bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phylogenetic relationships of Argentinean Creole horses and other South American and Spanish breeds inferred from mitochondrial DNA sequences
Authors: Mirol P. M. , García P. Peral , Vega‐Pla J. L. , Dulout F. N.
Published: March 2003

South American horses constitute a direct remnant of the Iberian horses brought to the New World by the Spanish conquerors. The source of the original horses was Spain, and it is generally assumed that the animals belonged to the Andalusian, Spanish Celtic, Barb or Arabian breeds. In order to establish the relationship between Argentinean and Spanish horses, a portion of the mitochondrial D‐loop of 104 animals belonging to nine South American and Spanish breeds was analysed using SSCP and DNA sequencing. The variability found both within and between breeds was very high. There were 61 polymorphic positions, representing 16% of the total sequence obtained. The mean divergence between a pair of sequences was 2.8%. Argentinean Creole horses shared two haplotypes with the Peruvian Paso from Argentina, and the commonest haplotype of the Creole horses is identical to one of the Andalusian horses. Even when there was substantial subdivision between breeds with highly significant Wright's Fixation Index (FST), the parsimony and distance‐based phylogenetic analyses failed to show monophyletic groups and there was no clear relationship in the trees between the South American and any of the other horses analysed. Although this result could be interpreted as mixed ancestry of the South American breeds with respect to the Spanish breeds, it is probably indicating the retention of very ancient maternal lineages in the breeds analysed.
Linkage of the grey coat colour locus to microsatellites on horse chromosome 25
Authors: Locke M. M. , Penedo M. C. T. , Bricker S. J. , Millon L. V. , Murray J. D.
Published: March 2003

The progressive loss of colour in the hair of grey horses is controlled by a dominantly inherited allele at theGreylocus (GG). In this study, two paternal Quarter Horse (QH) families segregating for theGGallele were genotyped with a set of 101 microsatellite markers spanning the 31 autosomes and the X chromosome. This genome scan demonstrated linkage ofGreytoCOR018(RF=0.02, LOD=12.04) on horse chromosome 25 (ECA25). Further chromosome‐specific analysis of seven total QH families confirmed the linkage ofGreyto a group of ECA25 markers and the map order ofNVHEQ43‐(0.24)‐UCDEQ405‐(0.09)‐COR080‐(0.05)‐GREY‐(0.14)‐UCDEQ464was produced. AlthoughGwas found to be linked toTXNandCOR018in the chromosome‐specific analysis, the data were not sufficiently informative to place either marker on our ECA25 map with significant LODs. Our results excluded the equinetyrosinase related protein 1(TYRP1) andmelanocyte protein 17(Pmel17) genes as possible candidates for the grey phenotype in horses.
No detectable association of the ESR PvuII mutation with sow productivity in a Meishan × Large White F2 population
Authors: Gibson J. P. , Jiang Z. H. , Robinson J. A. B. , Archibald A. L. , Haley C. S.
Published: March 2003

The polymorphism at the PvuII recognition site in the ESR gene showed no statistically significant association with sow productivity traits in a Meishan × Large White F2 population. Estimates of the effect on litter size were, however, in the opposite direction and statistically different from previously published estimates. Taken together with results from other publications, results here indicate that this PvuII polymorphism displays different degrees of linkage disequilibrium with a gene or genes controlling litter size in different populations.
Genetic variation analysis within and among Chinese indigenous swine populations using microsatellite markers
Authors: Fan B. , Wang Z.‐G. , Li Y.‐J. , Zhao X.‐L. , Liu B. , Zhao S.‐H. , Yu M. , Li M.‐H. , Chen S.‐L. , Xiong T.‐A. , Li K.
Published: March 2003

The genetic structure of five types of Taihu pig (Erhualian, Middle Meishan, Small Meishan, Mizhu and Shawutou), Jiangquhai and Dongchuan pigs in China were investigated, by means of 27 microsatellite markers proposed by the Food and Agriculture Organisation, International Society for Animal Genetics (FAO‐ISAG). The Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium test indicated that genetic drift had occurred in these populations, which may be caused by founder effects, intensive selection and close breeding. Genetic heterozygosity and the effective number of alleles per population were calculated, and showed that the genetic variability of the Jiangquhai pig was the largest, while the Small Meishan had the lowest. Genetic differentiation was within each population as shown by the fixation index (FST=0.18). Both a neighbour‐joining (NJ) tree constructed from Nei's standard genetic distance and principal component analysis based on allele frequencies can distinguish types of Taihu pig from the other two breeds. Among Taihu pig populations, Erhualian and Mizhu grouped into one branch, while Middle Meishan, Small Meishan and Shawutou clustered as another branch. By including previously published data on European pigs reported, we confirmed that Chinese indigenous pigs and European pigs have diverged into two distinct groups.
Chromosomal localization of the chicken and mammalian orthologues of the orphan phosphatase PHOSPHO1 gene
Authors: Houston B. , Paton I. R. , Burt D. W. , Farquharson C.
Published: March 2003

PHOSPHO1 is a recently identified phosphatase expressed at high levels in the chicken growth plate and which may be involved in generating inorganic phosphate for skeletal matrix mineralization. Using a degenerate RT‐PCR approach a fragment of human PHOSPHO1 was cloned. This enabled the identification of the human orthologue on HSA17q21, and the mouse orthologue on a region of MMU11 that exhibits conservation of synteny with HSA17q21. Chicken PHOSPHO1 was mapped by SSCP analysis to position 44 cM on GGA27, adjacent to the HOXB@ (44 cM) and COL1A1 (36 cM) loci. Comparison of genes on GGA27 with their orthologues on the preliminary draft of the human genome identifies regions of conserved synteny equivalent to 25 Mb on HSA17q21.2‐23.3 and approximately 20 Mb on GGA27 in which the gene order appears to be conserved. Mapping of the PHOSPHO1 genes to regions of HSA17q21.3, MMU11 and GGA27 that exhibit conservation of synteny provides strong evidence that they are orthologous.
Mapping of equine potassium chloride co‐transporter (SLC12A4) and amino acid transporter (SLC7A10) and preliminary studies on associations between SNPs from SLC12A4, SLC7A10 and SLC7A9 and osmotic fragility of erythrocytes
Authors: Hanzawa K. , Lear T. L. , Piumi F. , Bailey E.
Published: March 2003

Consensus DNA sequences from human, mouse and/or rat were used to design oligonucleotide primers for equine homologues of exons 16, 17 and 20–23 of potassium chloride co‐transporter (SLC12A4) and exons 10, 11 and 3, 4, respectively, for two amino acid transporters (SLC7A10andSLC7A9). DNA sequences of the PCR products showed high sequence identity to these regions. Equine BAC clones were obtained forSLC12A4andSLC7A10and mapped to equine chromosomes ECA3p13 and ECA10p15, respectively, by fluorescencein situhybridization (FISH). Several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) were found. Substitutions of A/G were found within exon 17 of SLC12A4, within intron 11 ofSLC7A10and within intron 3 ofSLC7A9. The SNP associated withSLC7A10andSLC7A9were sufficiently polymorphic to investigate associations with erythrocyte fragility among a group of 20 thoroughbred horses. A non‐parametric rank‐sum test showed a weak association between erythrocyte fragility and the SNP associated withSLC7A10(P < 0.05).
Consensus and comprehensive linkage maps of bovine chromosome 24
Authors: Kurar E. , Barendse W. , Bottema C. D. K. , Davis S. , Föster M. , Kalm E. , Kappes S. M. , Kister A. , Lewin H. A. , Klungland H. , Medjugorac I. , Olsaker I. , Pitchford W. S. , Schmutz S. M. , Taylor J. , Thomsen H. , Kirkpatrick B. W.
Published: March 2003

This study describes development of a consensus genetic linkage map of bovine chromosome 24 (BTA24). Eight participating laboratories contributed data for 58 unique markers including a total of 25 409 meioses. Eighteen markers, which were typed in more than one reference population, were used as potential anchors to generate a consensus framework map. The framework map contained 16 loci ordered with odds greater than 1000:1 and spanned 79.3 cM. Remaining markers were included in a comprehensive map relative to these anchors. The resulting BTA24 comprehensive map was 98.3 cM in length. Average marker intervals were 6.1 and 2.5 cM for framework and comprehensive maps, respectively. Marker order was generally consistent with previously reported BTA24 linkage maps. Only one discrepancy was found when comparing the comprehensive map with the published USDA‐MARC linkage map. Integration of genetic information from different maps provides a high‐resolution BTA24 linkage map.
Cloning, characterization and chromosomal localization of the Sus scrofa SLC31A1 gene
Authors: Harboe T. L. , Jensen L. R. , Hansen C. , Horn P , Bendixen C. , Tommerup N. , Tümer Z.
Published: March 2003

Copper is an essential element necessary for normal function of numerous enzymes in all living organisms. Uptake of copper into the cell is thought to occur through the membrane protein, SLC31A1 (CTR1), which has been described in a variety of species including yeast, human and mouse. In this study, we present cloning, gene structure, chromosomal localization and expression pattern of the Sus scrofa SLC31A1 gene, which encodes a 189 amino acid protein. The (SSC) SLC31A1 gene is organized in four exons and spans an approximately 2.3 kb genomic region. We have localized the gene to chromosome 1q28‐q2.13 using a somatic cell hybrid panel. This region shows conservation of synteny with human chromosome 9, where the human SLC31A1 (CTR1) gene has been localized. Expression studies suggest that SLC31A1 mRNA is transcribed in all tissues examined.
The pharmacokinetics of ziprasidone in healthy volunteers treated with cimetidine or antacid
Authors: Wilner K. D. , Hansen R. A. , Folger C. J. , Geoffroy P.
Published: March 2003

Aims  To evaluate the effects of cimetidine and Maalox® (aluminium hydroxide 1.35 g and magnesium hydroxide 1.2 g) on the pharmacokinetics of ziprasidone.

Methods  Eleven healthy young subjects aged 18–45 years were given single oral doses of ziprasidone 40 mg on three occasions at least 7 days apart. On one occasion ziprasidone was administered alone, on another occasion ziprasidone was co‐administered with oral cimetidine 800 mg and on a third occasion ziprasidone was co‐administered with oral Maalox®.

Results  The administration of cimetidine increased the ziprasidone AUC(0,∞) by 6% but there were no statistically significant differences in Cmax, tmax or λz between the ziprasidone+cimetidine group and the ziprasidone group. The administration of Maalox® did not produce any statistically significant differences in AUC(0,∞), Cmax, tmax or λz between the ziprasidone+Maalox® group and the ziprasidone group.

Conclusions  The pharmacokinetics of ziprasidone are not affected by concurrent administration of cimetidine or Maalox®. This suggests that other nonspecific inhibitors of cytochrome P450 and antacids are unlikely to alter the pharmacokinetics of ziprasidone.
Polymorphisms in the cytochrome P450 CYP1A2 gene (CYP1A2) in colorectal cancer patients and controls: allele frequencies, linkage disequilibrium and influence on caffeine metabolism
Authors: Sachse Christoph , Bhambra Upinder , Smith Gillian , Lightfoot Tracy J. , Barrett Jennifer H. , Scollay Jenna , Garner R. Colin , Boobis Alan R. , Wolf C. Roland , Gooderham Nigel J. ,   The Colorectal Cancer Study Group
Published: March 2003

Aims  Several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the cytochrome P450 enzyme 1A2 gene (CYP1A2) have been reported. Here, frequencies, linkage disequilibrium and phenotypic consequences of six SNPs are described.

Methods  From genomic DNA, 114 British Caucasians (49 colorectal cancer cases and 65 controls) were genotyped for the CYP1A2 polymorphisms −3858G→A (allele CYP1A2*1C), −2464T→delT (CYP1A2*1D), −740T→G (CYP1A2*1E and *1G), −164A→C (CYP1A2*1F), 63C→G (CYP1A2*2), and 1545T→C (alleles CYP1A2*1B, *1G, *1H and *3), using polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism assays. All patients and controls were phenotyped for CYP1A2 by h.p.l.c. analysis of urinary caffeine metabolites.

Results  In 114 samples, the most frequent CYP1A2 SNPs were 1545T→C (38.2% of tested chromosomes), −164A→C (CYP1A2*1F, 33.3%) and −2464T→delT (CYP1A2*1D, 4.82%). The SNPs were in linkage disequilibrium: the most frequent constellations were found to be −3858G/−2464T/−740T/−164A/63C/1545T (61.8%), −3858G/−2464T/−740T/−164C/63C/1545C (33.3%), and −3858G/−2464delT/−740T/−164A/63C/1545C (3.51%), with no significant frequency differences between cases and controls. In the phenotype analysis, lower caffeine metabolic ratios were detected in cases than in controls. This was significant in smokers (n = 14, P = 0.020), and in a subgroup of 15 matched case‐control pairs (P = 0.007), but it was not significant in nonsmokers (n = 100, P = 0.39). There was no detectable association between CYP1A2 genotype and caffeine phenotype.

Conclusions  (i) CYP1A2 polymorphisms are in linkage disequilibrium. Therefore, only −164A→C (CYP1A2*1F) and −2464T→delT (CYP1A2*1D) need to be analysed in the routine assessment of CYP1A2 genotype; (ii) in vivo CYP1A2 activity is lower in colorectal cancer patients than in controls, and (iii) CYP1A2 genotype had no effect on phenotype (based on the caffeine metabolite ratio). However, this remains to be confirmed in a larger study.
Morphological and Ultrastructural Study of Carpal Organ in Adult Female Wild Swine
Authors: Farnesi R. M. , Vagnetti D. , Santarella B. , Tei S.
Published: March 2003

The carpal organ of adult female wild swine is a sweat‐type gland which secretes an odorous substance. The gland consists of 5–7 lobes, each made up of lobules with convoluted glandular tubules. The gland secretion is transported in large excretory canals which empty from 5 to 7 clearly visible pores. An ultrastructural examination showed that the glandular tubules are made up of single‐layered epithelium with different types of cells. One type, with rather electron‐dense cytoplasm, is secretory cells full of granular material which empties into the tubule lumen. A second cell type has a glycogen‐rich, transparent cytoplasm. Its role appears to be secreting a watery, electrolyte‐containing liquid. In the intermediate zone of the tubules, there is a third type of cell with transparent cytoplasm. Its ultrastructural characteristics seem to indicate that its function is to reabsorb the excess watery component. In the wall of the glandular tubules, outside the epithelium, there are myoepithelial cells which facilitate the movement of the secretions toward the collector canal.
Zur anatomischen und biologischen Wertigkeit der Thoraxbewegungen bei Hund und Katze
Authors: Vollmerhaus B. , Veith H. Roos und G.
Published: March 2003

On the anatomical and biological role of the movement of the thorax in the dog and cat:

Development of the gonometrical measuring method has allowed the respiratory movement of the lateral chest wall and the sternum to be investigated. The mobility of a single rib varies enormously in gradual transitions. There are distinct differences between species. For of a number of reasons; the cat can achieve more intense thoracic respiration than the dog.
Minireview
Authors: Factors Growth , System Their Receptors in the Olfactory
Published: March 2003

Received July, 1998; accepted for publication July, 1998

The olfactory epithelium is unique in the mammalian nervous system as it is a site of continual neurogenesis. Constant turnover of primary sensory neurons in the periphery results in continuous remodeling of neuronal circuits and synapses in the olfactory bulb throughout life. Most of the specific mechanisms and factors that control and modulate this process are not known. Recent studies suggest that growth factors, and their receptors, may play a crucial role in the development and continuous regeneration of olfactory neurons, i.e. particularly in neuronal proliferation, neurite outgrowth, fasciculation and synapse formation of the olfactory system. The potential role of the following factors and their receptors in different species are reviewed: Nerve growth factor (NGF); insulin‐like growth factors (IGFs); fibroblast growth factors (FGFs); epidermal growth factor (EGF); transforming growth factor α (TGF α); amphiregulin (AR) and transforming growth factors β (TGFs β).
Ein weiterer Beitrag zum Glykogen im fetalen Darmepithel
Authors: Wille K. H. , Winkler Fr.
Published: March 2003

On the glycogen in the epithelium of the fetal intestine:

In the first half of pregnancy the well‐known occurrence of glycogen incorporation in the supra‐ and infranuclear cytoplasm of the villous enterocytes was verified. This enormous glycan store is evidently of very little functional importance. It seems to be an expression of a disordered glycogenolysis. These masses of glycogen are incorporated into impressive glycogenosomes, which are the predominante cytoplasmic inclusions for a short period of time. According to the present results it is not certain whether lysosomal glycogenolysis happens. There is no morphological or functional evidence for a utilization og glycogen.
Seasonal Morphology of the Domestic Quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) Testis
Authors: Artoni S. M. Baraldi , Orsi A. M. , Carvalho T. L. L. , Vicentini C. A. , Stefanini M. A.
Published: March 2003

A histological study was conducted on the testes of adult domestic quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica) over a year. The results revealed a clear variation of testicular weight, seminiferous tubule diameter, and the thickness and composition of the germinal epithelium over the year. The highest testicular weights were detected at the end of the autumn and during the winter (short‐day period), reaching a maximum, together with spermatogenic activity, in September (long‐day period in the southern hemisphere). In contrast, both testicular weight and spermatogenic activity were markedly decreased at the end of spring and during summer (long‐day periods in the southern hemisphere).
Macroscopic Cryosectioning: A Simple New Method for Producing Digital, Three‐Dimensional Databases in Veterinary Anatomy
Authors: B P. , öttcher . , Maierl J.
Published: March 2003

Using a new method derived from the ‘visible human project’ (Spitzer et al., 1996, Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association 3, 118–130), we were able to establish a simple and low‐cost tool which produces high‐quality cryosections of macroscopic specimens down to 1‐mm slice thickness, based on a milling process. For the first time, a macroscopic cryotome is available to veterinary anatomists, which can be used on cutting faces up to 25 cm high and 50 cm wide and with a minimal slice thickness of 1 mm without any gap. The method employs a modified wood circular saw. Recording of the cutting faces is carried out ‘online’ by a high‐resolution digital camera. The process has been tested extensively and produces high‐quality sections of very hard material (teeth) as well as of very soft tissues (brain). It is now possible in veterinary medicine to provide three‐dimensional anatomical databases of high resolution and of tissue‐specific colour as an additional tool for high‐quality two‐ and three‐dimensional anatomical reconstructions for use in science and education.
Die anatomischen Verhältnisse am Karpalgelenk des Geparden (Acinonyx jubatus), verglichen mit jenen der Hauskatze (Felis catus)
Authors: K W. , ünzel . , Probst A.
Published: March 2003

Anatomical features of the carpal joint of the cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) compared to the domestic cat (Felis catus) The anatomy of the carpal joint of the cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) was examined in seven specimens using dissection and corrosion casts as well as radiography, and compared to well‐known data of the domestic cat (Felis catus). It was found that in the cheetah, as in the domestic cat, the intermedioradial, ulnar and accessory carpal bones, as well as the first, second, third and fourth carpal bones and the sesamoid bone of the abductor pollicis longus muscle, develop in a regular manner. The bones had a similar shape and the ligamentous apparatus was comparable, the most striking differences being the connection of all compartments of the joint cavity and the mediocarpal joint, working as a screw joint. The syndesmosis between the intermedioradial and ulnar carpal bones, instead of a synovial connection, is another adaptation for stabilization of the carpus of the cheetah during locomotion. The joint capsule is little spacious and in all three recesses can be differentiated. The first extends proximally palmar the ulnar carpal bone between the styloid process of the ulna and the accessory carpal bone, the second also extends proximally mediopalmar of the intermedioradial bone, and the largest third recess is located on the dorsal surface and extends proximally, laterally to the inserting tendon of the extensor carpi radialis muscle.
Struktur des Ligamentum synoviale infrapatellare beim Hund*
Authors: Sommer U. , Schnorr B. , Kressin M.
Published: March 2003

Structure of the ligamentum synoviale infrapatellare in the dog

The knee joint of the dog is frequently the subject of surgery if the cruciate ligaments or the menisci are injured. In the knee joint of the dog we find a ligament, which is spread out between the anterior part of the fossa intercondylaris ossis femoris and the corpus adiposus infrapatellaris. This ligamentum synoviale infrapatellare has not previously been described and represents a homologous structure to the plica synovialis infrapatellaris of human knee joint. Just like the latter and just like the cruciate ligaments it is a rudiment of a septum articulare genu, which is spread out between an articulatio femorotibialis and an articulatio femorofibularis in the early phylogenesis of tetrapods. The ligamentum synoviale infrapatellare of the dog consists of a stratum synoviale and a stratum spinosum, which includes blood vessels, nerves, many collagenous fibres and some elastic fibres. We do not find evidence for sensory nerve endings or corpuscular receptors. Therefore a severing of the ligament during knee joint surgery does not affect the proprioceptive potential of the knee joint.
Vergleichende histologische Studie des weiblichen Geschlechtsapparates beim Lama (Lama guanicoe glama). II. Eileiter, Uterus, Cervix, Vagina
Authors: Feder F. ‐H. , González H. , Arias Und P.
Published: March 2003

Comparative histological study of the reproductive system of the female llama (Lama guanicoe glama)

The histological characteristics of the oviduct, uterus, cervix and vagina of the llama are described and compared with those of domestic mammals. There are differences between llama and domestic mammals in the type of placentation and the epithelium of the vagina, which seems to be a transitional epithelium.
Association between Supraependymal Nerve Fibres and the Ependymal Cilia of the Mammalian Brain
Authors: Mathew T. C.
Published: March 2003

The ciliated ependymal cells that line the floor of the fourth ventricle in adult Wistar rats are overlaid by an immense network of supraependymal nerve fibres. This study presents morphological evidence of a characteristic association of supraependymal nerve fibres with the cilia of the ependymocytes of the ventricular surface. It is found that the supraependymal nerve fibres accumulate and/or terminate at the base of the clusters of ependymal cilia. These fibres are varicose in nature and consist of large‐diameter fibres with numerous prominent varicosities and small‐diameter fibres with less frequent and less prominent varicosities. The characteristic association of the supraependymal nerve fibres with the ciliated ependymocytes suggests that these nerve fibres may be involved in producing co‐ordinated ciliary movements in the mammalian brain.
Wachstum von Bursa Cloacalis (Fabricii) und Milz bei Enten
Authors: Gille U. , Salomon F. ‐V.
Published: March 2003

Growth of the cloacal bursa (bursa of Fabricius) and spleen in ducks

The growth in weight of both the bursa of Fabricius and the spleen was investigated in different stocks of ducks between hatching and 154 days of age. The data were analysed by fitting the Janoschek growth curve and the allometric formula. Both organs showed rapid growth to their maximum dimensions and early points of inflection. The regression of the cloacal bursa started at about 12 weeks of age in Pekins and Mallards. In the Muscovy, the involution begins beyond the period of investigation. Allometrically, a biphasic relationship was found. Starting with positive allometry, the allometric exponent decreased to negative or isometric (Muscovies) values within the second week of age. If the organ weights are compared on the basis of these allometric relationships, Pekins had bursa weights that were about 30 % higher than those in Mallards. For the spleen, there was no difference between wild and domesticated ducks.
Morphometric Analysis of Collagen: a Comparative Study in Cow and Pig Skins
Authors: Kobayashi A. , Takehana K. , Eerdunchaolu . , Iwasa K. , Abe M. , Yamaguchi M.
Published: March 2003

The detailed ultrastructure of skin has not yet been determined, partly because of the problems involved in quantifying age variation in the collagen fibril diameter distribution with increasing depth below the epidermis and in quantifying the variations that occur with anatomical site. In the present study, we investigated the correlation between subfibrillar architecture and collagen fibril diameter in dermis samples taken from three different regions of the skin of clinically normal adult animals. However, further studies are needed to determine the correlation between the age variation in collagen fibril diameters and the subfibrillar architecture.
A Morphometric Study on the Skull of the German Shepherd Dog (Alsatian)
Authors: Onar V.
Published: March 2003

In this study, a total of 33 skulls of German shepherd (Alsatian) puppies between 45 and 105 days old were used. Animals were divided into two groups. Group 1 included puppies between 45 and 60 days old, and group 2 included those between 61 and 105 days old. In group 1, a skull weight of 36.95 g, a skull length of 113.96 mm, a maximum zygomatic width of 66.52 mm, a cranial length of 71.31 mm, a maximum neurocranium width of 52.11 mm, a viscerocranial length of 50.28 mm, a skull index of 58.43, a cranial index of 73.24, a facial index of 133.13 and a cranial volume of 55.38 ml were measured. In group 2, a skull weight of 61.17 g, a skull length of 143.38 mm, a maximum zygomatic width of 73.54 mm, a cranial length of 83.38 mm, a maximum neurocranium width of 53.70 mm, a viscerocranial length of 68.64 mm, a skull index of 51.44, a cranial index of 64.57, a facial index of 107.96 and a cranial volume of 75.75 ml were obtained. In order to determine the likely relationship, if any, between the indices and the other parameters, correlation coefficients were computed. It was found that all the measurements increased with age, while indices decreased, and an insignificant positive correlation was found between cranial volume and skull weight. The data obtained in this study may be of use in the consideration of the German shepherd type. For German shepherd dogs, which are a dolichocephalic race, it should be agreed that, in line with growth, the farther the values are from the mean value, the higher the defect rate of a puppy is. Also, the data may be of use in investigating the correlation between, for example, nasal cancer risk and the shape of the skull.
Apoptotic Cell Death, bax and bcl‐2 Expression During Sheep Mammary Gland Involution
Authors: Colitti M. , Stefanon B. , Wilde C. J.
Published: March 2003

Involution in ovine mammary tissue was studied by light and electron microscopy, and bax and bcl‐2 protein distribution was examined by immunohistochemistry from the last day of lactation until the 8th day of drying off. The mammary gland alveoli were examined and the area of glandular epithelium was evaluated morphometrically. Regression of mammary gland epithelium by apoptosis was first identified 2 days after the end of lactation, and increased until day 8. Bax protein was detected throughout this period and was highest on the eighth day. A weak positive reaction for bcl‐2 was observed only on days 1 and 8 after cessation of lactation. It is concluded that sheep mammary gland involution involves cell death by apoptosis and that bcl‐2 gene family members are involved in the process.
The Teeth of the Horse: Evolution and Anatomo‐Morphological and Radiographic Study of Their Development in the Foetus
Authors: Soana S. , Gnudi G. , Bertoni G.
Published: March 2003

The aim of this work was to study the ontogenetic process in teeth from their early appearance in the ossifying matrix of the mandible and maxilla, in different foetuses of scalar ages. Radiographic examinations of the skull and mandible hemisections were performed and the latero‐medial (LM) and dorso‐ventral (DV) projections for the skull and mandible were analysed. A high‐definition film‐screen combination was used for this study. The exposure values ranged from 35 kV/6 mAs to 58 kV/10 mAs, according to the size of the skulls and their degree of ossification. The first dental germ observed was the P3, at 138–140 days of pregnancy. At 146 days, P2 and P4 dental germs were visible. At 160–168 days, the dental germ of the first deciduous incisor tooth (I1) appeared; at 180–188 days of pregnancy the germ of the second (I2), and at 224 days the germ of the third (I3), were detectable. At 275 days the dental germ of the mandibular first molar tooth (M1) appeared, while the maxillar M1, which was not visible radiographically, was represented by a jelly‐like amorphous body within its alveolar cavity.
The In Vitro Effects of Low Molecular Weight Serum Fractions on Embryonic Wistar Rat (Rattus norvegicus) Development
Authors: Ulger H. , Pratten M. K.
Published: March 2003

The in vitro embryo culture technique has been used in many research areas as well as for teratologic and toxicologic tests. Usually, homologous serum is used as a culture medium in these techniques. In this study, the effects of low molecular weight serum fractions on embryonic rat development were tested. Using 30 and 50 kDa Macrosep centrifugal concentrators, the homologous serum was centrifuged for 8 h to separate the low molecular weight serum fractions. The embryos were cultured in the sera which included > 30 kDa, > 50 kDa and < 30 + > 50 kDa serum fractions. Whole rat serum (WRS) was also used for control. After a 48‐h culture period, embryonic growth and development were assessed using a morphologic scoring system and the protein content of embryos and yolk sacs. The results showed that the embryonic growth and development during organogenesis significantly decreased in > 30 kDa and > 50 kDa serum fractions when compared to WRS. Addition of a < 30 kDa serum fraction to the > 50 kDa serum fraction improved the embryonic growth, but not to the level seen in embryos grown in WRS. While morphological scores for the embryos grown in WRS, > 30 kDa, > 50 kDa and < 30 + > 50 kDa serum fractions were 57.5 ± 0.83, 44.53 ± 1.06, 37.81 ± 1.9 and 45.14 ± 1.56, respectively, somite numbers were 26.4 ± 0.28, 20.47 ± 0.46, 19.15 ± 0.58 and 21.78 ± 0.5, yolk sac diameters were 3.35 ± 0.06, 2.89 ± 0.05, 2.61 ± 0.03 and 2.71 ± 0.04 mm, crown‐rump lengths were 3.03 ± 0.06, 2.72 ± 0.04, 2.36 ± 0.04 and 2.52 ± 0.04 mm, embryo protein contents were 160.93 ± 6.88, 119.07 ± 5.15, 67.23 ± 3.87 and 98.72 ± 4.87 μg and yolk sac protein contents were 114.87 ± 5.18, 86.33 ± 1.92, 62.38 ± 2.7 and 75.88 ± 2.87 μg, respectively. These results suggest that low molecular weight serum fractions could be very important for normal embryonic development.
Ultrastructural identification of small granule prolactin (PRL) cells in goat adenohypophysis by the colloidal‐gold method
Authors: V F. , ásquez . , Gómez M. A. , Serrano J. , Bernabé A.
Published: March 2003

We describe the ultrastructural characteristics of PRL cells with small secretory granules, immunostained with ovine antiserum, in adult Murciano‐Granadina milking goats during anoestrus, the last third of gestation and lactation. This cell subtype is considered to comprise a stable population that decreases numerically during gestation and lactation, and that may change during these stages to show large granules.
Presence and Distribution of Neuroendocrine Cells in the Gastroenteropancreatic Endocrine System of Fallow Deer Foetuses
Authors: Dall’Aglio C. , Gargiulo A. M. , Pedini V. , Ceccarelli P.
Published: March 2003

The gastroenteropancreatic endocrine system was studied in 11‐ and 17‐week‐old fallow deer foetuses using an immunocytochemical technique. In the gastrointestinal tract, gastrin‐, serotonin‐, somatostatin‐ and cholecystokinin‐containing cells were found; their frequency and distribution were also determined. Anti‐glucagon and anti‐insulin antibodies did not stain any cells along the gut. In the pancreas, somatostatin‐, pancreatic polypeptide‐, insulin‐ and glucagon‐immunoreactive cells were detected. The different distribution and number of neuroendocrine cells, in the two investigated stages of foetal life, are discussed. Data obtained in this study were compared with those published in a previous study on the gastrointestinal system of the adult fallow deer.
Ultrastructural Morphology of the Gill of the Hybrid Striped Bass (Morone saxatilis×M. chrysops)
Authors: Pfeiffer C. J. , Smith B. J. , Smith S. A.
Published: March 2003

The fine structure of the principal cell types found in the gill filaments and secondary, respiratory lamellae of the hybrid striped bass (Morone saxatilis × M. chrysops) was studied by transmission electron microscopy. Most of the cell types generally resembled those observed at this level of resolution in other euryhyaline, teleostean species, and the mucus cells, epithelial cells, and cartilage cells were non‐distinctive. Pillar cells were atypically flattened within the lamellae. The extensive cytoplasmic tubular system of the chloride cells was more densely distributed and was less branched than reported for many other teleosts. The vascular endothelial cells of the marginal, lamellar blood vessels were particularly striking because of their prominent, electron‐dense cytoplasmic granules. Although the physiological function and chemical composition of these granules remain obscure, their presence suggests an important role of secretion into the vascular lumen. These gill data from normal specimens of this sport and commercial, hybrid species constitute a useful basis for interpreting gill changes in diseased striped bass.
Morphometric Study of the β‐cell Volume of the Canine Pancreas with Consideration of the Axis of Tissue Transection
Authors: Govendir M. , Canfield P. J. , Church D. B.
Published: March 2003

The pancreatic β‐cell volume was assessed in 12 clinically normal crossbred dogs using immunohistochemical labelling for insulin and computer‐assisted morphometric analysis. The β‐cell volume was less in the right lobe compared with the body and left lobe, but the β‐cell volume did not differ between the body and the left lobe as reported previously. The use of immunohistochemistry, computer‐assisted morphometry, the inclusion here of extra‐islet β‐cells and the exclusion of non‐β‐endocrine cells in the investigation of the β‐cell volume may have contributed to this discrepancy. As most β‐cells form irregularly shaped three‐dimensional bodies (islets of Langerhans), the effect of the plane of tissue transection (sagittal, transverse, oblique) on the calculation of the β‐cell volume was also examined. The β‐cell volume in the sagittal plane of the right lobe was lower than the volume in the oblique plane of the same lobe but was not different from the volume in the transverse plane. However, there were no differences in β‐cell volume in different planes in the body or left lobe. When quantifying β‐cell volume in health or disease, variation in the volume of β‐cells in different locations of the pancreas is an important consideration and the plane of transection may also influence results.
Histochemical Study of the Extensor Digitorum Longus and Soleus Muscles in Alcoholic Rats
Authors: Torrejais M. M. , Soares J. C. , Matheus S. M. M. , Cassel F. D. , Curi P. R.
Published: March 2003

The extensor digitorum longus (EDL) and soleus (SOL) muscle fibres from albino rats submitted to experimental chronic alcoholism were evaluated in accordance with their metabolic and morphometric profiles. Twenty‐seven male animals aged 4 months and weighing approximately 400 g were used. The animals were divided into three groups: control, isocaloric and alcoholic and sacrifices were carried out after 5, 10 and 15 months. The muscles were dissected, removed, cross‐sectioned in a cryostat and submitted to the NADH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) reaction. The SO (slow‐twitch‐oxidative), FG (fast‐twitch‐glycolytic) and FOG (fast‐twitch‐oxidative‐glycolytic) muscle fibre types exhibited a polygonal, triangular or rounded shape and did not present noteworthy modifications in either muscles during the study. The cross‐sectional areas of the fibres from the studied muscles did not present significant differences during the observations. Fibre area behaved similarly in the alcoholic animals up to the 10th month, i.e. it was decreased, as also observed in the other groups. At 15 months, however, all fibres were increased, with a predominance of FG fibres in the SOL muscle. Changes in fibre population were observed mainly in the SOL muscle of alcoholic animals: SO fibres were initially increased in number but decreased after the 10th month, and the opposite was observed for the population of FG fibres. FOG fibres increased linearly in number throughout the experiment. The statistical analysis showed nevertheless that the fibre population and cross‐sectional area changes were not significant. In the alcoholic animals quantitative variations of muscle fibres were more evident in the SOL muscle, suggesting that the SOL muscle is more sensitive to the toxic action of ethanol. The results concerning the increased fibre diameter in alcoholic animals would be associated with muscle oedema induced directly or indirectly by the ethanol.
Immunohistochemical Localization of Endometrial Oestrogen and Progesterone Receptors in the Cow
Authors: Dall’Aglio C. , Ceccarelli P. , Gargiulo A. M. , Pedini V. , Monaci M.
Published: March 2003

The presence and distribution of oestrogen and progesterone receptors have been investigated by means of immunohistochemical procedures in the uterus of two groups of cows: the first group underwent superovulatory hormonal treatment while the second group was used as a control group. After the immunohistochemical study no differences regarding the presence and distribution of hormone receptors seemed to be apparent between the two groups, so it was concluded that the topographical distribution and staining intensity of hormone receptors seem to be unaffected by hormonal superovulatory treatment.
Light and ultrastructural immunocytochemical study of somatotropic cells (GH cells) in ovine adenohypophysis: lactation and weaning influences
Authors: Bernabé A. , Gómez M. A. , Seva J. , Vásquez F. , Pallarés F. J. , Serrano J.
Published: March 2003

The influence of lactation period and weaning on the distribution, number, and structure of somatotropic cells (GH cells) in ewes was studied using immunocytochemical procedures for light and electron microscopy, as well as morphometric and stereological techniques. The adenohypophyseal gland of 12 ewes of the Segureña breed in different stages of milk production and weaning was studied, while three ewes in anoestrus served as controls. The size of secretory granules was heterogeneous in all stages, suggesting that this characteristic is not related to functional activity. During lactation and weaning the size of GH cells decreased, while the number of ‘synthesis cells’ increased. The rough endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi complex appeared more developed and small secretory granules showed lower gold particle labelling. These data suggest that GH cells are more active during lactation, particularly during late lactation.
Lateral Musculature in the Whitemouth Croaker (Micropogonias furnieri): its Characterization with Respect to Different Gonadal Conditions
Authors: Devincenti C. V. , Díaz A. O. , Goldemberg A. L.
Published: March 2003

Histochemical and ultrastructural studies were performed on the lateral musculature from individual female whitemouth croaker, Micropogonias furnieri, at the anterior, medium and posterior regions. Based upon histochemical myosin‐ATPase (m‐ATPase) determination, diverse types of red, pink and white fibres were discerned. Red muscle had abundant mitochondria and stained intensely for aerobic enzymes, white muscle scarcely stained for the same enzymes and pink muscle responded in an intermediate manner. Both white and pink muscle had few mitochondria. The relative proportion of red muscle increased towards the caudal region; pink muscle diminished towards this region and white muscle modified its proportion only in the anterior region. m‐ATPase activity showed differences in relation to the gonadal condition along the body, particularly in the white fibres at the anterior and medium regions.
Complex Carbohydrate Histochemistry and Ultracytochemistry of the Sheep Lacrimal Gland
Authors: Gargiulo A. M. , Dall'Aglio C. , Coliolo P. , Ceccarelli P. , Pedini V.
Published: March 2003

The chemical content of the secretion of the sheep lacrimal gland was analysed at the light and electron microscope levels by applying histochemical techniques and an ultrastructural histochemical method (periodic acid, thiocarbohydrazide and silver proteinate). Mucosubstance histochemistry demonstrated acidic glycoconjugates, mainly sulphated, in the mucous and seromucous glandular cells and in the apical portion of the cells lining the terminal ducts. Moreover, secretory granules, stained with PA‐TCH‐SP, showed a different localization of the reaction product. The presence of lysozyme was also found in the glandular serous cells. These histochemical studies demonstrate that the secretion of sheep lacrimal glands is mixed, having serous, mucous and seromucous components, and that an excellent correlation exists between the secretory granule substructure and glycoprotein localization.
Ultrastructure of the Horse Tongue: Further Observations on the Lingual Integumentary Architecture
Authors: Pfeiffer C. J. , Levin M. , Lopes M. A. F.
Published: March 2003

This investigation examined primarily epidermal specializations of the adult horse tongue by light, scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Samples were collected from seven regions of the normal tongue of various breeds of horse. The filiform papillae, present on the dorsal and lateral aspects but not the ventral aspect of the tongue, were short, slender and finger‐like structures with variable‐shaped terminae. The epidermal thickness and height of dermal ridges were reduced on fungiform and vallate papillae, but tissue architecture and keratinocyte ultrastructure of most of the lingual epidermis corresponded to the common mammalian epidermal paradigm. One unique finding was the highly localized clustering of epidermal cells with exceptionally high content of PAS‐negative trichohyalin cytoplasmic granules at a location atop the dermal ridges and beneath the base of filiform papillae. These granular cells were immediately subjacent to clusters of clear, non‐granulated epidermal cells. It is believed that this integumentary specialization may enhance the structural strength at this localized site of the tissue architecture, in relationship to the mechanical papillae.
Various Types of Glomus Anastomoses in Developing Rat Fetuses
Authors: Çimen M. , Gürsoy E. , Kaloglu C.
Published: March 2003

Some observations on arteriovenous anastomosis (AVA) morphogenesis of rats were considered in this investigation. Interesting typical glomus anastomoses observed under light microscopy were determined by photography before evaluation. AVAs in the skin and mesentery were compared with those reported in morphological studies in the literature. Most of the glomus anastomoses were determined to be in conformity with those in the studies reported. Some resembled simple shunts and colleagues complex glomus anastomoses. It is suggested that the existence of various types of anastomoses of rat fetuses during development is dependent on blood flow.
Anatomisch‐topographische Darstellung des Magens, des Dünndarmes, des Dickdarmes sowie deren arterielle GefäIversorgung beim GroIen Mara (Dolichotis patagonum Desmarest 1820)
Authors: Weissengruber G. E.
Published: March 2003

Topographic‐anatomical description of the ventriculus, intestinum tenue, intestinum crassum and their arteries of the mara (Dolichotis patagonum Desmarest 1820)

The abdominal parts of the alimentary canal and the associated arteries from seven male and nine female maras are described. The mara possesses a stomach with a single cavity and a glandular mucosa lining. The large stomach is situated caudal of the liver at right‐angles to the longitudinal body axis. The long jejunum is located on the left side of the body caudal of the stomach. The cecum has two teniae and numerous haustra which are proximal larger than distal. The smooth colon ascendens runs proximal parallel to the cecum and describes distal an U‐shaped double‐loop. The internal surface of the proximal part of the colon ascendens is characterized by two parallel mucosal ledges. Cecum and colon ascendens lie right caudal of the liver. The colon descendens is coiled and situated on the left body side. The A. gastrica sinistra and branches of the A. lienalis and the A. hepatica supply the stomach. The A. mesenterica cranialis which branches off separately from the A. coeliaca is a large and long vessel that supplies the major parts of the small intestine and the colon. The A. mesenterica caudalis supplies parts of the colon desendens and of the rectum.
Light and Scanning Electron Microscopic Studies of the Nasal Turbinates of the Horse
Authors: Kumar P. , Timoney J. F. , Southgate H. H. P. , Sheoran A. S.
Published: March 2003

The nasal turbinates of 5 young horses were studied by light and scanning electron‐microscopy. Stratified cuboidal epithelium lined the rostral part of the dorsal and ventral nasal turbinates of the vestibular region. The polyangular microvillus cells of this region were separated by linear depressions. The mid and caudal parts of the dorsal and ventral nasal turbinates and the rostral part of the ethmoturbinates were lined by pseudostratified columnar ciliated respiratory epithelium. Numerous cilia with dilated blebs on the ciliated cells concealed adjacent non‐ciliated supporting cells and goblet cells. The olfactory zone consisting of the olfactory vesicle and a dense network of olfactory cilia localized to the caudal part of the ethmoturbinates. The three regions were delineated from each other by transitional zones.