bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structure of the larynx of the tokay gecko (Gekko gecko), with particular reference to the vocal cords and glottal lips
Authors: Moore Beverley A. , Russell Anthony P. , Bauer Aaron M.
Published: February 2005

The ability to vocalize is well‐known in gekkonid lizards but relatively little attention has been paid to the structure of the vocal apparatus. In this study we briefly review the structure of the larynx and associated musculature of the tokay gecko as a baseline for a comparative survey of the family. The cricoid and arytenoid cartilages form the skeleton of the larynx and are controlled by constrictor and dilator muscles. The gross morphology of the vocal cords and glottal lips is then described, the structure being elucidated by way of dissection, histology, and scanning electron microscopy. The vocal cords run between the arytenoid and cricoid cartilages, are highly elastic, and bear a highly folded mucosa. The lips of the glottis have a structure reminiscent of erectile tissue. The respiratory mucosa of the larynx varies according to position and may be related to the tonal aspects of sound production. The structure of the larynx is compared with that of other vertebrates, and the relationship between morphology and phonation is considered.
The interrenal gland of Triturus cristatus after insulin administration during the annual cycle
Authors: LaForgia Vincenza , Capaldo Anna
Published: February 2005

The administration of insulin to Triturus cristatus confirms its action in depletion of the adrenalin (A) granules of the adrenal chromaffin cells and the subsequent activation of phenylethanolamine‐N‐methyltransferase (PNMT). Treatment was carried out in March, when noradrenalin (NA) and A granules are present in almost equal quantities in the chromaffin cells, and in June, when NA granules largely prevail. After insulin administration, adrenalin content of the specimens treated in March decreases from 2.44 granules/μm2 to 0.28 granules/μm2; on the other hand, adrenalin content of the specimens treated in June increases from 0.19 granules/μm2 to 0.31 granules/μm2. These results suggest that in T. cristatus insulin acts both as an adrenalin‐releasing agent and as a stimulator of PNMT activity.
Interrenal of a female gymnophione amphibian, Ichthyophis beddomei, during the annual reproductive cycle
Authors: Masood‐Parveez U. , Bhatta G. K. , Nadkarni V. B.
Published: February 2005

The interrenal (adrenal) of Ichthyophis beddomei lies on the ventral side of the kidney, distributed in four zones. It is separated from the renal tissue by a thin layer of connective tissue and contains both adrenocortical and chromaffin cells. Adrenocortical tissue constitutes a major portion of the interrenal islets; the chromaffin tissue consists of a few cells located at the peripheries of the interrenal islets. Histochemical studies demonstrate the presence of Δ53β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, 17 β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase, succinate dehydrogenase, and sudanophilic lipids in the adrenocortical tissue, suggesting its steroidogenic potential. Annual histometric and histochemical studies show two peaks of interrenal activity: (1) during the breeding phase of the reproductive cycle (January and February) and (2) during the season of heavy monsoon rains (June and July) in the postbreeding phase.
Ultrastructure of somatic tissues in the ovaries of a chaetognath (Ferosagitta hispida)
Authors: Shinn George L.
Published: February 2005

Transmission electron microscopy reveals that the ovaries of Ferosagitta hispida contain four somatic tissues. A myoepithelial ovary wall, continuous with a thin layer of peritoneocytes lining the coelomic cavity, encloses a fluid‐filled ovarian space in which oocytes develop. Lamellar extensions of a “follicular reticulum” branch throughout the ovarian space and ensheath developing oocytes. This tissue has been overlooked in most previous studies of chaetognath ovaries. A bipartite oviductal complex extends the length of each ovary just within the lateral ovary wall. It consists of a flattened, blindly ending cellular tube, herein referred to as the cellular sheath, and an enclosed syncytium. Sheath cells secrete an electron‐dense product into the ovarian space. Those sheath cells directly bordering the syncytium are contractile and are joined to the to the syncytium by gap junctions and microvillar interdigitations. The syncytium contains a complex of membrane‐bounded lumina. The latter sometimes enclose sperm received during mating or ovulated eggs. Thus the syncytium serves both as a seminal receptacle and as a duct for passage of eggs to the outside. Contrary to several classical reports, the cellular sheath and syncytium of the oviductal complex do not separate at ovulation to form a temporary oviductal lumen.
Functional osteology of the avian wrist and the evolution of flapping flight
Authors: Vazquez Rick J.
Published: February 2005

The avian wrist is extraordinarily adapted for flight. Its intricate osteology is constructed to perform four very different, but extremely important, flight‐related functions. (1) Throughout the downstroke, the cuneiform transmits force from the carpometacarpus to the ulna and prevents the manus from hyperpronating. (2) While gliding or maneuvering, the scapholunar interlocks with the carpometacarpus and prevents the manus from supinating. By employing both carpal bones simultaneously birds can lock the manus into place during flight. (3) Throughout the downstroke‐upstroke transition, the articular ridge on the distal extremity of the ulna, in conjuction with the cuneiform, guides the manus from the plane of the wing toward the body. (4) During take‐off or landing, the upstroke of some heavy birds exhibits a pronounced flick of the manus. The backward component of this flick is produced by reversing the wrist mechanism that enables the manus to rotate toward the body during the early upstroke. The upward component of the flick is generated by mechanical interplay between the ventral ramus of the cuneiform, the ventral ridge of the carpometacarpus, and the ulnocarpo‐metacarpal ligament.

Without the highly specialized osteology of the wrist it is doubtful that birds would be able to carry out successfully the wing motions associated with flapping flight. Yet in Archaeopteryx, the wrist displays a very different morphology that lacks all the key features found in the modern avian wrist. Therefore, Archaeopteryx was probably incapable of executing the kinematics of modern avian powered flight.
Praesomal nerves in Leptorhynchoides thecatus (Acanthocephala: Rhadinorhynchidae)
Authors: Gee Randall J.
Published: February 2005

Investigated by light microscopy, the nerve pathways are described for the first time in the praesoma of a species of Rhadinorhynchidae. The pathways are described for 18 nerves, eight paired and two single, which originate from the cerebral ganglion and a post‐ganglionic cell and terminate in the body wall musculature and the proboscis. The location of three commissures formed by these nerves is also described.
The composite structure of quail pectoralis muscle
Authors: Trotter J. A. , Salgado J. D. , Ozbaysal R. , Gaunt A. S.
Published: February 2005

The twitch fibers of the quail pectoralis muscle were found to have one neuromuscular junction each, located in the middle third of the fiber. The length of isolated fibers varied between 8.8 and 33.2 mm, with mean and median values of 16 and 15.6 mm, respectively. The lengths of the fascicles from which the fibers were isolated varied between 30 and 51 mm. The muscle fibers taper at both ends. The neuromuscular junctions, revealed after histochemically reacting the intact muscle for acetyl cholinesterase activity, were arranged in discrete bands, separated by intervals of between 0.94 and 6.70 mm, with a mean value of 3.14 mm. The quail pectoralis muscle is thus composed of discontinuous, tapered muscle fibers, arranged in an overlapping series. It is therefore a muscle in which tension is transmitted laterally between muscle fibers.
Functional stages in the interrenal cells of Rana perezi (Anura: Ranidae)
Authors: Alvarez Rafael
Published: February 2005

The electron density of the lipid droplets and mitochondrial matrix of the interrenal cells of Rana perezi differs during the year. This makes it possible to characterize the different stages of interrenal cell activity. A droplet/mitochondria index, based on their relative size, may provide an indicator of cellular activity.
Kinematics of the jaw and hyolingual apparatus during feeding in Caiman crocodilus
Authors: Cleuren Johan , de Vree Frits
Published: February 2005

Movements of the neck, jaws, and hyolingual apparatus during inertial feeding in Caiman crocodilus were studied by cineradiography. Analysis reveals two kinds of cycles: inertial bites (reposition, kill/crush, and transport) and swallowing cycles. They differ in their gape profile and in displacement of the neck, cranium, and hyolingual apparatus.

Inertial bites are initiated by an elevation of the neck and cranium; the head is then retracted backward, the prey simultaneously being lifted by the hyolingual apparatus. Next the lower jaw is depressed, and the prey is rapidly pushed further upward by the hyolingual apparatus. Thereafter fast mouth‐closure occurs with the neck and cranium being abruptly depressed, the lower jaw elevated, and the hyolingual apparatus rapidly retracted ventrally. Depression of the neck and cranium thrusts the head forward and impacts the backward moving prey more posteriorly in the oral cavity.

Swallowing cycles initially involve movement of the hyoid in front of the prey followed by rapid posteroventrad retraction of the hyoid, forcing the prey into the esophagus during opening and closing of the mouth. After mouth‐closure, the hyoid apparatus is again protracted.

Jaws, neck, tongue, and hyoid apparatus play an active role during intertial feeding sequences. At the beginning of a feeding sequence, the hyolingual apparatus mainly moves dorsoventrally, whereas toward the end of a sequence anteroposterior displacements of the hyoid are prominent. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Basement membrane lectin binding sites are decreased in the esophageal endoderm during the arrival of presumptive muscle mesenchyme in the developing asteroid Pisaster ochraceus
Authors: Reimer C. L. , Crawford B. J. , Crawford T. J.
Published: February 2005

Basement membranes (BMs) of vertebrates and invertebrates have been shown to contain glycoproteins and proteoglycans, which include oligosaccharides and glycosaminoglycans. Lectin binding sites were characterized in the BM of gastrulating embryos of the starfish, Pisaster ochraceus. In early and mid‐gastrulae, the fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)‐lectin conjugates of concanavalin A (Con A) and wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) reveal the presence of mannose/glucose and glucosamine/sialic acid residues in the BM of all regions of the embryos. However, in the late gastrula embryo, an apparent reduction of these components is observed over the esophageal BM. Ultrastructural studies using the lectin‐gold conjugates Con A, Limax flavus agglutinin (LFA), specific for sialic acid, and Dolichos biflorus agglutinin (DBA), specific for galactosamine, demonstrate that most mannose/glucose and galactosamine containing residues lie in the lamina densa, whereas most sialic acid residues are located over the lamina lucida. In addition, a statistical analysis of lectin binding in the late gastrula embryo reveals that the amount of labelling with both Con A and LFA is significantly reduced in the esophageal region, suggesting that mannose/glucose and sialic acid residuces are reduced in this region. These results confirm the observations of the FITC‐lectin studies described above. They also confirm earlier studies that demonstrated a difference in BM morphology of the esophageal region (Crawford, '88). Mesenchyme cells, some of which arise from the forming coeloms (Crawford, '90), and which may represent a distinct population, colonize exclusively on this esophageal BM, where they later differentiate into muscle. Quantitative differences in BM glycoconjugates may act to direct the presumptive muscle cells to the region of the esophagus. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Behavior of postcapillary venule pericytes during postnatal angiogenesis
Authors: Diaz‐Flores Lucio , Gutierrez Ricardo , Varela Hilda
Published: February 2005

Autogeneic bone marrow was implanted into an artificially created cavity in a segment of rat sciatic nerve, after removal of nerve fascicles, without damaging the epineurium or surrounding microcirculation. Under these conditions, the bone marrow induces capillary growth and forms granulation tissue from surrounding tissues, the behavior of pericytes being studied in the preformed (preexisting) postcapillary venules of the latter. Beginning 20 h after bone marrow implantation, the pericytes of the preexisting postcapillary venules hypertrophy, with shortening of their processes, prominent nucleoli, dispersal of ribosomes into their free form, fragmentation of basal lamina, and increased DNA synthesis. The number of contact surfaces between pericytes and endothelium is noticeably lower than in controls. Many pericytes are in mitosis. Cells with a shape transitional between pericytes and interstitial fibroblast‐like cells appear. In some cases, Monastral Blue (MB) was used as a marker of the cells in preexisting venule walls of the graft bed. In the earlier stages of the experiment, the MB labelling is restricted to the cytoplasm of pericytes and endothelial cells of postcapillary venules, and to the macrophages that occur in the space between pericytes and endothelium. Furthermore, the marker continues to be observed, at a later stage, in some of the following cells: pericytes and endothelial cells of the newly formed vessels, macrophages migrating into the interstitium, transitional cells between pericytes and fibroblasts, and typical fibroblasts of the granulation tissue. The present study provides greater evidence that preformed microvasculature pericytes are substantially activated during postnatal angiogenesis and granulation tissue formation, suggesting that they may contribute to the origin of new pericytes and fibroblasts. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Intracytoplasmic ciliary elements in epidermal cells of Syndesmis echinorum and Paravortex cardii (platyhelminthes, dalyellioida)
Authors: Cifrian Blanca , García‐Corrales Pedro , Martínez‐Alos Susana
Published: February 2005

Epidermal cells of Syndesmis echinorum and Paravortex cardii contain many intracytoplasmic ciliary components: clusters of centrioles disorganized and incomplete short axonemes composed of loosely organized microtubules of irregular lengths, fully formed axonemes though some with fewer than nine doublets, and ciliary rootlets. Furthermore, conspicuous dense granules are found in solitary groups in the cytoplasm. Clusters of dense granules are also closely associated with Golgi complexes and developing axonemal microtubules. Since the dense granules decrease in number as the axonemes increase, it is likely that the granules are involved in the formation of axonemal microtubules.

Ciliary elements are especially abundant in epidermal cells of Paravortex cardii embryos, some of them resembling those previously described by several authors in differentiating ciliated cells engaged in centriologenesis and ciliogenesis. Attention has been focused on the relative proportion and position of these elements, as well as the different morphology and several assembling states that they exhibit in epidermal cells of adult S. echinorum and adults and embryos of P. cardii. A functional interpretation of some of the findings is given, which allows us to suggest a sequence of ciliogenetic events that occur in epidermal cells of both species. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Natural variation in the limb skeletal pattern of the crested newt, Triturus carnifex (amphibia: Salamandridae)
Authors: Zaffaroni Nicoletta Pacces , Arias Elio , Zavanella Teresa
Published: February 2005

The forelimb skeletal patterns of two geographically isolated populations of Triturus carnifex, one from northern Italy (Rosate, Milano) and one from central Italy (Bagnaia, Perugia) were studied. A total of 1,018 limbs were examined. Limb skeletal variants, generally consisting either of a reduced number of carpals and/or of an alternate phalangeal formula, were commonly observed, as has been reported for other amphibian species. The population from northern Italy showed a greater variability than that from central Italy. Skeletal variants were present in 34% and 12% of the limbs, respectively (i.e., in 48% and 20% of the newts). In the Rosate population, the majority of variants consisted of fusions of radiale and prepollicis and of the phalangeal formula 1‐2‐3‐2. Severe skeletal defects were also found in 3% of the limbs of the newts from Rosate and in 1% of the limbs of those from Bagnaia. At present, no conclusion can be drawn about the evolutionary significance of the limb skeletal variation observed in the two populations, because of the paucity of data on intra‐ and interpopulation variations in other species of the genus Triturus. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Jaw‐muscle activity in ferrets, Mustela putorius furo
Authors: Dessem Dean , Druzinsky Robert E.
Published: February 2005

Electromyographical (EMG) activity was recorded bilaterally from the masseter and temporalis muscles of alert ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) during mastication and crushing. Electromyographic activity was also recorded during biting while a bite‐force transducer placed between the carnassial teeth registered forces ranging from 1.5 to 48.8 N. Linear regression analysis demonstrates that temporalis and masseter EMG activity are linearly related to bite force. Electromyographic activity from the balancing‐side muscles is nearly equal to EMG activity of the working‐side muscles during bone crushing with the carnassial teeth. It is hypothesized that a high percentage of balancing‐side muscle activity in ferrets can be recruited during carnassial biting because the postglenoid process prevents ventral displacement of the working‐side mandibular condyle. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Neuronal maps of the frontal ganglion of the cockroach, Periplaneta americana, prepared by heavy metal iontophoresis
Authors: Jagota Anita , Habibulla M.
Published: February 2005

Neurons in whole mount preparations of the frontal ganglion (FG) of the cockroach, Periplaneta americana, were mapped with the aid of cobalt chloride staining and silver intensification techniques. Eighty‐six neurons were counted in the FG after staining with reduced methylene blue. The cell size ranged between 20 to 35 μm in diameter. Of the somata located in the FG, 44 were found to contribute their fibers to the nervus recurrens, 26 to the right frontal commissure, 28 to the left frontal commissure, and 6 to the nervus connectivus. In addition, a few neurons presumably from the tritocerebral region also contribute their fibers in the formation of nervus connectivus. The present study has helped delineate the neuronal connections of the FG with the brain and neuroendocrine system (corpora cardiaca and corpora allata). This information will be useful in facilitating the positioning of microelectrodes in our future electrophysiological experiments. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ultrastructural qualitative and quantitative data on the sporogenesis of the protozoan Abelspora portucalensis (microspora, abelsporidae): A different approach to the study of microsporidia
Authors: Rocha Eduardo , Monteiro Rogério A. F.
Published: February 2005

The sporogenesis of the microsporidium Abelspora portucalensis was studied with electron microscopy. In qualitative terms, new aspects of the cytoplasmic ultrastructure of the schizont, sporont, and sporoblast are described: the presence of microtubules, of aggregates of small opaque vesicles, and of dispersed larger vesicles with clear matrix. The hypothesis that the opaque vesicles may represent the Golgi apparatus and the clear vesicles may correspond to the smooth endoplasmic reticulum is discussed. The use of standard stereological and statistical techniques gives us a new perspective on the development of this microsporidium. The most relevant quantitative data display that the amount of rough endoplasmic reticulum (either in relative or absolute terms) presents significant differences among the three stages, with the sporont showing the highest values; that the absolute (but not the relative) volume of the large vesicles significantly changes during sporogenesis with the highest values presented by the sporont; that the surface‐to‐volume ratio of the schizont and sporont cells is similar and significantly greater than that of the sporoblast cell; that the surface density of the nucleus in relation to soma remains constant in the three stages (on the contrary, the surface‐to‐volume ratio of the nucleus increases and its volumetric density diminishes); and finally, that the nucleolus decreases its relative and absolute volumes. The functional significance of these results is analyzed and the application of similar methodology in quantifying the effects of drugs upon microsporidia is suggested. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Glomerular development and growth of the renal blood vascular system in Xenopus laevis (Amphibia: Anura: Pipidae) during metamorphic climax
Authors: Ditrich H. , Lametschwandtner A.
Published: February 2005

Microcorrosion casts of the renal vascular system of tadpoles of the Clawed Frog, Xenopus laevis, were observed by scanning electron microscopy. Glomerular differentiation was studied qualitatively and quantitatively during developmental stages 56–66 (metamorphic climax). The general structure of the renal vascular system corresponds to the pattern commonly found in anurans; however, the arterial supply has conspicuous connecting vessels that supply groups of glomeruli. In the dorsal part of the kidney, qualitative differentiation of glomerular structures precedes quantitative growth. The ventral part of the kidney has larger, well‐developed renal corpuscles of nearly adult appearance. Four developmental stages of glomerulogenesis are distinguished morphologically and their glomerular and vascular growth is analyzed. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The ear in subterranean insectivora and rodentia in comparison with ground‐dwelling representatives. I. Sound conducting system of the middle ear
Authors: Burda Hynek , Bruns Volkmar , Hickman Graham C.
Published: February 2005

Compared to acoustically unspecialized mammals (soricids and murids), the middle ear of subterranean insectivores and rodents (twelve species of six families examined) was clearly distinguished and characterized by many common features: rather round and relatively larger eardrum without a pars flaccida; reduced gonial; loose or no connection between the malleus and the tympanic bone; reduced and straightened transversal part of the malleus; enlarged incus; increased and rather flat incudo‐mallear joint; rather parallel position of the mallear manubrium and incudal crus longum in some species (and their fusion in abthyergids); reduced or even missing middle ear muscles. Convergent occurrence of these structural features in taxa of different origin and their generally derived character suggest that they cannot be categorized as degenerative. The form of the stapes can be considered as a non‐adaptive trait; it was taxon specific yet remarkably polymorphous in some species and exhibited no convergent features among subterranean mammals. Structural retrogression resulting in a columella‐like stapes was observed in some species lacking the stapedial artery. The stapedial base was relatively larger than in unspecialized mammals. The subterranean mammals did not exhibit conspicuously enlarged eardrums as would be required for sensitive tuning to low frequencies. It is, however, argued that while selective pressures in the subterranean ecotope promoted hearing of low frequencies, hearing sensitivity did not have to be enhanced. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The functional morphology of xenarthrous vertebrae in the armadillo Dasypus novemcinctus (Mammalia, Xenarthra)
Authors: Gaudin Timothy J. , Biewener Andrew A.
Published: February 2005

In order to assess the mechanical properties of xenarthrous vertebrae, and to evaluate the role of xenarthrae as fossorial adaptations, in vitro bending tests were performed on posterior thoracic and lumbar vertebral segments excised from specimens of the armadillo Dasypus novemcinctus and the opossum Didelphis virginiana, the latter being used to represent the primitive mammalian condition. The columns of the two species were subjected to dorsal, ventral, and lateral bending, as well as torsion, in order to determine their stiffness in each of these directions. During these tests, bone strains in the centra of selected vertebrae were determined using rosette strain gages. Overall stiffness of the armadillo backbone at physiologically relevant displacement levels was significantly higher than that of the opossum for both dorsal and lateral bending. The two species also exhibited significant differences in angular displacement of individual vertebrae and in vertebral strain magnitudes and orientations in these two directions. No significant differences were observed when the columns of the two species were subjected to torsion or to ventral bending. Our results suggest that some, but not all, of the mechanical differences between the two species are due to the presence of xenarthrae. For example, removal of the xenarthrae from selected vertebrae (L2—L4) changes strain orientation and shear, but not strain magnitudes. Comparisons with functional data from other digging mammals indicate that the modified mechanical properties of the Dasypus column are consistent with an interpretation of xenarthra as digging adaptations and lend support to the idea that the order Xenarthra represents an early offshoot of placental mammals specialized for fossoriality. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Morphological adaptations of the respiratory hindgut of a marine echiuran worm
Authors: Menon Jaishri G. , Arp Alissa J.
Published: February 2005

The echiuran worm Urechis caupo lives in U‐shaped burrows in marine mudflats where levels of toxic hydrogen sulfide increase and water becomes hypoxic during low tide. Even in this low oxygen and high sulfide environment, the animal is capable of maintaining aerobic respiration. Gas exchange occures across both the body wall and hindgut. The hindgut functions as a type of water lung and is a thin walled, highly convoluted structure capable of considerable dilatation. It is rhythmically ventilated with water and its role as a respiratory organ becomes increasingly important as ambient pO2 drops. In the deflated hindgut light microscopy reveals a pseudostratified appearing innermost mucosal epithelium composed of columnar cells with nuclei at different levels. When the hindgut is fully inflated, ultrastructural studies show a simple columnar epithelium with the nuclei at the same level. Ultrastructurally, the free surface of the hindgut cells bears numerous microvilli and a few cilia. The lateral cell membranes are highly folded in the deflated hindgut, but these folds are not visible in the fully inflated hindgut. The cytoplasm contains osmiophilic bodies which show a partially lamellated pattern which may be sulfide oxidizing bodies involved in sulfide detoxification. In the fully inflated hindgut, the entire perimeter of the lumenal mucosa is covered by electron dense inclusions, whose exact fuction is unknown. The lack of structural information on the respiratory organ of this echiuran worm renders the interpretation of its morphological and histological features at the ultrastructural level difficult, although the present study has broadened our understanding of the structural adaptations of the hindgut as a respiratory organ. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Stereotaxic atlas of the brain of Octodon degus
Authors: Wright John W. , Kern Michael D.
Published: February 2005

We present a stereotaxic atlas of the brain of the trumpet‐tailed rat or degu (Octodon degus), an hystricomorph rodent native to Chile and one which has become increasingly popular as a research animal, among other things because of its use as a model for diabetic catarcts and its tendency to become hyperglycemic. The atlas contains 38 transverse and two sagittal sections of the brain covering pros‐, mes‐, and rhombencephalon, as well as diagrams of the brain's surface anatomy. It was constructed from brains of young adult male degus but can be used readily in studies of adult females, since there is no apparent sexual dimorphism in the brain size of this rodent. Ninety percent of 40 experimental lesions used to check the accuracy of the atlas were correctly placed.

The fore‐ and midbrain of the degu are generally more compact than corresponding regions of the brain in the laboratory rat (suborder Myomorpha) and the guinea pig (another hystricomorph). The amygdaloid complex extends further forward in the telencephalon. Major mesencephalic nuclei and fiber tracts are more rostral in position. However, superior and inferior colliculi are much longer in degus than rats. The basic organization of the rhombencephalon is similar in degus and rats, although there are clearcut differences in the length or size of some hindbrain nuclei. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Morphology of the teeth of adult caudata and apoda: Fine structure and chemistry of enamel
Authors: Sato I. , Shimada K. , Sato T.
Published: February 2005

Representative functional teeth from Cryptobranchus alleghaniensis (Cryptobranchidae), Amphiuma means (Amphiumidae), Dicamptodon ensatus (Dicamptodontidae), Necturus maculosus (Proteidae), and Dermophis sp. (Costa Rica) (Caeciliidae) were prepared for transmission electron microscope and electron microprobe analysis of the trace elements of the enamel layer. The enamel layer of these species is very thin and the arrangement of enamel crystals variable. In particular, the outer part of the enamel layer in which hydroxyapatite elements (Ca, P) and trace elements (e.g., F, Fe, Mg) are concentrated, is most heavily mineralized. The concentrations and alignment of crystals in the outer and inner parts of the enamel layer differ among these species.

The presence of collagen fibers in the inner part of the enamel layer of Cryptobranchus and Dermophis indicates that it is enameloid rather than true enamel. The presence of trace elements may be related to the pattern of mineralization of enamel or enameloid, as suggested for tetra‐odontiform fishes by Suga et al. (J. Dent. Res. 68:1115–1123, 1989). © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The male reproductive system and mechanism of sperm transfer in Argulus japonicus (Crustacea: Branchiura)
Authors: Avenant‐Oldewage Annemarié , Swanepoel J. H.
Published: February 2005

The histomorphology of the male reproductive system and surface morphology of the “peg‐and‐socket” in Argulus japonicus are described from serial sagittal and transverse sections and scanning electron micrographs. The prostate complex consists of a glandular part, a reservoir for storing the secretion, and an efferent duct opening into the ejaculatory duct. The openings of both the vas deferens and the prostate duct into the ejaculatory duct are guarded by sphincters. The ejaculatory ducts, which are lined by tall columnar epithelial cells, do not open into the cuticle‐lined genital atrium but are blind‐ending tubes. This observation and results obtained from observing live specimens, as well as the fact that no spermatophores are formed, suggest that semen could leave the ejaculatory duct only after puncturing of its walls. It is suggested that sperm transfer is accomplished in the following manner: during copulation contraction of the muscular walls of the vas deferens and prostate duct causes semen to be pumped into the ejaculatory duct, which is then closed off by sphincters and a high internal pressure is developed. When a spermathecal spine penetrates the walls of the ejaculatory duct, semen flows from the ejaculatory duct into the spermathecal vesicle due to the higher pressure in the ejaculatory duct. This mechanism is analogous to the sucking up of fluid with a hypodermic syringe. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ultrastructural variations in the spermiogenesis of Triatoma infestans induced by temperature changes
Authors: Giojalas Laura C.
Published: February 2005

The reproductive process in insects may be affected by several factors, among which environmental temperature is one of the most important because of the poikilothermic condition of insects. To determine the effect of suboptimal temperature on the spermiogenic process of Triatoma infestans, males were exposed to 12°C for 10 days. In order to determine the reversibility of such alterations, males were returned to 28°C for 10 days after exposure to 12°C. Low temperature caused abnormal changes in the spermiogenic cells such as lack of spermatid orientation, general cyst disorganization, and asynchrony in the development of contiguous cysts. Highly vacuolized areas and pseudomyelinic bodies enclosing isolated or clustered vesicles of different electrodensity were also observed. At the end of the recovery time, cysts with spermatids developed synchronously. However, some presented isolated and clustered vesicles of different size and electrodensity. Some supernumerary organelles were also observed. These abnormal structures were related to processes of autophagy and phagocytosis of degenerating sexual cells. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ultrastructure of prothoracic glands during larval‐pupal development of the tobacco hornworm, Manduca sexta: A reappraisal
Authors: Hanton Wilma K. , Watson R. Douglas , Bollenbacher Walter E.
Published: February 2005

The structure of Manduca sexta prothoracic glands was investigated using a protocol that preserves membranes. During the last larval stadium, prothoracic gland cells increase in diameter, volume, protein content, and perhaps number, enhancing their capacity to produce ecdysteroids. The glands' strand‐of‐cells morphology, their in situ location, the presence of gap junctions between cells, and junctional foot‐like structures within cells support previous findings that prothoracicotropic hormone stimulates ecdysteroidogenesis via Ca2+‐induced Ca2+ release. A different method of tissue fixation from that previously used to investigate the ultrastructure of Manduca sexta prothoracic glands has revealed a significantly different ultrastructure. These new findings begin to define roles for endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria in ecdysteroid synthesis and support the hypothesis that the glands secrete the steroid hormone via exocytosis. The structural dynamics of the glands are discussed in the context of the glands' function during Manduca sexta larvalpupal development. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ultrastructural localization of RNA in the chromatoid bodies of undifferentiated cells (neoblasts) in planarians by the RNase–gold complex technique
Authors: Auladell Carme , Garcia‐Valero Josep , Baguñà Jaume
Published: February 2005

Undifferentiated cells of planarians (Platyhelminthes, Turbellaria), also called neoblasts, are totipotent stem cells, which give rise to all differentiated cell types, while maintaining their own density by cell proliferation. Neoblasts are the only somatic cells of planarians bearing chromatoid bodies in their cytoplasm; these organelles disappear as differentiation takes place. Studies on germinal cells of several groups of organisms have shown that chromatoid bodies contain substantial amounts of RNA. To test its presence in neoblasts, we have used an RNase–gold technique. We found chromatoid bodies labeled with RNase–gold particles. Heterogeneity in the density of the label, may be correlated with the functionality and complexity of these organelles. The gold marker was also present over the nucleus and rough endoplasmic reticulum, but mitochondria, secretory granules, and the extracellular space were devoid of label. This specific localization of RNA in planarian chromatoid bodies supports earlier findings on germ cells and embryonic cells in a variety of organisms, indicating that chromatoid bodies are information‐storage structures, essential during the process of cell differentiation. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Osmoregulatory‐like mitochondria‐rich cells in the developing pancreatic ducts of young anuran tadpoles
Authors: de Zárate A. Ortiz , Villaro A. C. , De Rada O. Díaz , Montuenga L. , Etayo J. C. , Sesma P. , Vázquez J. J.
Published: February 2005

Pancreatic ducts of young posthatching Rana temporaria tadpoles are the main component of the developing pancreas. At this stage (free‐swimming tadpoles with internal gills), duct cells display a high degree of development of basal and lateral outfoldings of the cell membrane with extensive interdigitation, and numerous mitochondria are present throughout the cytoplasm. Wide intercellular spaces also exist, sometimes forming canaliculi‐like structures. Since these traits are characteristic of cells engaged in osmotic regulation, we suggest the possibility that this temporary duct system participates in such control. Duct cells in tadpoles with well‐developed hindlegs have diminished interdigitation, and mitochondria are localized apically. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ultrastructure of the cardiac and pyloric glands of the gastric mucosa of the South African hedgehog, Atelerix frontalis
Authors: Gregorowski M. Detken , Coetzee Heleen L. , Loots G. P.
Published: February 2005

The cardiac and pyloric glands in the gastric mucosa of the South African hedgehog, Atelerix frontalis, are described. The cardiac area of the stomach contains proper cardiac glands and lacks undifferentiated fundic glands. The cardiac glands are simple tubular, coiled, and lined with columnar cells ultrastructurally similar to those of the gastric surface epithelium. Secretory granules with varying electron densities fill the apical cytoplasm of these cells. In contrast to other mammals, these glands lack mucous neck cells. The neck of the pyloric glands contains only a single cell type, whereas the basal regions of these glands contain “light” and “dark” cells. The secretory granules in the “dark” cells and the pyloric neck cells have a moderate electron density and often contain an electron dense core. An electron‐lucent cytoplasm with numerous polysomes is characteristic of the “light” cells. Some “light” cells contain electron‐dense granules in the apical cytoplasm. The presence of only neutral mucins in the cardiac gland cells denotes the absence of mucous neck cells. The acidic mucins within the pyloric neck cells seem to indicate that these cells are mucous neck cells, whereas the neutral mucins within the basally located pyloric gland cells show at least a partial functional difference from the pyloric neck cells. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Scaling of cursoriality in mammals
Authors: Steudel Karen , Beattie Jeanne
Published: February 2005

Data on limb bone lengths from 64 mammalian species were combined with data on 114 bovid species (Scott, '79) to assess the scaling of limb lengths and proportions in mammals ranging from 0.002 to 364 kg. We analyzed log‐transformed data using both reduced major axis and least‐squares regression to focus on the distribution across mammals of two key traits—limb length and metatarsal/femur ratio—associated with cursorial adaptation. The total lengths of both fore and hindlimbs scale in a manner very close to the M0.33 predicted by geometric similarity. Thus the relative limb lengths of large mammals, including bovids, generally regarded among the most cursorial of mammals, are very similar to those of the rodents and insectivores in this sample. Metatarsal/femur ratio also shows little change with changing mass, although bovids tend to have relatively longer metapodials than do other families in the sample. We argue that many of the remaining morphological traits associated with cursoriality (e.g., reduction in joint mobility and number of distal limb bone elements) promote cursoriality only at large body sizes. These results lead us to question the general perception that cursoriality is most widespread among large mammals. We also suggest that discussions of cursoriality should focus explicitly on the two partially independent aspects of performance that are otherwise confounded under this general term—speed and the ability to cover substantial distance. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Electromyographic and kinematic studies of tail movements in dogs during treadmill locomotion
Authors: Wada Naomi , Hori Hiroko , Tokuriki Mikihiko
Published: February 2005

Electromyographic (EMG) activities of three tail muscles, the extensor caudae lateralis (ECL), abductor caudae externus (ACE), and flexor caudae longus (FCL), were recorded bilaterally in seven adult dogs during walking, trotting, and galloping on a treadmill. Each dog's movements were recorded with a 16 mm high‐speed camera system, and angular movements of the tail were analyzed. During walking and trotting, reciprocal EMG bursts were observed between right and left tail muscles and corresponded with lateral movements of the tail.

The tonic discharges that were observed in ECL and FCL seemed to maintain the position of the tail. During galloping, synchronized EMG activity of all tail muscles produced reactive torques to counter those generated by cyclic limb movements and kept the tail in a stable position. These results suggest that tail movements are important in maintaining body balance during locomotion in the dog. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Spermathecal cytology of Ambystoma opacum (Amphibia: Ambystomatidae) and the phylogeny of sperm storage organs in female salamanders
Authors: Sever David M. , Kloepeer Natalie M.
Published: February 2005

Sperm storage glands, spermathecae, were examined from mated female Ambystoma opacum during the breeding season. No differences occur in the spermathecal ultrastructure of individuals sacrificed prior to oviposition and those sacrificed within 3 days of removal from tended clutches of recently oviposited eggs. The simple tubuloalveolar glands produce two types of secretory vacuoles. Apical secretory vacuoles contain glycosaminoglycans for export into the lumen to bathe stored sperm, perhaps providing the chemical/osmotic environment necessary for sperm quiescence. The other type of secretory vacuole contains an unsaturated lipid that is produced for export into the connective tissue surrounding the spermathecae. The role of this secretion may involve the contraction of myoepithelial cells, resulting in sperm expulsion. Some sperm undergo degradation in the spermathecal epithelium, and an interepithelial leukocyte was observed in one specimen. Apical secretory vacuoles and sperm are absent from the spermathecae of a specimen sacrificed 62 days after removal from a tended egg clutch. This is the first report on the spermathecal cytology of a salamander from the Ambystomatidae, and comparisons with salamanders from other families provide a morphological basis for considering spermathecae polyphyletic within the Caudata. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Regionalization of eccrine and spermiophagic activity in spermathecae of the salamander Eurycea cirrigera (Amphibia: Plethodontidae)
Authors: Sever David M. , Brunette Nicole S.
Published: February 2005

The spermathecae of female Eurycea cirrigera are compound alveolar glands; narrow neck tubules connect the distal bulbs to a common tube that opens onto the roof of the cloaca. The common tube and neck tubules produce apical secretory vacuoles that contain a periodic acid‐Schiff (PAS)+ substance for merocrine export into the lumen. This substance is produced throughout the year, although secretory vacuoles are less numerous during the period of reproductive inactivity in the summer. When sperm are present, the product from the secretory vacuoles bathes sperm in the lumen. Sperm are in orderly arrays and never are embedded in the cytoplasm of the common tube or neck tubules. The distal bulbs do not produce PAS+ secretory vacuoles, and are actively spermiophagic as long as sperm are present. Sperm become embedded in the epithelium of the distal bulbs where lysosomes degrade sperm. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Morphological analysis of tendinous structure in the American alligator jaw muscles
Authors: Shimada Kazuyuki , Sato I. , Ezure H.
Published: February 2005

In the American alligator, the jaw muscles show seven bundles of tendinous structure: cranial adductor tendon, mandibular adductor tendon, lamina anterior inferior, trap‐shaped lamina lateralis, lamina intramandibularis, lamina posterior, and depressor mandibular tendon (originating from the musculus depressor mandibulae, m. pseudotemporalis, m. adductor mandibulae posterior, m. adductor mandibulae externus, m. intramandibularis, m. pterygoideus anterior, and m. pterygoideus posterior). These tendinous structures are composed of many collagen fibrils and elastic fibers; however, the distributions and sizes of the fibers in these tendinous components differ in comparison with those of other masticatory muscles. The differences of these properties reflect the kinetic forces or the stretch applied to each tendon by the muscle during jaw movements in spite of the simple tendon‐muscle junctions. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Rostrate pedicellariae: A morphologically distinct form of echinoid test appendage
Authors: Campbell A. C. , Jensen Margit
Published: February 2005

The term rostrate was introduced by Mortensen ('07) to describe a type of pedicellaria he found in spatangoids. These pedicellariae resemble tridentate ones but have arching valves. Unlike the main categories of echinoid pedicellariae, no clear diagnosis of the rostrate form exists. This work examines the detailed morphology of the valves of rostrate pedicellariae observed by light and scanning electron microscopy and compares the shapes and dimensions of their component parts with tridentate pedicellariae. The data reveal considerable differences between the two, which warrant the recognition of rostrate pedicellariae as a distinct form. A diagnosis is given. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Distribution of calcium‐ATPase in developing teeth of embryonic American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis)
Authors: Sato Iwao , Shimada Kazuyuki , Ezure Hiromitsu , Sato Tooru , Lance Valentine A.
Published: February 2005

Light microscopic and ultrastructural observations were carried out to evaluate the cell morphology and histochemistry (calcium‐ATPase activity) of developing teeth in embryonic American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis). Ca‐ATPase activity was observed in the distal and lateral cell membranes, rough endoplasmic reticulum (rER), mitochondria, vacuoles, and other organelles of the ameloblast, but only in the distal cell membrane and process of the odontoblast. Enzyme activity in the ameloblasts increased gradually during development. These sites of enzyme activity are related to mineralization of the enamel layer, similar to that in mammalian tooth development. Alligator teeth are heavily mineralized like mammalian teeth; however, alligator ameloblasts have undeveloped distal processes during mineralization in contrast to mammalian ameloblasts in which Tomes' processes are found near the distal portion of ameloblasts at maturation stage. The localization of intense enzyme activity in the distal and lateral ameloblast cell membrane suggests that these regions are the site of accumulation of calcium as enamel differentiates in the developing tooth. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.