinusoids that is a significant pathology found in advanced fibrosis. Liver fibrosis is prevalent in elderly cadavers; however, basement membrane formation in these liver samples has yet to be studied. Collagen type IV and laminin are major basement membrane proteins and their codistribution around sinusoids provides an immunohistochemical marker of basement membrane formation. Here, we examined the intralobular sites of perisinusoidal basement membrane formation in elderly cadaveric livers having various stages of fibrosis. Collagen IV and laminin codistributed in basement membranes of portal and septal ductular and vascular structures, providing a positive control. In the parenchyma, collagen IV immunostaining of sinusoids was panlobular in all stages of fibrosis, and the stain was continuous along the sinusoids. In contrast, laminin was not detected in livers, showing minimal fibrotic change. It was rarely seen in perisinusoidal/pericellular fibrosis, but frequently in septa formation, bridging fibrosis, and cirrhosis. The laminin stain was patchy, occurring principally in sinusoids of periportal and periseptal areas, less commonly in mid‐lobular and rarely in centrilobular areas. Consecutive sections revealed that laminin codistributed with collagen IV in these sinusoidal locations, thus marking the sites of perisinusoidal basement membrane formation in aged fibrotic livers. This development is presumably related to aging of the liver and exacerbated by liver injury caused by advanced liver fibrosis, possibly resulting in sinusoidal capillarization. Anat Rec, 296:953–964, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Shape and Presentation of the Catarrhine Talus: A Geometric Morphometric Analysis
Authors: Turley Kevin , Frost Stephen R.
Published: June 2014

The distal component of the talo‐crural joint, the talus, was compared, using geometric morphometrics, in 219 specimens from nine extant taxa to identify differences in shape and the factors influencing them. The specimens were laser scanned, digitally reconstructed, and landmarked. The whole talus, proximal and distal articular facet subgroups were analyzed using Generalized Procrustes analysis, linear regression, principal component analysis, analysis of percent variance, dot‐product vector analysis, and pair‐wise permutation tests to evaluate shape, and were visualized by TPS deformation of an exemplar surface. Significant percentages of shape variation among taxa were due to body mass, talar size, superfamily, and substrate preference. Shape and presentational morphology associated with these factors were documented, along with the similarities and differences among individual taxa. Nearly all taxa were significantly different in overall, proximal and distal shapes. The most important factors influencing whole talar shape were log centroid size and substrate preference. Substrate preference was also the most important factor defining proximal articular morphology and unrelated to other factor such as mass, while distal articular morphology was influenced by superfamily (head angle and shape). Results demonstrated that substrate preference and superfamily significantly influenced distal presentation, while substrate preference influenced proximal articular shape. Anat Rec, 296:877–890, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cranial Muscle Development in the Model Organism Ambystoma mexicanum: Implications for Tetrapod and Vertebrate Comparative and Evolutionary Morphology and Notes on Ontogeny and Phylogeny
Authors: Ziermann Janine M. , Diogo Rui
Published: June 2014

There is still confusion about the homology of several cranial muscles in salamanders with those of other vertebrates. This is true, in part, because of the fact that many muscles present in early ontogeny of amphibians disappear during development and specifically during metamorphosis. Resolving this confusion is important for the understanding of the comparative and evolutionary morphology of vertebrates and tetrapods because amphibians are the phylogenetically most plesiomorphic tetrapods, concerning for example their myology, and include two often used model organisms, Xenopus laevis (anuran) and Ambystoma mexicanum (urodele). Here we provide the first detailed report of the cranial muscle development in axolotl from early ontogenetic stages to the adult stage. We describe different and complementary types of general muscle morphogenetic gradients in the head: from anterior to posterior, from lateral to medial, and from origin to insertion. Furthermore, even during the development of neotenic salamanders such as axolotls, various larval muscles become indistinct, contradicting the commonly accepted view that during ontogeny the tendency is mostly toward the differentiation of muscles. We provide an updated comparison between these muscles and the muscles of other vertebrates, a discussion of the homologies and evolution, and show that the order in which the muscles appear during axolotl ontogeny is in general similar to their appearance in phylogeny (e.g. differentiation of adductor mandibulae muscles from one anlage to four muscles), with only a few remarkable exceptions, as for example the dilatator laryngis that appears evolutionary later but in the development before the intermandibularis. Anat Rec, 296:1031–1048, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Accessible and Informative Sectioned Images, Color‐Coded Images, and Surface Models of the Ear
Authors: Park Hyo Seok , Chung Min Suk , Shin Dong Sun , Jung Yong Wook , Park Jin Seo
Published: June 2014

In our previous research, we created state‐of‐the‐art sectioned images, color‐coded images, and surface models of the human ear. Our ear data would be more beneficial and informative if they were more easily accessible. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to distribute the browsing software and the PDF file in which ear images are to be readily obtainable and freely explored. Another goal was to inform other researchers of our methods for establishing the browsing software and the PDF file. To achieve this, sectioned images and color‐coded images of ear were prepared (voxel size 0.1 mm). In the color‐coded images, structures related to hearing, equilibrium, and structures originated from the first and second pharyngeal arches were segmented supplementarily. The sectioned and color‐coded images of right ear were added to the browsing software, which displayed the images serially along with structure names. The surface models were reconstructed to be combined into the PDF file where they could be freely manipulated. Using the browsing software and PDF file, sectional and three‐dimensional shapes of ear structures could be comprehended in detail. Furthermore, using the PDF file, clinical knowledge could be identified through virtual otoscopy. Therefore, the presented educational tools will be helpful to medical students and otologists by improving their knowledge of ear anatomy. The browsing software and PDF file can be downloaded without charge and registration at our homepage (http://anatomy.dongguk.ac.kr/ear/). Anat Rec, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Is Mda‐7/IL‐24 a Potential Target and Biomarker for Enhancing Drug Sensitivity in Human Glioma U87 Cell Line?
Authors: Wang Qin , Zhu Yu , Yang Ping
Published: June 2014

Gliomas are the most common form of primary brain tumor with the highest mortality rates. Drug resistance is a major cause of treatment failure in patients with glioma. Melanoma differentiation associated gene‐7/interleukin‐24 (mda‐7/IL‐24) has been demonstrated to play an important role in drug resistance in human cancer cell lines. However, the reversing effect of mda‐7/IL‐24 on drug resistance of human glioma is not fully clear. Here, we investigated the effects of overexpression of the mda‐7/IL‐24 gene in human glioma. We established a cisplatin‐resistant U87 glioma cell line and found that mda‐7/IL‐24 was highly correlated with drug resistance. Furthermore, we investigated the apoptotic rate, intracellular accumulation of Rhodamine‐123, and expression of glutathione and P‐glycoprotein. The over‐expression of mda‐7/IL‐24 enhanced cisplatin cytotoxicity and reversal of drug resistance in glioma cells. The reversing effect of mda‐7/IL‐24 on drug resistance was induced mainly through the regulation of drug resistance‐related genes and efflux drug pumps. Thus, mda‐7/IL‐24 can be used as a promising predictive biomarker and potential therapeutic target for chemotherapy in glioma. Anat Rec, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Odorant‐Binding Proteins and Xenobiotic Metabolizing Enzymes: Implications in Olfactory Perireceptor Events
Authors: Heydel Jean‐Marie , Coelho Alexandra , Thiebaud Nicolas , Legendre Arièle , Bon Anne‐Marie Le , Faure Philippe , Neiers Fabrice , Artur Yves , Golebiowski Jérôme , Briand Loïc
Published: June 2014

At the periphery of the olfactory system, the binding of odorants on olfactory receptors (ORs) is usually thought to be the first level of the perception of smell. However, at this stage, there is evidence that other molecular mechanisms also interfere with this chemoreception by ORs. These perireceptor events are mainly supported by two groups of proteins present in the olfactory nasal mucus or in the nasal epithelium. Odorant‐binding proteins (OBPs), the first group of proteins have been investigated for many years. OBPs are small carrier proteins capable of binding odorants with affinities in the micromolar range. Although there is no absolute evidence to support their functional roles in vertebrates, OBPs are good candidates for the transport of inhaled odorants towards the ORs via the nasal mucus. The second group of proteins involves xenobiotic metabolizing enzymes, which are strongly expressed in the olfactory epithelium and supposed to be involved in odorant transformation, degradation, and/or olfactory signal termination. Following an overview of these proteins, this review explores their roles, which are still a matter of debate. Anat Rec, 296:1333‐1345, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Olfactory System as a Puzzle: Playing With Its Pieces
Authors: Díaz D. , Gómez C. , Muñoz‐Castañeda R. , Baltanás F. , Alonso J. R. , Weruaga E.
Published: June 2014

The mammalian olfactory bulb (OB) has all the features of a whole mammalian brain but in a more reduced space: neuronal lamination, sensory inputs, afferences, or efferences to other centers of the central nervous system, or a contribution of new neural elements. Therefore, it is widely considered as “a brain inside the brain.” Although this rostral region has the same origin and general layering as the other cerebral cortices, some distinctive features make it very profitable in experimentation in neurobiology: the sensory inputs are driven directly on its surface, the main output can be accessed anatomically, and new elements appear in it throughout adult life. These three morphological characteristics have been manipulated to analyze further the response of the whole OB. The present review offers a general outlook into the consequences of such experimentation in the anatomy, connectivity and neurochemistry of the OB after (a) sensory deprivation, mainly by naris occlusion; (b) olfactory deinnervation by means of olfactory epithelium damage, olfactory nerve interruption, or even olfactory tract disruption; (c) the removal of the principal neurons of the OB; and (d) management of the arrival of newborn interneurons from the rostral migratory stream. These experiments were performed using surgical or chemical methods, but also by means of the analysis of genetic models, some of whose olfactory components are missing, colorless or mismatching within the wild‐type scenario of odor processing. Anat Rec, 296:1383‐1400, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Exotic Models May Offer Unique Opportunities to Decipher Specific Scientific Question: The Case of Xenopus Olfactory System
Authors: Gascuel Jean , Amano Tosikazu
Published: June 2014

The fact that olfactory systems are highly conserved in all animal species from insects to mammals allow the generalization of findings from one species to another. Most of our knowledge about the anatomy and physiology of the olfactory system comes from data obtained in a very limited number of biological models such as rodents, Zebrafish, Drosophila, and a worm, Caenorhabditis elegans. These models have proved useful to answer most questions in the field of olfaction, and thus concentrating on these few models appear to be a pragmatic strategy. However, the diversity of the organization and physiology of the olfactory system amongst phyla appear to be greater than generally assumed and the four models alone may not be sufficient to address all the questions arising from the study of olfaction. In this article, we will illustrate the idea that we should take advantage of biological diversity to address specific scientific questions and will show that the Xenopus olfactory system is a very good model to investigate: first, olfaction in aerial versus aquatic conditions and second, mechanisms underlying postnatal reorganization of the olfactory system especially those controlled by tyroxine hormone. Anat Rec, 296:1453‐1461, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Cytological and Experimental Study of the Neuropil and Primary Olfactory Afferences to the Piriform Cortex
Authors: Vargas‐Barroso Víctor , Larriva‐Sahd Jorge
Published: June 2014

The microscopic organization of the piriform cortex (PC) was studied in normal and experimental material from adult albino rats. In rapid‐Golgi specimens a set of collaterals from the lateral olfactory tract (i.e., sublayer Ia) to the neuropil of the Layer II (LII) was identified. Specimens from experimental animals that received electrolytic lesion of the main olfactory bulb three days before sacrificing, were further processed for pre‐embedding immunocytochemistry to the enzyme glutamic acid decarboxylase 67 (GAD 67). This novel approach permitted a simultaneous visualization at electron microscopy of both synaptic degeneration and GAD67‐immunoreactive (GAD‐I) sites. Degenerating and GAD‐I synapses were separately found in the neuropil of Layers I and II of the PC. Previously overlooked patches of neuropil were featured in sublayer Ia. These areas consisted of dendritic and axonal processes including four synaptic types. Tridimensional reconstructions from serial thin sections from LI revealed the external appearance of the varicose and tubular dendrites as well as the synaptic terminals therein. The putative source(s) of processes to the neuropil of sublayer Ia is discussed in the context of the internal circuitry of the PC and an alternative model is introduced Anat Rec, 296:1297‐1316, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Characterization of Growth, Glomerular Number, and Tubular Proteins in the Developing Rhesus Monkey Kidney
Authors: Batchelder Cynthia A. , Keyser Jennifer L. , Lee C. Chang I. , Tarantal Alice F.
Published: June 2014

An essential step in the translation of cell‐based therapies for kidney repair involves preclinical studies in relevant animal models. Regenerative therapies in children with congenital kidney disease may provide benefit, but limited quantitative data on normal development is available to aid in identifying efficient protocols for repair. Nonhuman primates share many developmental similarities with humans and provide an important translational model for understanding nephrogenesis and morphological changes across gestation. These studies assessed monkey kidney size and weight during development and utilized stereological methods to quantitate total number of glomeruli. Immunohistochemical methods were included to identify patterns of expression of tubular proteins including Aquaporin‐1 (AQP1), AQP2, Calbindin, E‐Cadherin, and Uromodulin. Results have shown that glomerular number increased linearly with kidney weight, from 1.1 × 103 in the late first trimester to 3.5 × 105 near term (P < 0.001). The ratio of glomeruli to body weight tripled from the late first to early second trimester then remained relatively unchanged. Only AQP1 was expressed in the proximal tubule and descending Loop of Henle. The ascending Loop of Henle was positive for AQP2, Calbindin, and Uromodulin; distal convoluted tubules stained for Calbindin only; and collecting tubules expressed AQP2 and E‐Cadherin with occasional Calbindin‐positive cells. These findings provide quantitative information on normal kidney ontogeny in rhesus monkeys and further support the importance of this model for human kidney development. Anat Rec, 296:1747–1757, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sensory ability in the narwhal tooth organ system
Authors: Nweeia Martin T. , Eichmiller Frederick C. , Hauschka Peter V. , Donahue Gretchen A. , Orr Jack R. , Ferguson Steven H. , Watt Cortney A. , Mead James G. , Potter Charles W. , Dietz Rune , Giuseppetti Anthony A. , Black Sandie R. , Trachtenberg Alexander J. , Kuo Winston P.
Published: June 2014

The erupted tusk of the narwhal exhibits sensory ability. The hypothesized sensory pathway begins with ocean water entering through cementum channels to a network of patent dentinal tubules extending from the dentinocementum junction to the inner pulpal wall. Circumpulpal sensory structures then signal pulpal nerves terminating near the base of the tusk. The maxillary division of the fifth cranial nerve then transmits this sensory information to the brain. This sensory pathway was first described in published results of patent dentinal tubules, and evidence from dissection of tusk nerve connection via the maxillary division of the fifth cranial nerve to the brain. New evidence presented here indicates that the patent dentinal tubules communicate with open channels through a porous cementum from the ocean environment. The ability of pulpal tissue to react to external stimuli is supported by immunohistochemical detection of neuronal markers in the pulp and gene expression of pulpal sensory nerve tissue. Final confirmation of sensory ability is demonstrated by significant changes in heart rate when alternating solutions of high‐salt and fresh water are exposed to the external tusk surface. Additional supporting information for function includes new observations of dentinal tubule networks evident in unerupted tusks, female erupted tusks, and vestigial teeth. New findings of sexual foraging divergence documented by stable isotope and fatty acid results add to the discussion of the functional significance of the narwhal tusk. The combined evidence suggests multiple tusk functions may have driven the tooth organ system's evolutionary development and persistence. Anat Rec, 297:599–617, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Patterns of Morphological Variation of Extant Sloth Skulls and their Implication for Future Conservation Efforts
Authors: Hautier Lionel , Billet Guillaume , Eastwood Bethany , Lane Jemima
Published: June 2014

Several studies have shown an increased morphological variability of sloths from mammalian norms, affecting varied phenotypic traits from skeletal parts to soft tissues. We present here the first descriptive comparison of the whole skull morphology within the two extant sloth genera, combining geometric morphometric approaches with comparative anatomy. We used these methods to explore the patterns of the intra‐ and interspecific morphological variation of the skull with regard to several factors such as phylogeny, geography, allometry, or sexual dimorphism. Our study first revealed strong phylogenetic and geographical imprints on the cranial and mandibular morphological traits. This result demonstrates the importance of accurate knowledge of species and their geographical distributions; here we show from an example pertaining to Bradypus variegatus populations the implications this has on conservation management. Moreover, in order to control the amount of this detected variation, we tentatively compared sloths to a wide range of mammalian species. Our analysis found no significant increase in the average deviation of skull shape within each investigated sloth species compared to other mammals. This suggests that the intraspecific cranial variation in sloths does not depart significantly from the variation observed in other mammals. This result has positive implications for the demarcation of anatomical regions that maintain high levels of morphological variation in sloths. Anat Rec, 297:979–1008, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Regional and Epi‐ to Endocardial Differences in Transmural Angles of Left Ventricular Cardiomyocytes Measured in Ex Vivo Pig Hearts: Functional Implications
Authors: Smerup Morten , Agger Peter , Nielsen Eva Amalie , Ringgaard Steffen , Pedersen Michael , Niederer Peter , Anderson Robert H. , Lunkenheimer Paul P.
Published: June 2014

Recent studies point toward the existence of a significant population of cardiomyocytes that intrude transmurally, in addition to those aligned tangentially. Our aim was to investigate the extent of transmural angulation in the porcine left ventricle using diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging (DTMRI). Hearts from eight 15 kg pigs were arrested in diastole. The ventricles were filled with polymer to maintain the end‐diastolic dimensions. All hearts were examined using DTMRI to assess the distribution of transmural angulation of the cardiomyocytes at 12 predetermined locations covering the entirety of the left ventricle. We found significant differences between the regions, as well as within the transmural subcomponents. In eight out of the 12 predetermined mural segments, the highest mean transmural angle was located sub‐endocardially. The greatest mean transmural angles were found in the anterior basal region, specifically 14.9 ± 6.0‐degree angle, with the greatest absolute value being 34.3‐degree angle. This is the first study to show the significant heterogeneities in the distribution of helical and transmural angles within the entirety of the left ventricular walls, not only for different depths within the ventricular walls, but also between different ventricular regions. The results show unequivocally that not all the contractile elements are aligned exclusively in tangential fashion within the left ventricle. The main function of the transmurally intruding component is most likely to equalize and normalize shortening of the cardiomyocytes at all depths within the myocardium, but our findings also support the notion of antagonistic forces existing within the myocardial walls. Anat Rec, 296:1724–1734, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Muscle area estimation from cortical bone
Authors: Slizewski Astrid , Schönau Eckhard , Shaw Colin , Harvati Katerina
Published: June 2014

This article investigates the relationship between the cortical bone of the radius and the muscle area of the forearm. The aim of this study was to develop a method for muscle area estimation from cortical bone area at 65% of radius length where the muscle area at the forearm is largest. Muscle area and cortical area were measured directly in vivo by peripheral Quantitative Computed Tomography (pQCT). We found significant correlations between muscle area and cortical area (r = 0.881) in the forearm that are in line with previous studies. We have set up a regression model by testing relevant parameters such as age, sex, forearm length, and stature that were all highly correlated to muscle area. The influence of age and sex on the proportion of muscle area to cortical area is strong and potentially related to the effects of testosterone and estrogen on the muscle‐bone‐unit. Muscle area estimation from cortical bone is possible with a Percent Standard Error of Estimate (%SEE) ranging from 12.03% to 14.83%, depending on the parameters available and the age and sex of the individual. Muscle area estimation from cortical bone can provide new information for the study of skeletal and/or fossil human remains. Anat Rec, 296:1695–1707, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Segmentation features and structural organization of the intrapulmonary artery of the yak
Authors: Zhou Jinxing , Yu Sijiu , He Junfeng , Cui Yan
Published: June 2014

This study aims to systematically investigate intrapulmonary artery segmentation, blood vessel wall characteristics and structure organization, and the interrelation between intrapulmonary artery structure and plateau hypoxia adaptation in yak. The normal intrapulmonary artery structure of the yak had been studied using histological methods and transmission electron microscopy. The intrapulmonary artery of the yak was also examined using morphometric analysis and angiography. Results showed that the elastic intrapulmonary artery is divided into two types, namely, classical and transitional elastic segments. The muscular intrapulmonary artery is divided into three types, namely, transitional, classical muscular, and muscular arteriole segments. In the transitional elastic artery, elastic fibers and smooth muscles are linked through three models of ends, lateral branches, and branch tops. Two phenomena are possible for the transition from the elastic intrapulmonary artery to the muscular artery. One phenomenon postulates that a less elastic membrane is first increased and then suddenly decreased, and another supposes that the elastic membrane is gradually reduced and assembled in one to two layers before entering the transitional muscular artery. The smooth muscle of the intrapulmonary artery tunica media had more apophysis; it was physically connected with elastic membrane or fiber and composed of functionally resilient unit of the intrapulmonary arterial wall. Glycogenosomes increased in the muscular intrapulmonary artery smooth muscle cells. It exist one to two layers intact smooth muscle in intrapulmonary arteriole, the presence of intact smooth muscle in the intrapulmonary arteriole of the yak is a kind of structure adaptation to low‐oxygen environment. Anat Rec, 296:1775–1788, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Periodontal Tissue Engineering Strategies Based on Nonoral Stem Cells
Authors: Requicha João Filipe , Viegas Carlos Alberto , Muñoz Fernando , Reis Rui Luís , Gomes Manuela Estima
Published: June 2014

Periodontal disease is an inflammatory disease which constitutes an important health problem in humans due to its enormous prevalence and life threatening implications on systemic health. Routine standard periodontal treatments include gingival flaps, root planning, application of growth/differentiation factors or filler materials and guided tissue regeneration. However, these treatments have come short on achieving regeneration ad integrum of the periodontium, mainly due to the presence of tissues from different embryonic origins and their complex interactions along the regenerative process. Tissue engineering (TE) aims to regenerate damaged tissue by providing the repair site with a suitable scaffold seeded with sufficient undifferentiated cells and, thus, constitutes a valuable alternative to current therapies for the treatment of periodontal defects. Stem cells from oral and dental origin are known to have potential to regenerate these tissues. Nevertheless, harvesting cells from these sites implies a significant local tissue morbidity and low cell yield, as compared to other anatomical sources of adult multipotent stem cells. This manuscript reviews studies describing the use of non‐oral stem cells in tissue engineering strategies, highlighting the importance and potential of these alternative stem cells sources in the development of advanced therapies for periodontal regeneration. Anat Rec, 297:6–15. 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Retinal Stem Cells and Regeneration of Vision System
Authors: Yip Henry K.
Published: June 2014

The vertebrate retina is a well‐characterized model for studying neurogenesis. Retinal neurons and glia are generated in a conserved order from a pool of mutlipotent progenitor cells. During retinal development, retinal stem/progenitor cells (RPC) change their competency over time under the influence of intrinsic (such as transcriptional factors) and extrinsic factors (such as growth factors). In this review, we summarize the roles of these factors, together with the understanding of the signaling pathways that regulate eye development. The information about the interactions between intrinsic and extrinsic factors for retinal cell fate specification is useful to regenerate specific retinal neurons from RPCs. Recent studies have identified RPCs in the retina, which may have important implications in health and disease. Despite the recent advances in stem cell biology, our understanding of many aspects of RPCs in the eye remains limited. PRCs are present in the developing eye of all vertebrates and remain active in lower vertebrates throughout life. In mammals, however, PRCs are quiescent and exhibit very little activity and thus have low capacity for retinal regeneration. A number of different cellular sources of RPCs have been identified in the vertebrate retina. These include PRCs at the retinal margin, pigmented cells in the ciliary body, iris, and retinal pigment epithelium, and Müller cells within the retina. Because PRCs can be isolated and expanded from immature and mature eyes, it is possible now to study these cells in culture and after transplantation in the degenerated retinal tissue. We also examine current knowledge of intrinsic RPCs, and human embryonic stems and induced pluripotent stem cells as potential sources for cell transplant therapy to regenerate the diseased retina. Anat Rec, 297:137–160. 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Leptin Induces Terminal Differentiation of Rat Annulus Fibrosus Cells via Activation of MAPK Signaling
Authors: Ding Wei , Zhao Changqing , Cao Lei , Zhang Kai , Sun Wei , Xie Youzhuanu , Li Hua , Zhao Jie
Published: June 2014

Both leptin and its receptor are expressed in rat annulus fibrosus (AF) cells. However, little is known about their role and mechanism during disc degeneration. The mitogen activating protein kinase (MAPK) pathway which mediates leptin‐induced terminal differentiation of rat AF cells was analyzed using PCR, Western‐blot and immunocytochemistry. It was found that leptin‐induced AF cells terminal differentiation, which may be attributed to upregulated p38 and ERK1/2 phosphorylation, however, JNK phosphorylation was not observed. Specific inhibitors of p38 or ERK1/2, but not JNK, could inhibit the stimulative activity of leptin on collagen X and MMP‐13 protein levels. This study, for the first time, shows that the MAPK pathway, especially p38 and ERK1/2 signaling, plays a distinct role in leptin‐induced AF cells terminal differentiation. Anat Rec, 296:1806–1812, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Functional Tissue Engineering of the Liver and Islets
Authors: Ohashi Kazuo , Okano Teruo
Published: June 2014

Cell‐based therapies by using hepatocytes and islets have recently been evaluated as a new therapeutic modality for patients with many forms of liver diseases and insulin‐deficient diabetes mellitus. In most of the recently conducted clinical trials, cells have been delivered into liver vasculatures by infusing them through the portal circulation. More recently, tissue engineering–based approaches have spurred significant interests, using hepatocytes and islets in which small but functional new tissues would be created in vivo. Under circumstances in which a higher level of cell engraftment could be obtained, these approaches could provide therapeutic effects. Considerable efforts have been given to sustaining engineered tissues and maintaining their therapeutic effects. This review highlights several strategies that can achieve a higher level of cell survival for creating new functional liver and islet tissues. Anat Rec, 297:73–82. 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Tumor‐Specific Cytolysis Caused by an E1B55K‐Attenuated Adenovirus in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma is Augmented by Cisplatin
Authors: Liu Ran‐Yi , Peng Ji‐Lin , Li Yong‐Qiang , Huang Bi‐Jun , Lin Huan‐Xin , Zhou Ling , Luo Hui‐Ling , Huang Wenlin
Published: June 2014

An E1B55K‐attenuated adenovirus, dl1520, has been shown to replicate selectively in and lyse tumor cells. In this study, the antitumor activities of dl1520, alone or in combination with the chemotherapeutic agent cisplatin, were investigated in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) cells. The results demonstrated that dl1520 replicated in and destroyed NPC cells, and induced apoptosis in vitro. In a nude mouse xenograft model, dl1520 significantly inhibited the growth of NPC cell xenografts, and the viral replication was associated with tumor regression. Importantly, the antitumor activity of dl1520 was augmented by the addition of cisplatin both in vitro and in vivo, showing that dl1520 and cisplatin have a synergistic anti‐NPC effect. These data suggest that dl1520 exerts an efficient anti‐NPC activity through oncolysis and the induction of apoptosis, which is enhanced synergistically by cisplatin. These findings indicate that oncolytic viral therapeutics using the E1B55K‐attenuated adenovirus dl1520 could be promising in the comprehensive treatment of NPC, especially in combination with platinum‐based chemotherapy. Anat Rec, 296:1833–1841, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Characterization of Primary Cilia Distribution and Morphology During Lactation, Stasis, and Involution in the Bovine Mammary Gland
Authors: Millier Melanie J. , Singh Kuljeet , Poole C. Anthony
Published: June 2014

Primary cilia are small, sensory organelles projecting from virtually all cells and are vital for cellular and tissue function. Their distribution in bovine mammary tissue has not previously been assessed, despite the potential for these organelles to provide specialized perceptive and regulatory functions to this acutely responsive and adaptive gland. The research objectives were to assess ciliary distribution and morphology during active lactation, milk stasis, and early involution using tissue samples obtained following the abrupt cessation of milk removal in nonpregnant, Friesian dairy cows at mid‐lactation. Routinely processed tissue sections were obtained at intervals from 6 to 192 hr after the last milking (N = 3 animals per group) and assigned to active lactation (6–12 hr), milk stasis (18–36 hr), and early involution (72–192 hr). Primary cilia were observed in luminal secretory epithelial cells (SECs), myoepithelial cells, and stromal cells following fluorescent immunohistochemistry and confocal microscopy. In SECs, some primary cilia appeared deflected against the apical cell membrane. The proportion of those deflected was greater during milk stasis than active lactation. Data show that primary cilia were suitably placed in three important cell types to potentially coordinate various forms of signal transduction relying on both mechanosensation and chemosensation, according to the physical and physiological state of the gland. Their cell‐type distribution and morphology provide new directions in the study of mammary regulation to enhance the understanding of how various mammary‐specific cellular responses may be initiated by biochemical or local biophysical factors. Anat Rec, 296:1943–1953, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Rib Cartilage Characterization in Patients Affected by Pectus Excavatum
Authors: Tocchioni Francesca , Ghionzoli Marco , Calosi Laura , Guasti Daniele , Romagnoli Paolo , Messineo Antonio
Published: June 2014

Pectus excavatum (PE) is the most frequent anterior chest deformity which may be frequently associated with connective tissue disorders. We performed microscopic analyses to better understand cartilage behavior and obtain clues on its pathogenesis. In 37 PE patients, none with Marfan syndrome, we analyzed costal cartilage by light microscopy, immunohistochemistry and transmission electron microscopy. Control tissue specimens were harvested from four patients without any connective tissue disease. In both control and PE patients, chondrocytes were on the average <15 µm in diameter and occupied <10% of tissue volume; in most cases the extracellular matrix was stained by alcian blue, instead of safranin; no difference between PE and control samples was significant. All samples showed an uneven collagen type II immunolabeling both within the cells and pericellular matrix, and occasionally of the territorial matrix. In all cases numerous cells underwent apoptosis accompanied by matrix condensation as shown by electron microscopy. Our results suggest that matrix composition and the cell number and size of costal cartilage are dependent on the subject and not on the disease; the microscopic organization of cartilage is correlated with the stabilization of the defective shape rather than with the onset of the deformity. Anat Rec, 296:1813–1820, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.