bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation between pruritus score and grossly visible erythema in dogs
Authors: Hill Peter , Rybníček Jan , Lau‐Gillard Peri
Published: May 2010

The severity of pruritus and the extent and severity of erythema were quantified in 107 dogs presenting with various dermatoses. Pruritus was assessed using a previously validated scale, and erythema was quantified by assessing severity at 72 different body sites. Pruritus scores were either 0, or followed a normal type of distribution, with most dogs having a score in the middle of the range and a few dogs having low or high scores. The median pruritus score was 6.3/10. Erythema scores were heavily skewed towards lower values, with only a few dogs having high scores. The median diffuse erythema score was 6.0/216 and the median score for maculo‐papular/pustular erythema was 0/1080. Pruritus and erythema scores were significantly correlated with a Spearman rank correlation coefficient of 0.4062 (P < 0.001). However, visual assessment of the data representing the two variables revealed that this was not a consistent biological or clinically relevant correlation. Individual dogs could have a high pruritus score with low erythema score or vice versa. This study raises questions about the use of erythema scoring systems as a primary outcome measure in clinical trials, and also about the role of various inflammatory mediators in the pathogenesis of canine pruritus.
Osteoporosis in lung transplant candidates compared to matched healthy controls
Authors: Lakey Wanda C. , Spratt Susan , Vinson Emily N. , Gesty‐Palmer Diane , Weber Thomas , Palmer Scott
Published: May 2010

Lakey WC, Spratt S, Vinson EN, Gesty‐Palmer D, Weber T, Palmer S. Osteoporosis in lung transplant candidates compared to matched healthy controls. Clin Transplant 2011: 25: 426–435. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Purpose:  Advanced lung disease increases the risk for diminished bone mineral density (BMD). The prevalence and severity of osteoporosis in lung transplant candidates is unclear.

Methods:  We retrospectively evaluated BMD of subjects screened for lung transplant at our institution. Observed prevalence of osteoporosis and osteopenia within our cohort was compared to the expected prevalence of each from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III) data matched for age, gender, and race. Lateral chest radiographs were evaluated for vertebral fractures.

Results:  High prevalence rates of osteoporosis (37%) and combined osteoporosis/osteopenia (86%) were observed. Subjects with pulmonary fibrosis had higher BMD and T‐scores compared to all other subgroups. All subjects within the cohort had a higher observed combined rate of osteoporosis/osteopenia at all bone sites compared to expected rates from healthy, matched controls. Vertebral fractures were present in 23% of subjects but did not correlate with BMD or the diagnosis of osteoporosis.

Conclusions:  Abnormal BMD was prevalent in most pre‐lung transplant subjects, with striking differences noted in comparison with a healthy, matched cohort. Lateral chest radiographs in combination with BMD data give a more complete picture of bone abnormalities. Osteoporosis screening prior to lung transplantation should be performed to identify high‐risk subjects for fracture and allow for intervention.
Identification of quantitative trait locus and epistatic interaction for degenerated spikelets on the top of panicle in rice
Authors: Tan C. J. , Sun Y. J. , Xu H. S. , Yu S. B.
Published: May 2010

With 5 figures and 5 tables

The phenomenon of degenerated spikelets is very common in cereal crops, and considered as a serious physiological defect to grain production. However, little is known about the genetic base of the spikelet degeneration in rice. To identify genetic factors conferring spikelet degeneration in rice, a line showing severe degenerated spikelets on the top of panicle was selected from a set of chromosomal segment substitution lines that derived from a cross of the sequenced japonica variety ‘Nipponbare’ and the indica variety ‘9311’. Using its derived progeny, two quantitative trait loci (QTL) for the degenerated spikelets were identified on chromosomes 3 and 9. The one on chromosome 3 was confirmed in an about 600‐kb physical interval, and had an epistatic interaction with the other QTL on chromosome 9. The QTL region on chromosome 3 was also found conferring primary panicle length, heading date, the number of primary branches and second branches simultaneously. These results would be helpful in understanding the genetic control of spikelet degeneration on the top of panicle in rice.
Adult Protection of People with Intellectual Disabilities: Incidence, Nature and Responses
Authors: Beadle‐Brown Julie , Mansell Jim , Cambridge Paul , Milne Alisoun , Whelton Beckie
Published: May 2010

Background  There has been increasing recognition of the importance and extent of abuse of vulnerable adults, including people with intellectual disabilities, leading to the development of monitoring systems. This paper reports findings from one of the largest databases in the UK collected between 1998 and 2005.

Method  Analysis of the 1926 referrals relating to people with intellectual disabilities included description of the nature of abuse and the responses to the referrals, comparisons to those relating to other client groups and comparisons between those placed locally and those placed out‐of‐area.

Results  About one‐third of all adult protection referrals related to people with intellectual disability, remaining consistent over time. However, the number of referrals increased significantly. The majority of people lived in residential care or supported living and this was reflected in the nature of the referrals – people were more likely to have been abused in the care home and by staff or service users than those without an intellectual disability. The most common type of abuse was physical abuse. Sexual abuse was more prevalent in the intellectual disability sample than in other client groups. People with intellectual disability were more likely to have experienced follow‐up action, usually through more monitoring. There was a different pattern of abuse seen in those placed out‐of‐area.

Conclusions  The overall pattern of abuse is similar to that reported in earlier studies. There is some indication that residential situation and in particular being placed in a residential placement out‐of‐area, may be an important factor in predicting adult protection referrals.
Demystifying the process? A multi disciplinary approach to assessing capacity for adults with a learning disability
Authors: Skinner Rachael , Joiner Chris , Chesters Liz , Bates Louise , Scrivener Louise
Published: May 2010

Accessible summary

The Mental Capacity Act says that everyone has a right to make choices in their life.

Some people find it hard to make a decision when it involves complex information.

People who work in services can be unsure how to decide when people can make a hard decision.

We developed a way of deciding if a person with a Learning Disability is able to make a choice (has capacity).

We tried to make the process clear so that more people can use it.

There appears to be some degree of hesitation and lack of confidence among professionals in conducting capacity assessments. This document explains a two‐phase process developed and implemented by a multi‐disciplinary group of professionals during a pilot project. The first phase in the decision making process is to determine to what extent the person being assessed is able to process and recall information. The second phase involves understanding more detailed information specifically relating to the decision, in this case the procedure or intervention. The use of a two‐phase process is illustrated via case studies. Over a 2‐year period, 17 people who were referred from the eye unit to the capacity team were seen. Of those, two progressed to phase two of the process – and one person demonstrated capacity to make a decision. The process was based on a functional approach, and was used to avoid making decisions based on status approaches. The developed process was fed back to the professionals in the eye unit to enable them to assess capacity in relation to eye surgery. We hope to have demonstrated that capacity assessment skills are inherent in all practitioners working with people with a learning disability and are not the privileged possession of only particular professionals.
The growth of the cranial base in the albino rat revealed by roentgenocephalometry*
Authors: VILMANN H.
Published: May 2010

Growth in length of the single bones in the cranial base, changes in angulation between these bones and changes in shape of the cranial base have been studied in the rat by serial roentgenocephalometry between 14 and 60 days.

All the bones studied showed increase in length during the whole period. However, differences in both absolute and relative increase were found. Sex differences were as a rule of significance from 21 days of age. This phenomenon was explained as a difference in time of maturation between males and females.

The cranial base became more dorsally concave with increasing age. This was found to be due to changes in angulation between the basisphenoid bone, the basioccipital bone and the cribriform plate of the ethmoid bone.

The development of the rat skull from a clinorhynchal to an orthocranial type was found to be due to a combination of the changes in the cranial base and a high degree of stability of the angle between the cribriform plate and the nasal bone.

Furthermore a marked stability of the relative position of the sphenooccipital synchon‐drosis during growth was found. This area corresponds to the position of the hypophysis.
History in the evolution of Apodemus sylvaticus (Mammalia) at one edge of its range
Authors: BERRY R. J.
Published: May 2010

Apodemus sylvaticus (L.) is phenotypically and taxonomically uniform over a wide area in Europe, but it has been split into 15 races or subspecies in the Hebridean and Shetland groups of islands. It is argued that with one conceivable exception (A. sylvaticus hirtensis of St Kilda) these could not be pre‐glacial survivors. Furthermore the putative relationships of the different races (as revealed by a study of population samples from 26 localities) make it highly unlikely that the island races are relicts of an early post‐glacial colonization. It is much more probable that they were introduced by man, and the Vikings or their descendants seem the most likely agents.

Despite having been isolated only during historical times, many of the races are quite distinct. It is suggested that this is a consequence of chance genetical differences among the founding members of each population (irrespective of any later adaptations), and that this is a method whereby rapid changes in gene frequencies can be achieved, and also provides an example of incipient speciation.
Territoriality and social organization of the Uganda defassa waterbuck Kobus defassa ugandae*
Authors: SPINAGE C. A.
Published: May 2010

The Uganda defassa waterbuck is a large African antelope which in western Uganda breeds throughout the year. The adult male averaged 520 lb and the adult female 410 lb in weight. After weaning, at six to eight months, males joined a bachelor herd whilst some females possibly formed spinster groups. The bachelor herd inhabited a home range covering several male territories. At age five to six years a bachelor male attempted to establish his own territory, normally becoming territorial by age seven. A year‐round territory was then maintained throughout life, but at age nine to ten owners were often driven into small, unfavourable areas by younger males. Boundaries were defended by fighting and by typical bovid intimidatory displays. Territories were not actively marked by their owners but owners were apparently identified by odour. Females adopted home ranges covering several male territories, restricting their ranging with increasing age. These home ranges seemed owned by groups of females who moved within them as individuals, associations between particular females being fluid.
Spermatogenesis and the stages of maturation in the male cichlid fish Tilapia mossambica
Authors: DADZIE STEPHEN
Published: May 2010

Cyclical changes in the histology of the testis of Tilapia mossambica are described. The immature virgin testis contains primary germ cells and primary spermatogonia lying within a body of connective tissue. Just before spawning the testis is packed with sperm but cells at all stages of spermatogenesis are also present. After spawning the unexpelled spermatozoa undergo phagocytosis. No quiescent period during spermatogenesis has been observed though there are two periods of increased spermatogenetic activities. The stages of maturation of the testis are also reported. Five stages are distinguished.
Serum iron and serum iron‐binding capacity in the Dromedary (Camelus dromedarius)
Authors: Tartour G. , Idris O. F.
Published: May 2010

Serum iron and the binding capacity of serum were investigated in 66 pack and 70 riding camels in the Sudan. The total iron‐binding capacity was comparable with means and ranges recorded for other domestic animals but the serum iron and the saturation concentration were both lower. Intersex differences were observed only in the total iron‐binding capacity and the saturation concentration. Both serum iron and total iron‐binding capacity were greater in the riding than in the pack animals. The results also suggested absence of relationship between the process of ageing in the camel and the various parameters.
Comparative morphology of the skull of the Ribbon seal, Histriophoca fasciata, with remarks on systematics of Phocidae
Authors: Burns John J. , Fay Francis H.
Published: May 2010

Study of skulls from 145 Ribbon seals, mainly from the Bering Sea, disclosed much greater variation in form than was indicated by earlier descriptions. The characters of greatest diagnostic value in the Ribbon seal are the short rostrum, broad cranium with reduced temporal fossae. short, wide palate with small, widely spaced teeth, and the elongate, thickwalled bullae with massive, widely exposed petrosals. Comparison of these skulls with examples from each of the other recognized genera of Phocidae revealed several deficiencies in the referred cranial characteristics of taxa at all ranks below the family. Provisional support for J. E. King's recently proposed division of the Phocidae into two subfamilies, Phocinae and Monachinae, is reported; the distinctions formerly employed for diagnosis of a third subfamily, Cystophorinae, can be ascribed to convergent evolution. Craniologically, the subfamily Phocinae is divisible into three tribes: Erignathini, Cystophorini, and Phocini. The first two are monotypic; the third is polytypic. The subtribes Phocina and Histriophocina are untenable; while Histriophoca's nearest structural relative is Pagophilus, the latter shows equal or closer relationship with Phocu. Within the tribe Phocini, only the Grey seal, Hlichoerus grypus, shows sufficient cranial differentiation for recognition as a monotypic genus. The other four major taxa within that tribe show a complex system of intergrading characters that disallows generic recognition, other than as a polytypic group. Therefore, the Ribbon, Harp, Harbor, and Ringed seals are re‐assigned to subgeneric rank, under the inclusive genus Phoca (sensu luto).
Feeding mechanisms and the functional morphology of podia and spines in some New Zealand ophiuroids (Echinodermata)
Authors: Pentreath R. J.
Published: May 2010

The feeding methods of seven intertidal ophiuroids are described. In each method the podia are used as an integral part of the feeding mechanism, and varying use of the spines has been observed. Both podia and spines contain mucous glands and certain similarities are apparent in their secretions. Where mucus is used directly for food capture, and ingested with the food, it is acid, rich in wboxyl groups and at least partly sulphated. Further, the mucus in spinal glands is fibrillar while that of the podia is granular. Some integumentary glands are basiphilic and highly sulphated while other are acidophilic. The possible functions of these glands are discussed.
Ecology of Myotis nigricans (Mammalia: Chiroptera) on Barro Colorado Island, Panama Canal Zone
Authors: Wilson Don E.
Published: May 2010

Myotis nigricans is a small vespertilionid bat limited in distribution to the neotropical zone. These bats are locally abundant in the Panama Canal Zone, and commonly roost in buildings such as the laboratory on Barro Colorado Island where this study was carried out. Homing experiments showed this species to be capable of returning to the roost from distances up to 50 km, but not from 104 km. Night roosting was not observed.

Little is known of the food habits of M. nigricans, except that they are insectivorous and probably take some Lepidoptera. The young are left behind in the roost when the females leave to forage at night. Females nurse only their own young and are able to pick them out of a group of 50‐100 youngsters upon returning in the mornings. During the day the bats undergo behavioural thermoregulation in the roost. These movements result in a mixing of the sexes which are otherwise segregated inside the roost, and copulation occurs at this time.
Calling and associated behaviour of some species of Pseudophryne (Anura: Leptodactylidae)
Authors: Pengilley R. K.
Published: May 2010

Males of three species of Pseudophryne (Anura: Leptodactylidae) produce a number of kinds of calls during the calling season. Six call types were recorded in P. corroboree and five in both P. dendyi and P. bibroni. All calls except a non‐pulsate threat call are structurally related to the mating call of P. corroboree. The courtship call of this species is essentially a mating call with the addition of three to four similar components. The mating calls of P. dendyi and P. bibroni are essentially shortened versions of the mating call of P. corroboree. The threat calls of all species are very similar structurally and are modifications of one component of the mating call. The auditory premating isolating mechanism in these species is probably the courtship call. Other factors such as differences in colour and time of breeding are probably important in enhancing specific distinctiveness.

Diel calling activity of P. corroboree males appears to be primarily dependent on changing light intensities and secondarily on temperature changes. There is also a longer term cycle which is probably dependent on hormonal factors.

Males of all species are territorial. The territory is the calling site (the burrow) and is only weakly defended in some species. A non‐phylogenetic series based on increasing degree of aggressiveness follows: P. corroboree (Snowy Mountains), P. corroboree (Fiery and Brinda‐bella Ranges), P. dendyi and P. bibroni.
Comparative anatomy of head and neck in the Spoon‐billed sandpiper, Eurynorhynchus pygmeus and its allies
Authors: Burton P. J. K.
Published: May 2010

Head and neck anatomy is described and compared in the Spoon‐billed sandpiper Eurynorhynchus pygmeus, the Rufous‐necked stint Calidris ruficollis and the Broad‐billed sandpiper Limicola falcinellus (Calidritinae). Eurynorhynchus pygmeus closely resembles Calidris ruficollis (typical of the subfamily) in most aspects other than bill form. Information on feeding behaviour is summarized. It is concluded that the expanded bill of Eurynorhynchus pygmeus functions chiefly to increase its capacity for tactile detection of prey. The suggestion of close relationship between Eurynorhynchus pygmeus and Limicola falcinellus is rejected.
The distribution and abundance of sand gobies, Gobius minutus, in the Ythan estuary
Authors: Healey M. C.
Published: May 2010

The aims of this study were, first, to describe the distribution and abundance of the sand goby (Gobius minutus) in the Ythan estuary and, when it became apparent that there were striking seasonal changes in the abundance of gobies, to attempt to explain these changes.

Gobies were abundant in the estuary from July until January or February each year, and scarce for the rest of the year. The sharp drop in goby numbers in the estuary in January or February each year was associated with a change in the sex ratio from 50% females to 80% females, and a change in dispersion from aggregated to random, and a restriction of the gobies’range to the lower half of the estuary. It seemed to me that these associated changes should all be the result of a common cause.

The disappearance of gobies in January or February was not a result of low water temperatures in the estuary in winter, nor was it the result of changes in water salinity. Measurements of food intake and available food supplies suggested that there was no shortage of food at this time. The disappearance was, however, associated with gonad maturation, suggesting that the loss of fish had something to do with the breeding requirements of the goby. I put forward the hypothesis that the loss of gobies in winter was the result of their migrating to sea to breed because their eggs would not develop in the estuary. I tested this hypothesis by attempting to capture gobies at sea, by measuring their salinity preference, and by attempting to rear their eggs at various salinities. I was unable to capture more than a few gobies outside the estuary. Ripe fish did not show any preference for high salinity water, and their eggs were intolerant of high salinities. It seemed, therefore, that my hypothesis of an emigration to sea to breed was incorrect, and that something else must explain the losses of gobies in winter, possibly heavy predation.
Cell specialization and sensory function in fish epidermis
Authors: Whitear Mary
Published: May 2010

Electron microscopy has been used to identify isolated chemosensory cells scattered in the oral epithelium and in the external epidermis of four teleosts. These cells are regarded as chemosensory because they closely resemble the gustatory cells of the taste buds in each species. Nerve fibres are associated with the bases of the scattered chemosensory cells, but synaptic modifications have not been found. Since such cells are found on the head and body of fish without external taste buds, it is assumed that on the body they are innervated from spinal nerves and hence belong to the common chemical sense.
The functional and classifieatory significance of combined metrical features of the primate shoulder girdle
Authors: Ashton E. H. , Flinn R. M. , Oxnard C. E. , Spence T. F.
Published: May 2010

Contrary to the major pattern of results that emerges when certain “residual” dimensions of the scapula–selected so as to be apparently unassociated with locomotor function–are compared individually in different primate genera, combination of these dimensions by multivariate (canonical) techniques arranges the genera not into categories corresponding with taxonomic divisions, but in a pattern which correlates broadly with the extent to which the forelimb is habitually subject to tensile or compressive forces.

When these dimensions are compounded with a series of “locomotor” dimensions– selected so as to be mechanically related to essential locomotor functions of the region– a spectrum of separation is produced which not only highlights the principal divisions of the Anthropoidea into brachiators, semibrachiators (with which are grouped the prosimian hangers), and quadrupeds, but enables a number of subgroups to be more or less clearly distinguished. Thus, for instance, prosimian quadrupeds are, to some extent, differentiated from the arboreal and terrestrial quadrupeds of the Anthropoidea, while prosimian hangers are distinguished from the anthropoid semibrachiators. Man lies clearly apart in a unique plane of the canonical space.

This pattern of grouping is fully confirmed when single linkage cluster analysis is applied to the matrix of squared generalized distances derived from the canonical analysis. It is also unaffected when certain genera, for which only small numbers of specimens are available, are included in, or excluded from, the analysis. Such separation into taxonomic subgroups as occurs, appears incidental to this locomotor separation.

It is concluded that, in the case of the scapula, general form and proportions are far more closely related to mechanical function than to the accepted taxonomy of the Primates.
The origin and nature of the brown substance in the gut caeca of the polychaetes Aphrodite aculeata and Gattyana cirrosa
Authors: Dales R. Phillips , Pell Jennifer S.
Published: May 2010

The brown fluid in the gut caeca of Aphrodite aculeata L. and Gattyana cirrosa (Pallas) contains haem, a non‐haem brown pigment of unknown nature, but probably lipofuscin, and non‐haem iron compounds. Evidence is presented to support the hypothesis that the haem in the fluid is derived from the food in the gut and is not endogenous, whilst the non‐haem brown pigment is excreted into the lumen. Other substances are also secreted by the caecal epithelium.
Blood protozoa of insectivores, bats and primates in Central Africa*
Authors: Keymer I. F.
Published: May 2010

A survey was made of blood protozoa of wild mammals in Central Africa and the parasites from Insectivora, Chiroptera and Primates are described.

Trypanosoma petrodromi was rediscovered in Petrodromus tetradactylus and redescribed. A similar trypanosome found in Elephantulus brachyrhynchus is considered to be a new subspecies, Trypanosoma petrodromi chitali. This elephant‐shrew was also infected with “Plasmodium” [gen. indet.] brodeni and probably represents a new host record. Rhynchocyon cirnei also appears to be a new host record for Sarcocystis sp. An unidentified trypanosome was found in a Crocidura sp. of shrew.

A Hepatocystis sp. (probably H. epomophori) was found in Epomophorus labiatus and a Nycteria sp. (probably N. medusiformis) in Nycteris thebaica. So called “broad trypano‐somes” were found in four species of insectivorous bats and Trypanosoma vespertilionis in Hipposideros caffer.

Trypanosoma perodictici was found in Galago crassicaudatus; Hepatocystis kochi in Cerco‐pithecus aethiops and a Hepatocystis in Papio ? cynocephalus.

No parasites were found in the insectivores, Crocidura luna and C. flavescens or in the bats, Tadarida (Mops) condylura and T. (Chaerephori) pumila.

There was no evidence that any of the parasites were pathogenic.
Burrowing and burrow patterns of East African mole‐rats Tachyoryctes, Heliophobius and Heterocephalus
Authors: Jarvis Jennifer U. M. , Sale John B.
Published: May 2010

The burrowing behaviour and burrow patterns of the mole‐rats Tachyoryctes (Family Rhizomyidae), Heliophobius and Heterocephalus (Family Bathyergidae) were compared. Remarkable similarities were found both in the method of digging and the basic burrow pattern of the three genera. Dissimilarities in burrow length can be attributed to the availability of food and the number of animals occupying one burrow system. Thus, the solitary Tachyoryctes, which eats a wide range of foods, has the shortest burrow system; while the colonial Heterocephalus, which eat a limited range of foods and live in arid regions, have very extensive burrow systems.

All the mole‐rats bite at the earth face with well developed incisors; collect the excavated soil with their fore and hind feet and push it behind them. Tachyoryctes differs from the bathyergids in then turning round and using one side of its face and one fore foot to push the excavated soil along the burrow and out onto the surface. The bathyergids back up to the soil and push with their hind feet. Tachyoryctes has a multi‐purpose nest chamber used for sleeping, food storage and sanitary purposes; the bathyergids have a simple nest chamber used solely for sleeping, they do not store food but instead partly expose tubers in the foraging burrows and eat pieces from them when hungry.

Differences between the bathyergids are largely attributable to their social structure; Heliophobius is solitary and Heterocephalus colonial. Digging and soil disposal are essentially similar but in Heterocephalus the various stages are taken by different members of the colony and a digging chain is established. Soil type and moisture content influence mound formation; Heterocephalus kicks out a spray of fine dry soil through an open hole. The other two mole‐rats live in areas with higher soil moisture content and push out solid cores of soil.
Polymorphism in West African populations of the butterfly, Acraea encedon
Authors: Owen D. F. , Chanter D. O.
Published: May 2010

The butterfly, Acraea encedon, is less polymorphic in West than in East Africa. Field sampling in seven populations indicates that mimetic forms, which are common in East Africa, are rare in West Africa. Colour forms lycia and commixta are allelic, and lycia is completely recessive. There is no evidence of heterosis. The gene frequency in one population in Sierra Leone fluctuated about a mean value, and after a dry season during which the butterflies were scarce, the initial gene frequencies were significantly different from those obtained earlier, but eventually stabilized at the original level. Differential survival of batches of eggs and larvae may account for the fluctuation in gene frequency. Although the frequency of the colour forms in one population was stabilized over about 13 successive and overlapping breeding generations nothing is known of the ecological factors that impart this stability.
Functional design and evolution of the polychaete Aphrodite aculeata
Authors: Mettam C.
Published: May 2010

The body form of Aphrodite is attributed to its exploitation of the nereid creeping mechanism. It employs a fast stepping pattern, individual limb movements being extension and retraction of the neuropodium with coordinated chaetal movement. The downward and backward propulsive stroke raises the worm clear of a hard substratum. The notopodium is stabilized and its long chaetae raised and lowered in defence.

The segments are short but wide. The body wall muscles, relieved of locomotory function, are a basketwork of longitudinal and diagonal muscles capable of maintaining constant body dimensions. Muscles of the appendages originate from stabilized points on the body wall. Trunk septa are reduced, in association with the constant body shape, but the first few septa form a membrane enclosing the proboscis. Complete and muscular septa occur in the rectal segments.

During respiratory movements the elytra are depressed by intrinsic and extrinsic elytrophore muscles and elevated by coelomic pressure. Coelomic pressure drops immediately before elytral depression and is controlled by the body wall muscles, especially the diagonal muscles.

Aphrodite differs from its near relative Hermione in the reduction of septa and simplification of body musculature.
The biology and functional morphology of Galeomma (Paralepida) takii (Bivalvia: Leptonacea)
Authors: Morton Brian
Published: May 2010

The ecology, habits and functional morphology of Galeomma (Paralepida) takii (Kuroda) are described, and comparisons made with other free living and more specialized commensal galeommatids, other Leptonacea and other bivalve phylogenies.

Galeomma takii lives under stones at mid tide level and possesses both primitive and specialized characters which make it successful in such a restricted habitat. One of the most important specializations is numerous pallial tentacles that can autotomize and, it is thought, release a noxious substance to deter would be predators. Such a mechanism is advantageous for an animal living in a well defined ecological niche shared by other species, some of which may be predatory. Post settlement protection of the young also probably occurs.
The jump of the click beetle (Coleoptera: Elateridae)—energetics and mechanics
Authors: Evans M. E. G.
Published: May 2010

Some aspects of the energetics and mechanics of two jumps made by a single specimen of Athous haemorrhoidalis (Fab.) are considered. In the first jump, the 40 mg beetle had a take‐off velocity of 2–4 m/s and the jumping action occurred in about 064 ms; in the second jump, the take/off velocity was 2–26 m/s and the jumping action took about 0–53 ms. Energy budgets have been constructed in two different ways for each jump, and the total energy involved in each case was estimated to lie between 1–6 × 10−4 J and 3–8 × 10−4 J. Power output during the jumping action (a “catapult”) lay between 80 × 103 W/kg muscle and 180 × 103 W/kg muscle, whilst power output during the energy storing pre‐jump period (of about 0–4 s) was at least 130 W/kg muscle (at over 25°C). Forces and tensile stresses in the jumping muscles and their apodemes have also been calculated. The method of jumping appears to be fairly inefficient in that only about 50–60% of the energy expended in the jumping action is energy of translation, which actually raises the beetle.
Observations of the comparative anatomy and ultrastructure of mammary glands and on the fatty acids of the triglycerides in platypus and echidna milk fats
Authors: Griffiths Mervyn , Elliott M. A. , Leckie R. M. C. , Schoefl G. I.
Published: May 2010

As far as gross structure is concerned the mammary glands of the monotremes consist of discrete lobules, in effect compound alveolar glands similar to those of the fully lactating marsupial. Ultrastructurally all mammary glands, prototherian, metatherian, and eutherian are identical, the alveoli consisting of a secretory epithelium invested by myoepithelium. The processes of formation and secretion of casein and milk fat are the same in the glands of all three subclasses of the Mammalia. In spite of close structural similarities the fatty acid complements of the milk triglycerides of the two monotremes, platypus and echidna, are different: echidna milk fat contains far more oleic acid than platypus milk does.
Further observations on the food of seals
Authors: Rae Bennet B.
Published: May 2010

Studies of the food of seals on Scottish coasts were continued at the Marine Laboratory from 1967 to 1971. In general the results confirmed those of 1958–66 in stressing the supreme importance of fish, particularly species of economic value, in the food of both the Grey and Common seals. Four families of fish–salmonids, gadoids, clupeoids and pleuronectids– were again prominent in the food of both species of seal although the frequencies with which they appeared in the stomachs varied from one period to another. Grey seals preyed more heavily on salmonids and gadoids and Common seals on gadoids and clupeoids. Changes in the diet of seals from one year to another would appear to arise from the sampling of the seals for examination and to the availability of the species offish preyed upon, depending on seasonal movements and natural fluctuations in their age–groups.
The anatomical basis of function in the buccal mass of prosobranch and amphineuran molluscs
Authors: Graham Alastair
Published: May 2010

A comparative account is given of the muscular anatomy of the buccal mass in chitons and a number of species of prosobranch gastropods. From this can be deduced a basic muscular organization consisting of buccal constrictors and dilators, protractors and retractors of the odontophore, protractors and retractors of the subradular membrane and an approximator muscle of the supporting cartilages. In addition to these many ancillary muscles act as tensors: these are numerous in chitons, monoplacophorans and rhipidoglossan proso‐branchs. In the first two groups, which have a poorly developed anterior end covered by a shell, they act in place of the muscles of the mobile wall of the head of gastropods; in the last they are necessary for the fine control of an odontophore brushing the substratum. In prosobranchs which forcibly rasp their food they are lost.

The dominating influence in the evolution of the buccal mass in neogastropods is the proboscis. Its narrowness and elongation have had profound effects on the anatomy of the buccal mass.
Thoracic epipodites in the Stomatopoda (Crustacea): a phylogenetic consideration
Authors: Burnett Bryan R. , Hessler Robert R.
Published: May 2010

The structure of the thoracic epipodites on the stomatopod Hemisquilla ensigera (Owen) suggests that the primary function of these structures is respiratory. The presence of respiratory structures on the thoracic somites, coupled with other already published evidence links the hoplocarids and the other eumalacostracans to a common phyllocarid ancestor and argues against a polyphyletic origin for the Eumalacostraca.
Observations on Trypanosoma boueti (Protozoa) parasitic in the skink Mabuya striata (Reptilia) and the sandfly Sergentomyia bedfordi in Ethiopia
Authors: Ashford R. W. , Bray M. A. , Foster W. A.
Published: May 2010

Trypanosomes resembling Trypanosoma boueti were found in skinks Mabuya striata at two Ethiopian localities. Sandflies Sergentomyia bedfordi fed readily on the skinks in the laboratory and developed a typical posterior station infection of epimastigote flagellates. During a concomitant bacterial infection the flagellates were excreted. Similar infections were found in wild sandflies, which were thought to transmit the parasite when they are eaten.
The metazoan parasite‐fauna of fish from Hanningfield Reservoir, Essex in relation to features of the habitat and host populations
Authors: Wootten R.
Published: May 2010

A survey of the metazoan parasite‐fauna of eight species of fish from Hanningfield Reservoir, Essex was carried out between January 1968 and March 1969. 56 Brown trout, 89 Rainbow trout, 181 Perch, 165 Ruffe, 31 Roach, 31 Ten‐spined Sticklebacks, four Eels and one Stone‐loach were examined. In addition, 125 Rainbow trout were examined from adjacent raceways. Thirty‐one species of parasites were found, five Monogenea, nine Cestoda, eight Digenea, one Acanthocephala, four Nematoda, one Annelida, one Mollusca and two Crustacea.

The possible origins of the parasite fauna are discussed. The relative abundance of different groups of parasites is considered in relation to the physical and biotic features of the habitat. Parasite species with planktonic crustacean intermediate hosts and/or avian final hosts are particularly abundant. The introduction of trout has resulted in an oligotrophic element being added to an otherwise eutrophic parasite fauna. Possible changes in the parasite‐fauna which may have occurred since construction of the reservoir are described. The parasite‐fauna of Rainbow trout from the raceways was found to be a reduced version of that of fish from the reservoir.
Reproductive systems and cyclic release of eggs in Littorina melanostoma from Malayan mangrove swamps (Mollusca: Gastropoda)
Authors: Berry A. J. , Chew Eunice
Published: May 2010

Littorina melanostoma, living high in the tidal range on mangrove vegetation, has reproductive systems similar to those of other littorinids but characterized especially by a closed, tubular prostate and simple penis in the male, and by complex, spiral pallial glands in the female. Eggs are released in simple pelagic capsules which hatch to release veliger larvae in seven days. Egg capsules are released almost entirely during the periods of spring tide associated with full moon. Such release occurs at all seasons of the year. Some females release eggs at successive full moons but it appears likely that many females more commonly release eggs at alternate full moons. There is no evidence of endogenous rhythms of egg release related to the times of high tide or the day/night cycle.
Stabilimenta on the webs of Uloborus diversus (Araneae: Uloboridae) and other spiders
Authors: Eberhard William G.
Published: May 2010

Uloborus diversus places extra silk (“stabilimenta”) near the hubs of its webs, preferentially on short radii ending near anchor threads. Spiders probably distinguish these radii from others by their relatively low extensibility. The stabilimentum probably functions as a camouflage device, and the orientation of the stabilimentum lines probably aids disturbed spiders in making quick exits from webs. Turning responses at radius‐frame junctions during these exits are influenced by thread angles at the junctions (and possibly by other factors), and also enable disturbed spiders to reach hiding places quickly. The available data on other stabilimentum‐building spiders suggests that they also use stabilimenta to provide defence against visually‐hunting predators.
The osteology and adaptive features of Rhyacichthys aspro (Teleostei: Gobioidei) and the classification of gobioid fishes
Authors: Miller P. J.
Published: May 2010

The osteology of the gobioid fish Rhyacichthys aspro (Valenciennes, 1837), from tropical hill‐streams of the Indo‐Australasian archipelago, is described. Adaptive features of external form and skeleton are considered with reference to life in torrential conditions. The systematic position of Rhyacichthys in the suborder Gobioidei is confirmed, and structure of the caudal skeleton in this genus, with other features, is found to support an acanthopterygian rather than paracanthopterygian origin for the gobioid fishes. In lateral‐line system (here redescribed) and caudal skeleton, Rhyacichthys is shown to possess primitive features unique among gobioids. Previous systems of internal classification for the Gobioidei, and the inadequate fossil record of the group, are summarized, and the systematic value of certain skeletal criteria discussed. The suborder is now reclassified on a phylogenetic basis into two families, Rhyacichthyidae and Gobiidae, with the latter divided into seven sub‐families: Eleotrinae, Pirskeninae, Xenisthminae, Gobionellinae, Tridentigerinae, Gobiinae, and Kraemeriinae.
The physiology of digestion of blue‐green algae in the cichlid fish, Tilapia nilotica
Authors: Moriarty D. J. W.
Published: May 2010

The cells of blue‐green algae are lysed by high concentrations of acid (pH 1.9–1.4) in the stomach of Tilapia nilotica. After lysis, cell contents are digested in the intestine. Acid secretion follows a diurnal cycle related to feeding, and thus there is a cycle from zero to maximum digestion each day. Some of the digestive enzymes have been studied.

Blue‐green algae are lysed by a high concentration of acid in the stomach. pH 1.4 is the lowest value recorded in the stomach of T. nilotica; lysis is most effective at this pH.

Enzymatic digestion occurs in the intestine, after the algae are lysed.

Acid secretion in the stomachs of T. nilotica and H. nigripinnis in Lake George, Uganda, follows a diurnal cycle associated with feeding. Secretion starts when feeding starts in the morning. In T. nilotica, low pH values are not obtained throughout the stomach until feeding ceases in the evening. Thus there is a gradation through the day, from zero to maximum in number of blue‐green algal cells lysed, and therefore digested and assimilated.

Colour changes in the ingested phytoplankton can be used as an indicator of gastric acid secretion by fish in the laboratory. Acid is not secreted by stressed fish.

Pepsinogen was detected in the stomach wall of T. nilotica. Evidence for the absence of peptic digestion in the stomach of T. nilotica is presented.

A pancreatic α‐amylase, pH optimum 7.0 to 8.0, and requiring chloride, is present in the intestinal juice of T. nilotica.

Trypsin and chymotrypsin are also present, but carboxypeptidases A and B could not be detected.

Esterase activity, but no lipase, was detected in the intestine juice.
Desiccation and age as factors in the vertical distribution of the dog‐whelk, Nucella lapillus
Authors: Coombs) Valerie‐Anne
Published: May 2010

Desiccation tolerance levels have been estimated for Nucella in relation to specific age‐groups which occupy distinct tidal levels. The values obtained have been shown to follow the natural age progression, and hence the natural zonation levels. The likelihood of critical or lethal fluid‐loss values being reached during six‐hour periods of exposure in absence of both shelter and consideration of natural zonation has been investigated. It is concluded that Nucella attempts to prevent loss of excessive volumes of fluid during emersion by occupying specific tidal levels in accordance with natural fluid‐loss tolerances. The species is further assisted by a natural inclination to seek sheltered positions during rough weather, and the presence of a comparatively large reservoir of fluid held extra‐viscerally in the mantle cavity.

The age‐analysis system used throughout the experimental section is explained briefly and natural zonation levels of differently aged dog‐whelks are described for Blackrock individuals.

Critical and lethal fluid‐loss values are estimated for each age‐group; the results are seen to follow the natural age progression.

Fluid losses occurring after six hour exposure periods in wind and calm conditions in absence of shelter at 9°, 15° and 25°C are illustrated for all age‐groups. The results showed how group 4 and 5 individuals were likely to reach at least critical levels if subjected to wind at 25°C for six hours. However, neither of these age‐groups occupy levels of the shore where this would be likely to occur; their natural zonation levels only receiving three to four hours of exposure under normal conditions.

Extra‐visceral fluid volumes are calculated for each age‐group. The values obtained also follow the natural age progression. It is thought likely that extra‐visceral fluid plays an important part in keeping Nucella moist during emersion.
Post‐mortem studies of Northern elephant seal pups
Authors: Morejohn G. Victor , Briggs Kenneth T.
Published: May 2010

Thirty‐four pups of the Northern elephant seal, Mirounga angustirostris, collected from Mexican and Californian coastal islands were studied to determine causes of death, growth of certain organs, and development of the supernumerary bones of the occiput. Dead pups from Añ Nuevo Island off central California from 1965 through 1969 appear to have died due to crushing by adults, probably the large breeding bulls. Recent deaths through the 1972 breeding season indicate that some deaths are attributable to bites inflicted by agitated cows. Organ weights were taken on several pups and compared with weights recorded for pups of the Southern elephant seal. Some organs appear to grow proportional to body weight, and other organs show disproportionate growth. The supernumerary bones of the occiput called “extraoccipitalia” were found to be embryonically preformed in cartilage. Ossification centres were shown to be developing in late term foetuses. These extraoccipitalia evidently allow rapid growth of the neurocranium during the first few months postpartum and later fuse with adjacent cranial bones at about one year of age. The rising elephant seal population in relation to the types of mortality is discussed in relation to available breeding grounds.