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Itkonen L, Nihtilä H, Laakkonen J. Morphology of sweat glands in the skin of Saimaa (Pusa hispida saimensis) and Baltic ringed (Pusa hispida botnica) seals. Anat Histol Embryol 2024; 53:e13077. [PMID: 38899430 DOI: 10.1111/ahe.13077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
The endangered Saimaa ringed seal (Pusa hispida saimensis) is an endemic freshwater subspecies inhabiting Lake Saimaa in Finland. The Baltic ringed seal (Pusa hispida botnica) inhabits the brackish Baltic Sea, which is almost entirely landlocked. Recent research shows that Saimaa and Baltic ringed seals may be genetically even further apart from each other than from other ringed seal subspecies. We documented histologically the integument microstructure of Saimaa and Baltic ringed seals to determine whether the geographic and genetic isolation was manifested as variation in the integument microstructure of these subspecies adapted to icy aquatic environments. The skin structures of these subspecies were similar to those of other phocids. The association of the sweat glands with hair follicles in both subspecies suggested that they were small apocrine sweat glands described previously in terrestrial or aquatic mammals. None of the apocrine glands had large lumina, and some of the ducts were relatively straight and short. Further studies analysing the mode of secretion, for example, apocrine versus eccrine, in the sweat glands are necessary to confirm the types of sweat glands in seals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Itkonen
- Division of Veterinary Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Heini Nihtilä
- Division of Veterinary Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Juha Laakkonen
- Division of Veterinary Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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Kaewmong P, Jongjit P, Boonkasemsanti A, Kittiwattanawong K, Kongtueng P, Matchimakul P, Tangphokhanon W, Pirintr P, Khonmee J, Buddhasiri S, Piboon P, Umsumarng S, Mektrirat R, Nganvongpanit K, Pongkan W. Histological study of seventeen organs from dugong ( Dugong dugon). PeerJ 2023; 11:e15859. [PMID: 37663296 PMCID: PMC10473042 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Dugongs are marine mammals with a crescent-shaped tail fluke and a concave trailing margin that belong to the family Dugongidae., They are distributed widely in the warm coastal waters of the Indo-Pacific region. Importantly, the population of dugongs has decreased over the past decades as they have been classified as rare marine mammals. Previous studies have investigated the habitat and genetic diversity of dugongs. However, a comprehensive histological investigation of their tissue has not yet been conducted. This study provides unique insight into the organs of dugongs and compares them with other mammal species. Methods Tissue sections were stained with Harris's hematoxylin and eosin Y. The histological structure of 17 organ tissues obtained from eight systems was included in this study. Tissue sections were obtained from the urinary system (kidney), muscular system (striated skeletal muscle and smooth muscle), cardiovascular system (cardiac muscle (ventricle), coronary artery, and coronary vein), respiratory system (trachea and lung), gastrointestinal system (esophagus, stomach, small intestine, liver, and pancreas), reproductive system (testis), lymphatic system (spleen and thymus), and endocrine system (pancreas). Results While most structures were similar to those of other mammal species, there were some differences in the tissue sections of dugongs when compared with other mammalian species and manatees. These include the kidneys of dugongs, which were non-lobular and had a smooth, elongated exterior resulting in a long medullary crest, whereas the dugong pyloric epithelium did not have overlying stratified squamous cells and was noticably different from the Florida manatee. Discussion Histological information obtained from various organs of the dugong can serve as an essential foundation of basal data for future microanatomical studies. This information can also be used as high-value data in the diagnosis and pathogenesis of sick dugongs or those with an unknown cause of death.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Piyamat Kongtueng
- Central Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Research Center for Veterinary Biosciences and Veterinary Public Health, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Pitchaya Matchimakul
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Wasan Tangphokhanon
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Prapawadee Pirintr
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Jaruwan Khonmee
- Research Center for Veterinary Biosciences and Veterinary Public Health, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Songphon Buddhasiri
- Research Center for Veterinary Biosciences and Veterinary Public Health, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Promporn Piboon
- Research Center for Veterinary Biosciences and Veterinary Public Health, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Sonthaya Umsumarng
- Research Center for Veterinary Biosciences and Veterinary Public Health, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Raktham Mektrirat
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Korakot Nganvongpanit
- Research Center for Veterinary Biosciences and Veterinary Public Health, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Wanpitak Pongkan
- Research Center for Veterinary Biosciences and Veterinary Public Health, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
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Nourbakhsh H, Adams A, Raverty S, Vogl AW, Haulena M, Skoretz SA. Microscopic Anatomy of the Upper Aerodigestive Tract in Harbour Seals (Phoca vitulina): Functional Adaptations to Swallowing. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2022; 306:947-959. [PMID: 35719006 DOI: 10.1002/ar.25025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Abandoned harbour seal pups (Phoca vitulina) are frequently recovered by rehabilitation centres and often require intensive nursing, gavage feeding and swallowing rehabilitation prior to anticipated release. Seal upper aerodigestive tract (UAT) histology descriptions relevant to deglutition are limited, impacting advances in rehabilitation practice. Therefore, we examined the histological characteristics of the harbour seal UAT to understand species-specific functional anatomy and characterize adaptations. To this end, we conducted gross dissections, compiled measurements and reviewed histologic features of the UAT structures of 14 pre-weaned harbour seal pups that died due to natural causes or were humanely euthanized. Representative samples for histologic evaluation included the tongue, salivary glands, epiglottis, and varying levels of the trachea and esophagus. Histologically, there was a prominent muscularis in the tongue with fewer lingual papillae types compared to humans. Abundant submucosal glands were observed in lateral and pharyngeal parts of the tongue and rostral parts of the esophagus. When compared to other mammalian species, there was a disproportionate increase in the amount of striated muscle throughout the length of the esophageal muscularis externa. This may indicate a lesser degree of autonomic control over the esophageal phase of swallowing in harbour seals. Our study represents the first detailed UAT histological descriptions for neonatal harbour seals. Collectively, these findings support specific anatomic and biomechanic adaptations relevant to suckling, prehension and deglutition. This work will inform rehabilitation practices and guide future studies on swallowing physiology in harbour seals with potential applications to other pinniped and otariid species in rehabilitation settings. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hirad Nourbakhsh
- School of Audiology & Speech Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC
| | - Arlo Adams
- Life Sciences Institute & Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC
| | - Stephen Raverty
- Animal Health Center, 1767 Angus Campbell Road, Abbotsford, BC
| | - A Wayne Vogl
- Life Sciences Institute & Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC
| | - Martin Haulena
- Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Centre, Vancouver, BC
| | - Stacey A Skoretz
- School of Audiology & Speech Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC.,Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB
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Gutarra S, Rahman IA. The locomotion of extinct secondarily aquatic tetrapods. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2021; 97:67-98. [PMID: 34486794 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The colonisation of freshwater and marine ecosystems by land vertebrates has repeatedly occurred in amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals over the course of 300 million years. Functional interpretations of the fossil record are crucial to understanding the forces shaping these evolutionary transitions. Secondarily aquatic tetrapods have acquired a suite of anatomical, physiological and behavioural adaptations to locomotion in water. However, much of this information is lost for extinct clades, with fossil evidence often restricted to osteological data and a few extraordinary specimens with soft tissue preservation. Traditionally, functional morphology in fossil secondarily aquatic tetrapods was investigated through comparative anatomy and correlation with living functional analogues. However, in the last two decades, biomechanics in palaeobiology has experienced a remarkable methodological shift. Anatomy-based approaches are increasingly rigorous, informed by quantitative techniques for analysing shape. Moreover, the incorporation of physics-based methods has enabled objective tests of functional hypotheses, revealing the importance of hydrodynamic forces as drivers of evolutionary innovation and adaptation. Here, we present an overview of the latest research on the locomotion of extinct secondarily aquatic tetrapods, with a focus on amniotes, highlighting the state-of-the-art experimental approaches used in this field. We discuss the suitability of these techniques for exploring different aspects of locomotory adaptation, analysing their advantages and limitations and laying out recommendations for their application, with the aim to inform future experimental strategies. Furthermore, we outline some unexplored research avenues that have been successfully deployed in other areas of palaeobiomechanical research, such as the use of dynamic models in feeding mechanics and terrestrial locomotion, thus providing a new methodological synthesis for the field of locomotory biomechanics in extinct secondarily aquatic vertebrates. Advances in imaging technology and three-dimensional modelling software, new developments in robotics, and increased availability and awareness of numerical methods like computational fluid dynamics make this an exciting time for analysing form and function in ancient vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana Gutarra
- School of Earth Sciences, University of Bristol, Life Sciences Building, 24 Tyndall Avenue, Bristol, BS8 1TQ, U.K.,Department of Earth Sciences, the Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, London, U.K
| | - Imran A Rahman
- Department of Earth Sciences, the Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, London, U.K.,Oxford University Museum of Natural History, Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PW, U.K
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5
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Barboza MLB, Reyno B. Taste receptors in aquatic mammals: Potential role of solitary chemosensory cells in immune responses. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2021; 305:680-687. [PMID: 34264538 DOI: 10.1002/ar.24708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The sense of taste is associated with the evaluation of food and other environmental parameters such as salinity. In aquatic mammals, anatomic and behavioral evidence of the use of taste varies by species and genomic analysis of taste receptors indicates an overall reduction and, in some cases, complete loss of intact bitter and sweet taste receptors. However, the receptors used by taste buds in the oral cavity are found on cells in other areas of the body and play an important role in immune responses. In the respiratory tract, an example of such cells is solitary chemosensory cells (SCCs) which have bitter and sweet taste receptors. The bitter receptors detect chemicals given off by pathogens and initiate an innate immune response. Although many aquatic mammals may not have a role for taste in the assessment of food, they likely would benefit from the added protection that SCCs provide, especially considering respiratory diseases are a problem for many aquatic mammals. While evidence indicates that some species do not possess functional bitter receptors for taste, many do have intact bitter receptor genes and it is important for researchers to be aware of all roles for these receptors in homeostasis. Through a better understanding of the anatomy and physiology of aquatic mammal's respiratory systems, better treatment and management is possible.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Beau Reyno
- University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut, USA
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da Silva AP, Machado ASD, Le Bas AE, Silva RG, Dos Anjos Silva E, Hernandez-Blazquez FJ. The skin structures and their role in the thermoregulation of the South American fur seal (Arctocephalus australis). Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2020; 303:3155-3167. [PMID: 31908126 DOI: 10.1002/ar.24357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Revised: 11/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The skin of the South American fur seal (Arctocephalus australis) is important for animal thermoregulation in both terrestrial and aquatic environments. Skin tissue samples were collected from A. australis for microscopic analysis and were related to anatomical references. The aim of this study was to describe the skin morphology, as well as to suggest the major anatomical regions and skin components involved in the thermoregulation of this species. Using light microscopy, the skin of six animals was examined based on histological, morphometric, and immunohistochemical criteria. Hair follicle morphology was examined using scanning electron microscopy. The skin was classified as either thick or thin based on its epidermal thickness. The thin epidermis regions had more abundant hair follicles, as well as high pigmentation, whereas the thick epidermis regions had very pigmented epidermal layers. Pigmentation of hair and skin is fundamental for protection against ultraviolet rays; moreover, hair is important in preventing abrasion, and provides an insulating layer against the external environment, which can be much colder than body temperature. Furthermore, the dermis is well vascularized, especially the superficial dermis. All regions of the skin have adaptations for maintaining the animal's condition in both terrestrial and aquatic environments. Among the studied regions, the interdigital region from hindflipper showed important morphological characteristics related to thermoregulation, such as having an epidermis of intermediate thickness, a dermis with a small number of hairs, a large amount of blood vessels, and sweat glands with large lumens, indicating that heat exchange in this region may be faster.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Paula da Silva
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Alex S D Machado
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Pós-Graduate Program in Animal Biology, Federal University of Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Alfredo E Le Bas
- Department Physiology, Faculty of Sciences and Humanity, University of Uruguay Republic, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Rodrigo G Silva
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Elizangela Dos Anjos Silva
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Institute of Biosciences, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
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Hanadhita D, Rahma A, Prawira AY, Mayasari NLPI, Satyaningtijas AS, Hondo E, Agungpriyono S. The spleen morphophysiology of fruit bats. Anat Histol Embryol 2019; 48:315-324. [PMID: 30968443 PMCID: PMC7159459 DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2018] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 03/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Spleen is one of the important lymphoid organs with wide variations of morphological and physiological functions according to species. Morphology and function of the spleen in bats, which are hosts to several viral strains without exhibiting clinical symptoms, remain to be fully elucidated. This study aims to examine the spleen morphology of fruit bats associated with their physiological functions. Spleen histological observations were performed in three fruit bats species: Cynopterus titthaecheilus (n = 9), Rousettus leschenaultii (n = 3) and Pteropus vampyrus (n = 3). The spleens of these fruit bats were surrounded by a thin capsule. Red pulp consisted of splenic cord and wide vascular space filled with blood. Ellipsoids in all three studied species were found numerously and adjacent to one another forming macrophages aggregates. White pulp consisted of periarteriolar lymphoid sheaths (PALS), lymphoid follicles and marginal zone. The lymphoid follicle contained a germinal centre and a tingible body macrophage that might reflect an active immune system. The marginal zone was prominent and well developed. This study reports some differences in spleen structure of fruit bats compared to other bat species previously reported and discusses possible physiological implications of the spleen based on its morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Desrayni Hanadhita
- Department of Anatomy Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineBogor Agricultural University (IPB)BogorIndonesia
| | - Anisa Rahma
- Department of Anatomy Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineBogor Agricultural University (IPB)BogorIndonesia
| | - Andhika Yudha Prawira
- Department of Anatomy Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineBogor Agricultural University (IPB)BogorIndonesia
| | - Ni Luh Putu Ika Mayasari
- Department of Animal Disease and Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineBogor Agricultural University (IPB)BogorIndonesia
| | - Aryani Sismin Satyaningtijas
- Department of Anatomy Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineBogor Agricultural University (IPB)BogorIndonesia
| | - Eiichi Hondo
- Laboratory of Animal Morphology, Graduate School of Bioagricultural SciencesNagoya UniversityNagoyaJapan
| | - Srihadi Agungpriyono
- Department of Anatomy Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineBogor Agricultural University (IPB)BogorIndonesia
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Cieri RL. Pulmonary Smooth Muscle in Vertebrates: A Comparative Review of Structure and Function. Integr Comp Biol 2019; 59:10-28. [DOI: 10.1093/icb/icz002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Although the airways of vertebrates are diverse in shape, complexity, and function, they all contain visceral smooth muscle. The morphology, function, and innervation of this tissue in airways is reviewed in actinopterygians, lungfish, amphibians, non-avian reptiles, birds, and mammals. Smooth muscle was likely involved in tension regulation ancestrally, and may serve to assist lung emptying in fishes and aquatic amphibians, as well as maintain internal lung structure. In certain non-avian reptiles and anurans antagonistic smooth muscle fibers may contribute to intrapulmonary gas mixing. In mammals and birds, smooth muscle regulates airway caliber, and may be important in controlling the distribution of ventilation at rest and exercise, or during thermoregulatory and vocal hyperventilation. Airway smooth muscle is controlled by the autonomic nervous system: cranial cholinergic innervation generally causes excitation, cranial non-adrenergic, non-cholinergic innervation causes inhibition, and spinal adrenergic (SA) input causes species-specific, often heterogeneous contractions and relaxations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert L Cieri
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Utah, 247 South 1400 East, 201 South Biology, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
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Krmpotic CM, Loza CM, Negrete J, Scarano AC, Carlini AA, Guerrero A, Barbeito CG. Integument in Antarctic seals: A comparative study and its relation to extreme environments. ACTA ZOOL-STOCKHOLM 2017. [DOI: 10.1111/azo.12212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Mariana Krmpotic
- CONICET; La Plata Argentina
- División de Paleontología Vertebrados; Museo de La Plata; La Plata Provincia de Buenos Aires Argentina
- Cátedra de Histología y Embriología; Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias; Universidad Nacional de La Plata; La Plata Provincia de Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - Cleopatra Mara Loza
- CONICET; La Plata Argentina
- División de Paleontología Vertebrados; Museo de La Plata; La Plata Provincia de Buenos Aires Argentina
- Cátedra de Histología y Embriología; Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias; Universidad Nacional de La Plata; La Plata Provincia de Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - Javier Negrete
- Departamento Biología de Predadores Tope; Instituto Antártico Argentino; Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Museo; Universidad Nacional de La Plata; La Plata Argentina
| | - Alejo Carlos Scarano
- CONICET; La Plata Argentina
- División de Paleontología Vertebrados; Museo de La Plata; La Plata Provincia de Buenos Aires Argentina
- Departamento de Ambiente y Turismo; Universidad Nacional de Avellaneda; Avellaneda Provincia de Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - Alfredo Armando Carlini
- CONICET; La Plata Argentina
- División de Paleontología Vertebrados; Museo de La Plata; La Plata Provincia de Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - Alicia Guerrero
- Mammal Lab; Evolution and Ecology Research Centre; School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences; University of New South Wales; Sydney NSW Australia
| | - Claudio Gustavo Barbeito
- CONICET; La Plata Argentina
- Cátedra de Histología y Embriología; Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias; Universidad Nacional de La Plata; La Plata Provincia de Buenos Aires Argentina
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PHARMACOKINETICS OF A SINGLE SUBCUTANEOUS DOSE OF SUSTAINED RELEASE BUPRENORPHINE IN NORTHERN ELEPHANT SEALS (MIROUNGA ANGUSTIROSTRIS). J Zoo Wildl Med 2015; 46:52-61. [DOI: 10.1638/2014-0115r.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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11
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Mcgovern KA, Marshall CD, Davis RW. Are vibrissae viable sensory structures for prey capture in northern elephant seals, Mirounga angustirostris? Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2014; 298:750-60. [PMID: 25331439 DOI: 10.1002/ar.23061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2014] [Accepted: 10/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Little is known about the tactics northern elephant seals (NES) use to capture prey due to the difficulties in observing these animals underwater. NES forage on vertically migrating prey at depths >500 m during day and at night where light levels are negligible. Although NES have increased visual sensitivity in deep water, vision is likely a limited sensory modality. Still images of NES foraging show that the mystacial vibrissae are protracted before prey capture. As a representative phocid, harbor seals can follow hydrodynamic trails using their vibrissae, and are highly sensitive to water velocity changes. In lieu of performance data, vibrissal innervation can be used as a proxy for sensitivity. Although comparative data are few, seals average 1,000 to 1,600 axons per vibrissa (five to eight times more than terrestrial mammals). To test the hypothesis that NES have increased innervation as other pinnipeds, vibrissae from the ventral-caudal mystacial field from nine individuals were sectioned and stained for microstructure (trichrome) and innervation (Bodian silver stain). Follicles were tripartite and consisted of lower and upper cavernous sinuses separated by a ring sinus containing an asymmetrical ringwulst. The deep vibrissal nerve penetrated the follicular capsule at the base, branched into several bundles, and coursed through the lower cavernous sinus to the ring sinus. Axons in the ring sinus terminated in the ringwulst and along the inner conical body. NES averaged 1,584 axons per vibrissa. The results add to the growing body of evidence that phocids, and perhaps all pinnipeds, possess highly sensitive mystacial vibrissae that detect prey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen A Mcgovern
- Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
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12
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Dolka I, Giżejewska A, Giżejewski Z, Kluciński W, Kołodziejska J. Histological Evaluation of Selected Organs of the Eurasian Beavers(Castor fiber)Inhabiting Poland. Anat Histol Embryol 2014; 44:378-90. [DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2013] [Accepted: 08/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- I. Dolka
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Diagnostics; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Warsaw University of Life Sciences (WULS-SGGW); Nowoursynowska 159c 02-776 Warsaw Poland
| | - A. Giżejewska
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn; Oczapowskiego 2 10-719 Olsztyn Poland
| | - Z. Giżejewski
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research; Polish Academy of Sciences; Tuwima 10 10-747 Olsztyn Poland
| | - W. Kluciński
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Diagnostics; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Warsaw University of Life Sciences (WULS-SGGW); Nowoursynowska 159c 02-776 Warsaw Poland
| | - J. Kołodziejska
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Diagnostics; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Warsaw University of Life Sciences (WULS-SGGW); Nowoursynowska 159c 02-776 Warsaw Poland
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Smodlaka H, Henry RW. Gross Anatomy of the Ringed Seal (Pusa hispida) Gastro-Intestinal Tract. Anat Histol Embryol 2013; 43:230-8. [DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2012] [Accepted: 04/21/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- H. Smodlaka
- The Western University of Health Sciences; College of Veterinary Medicine; 309 E. Second Street Pomona CA 91766-1854 USA
| | - R. W. Henry
- Department of Biomedical Sciences; College of Veterinary Medicine; University of Tennessee; 2407 River Drive Knoxville TN 37996 USA
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Khamas WA, Smodlaka H, Leach-Robinson J, Palmer L. Skin histology and its role in heat dissipation in three pinniped species. Acta Vet Scand 2012; 54:46. [PMID: 22889205 PMCID: PMC3502088 DOI: 10.1186/1751-0147-54-46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2012] [Accepted: 07/24/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pinnipeds have a thick blubber layer and may have difficulty maintaining their body temperature during hot weather when on land. The skin is the main thermoregulatory conduit which emits excessive body heat. METHODS Thorough evaluation of the skin histology in three pinniped species; the California sea lion-Zalophus californianus, the Pacific harbor seal-Phoca vitulina richardsi, and the Northern elephant seal-Mirounga angustirostris, was conducted to identify the presence, location and distribution of skin structures which contribute to thermoregulation. These structures included hair, adipose tissue, sweat glands, vasculature, and arteriovenous anastomoses (AVA). Thermal imaging was performed on live animals of the same species to correlate histological findings with thermal emission of the skin. RESULTS The presence and distribution of skin structures directly relates to emissivity of the skin in all three species. Emissivity of skin in phocids (Pacific harbor and Northern elephant seals) follows a different pattern than skin in otariids (California sea lions). The flipper skin in phocids tends to be the most emissive region during hot weather and least emissive during cold weather. On the contrary in otariids, skin of the entire body has a tendency to be emissive during both hot and cold weather. CONCLUSION Heat dissipation of the skin directly relates to the presence and distribution of skin structures in all three species. Different skin thermal dissipation patterns were observed in phocid versus otariid seals. Observed thermal patterns can be used for proper understanding of optimum thermal needs of seals housed in research facilities, rescue centers and zoo exhibits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wael A Khamas
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Western University of Health Sciences, 309 E. Second Street, Pomona, CA 91766-1854, USA
| | - Hrvoje Smodlaka
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Western University of Health Sciences, 309 E. Second Street, Pomona, CA 91766-1854, USA
| | - Jessica Leach-Robinson
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Western University of Health Sciences, 309 E. Second Street, Pomona, CA 91766-1854, USA
| | - Lauren Palmer
- The Marine Mammal Care Center Fort MacArthur, 3601S. Gaffey St., San Pedro, CA 90731, USA
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Smodlaka H, Khamas W, Tkalcic S, Golub T, Palmer L. Histological Assessment of Selected Blood Vessels of the Phocid Seals (Northern Elephant and Harbour Seals). Anat Histol Embryol 2010; 39:178-85. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0264.2010.00994.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Rijks JM, Read FL, van de Bildt MWG, van Bolhuis HG, Martina BEE, Wagenaar JA, van der Meulen K, Osterhaus ADME, Kuiken T. Quantitative analysis of the 2002 phocine distemper epidemic in the Netherlands. Vet Pathol 2008; 45:516-30. [PMID: 18587100 DOI: 10.1354/vp.45-4-516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Phocine distemper virus (PDV) caused thousands of deaths among harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) from the North Sea in 1988 and 2002. To examine the effects of different factors on the pathology of phocine distemper, we performed necropsies and laboratory analyses on 369 harbor seals that stranded along the Dutch coast during the 2002 PDV epidemic. Diagnostic tests for morbillivirus infection indicated a differential temporal presence of morbillivirus in lung and brain. Seals of 3 years or older were significantly more often IgG positive than younger seals. The most frequent lesions in PDV cases were bronchopneumonia, broncho-interstitial pneumonia, and interstitial emphysema. Extra-thoracic emphysema was rare in <1-year-olds compared with older seals, even though severe pneumonia was more common. PDV cases generally had empty stomachs and less blubber than by-caught seals from before the epidemic. In PDV cases involving older animals, lung, kidney, and adrenal weights were significantly increased. Bordetella bronchiseptica was isolated from lungs in two thirds of the PDV cases examined. Our results indicate that brain should be included among the tissues tested for PDV by RT-PCR; that either phocine distemper has a longer duration in older seals or that there are age-related differences in immunity and organ development; that dehydration could play a role in the course and outcome of phocine distemper; and that bacterial coinfections in lungs are more frequent in PDV cases than gross lesions suggest. These results illustrate how quantitative analysis of pathology data from such epidemics can improve understanding of the causative disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Rijks
- Department of Virology, Erasmus Medical Centre, Postbus 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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