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The article discusses advancements in knee arthroplasty and the challenges associated with the patellofemoral joint. It highlights the fall of the dogma of mechanical alignment (MA) and the rise of kinematic alignment (KA) in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The article explains that off-the-shelf TKA implants may not be compatible with KA, leading to patellofemoral complications. It also explores the evolutionary perspective of the femoral condyles and trochlea and the need for individualized TKA implants to optimize patellofemoral and tibiofemoral kinematics. The article concludes by suggesting that the decoupling of the trochlea from the condyles is a transformative approach in knee arthroplasty. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Evolution of novelty is a central theme in evolutionary biology, yet studying the origins of traits with an apparently discontinuous origin remains a major challenge. Venom systems are a well-suited model for the study of this phenomenon because they capture several aspects of novelty across multiple levels of biological complexity. However, while there is some knowledge on the evolution of individual toxins, not much is known about the evolution of venom systems as a whole. One way of shedding light on the evolution of new traits is to investigate less specialised serial homologues, i.e. repeated traits in an organism that share a developmental origin. This approach can be particularly informative in animals with repetitive body segments, such as centipedes. Results: Here, we investigate morphological and biochemical aspects of the defensive telopodal glandular organs borne on the posterior legs of venomous stone centipedes (Lithobiomorpha), using a multimethod approach, including behavioural observations, comparative morphology, proteomics, comparative transcriptomics and molecular phylogenetics. We show that the anterior venom system and posterior telopodal defence system are functionally convergent serial homologues, where one (telopodal defence) represents a model for the putative early evolutionary state of the other (venom). Venom glands and telopodal glandular organs appear to have evolved from the same type of epidermal gland (four-cell recto-canal type) and while the telopodal defensive secretion shares a great degree of compositional overlap with centipede venoms in general, these similarities arose predominantly through convergent recruitment of distantly related toxin-like components. Both systems are composed of elements predisposed to functional innovation across levels of biological complexity that range from proteins to glands, demonstrating clear parallels between molecular and morphological traits in the properties that facilitate the evolution of novelty. Conclusions: The evolution of the lithobiomorph telopodal defence system provides indirect empirical support for the plausibility of the hypothesised evolutionary origin of the centipede venom system, which occurred through functional innovation and gradual specialisation of existing epidermal glands. Our results thus exemplify how continuous transformation and functional innovation can drive the apparent discontinuous emergence of novelties on higher levels of biological complexity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Determining the fundamental characteristics that define a face as "feminine" or "masculine" has long fascinated anatomists and plastic surgeons, particularly those involved in aesthetic and gender-affirming surgery. Previous studies in this area have relied on manual measurements, comparative anatomy, and heuristic landmark-based feature extraction. In this study, we collected retrospectively at Cedars Sinai Medical Center (CSMC) a dataset of 98 skull samples, which is the first dataset of this kind of 3D medical imaging. We then evaluated the accuracy of multiple deep learning neural network architectures on sex classification with this dataset. Specifically, we evaluated methods representing three different 3D data modeling approaches: Resnet3D, PointNet++, and MeshNet. Despite the limited number of imaging samples, our testing results show that all three approaches achieve AUC scores above 0.9 after convergence. PointNet++ exhibits the highest accuracy, while MeshNet has the lowest. Our findings suggest that accuracy is not solely dependent on the sparsity of data representation but also on the architecture design, with MeshNet's lower accuracy likely due to the lack of a hierarchical structure for progressive data abstraction. Furthermore, we studied a problem related to sex determination, which is the analysis of the various morphological features that affect sex classification. We proposed and developed a new method based on morphological gradients to visualize features that influence model decision making. The method based on morphological gradients is an alternative to the standard saliency map, and the new method provides better visualization of feature importance. Our study is the first to develop and evaluate deep learning models for analyzing 3D facial skull images to identify imaging feature differences between individuals assigned male or female at birth. These findings may be useful for planning and evaluating craniofacial surgery, particularly gender-affirming procedures, such as facial feminization surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anomaluromorpha is a particularly puzzling suborder of Rodentia. Endemic to Africa, this clade includes the extant genera Idiurus, Anomalurus, Zenkerella, and Pedetes. These rodents present an hystricomorphous condition of the skull, characterized by a large infraorbital foramen, which evolved independently within the mouse‐related clade over a span of approximately 57 million years. They exhibit a high disparity in craniomandibular and dental morphology that has kept their phylogenetic affinities disputed for a long time. Given the past significance of masticatory morphotypes in establishing the classification of Rodentia, we propose to explore variations in the masticatory apparatus of Anomaluromorpha in order to evaluate whether its related features can offer additional data for systematics and contribute to our understanding of the complexity of hystricomorphy. In order to do so, we used traditional dissection and diffusible iodine‐based contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (diceCT) to accurately describe and compare the anatomy of the specimens. We found that the muscle morphology displays clear differentiation among each anomaluromorph taxonomic unit. Specifically, the masseteric complex of Anomaluromorpha exhibits distinctive synapomorphies such as the infraorbital part of the zygomaticomandibularis muscle being separated into a rostral and orbital part and an absence of a posterior part of the zygomaticomandibularis. Additionally, the orbital portion of the infraorbital part originates from a well‐marked ridge and fossa at the level of its area of origin on the anteromedial wall of the orbital cavity, a feature that is absent in other members of the mouse‐related clade. This evident bony feature, among others, is strongly associated with muscular anatomy and can contribute to ascertaining the taxonomic status of extinct representatives of the clade. Finally, we showed that the hystricomorphy of Anomaluromorpha largely differs from those of Ctenohystrica and Dipodoidea and that the definition of this morphotype is complex and cannot be reduced simply to the size of the opening of the infraorbital foramen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evolution of archosaurs provides an important context for understanding the mechanisms behind major functional transformations in vertebrates, such as shifts from sprawling to erect limb posture and the acquisition of powered flight. While comparative anatomy and ichnology of extinct archosaurs have offered insights into musculoskeletal and gait changes associated with locomotor transitions, reconstructing the evolution of motor control requires data from extant species. However, the scarcity of electromyography (EMG) data from the forelimb, especially of crocodylians, has hindered understanding of neuromuscular evolution in archosaurs. Here, we present EMG data for nine forelimb muscles from American alligators during terrestrial locomotion. Our aim was to investigate the modulation of motor control across different limb postures and examine variations in motor control across phylogeny and locomotor modes. Among the nine muscles examined, m. pectoralis, the largest forelimb muscle and primary shoulder adductor, exhibited significantly smaller mean EMG amplitudes for steps in which the shoulder was more adducted (i.e., upright). This suggests that using a more adducted limb posture helps to reduce forelimb muscle force and work during stance. As larger alligators use a more adducted shoulder and hip posture, the sprawling to erect postural transition that occurred in the Triassic could be either the cause or consequence of the evolution of larger body size in archosaurs. Comparisons of EMG burst phases among tetrapods revealed that a bird and turtle, which have experienced major musculoskeletal transformations, displayed distinctive burst phases in comparison to those from an alligator and lizard. These results support the notion that major shifts in body plan and locomotor modes among sauropsid lineages were associated with significant changes in muscle activation patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the contributions of two scientists, Korbinian Brodmann and Olof Larsell, to the understanding of the human brain. Brodmann, a German neuropsychiatrist, mapped the cerebral cortex and identified 52 different regions known as Brodmann's areas. Larsell, a Swedish-American anatomist, developed a nomenclature system for mapping the cerebellum called "Larsell nomenclature." Their research laid the foundations for current advances in human brain anatomy. Despite this, their work is not widely known by neurologists, neuroanatomists, neuroradiologists, or neurosurgeons. [Extracted from the article]

This paper investigates conceptions of explanation, teleology, and analogy in the works of Immanuel Kant (1724–1804) and Georges Cuvier (1769–1832). Richards (2000, 2002) and Zammito (2006, 2012, 2018) have argued that Kant's philosophy provided an obstacle for the project of establishing biology as a proper science around 1800. By contrast, Russell (1916), Outram (1986), and Huneman (2006, 2008) have argued, similar to suggestions from Lenoir (1989), that Kant's philosophy influenced the influential naturalist Georges Cuvier. In this article, I wish to expand on and further the work of Russell, Outram, and Huneman by adopting a novel perspective on Cuvier and considering (a) the similar conceptions of proper science and explanation of Kant and Cuvier, and (b) the similar conceptions of the role of teleology and analogy in the works of Kant and Cuvier. The similarities between Kant and Cuvier show, contrary to the interpretation of Richards and Zammito, that some of Kant's philosophical ideas, whether they derived from him or not, were fruitfully applied by some life scientists who wished to transform life sciences into proper sciences around 1800. However, I also show that Cuvier, in contrast to Kant, had a workable strategy for transforming the life sciences into proper sciences, and that he departed from Kant's philosophy of science in crucial respects. • Explains the relevance of Kant's philosophy for the emergence of biology. • Explains Cuvier's conception of proper science and explanation. • Explains Cuvier's regulative conception of teleology and analogy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using diffusible iodine‐based contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (diceCT), we examined the morphology of the oral glands of 12 species of the family Homalopsidae. Snakes of this family exhibit substantial interspecific morphological variation in their oral glands. Particular variables are the venom glands, ranging from large (e.g., Subsessor bocourti) to small (e.g., Erpeton tentaculatum). The supra‐ and infralabial glands are more uniform in morphology, being the second most developed in almost all the sampled species. Premaxillary glands distinct from the supralabial glands were observed in five species (Myron richardsonii, Bitia hydroides, Cantoria violacea, Fordonia leucobalia, and Gerarda prevostiana), in addition to Cerberus rynchops, the only species in which this condition was previously documented associated with the excretion of salt. In the three species of the saltwater group of homalopsids (C. violacea, F. leucobalia, and G. prevostiana), the premaxillary glands also extend posteriorly, occupying a large area above the supralabial gland, a condition not observed in any other species of snake studied thus far. Character evolution analyses indicate that premaxillary glands differentiated from the supralabial gland and evolved independently three or four times in the family, always in lineages that invaded marine habitats. Our results suggest that the differentiated premaxillary glands are likely salt glands, as is the case in C. rynchops. If corroborated, this increases to six or seven the number of independent evolutionary origins of salt glands in snakes that have undergone an evolutionary transition to marine life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The anatomy of the archosaurian pelvis and hindlimb has adopted a diversity of successful configurations allowing a wide range of postures during the evolution of the group (e.g., erect, sprawling). For this reason, thorough studies of the structure and function of the pelvic and hindlimb musculature of crocodylians are required and provide the possibility to expand their implications for the evolution of archosaurian locomotion, as well as to identify potential new characters based on muscles and their bony correlates. In this study, we give a detailed description of the pelvic and hindlimb musculature of the South American alligator Caiman yacare, providing comprehensive novel information regarding lower limb and autopodial muscles. Particularly for the pedal muscles, we propose a new classification for the dorsal and ventral muscles of the autopodium based on the organisation of these muscles in successive layers. We have studied the myology in a global background in which we have compared the Caiman yacare musculature with other crocodylians. In this sense, differences in the arrangement of m. flexor tibialis internus 1, m. flexor tibialis externus, m. iliofibularis, mm. puboischiofemorales internii 1 and 2, between Ca. yacare and other crocodylians were found. We also discuss the muscle attachments that have different bony correlates among the crocodylian species and their morphological variation. Most of the correlates did not exhibit great variation among the species compared. The majority of the recognised correlates were identified in the pelvic girdle; additionally, some bony correlates associated with the pedal muscles are highlighted here for the first time. This research provides a wide framework for future studies on comparative anatomy and functional morphology, which could contribute to improving the character definition used in phylogenetic analyses and to understand the patterns of musculoskeletal hindlimb evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the importance of information on intrauterine development in diagnosing anomalies in the gestational development of the species for the development of assisted reproduction technologies as well as understanding the autonomy and responsiveness of the newborn, the aim of the present study was to describe the external morphology of collared peccary conceptuses. For this study, two conceptuses were used per gestational age of 25–120 days post‐copulation (dpc) and neonates with 145 dpc, totalling 22 animals. Females were euthanised, and embryos/foetuses were examined, measured, and photographed. During the first third of the gestational period (25–50 dpc, n = 8), a marked body curvature, brain vesicles, somites, internal organs, placid lens, auricular protrusion and limb buds are noted. In the second third of the gestational period (51–100 dpc, n = 10), foetuses lose their body curvature, displaying greater anatomical definition, including skeletal, external ears, nostrils, eyelids and tactile hair formation and cranial suture closure. In addition, dorsal scent gland and genital tubercle differentiation were visualized at 50 days post‐copulation. In the third of the gestational period (101–145 dpc, n = 4), the organs become completely formed, alongside skin darkening, eyelid opening, dental eruption, dorsal odorous gland development, sexual organ externalization, and fanero attachment development. These data allowed for the construction of a prenatal growth curve, providing comparative anatomy information for ungulates and further contributing towards rational reproductive management and reproductive biotechnologies for this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of lycaenid butterfly, Paralucia crosbyisp. nov. (Theclinae: Luciini), is described, diagnosed and illustrated from Namadgi National Park, ACT, and adjacent areas in New South Wales in the highlands of south‐eastern Australia. It is most similar to Paralucia spinifera E.D. Edwards & Common, 1978, but comparative morphology of the adult and immature stages indicates fundamental differences between the two species. Maximum Likelihood phylogenetic analysis of mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) of all Paralucia species recovered P. crosbyisp. nov. and P. spinifera as reciprocally monophyletic, with a mean uncorrected 'p' pairwise divergence of 0.93%. Paralucia crosbyisp. nov. appears to be a narrow‐range endemic, restricted to dry montane eucalypt open woodland or woodland between 920 and 1130 m asl, in which the mean annual rainfall varies from 700 to 800 mm and where an abundance of the larval food plant Bursaria spinosa Cav. subsp. lasiophylla (E.M.Benn.) L. Cayzer, Crisp & I. Telford (Pittosporaceae) and colonies of the attendant ant Anonychomyrma sp. (itinerans species group) (Dolichoderinae) are established. The immature stages are described, illustrated and compared with those of P. spinifera and P. aurifera (Blanchard, [1848]). Despite being limited to high altitudes, adults fly in late winter–early spring (late July to early October). The species is univoltine, with much of the year (~9 months) passed in the pupal stage. The ecology, biology and life cycle are discussed, and a likely mode of speciation is hypothesised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The aim of this study was to analyze and compare the morphology of root canals in the carnassial teeth of German shepherds and mixed-breed dogs. Knowledge of the morphology of root canals is essential for a successful endodontic procedure. It has been determined that an apical delta, which represents a complex structure that consists of multiple cavities whose purpose is to allow the passing of nerves and blood vessels from the pulp cavity to the apex of the root, was present in 247 roots. There are four main types of apical delta. The most common type in superior fourth premolars was type II, with up to 10 apical ramifications, whereas type IIIA, with 10–20 apical ramifications, was most commonly present in inferior first molars. Root canal treatment of carnassial teeth in dogs is a common endodontic technique which aims to re-establish or maintain the health of the periapical tissues. In total, 43 dogs were used in this study. Root canal morphology was evaluated in 86 superior fourth premolars and 86 inferior first molars. Apical delta was present in 247 roots, while obliteration of the root canal was found in 11 roots. The most common type of apical delta of the roots of superior fourth premolars was type II, with up to 10 apical ramifications, while type IIIA, with 10–20 apical ramifications, was most commonly present in the roots of inferior first molars. Considering that knowledge of the morphology of root canals is essential for a successful endodontic procedure, the aim of this study was to analyze and compare the morphology of root canals in the carnassial teeth of German shepherds and mixed-breed dogs. Apical resection for the purpose of endodontic therapy of the superior fourth premolar and the inferior first molar is indicated at a length of 4 to 6 mm from the anatomical tip of the roots, which would completely remove the apical delta of these two teeth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comparative anatomy is an important tool for investigating evolutionary relationships among species, but the lack of scalable imaging tools and stains for rapidly mapping the microscale anatomies of related species poses a major impediment to using comparative anatomy approaches for identifying evolutionary adaptations. We describe a method using synchrotron source micro‐x‐ray computed tomography (syn‐μXCT) combined with machine learning algorithms for high‐throughput imaging of Lepidoptera (i.e., butterfly and moth) eyes. Our pipeline allows for imaging at rates of ~15 min/mm3 at 600 nm3 resolution. Image contrast is generated using standard electron microscopy labeling approaches (e.g., osmium tetroxide) that unbiasedly labels all cellular membranes in a species‐independent manner thus removing any barrier to imaging any species of interest. To demonstrate the power of the method, we analyzed the 3D morphologies of butterfly crystalline cones, a part of the visual system associated with acuity and sensitivity and found significant variation within six butterfly individuals. Despite this variation, a classic measure of optimization, the ratio of interommatidial angle to resolving power of ommatidia, largely agrees with early work on eye geometry across species. We show that this method can successfully be used to determine compound eye organization and crystalline cone morphology. Our novel pipeline provides for fast, scalable visualization and analysis of eye anatomies that can be applied to any arthropod species, enabling new questions about evolutionary adaptations of compound eyes and beyond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Odontocetes primarily rely on fish, cephalopods, and crustaceans as their main source of nutrition. In the digestive system, their polygastric complex exhibits similarities to that of their closest terrestrial relatives such as cows, sheep, and giraffes, while the entero‐colic tract shares similarities with terrestrial carnivores. The morphology, caliber, and structure of the odontocete intestine are relatively constant, and, since there is no caecum, a distinction between the small and large intestine and their respective subdivisions is difficult. To address this issue, we used the intestinal vascularization pattern, specifically the course and branching of the celiac artery (CA) and the cranial and caudal mesenteric arteries (CrMA and CdMA). A series of pictures and dissections of 10 bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) were analyzed. Additionally, we performed a cast by injecting colored polyurethane foam in both arteries and veins to measure the caliber of the arteries and clarify their monopodial or dichotomous branching. Our results showed the presence of multiple duodenal arteries (DAs) detaching from the CA. The CrMA gave origin to multiple jejunal arteries, an ileocolic artery (ICA), and, in six cases, a CdMA. In four specimens, the CdMA directly originated from the abdominal aorta. The ICA gave rise to the mesenteric ileal branches (MIB) and mesenteric anti‐ileal branches and the right colic arteries (RCA) and the middle colic arteries. From the CdMA originated the left colic and cranial rectal arteries (LCA and CrRA). The measurements revealed a mixed monopodial and dichotomous branching scheme. The analysis of the arteries and their branching gave us an instrument, based on comparative anatomy, to distinguish between the different intestinal compartments. We used the midpoint of anastomoses between MIB and RCA to indicate the border between the small and the large intestine, and the midpoint of anastomoses between LCA and CrRA, to tell the colon from the rectum. This pattern suggested an elongation of the duodenum and a shortening of the colic tract that is still present in this species. These findings might be related to the crucial need to possess a long duodenal tract to digest prey ingested whole without chewing. A short aboral part is also functional to avoid gas‐producing colic fermentation. The rare origin of the CdMA on the CrMA might instead be a consequence of the cranial thrust of the abdominopelvic organs related to the loss of the pelvic girdle that occurred during the evolution of cetaceans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tibial organ of Chloropidae and Milichiidae flies is an obscure feature with taxonomic significance. This study provides the first in-depth investigation into the ultrastructure of the hind leg of 11 genera from all Chloropidae subfamilies using a multimodal microscopy approach. The modified dermal tissue associated with the tibial organ indicates glandular function, as evidenced by the presence of secretory vesicles containing non-proteinaceous elements, potentially indicating lipidic secretion. The overall similarity of the tibial organ between Chloropidae and Milichiidae indicates a shared homology. However, the evolutionary history of this structure is still contentious due to limitations in the phylogenetic relationships of both lineages. Moreover, our findings enable future comparative investigations of other Diptera leg organs that possess secretory ability, which could be homologous across schizophoran families, but not necessarily the organs themselves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comparative anatomy is an important tool for investigating evolutionary relationships among species, but the lack of scalable imaging tools and stains for rapidly mapping the microscale anatomies of related species poses a major impediment to using comparative anatomy approaches for identifying evolutionary adaptations. We describe a method using synchrotron source micro‐x‐ray computed tomography (syn‐μXCT) combined with machine learning algorithms for high‐throughput imaging of Lepidoptera (i.e., butterfly and moth) eyes. Our pipeline allows for imaging at rates of ~15 min/mm3 at 600 nm3 resolution. Image contrast is generated using standard electron microscopy labeling approaches (e.g., osmium tetroxide) that unbiasedly labels all cellular membranes in a species‐independent manner thus removing any barrier to imaging any species of interest. To demonstrate the power of the method, we analyzed the 3D morphologies of butterfly crystalline cones, a part of the visual system associated with acuity and sensitivity and found significant variation within six butterfly individuals. Despite this variation, a classic measure of optimization, the ratio of interommatidial angle to resolving power of ommatidia, largely agrees with early work on eye geometry across species. We show that this method can successfully be used to determine compound eye organization and crystalline cone morphology. Our novel pipeline provides for fast, scalable visualization and analysis of eye anatomies that can be applied to any arthropod species, enabling new questions about evolutionary adaptations of compound eyes and beyond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premise of research. The genus Carya is a classic example of the eastern North American–eastern Asian disjunct distribution, but its biogeographic history is not well understood because many species present in the Cenozoic of Europe have ambiguous relationships to extant species. Methodogy. The morphology and anatomy of fossil nuts of C. ventricosa (Sternberg ex Brongniart) Unger from the Miocene of Salzhausen, Germany, of eight extant Carya species, and of four extant Juglans species were investigated using micro–computed tomography scanning. Carpological characteristics were analyzed using VG Studio for comparison. The morphological characters of 25 other Carya fruit fossils known from the literature were studied for comparison. Pivotal results. The peripheral course of the placental bundles within the primary septum of C. ventricosa confirms its identity to the genus Carya and distinguishes it from Juglans and from other genera of the Juglandaceae. Detailed comparison of carpological morphology and anatomy indicates that C. ventricosa is readily distinguished from extant North American species and more closely resembles the East Asian tropical C. poilanei ; both have a prominent low-density layer and/or prominent lacunae in the nutshell and contrast with other species in lacking a sharply defined pair of internal longitudinal ribs. The well-developed secondary septum in C. poilanei differs from the weakly developed, nearly absent secondary septum in C. ventricosa. The cuneate base of the locule distinguishes C. ventricosa from all extant species. Conclusions. Carya poilanei is the closest extant species to C. ventricosa. Europe might have been a key center of Cenozoic diversification and served as the ancestral area of the extant East Asian Carya lineages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the first time, two species of the Hesperiidae family are recorded from the State of Kuwait. The observations of Gegenes nostrodamus (Fabricius, 1793) and Pelopidas mathias (Fabricius, 1798) started in 2021. The habitats are discussed, dorsal and ventral pictures of both genders of G. nostrodamus and P. mathias are included. For identification the genitalia of both genders were examined, and the photographs of their preparations are presented. While the male and female genitalia of G. nostrodamus were described in detail, this was not the case for P. mathias. Images of the male and female genitalia of collected specimens of P. mathias are compared with detailed drawings of Pelopidas thrax (Hübner, [1821]). The discovery of two new species for the State of Kuwait increases the total number of butterfly species to 25. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The vomeronasal organ (VNO) is located in the anteroinferior part of the nose and the accessory olfactory organ in mammals which is responsible of sense of smell. This study aims to compare the macro and microanatomical structure of the VNO between sheep and dogs. In the current study, we used ten adult slaughtered sheep and ten adult synchronized dogs with different sexes ages 1-2 years. The head of both animals were preserved in 10 % formalin for one week. This study shows in both animals, the VNO occupies the same position in the cavity of the vomer bone and the same relationship in the cranial part of the nasal cavity. Furthermore, the VNO is divided into three parts based on shape that are the rostral, central, and caudal part. The results show the VNO in sheep has a (U) shape and is opened dorsolaterally. It has a small and narrow cavity. It is long 6 cm long, and it has different diameters on its course. In comparison, the vomeronasal organ in dogs is very developed and has a (J) shape. It has a large and long cavity and ends at the fourth molar. Its length is about 10 cm, and it has one diameter on its course. The VNO receives the blood supply from the sphenopalatine and caudal palatine arteries. The present study shows main differences between sheep and dogs VNO in which the structure of vomeronasal bone between the sheep and dog is completely different. The finding will illustrate fundamental differences and provide specific structural differences between the two species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of preserved museum specimens is transforming and increasing by three-dimensional (3D) imaging that creates high-fidelity online digital specimens. Through examples from the openVertebrate (oVert) Thematic Collections Network, we describe how we created a digitization community dedicated to the shared vision of making 3D data of specimens available and the impact of these data on a broad audience of scientists, students, teachers, artists, and more. High-fidelity digital 3D models allow people from multiple communities to simultaneously access and use scientific specimens. Based on our multiyear, multi-institution project, we identify significant technological and social hurdles that remain for fully realizing the potential impact of digital 3D specimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intracranial arterial anatomy is lacking for most mammalian and non-mammalian model species, especially concerning the origin of the basilar artery (BA). Enhancing the knowledge of this anatomy can improve animal models and help understanding anatomical variations in humans. We have studied encephalic arteries in three different species of birds and eight different species of mammals using formalin-fixed brains injected with arterial red latex. Our results and literature analysis indicate that, for all vertebrates, the internal carotid artery (ICA) supplies the brain and divides into two branches: a cranial and a caudal branch. The difference between vertebrates lies in the caudal branch of the ICA. For non-mammalian, the caudal branch is the origin of the BA, and the vertebral artery (VA) is not involved in brain supply. For mammals, the VA supplies encephalic arteries in two different ways. In the first type of organization, mostly found in ungulates, the carotid rete mirabile supplies the encephalic arteries, the caudal branch is the origin of the BA, and the VA is indirectly involved in carotid rete mirabile blood supply. The second type of encephalic artery organization for mammals is the same as in humans. The caudal branch of the ICA serves as the posterior communicating artery, and the BA originates from both VAs. We believe that knowledge of comparative anatomy of encephalic arteries contributes to a better understanding of animal models applicable to surgical or radiological techniques. It improves the understanding of rare encephalic variations that may be present in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many studies have described the muscle anatomy of the domestic fowl (Gallus gallus domesticus), a commonly used animal in developmental experiments. However, some major differences in terminology existed among studies, making it difficult to precisely discuss the muscle homologies between domestic fowl and other animals. In this study, the innervations of shoulder girdle muscles in five sides of the domestic fowl were elucidated and the homology of the shoulder girdle muscles between domestic fowl and other tetrapods was discussed using terminology that conforms to Nomina Anatomica Avium (1993). Unlike previous descriptions, the supracoracoideus, being developed in domestic fowl, is thought to have a different muscular origin from the deltoid muscle. The coracobrachialis cranialis, coracobrachialis caudalis and coracobrachialis muscles, previously described as the coracobrachialis muscle group, had different innervations; the coracobrachialis cranialis should be grouped with the deltoid muscles, and the coracobrachialis caudalis appears to belong to the pectoral muscle group. I propose that the subcoracoscapularis in domestic fowl, keeping the reptilian form, is divided into the subcoracoideus and subscapularis muscles. Based on the innervation, the subscapularis in domestic fowl is homologous with the subscapularis in reptiles and a major part of the subscapularis in mammals. Unlike the descriptions in previous studies, the scapulohumeralis cranialis and caudalis in the domestic fowl in this study, being innervated by the common branch, were found to have a close relationship with the subcoracoscapularis muscle. Based on the observations in this study, a new classification of the shoulder girdle muscles in domestic fowl is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Insects that undergo complete metamorphosis, collectively known as Holometabola, are the most successful lineage of living organism, including about 830,000 species. Understanding the intricate relationships among the major groups of holometabolous insects is a critical task in systematic biology, particularly given their immense diversity. This research analyzed the wing base structure of Holometabola using comparative morphology to further clarify several crucial relationship nodes within Holometabola. Morphological data were selected from both the forewing base and hindwing base, comprising fifty-three discrete characters. Many phylogenetic relationship nodes among Holometabola were recovered exclusively using the wing base structure. Our research further highlights the efficacy of wing base morphology data in understanding insect phylogeny and evolution. Phylogenetic relationships among Holometabola have been the subject of controversy. The value of the wing base structure in phylogenetic analysis has been demonstrated but remains largely underexplored and scarce in studies of Holometabola. We studied the phylogenetic relationships among Holometabola (excluding Siphonaptera), focusing exclusively on wing base structure. Cladistic assessments were conducted using 53 morphological data points derived from the bases of both the forewing and hindwing. The results of wing base data revealed a sister relationship between Hymenoptera and remaining orders. The sister-group relationships between Strepsiptera and Coleoptera, Mecoptera and Diptera, Trichoptera and Lepidoptera, and Neuropterida and Coleopterida were corroborated. In Neuropterida, our results recovered the sister relationship between Megaloptera and Neuroptera, as well as the monophyly of Megaloptera. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The roles of experimental animals in orthopedic research is very crucial for the management of bone defects. Given the various drawbacks of the vascularised periosteal graft, researchers began to explore the effectiveness of non-vascularised periosteal graft in fracture healing management. Small laboratory animals especially rabbits have been widely used for non-vascularised periosteal transplantation research but with more challenges of obtaining a good graft size. Therefore, bigger animals, such as sheep--with more morphological and physiological similarities to human are used as animal model for surgical procedures. The article elaborates the features of periosteum, comparative anatomy of sheep's hind limb, pre-surgical preparation, and surgical procedure for the transplantation of non-vascularised periosteal graft, especially for researchers operating on sheep for the first time. A male sheep of 4-month-old was used for this procedure. Periosteal graft was harvested from tibia and transplanted to femur to mimic treatment of bone gap in orthopedic surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The stunt nematode species, Tylenchorhynchus annulatus (Cassidy, 1930) Golden, 1971, is a widely distributed plant parasite found associated with various major agricultural crops. In the current work, a population of T. annulatus detected from a sugarcane field in Everglades, Florida, USA, was morphologically and molecularly characterised. A comparative study was also done including the stunt nematode populations identified morphologically and molecularly by different research groups as T. agri , T. annulatus or T. crassicaudatus from China, Indonesia, Iran, Korea, Niger, Nigeria, Tanzania and the USA, revealing highly similar morphology and overlapping morphometric data among the populations. However, these populations were found separated into two maximally supported clades in phylogenetic trees based on rRNA gene sequences (28S and ITS). One clade comprised populations from China, Indonesia, Iran, Nigeria, South Korea, Tanzania and the USA, and the other clade only populations from the USA. This study also strongly supported the view that T. crassicaudatus is a junior synonym of T. annulatus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasingly sophisticated molecular techniques and research tools have greatly advanced the understanding of species diversity and phylogenetic relationships in freshwater mussels. However, malacologists have been puzzled by the taxonomic position and species validity of certain species, particularly those described solely based on conchological characteristics. The genus Lepidodesma is one such group. Here, we integrate shell morphology, soft-body anatomy, and molecular phylogeny to delimit the species validity of Lepidodesma aligera (Heude in Conchyliologie Fluviatile de la Provoince de Nanking 3:17–24, 1877) and Lepidodesma languilati (Heude in Journal De Conchyliologie 22:112–118, 1874). Comparative morphology reveals that L. aligera can be distinguished from L. languilati by its higher post-dorsal wing covered with scattered nodules, as well as differences in the incurrent aperture, excurrent aperture, and gill. Additionally, the average genetic distance based on DNA barcodes (COI) between both species is 4.0%. Integrative taxonomy supports the distinct species of L. aligera, rather than synonymy for L. languilati. Mitochondrial phylogenomic analyses confirm four monophyletic groups (Ambleminae + (Gonideinae + (Unioninae + Parreysiinae))) within the family Unionidae. L. aligera and L. languilati have a well-supported sister-group relationship and form a basal clade splitting from the rest of Unioninae. Therefore, the genus Lepidodesma should be classified as Lepidodesmini in Unioninae. The molecular clock with fossil calibration indicates that Lepidodesma originated in the Early Cretaceous (~121.30 Mya, 95% HPD = 90.37–156.54 Mya) and diverged in the Middle Neogene (~12.94 Mya, 95% HPD = 6.72–22.13 Mya). This study firstly provides anatomical features and molecular data for L. aligera and demonstrates the species validity and the systematic position of Lepidodesma taxa, which enrich our understanding of this rare group and facilitate its management and conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Louis Jacobsohn-Lask was a physician and neuroanatomist born in 1863 in Bromberg, Prussian Province of Posen (now Bydgoszcz, Poland). He obtained his medical degree in Berlin and trained under renowned physicians in the field of neurology. Jacobsohn-Lask collaborated with Edward Flatau to publish a handbook on the anatomy of the central nervous system in mammals, as well as a book on the pathological anatomy of the nervous system. He made significant contributions to the understanding of spinal cord and brainstem anatomy, introducing notable terms that are still used today. Despite facing discrimination due to his Jewish ancestry, Jacobsohn-Lask can be considered one of the prominent neuroanatomists of his time. He emigrated to the Soviet Union in 1936 and passed away in 1940. [Extracted from the article]

This paper introduces Xanthomelon amurndamilumila sp. nov. , a newly-discovered land snail species inhabiting the North East Isles, offshore from Groote Eylandt (= Ayangkidarrba), north-western Gulf of Carpentaria, in the Northern Territory, Australia. Specimens of this species were first collected during the 2021 Bush Blitz expedition to Groote Eylandt, a large offshore archipelago previously unexplored for land snails. The taxonomic status of the new species was established through a comprehensive analysis of comparative morphology and mitochondrial genetics: X. amurndamilumila forms a maximally supported clade closely related to X. arnhemense and is characterised by a unique combination of morphological characteristics, including smaller shell size, distinctive sculpture of collabral ridges and specific features of its reproductive anatomy. The genetic divergence and phylogenetic relationships suggest historical isolation. While the discovery of X. amurndamilumila sp. nov. enriches our understanding of land snail diversity in the Northern Territory, its conservation status is of concern on North East Island because of habitat degradation caused by feral deer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The symmetry of the right and left bronchi, proposed in a previous comparative anatomical study as the basic model of the mammalian bronchial tree, was examined to determine if it applied to the embryonic human bronchial tree. Imaging data of 41 human embryo specimens at Carnegie stages (CS) 16–23 (equivalent to 6–8 weeks after fertilization) belonging to the Kyoto collection were obtained using phase‐contrast X‐ray computed tomography. Three‐dimensional bronchial trees were then reconstructed from these images. Bronchi branching from both main bronchi were labeled as dorsal, ventral, medial, or lateral systems based on the branching position with numbering starting cranially. The length from the tracheal bifurcation to the branching point of the labeled bronchus was measured, and the right‐to‐left ratio of the same labeled bronchus in both lungs was calculated. In both lungs, the human embryonic bronchial tree showed symmetry with an alternating pattern of dorsal and lateral systems up to segmental bronchus B9 as the basic shape, with a more peripheral variation. This pattern is similar to that described in adult human lungs. Bronchial length increased with the CS in all labeled bronchi, whereas the right‐to‐left ratio was constant at approximately 1.0. The data demonstrated that the prototype of the human adult bronchial branching structure is formed and maintained in the embryonic stage. The morphology and branching position of all lobar bronchi and B6, B8, B9, and the subsegmental bronchus of B10 may be genetically determined. On the other hand, no common structures between individual embryos were found in the peripheral branches after the subsegmental bronchus of B10, suggesting that branch formation in this region is influenced more by environmental factors than by genetic factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The genus Agassizia in Mexico is represented both in the fossil record by the species Agassizia regia? during the Miocene of Chiapas and by the extant species Agassizia excentrica on the Atlantic coast and Agassizia scrobiculata on the Pacific coast. Qualitative diagnosis and descriptions make it hard to distinguish morphological boundaries between species, especially in groups with fossils and recent representatives, increasing the level of complexity by having samples of disparate qualities and quantities. Objective: We propose the use of little explored statistical methods in the comparison of paleontological and biological populations. This methodology allowed us to resolve issues of missing values in a morphometric data set for the genus Agassizia. Methods: Using samples recently collected and specimens already housed in collections, we explore a routine of recovery of missing data MICE and the numerical and graphic analyses PERMANOVA, PCA, and SIMPER to compare morphometric parameters between these species for recognizing diagnostic characters. Results: Our results show a morphological difference in the length of the ambulacrum II and the length and width of the periproct and peristome structures, these being greater in A. scrobiculata, with a consistent pattern in both population samples not previously described. Conclusions: Quantitative morphometric comparisons can be an assertive and complementary tool to determine distinctive differentiation characteristics in species of the same genus. Comparative morphology reviews should be an ongoing exercise to keep taxonomic knowledge on both extinct and extant species up to date. Our research encourage the scientific community studying fossil populations to utilize quantitative and multivariate methods to strengthen their investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The anatomy of the human forearm and hand has been described in great detail, including possible anatomical variations. For animals, this information is still not complete. The aim of this case study was to describe the anatomy of the muscles of the forearm and hand in one individual of the Anubis baboon and to compare this information with the available data on the subject and with the anatomical standard and possible variations in humans. The biggest differences were noted in the extensor digiti minimi, where two separate muscle bellies were dissected. We believe that in this individual it was the extensor digiti quarti proprius and extensor digiti quinti proprius muscles. Anatomical standard has not yet been established for the thenar, hypothenar, and contrahentes muscles in the deep layer of the muscles of the forearm of the baboon and literary sources differ notably in some information. Determining the anatomical standard and anatomical variability of individual structures in animals is an important contribution to the field of veterinary surgery and orthopaedics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During our investigation of diatom biodiversity in Xizang, two species exhibited unique morphological features discriminative from all previously known genera. Herein we describe these two species and describe as new the genus, Spargeria gen. nov. The new genus features narrow to wide rectangular valves, narrow valve mantles, filiform raphe branches that occur on the valve face only, terminal raphe fissures straight or slightly deflected to same side, bow-tie shaped central areas, chambered striae present on the valve face only, being absent from the mantle, wider striae near the axial area and very narrow near the margin, multiseriate striae with small and round areolae that are occluded externally. Comparatively, Spargeria zhuii sp. nov. has larger and robust valves, radiate striae, with one divergent stria near the apices, while Spargeria chenia sp. nov. is smaller, with narrow valves, striae slightly radiate in the middle, becoming convergent or parallel near apices. This new genus belongs to the family Pinnulariaceae, and it was compared and contrasted with other genera of this family. Our work suggests the need for continued studies to document the biodiversity of diatoms in Xizang. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the external and internal structure of the hairs of an adult Pleistocene Don hare Lepus tanaiticus were studied, a frozen mummy of which was first found in Yakutia. Similar to other representatives of the genera Lepus and Oryctolagus, the structure of the guard hairs of the Don hare is unique: it is characterized by a hair shaft striation, specific columnar medulla, and a chevron-resembling cuticle ornament. The hair structure varies in different areas of the pelage and is adapted to the habitation of this species in the extreme conditions of the Arctic; in particular, these are long fur, strongly developed hair medulla and its corrugated septum, and peculiar hair on the soles of paws. The hair of the Don hare and mountain hare (Holocene, Chukotka) were compared, revealing a great similarity between these two species, as well as the pairs of the species: extinct and modern species of hares, hares and pikas, hares and a number of other mammalian species. The features of the hair structure in the hare and some other mammals are discussed in terms of species identification and adaptive traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details of the body structure of sexually mature copepods (females and males) of two morphologically similar species of the genus Thermocyclops are presented. One was the invader, T. taihokuensis from the Shat Reservoir, Tula oblast, while the other was the native T. oithonoides from Pleshcheyevo Lake, Yaroslavl oblast. Both were studied to clarify the known morphological features and to identify new ones in order to distinguish reliably between these species. The structure was analyzed using programs for visualization and measurement of objects observed under the AxioVision Rel. 4.8 and ScopePhoto 3.0 microscopes. Drawings of the fine structures were made from photographs. The distinctions between these two species are shown to be mainly based on qualitative characteristics (the shape of the element, its location, etc.). No taxonomically significant differences have been found in the measured parameters of the elements of the fourth, fifth, and sixth (in males) legs, the caudal rami, and their setae, all of which are commonly used to identify species of this genus. The shape of the seminal receptacle, the apical setae of the caudal rami, the apical spines of the endopodite of the fourth legs (P4), and the position of the lateral seta on the caudal rami have been found to be the most important for identifying the females of these species. Interspecies differences were revealed in the armature of the prominences of the intercoxal coupler, the ornamentation of the P4 coxopodite and its intercoxal coupler, and the armature of the 14th segment of the antennules of females. These characteristics are proposed as additional features for species identification. Thermocyclops taihokuensis males are shown to be significantly larger than those of T. oithonoides, and they also differ in the position of the lateral setae of the caudal rami, the P4 armature, and the length of the central apical setae. A key is proposed for identifying six species of the genus Thermocyclops common in European Russia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The caracal (Caracal caracal) is a medium-sized wild cat native to Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, and arid areas of Pakistan and northwestern India. This study discusses the vascularization of the encephalon base in this species based on our research and its comparison with relevant scientific articles. This study represents the comprehensive anatomical analysis of the arterial circulation at the base of the encephalon in caracal (Caracal caracal), a member of the Felidae family. Caracals are found in various environments in Africa and Asia, and their conservation status is threatened by hunting and habitat loss. This study was conducted on 14 post-mortem specimens obtained from zoos. Three different methods were used to prepare the specimens—corrosive preparation, latex specimen preparation, and computer tomography imaging. This study revealed a configuration of the arterial circulation in the caracal encephalon resembling the shape of the number eight. The presence of the rostral communicating artery in this species is of particular significance, as it is associated with an increased ability to detect dehydration in the forebrain. This adaptation plays a crucial role in responding to challenges related to hydration. Comparative anatomical analysis with other felids highlighted differences in the shape and configuration of the encephalon's arterial circulation. This study also discussed the obliteration of the extracranial segment of the internal carotid artery in adult caracals, a feature shared with other Felidae members. The results of this study provide valuable information regarding the anatomy of blood vessels in caracals, with potential implications for veterinary practice in zoos and wildlife conservation efforts. This research expands our knowledge of this species' unique adaptations and physiological processes, contributing to the development of comparative anatomy in the Felidae family. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The thymus structure of four species of immature insectivorous mammals belonging to the families Soricidae and Erinaceidae (Eulipotyphla) has been studied. Representatives of the studied families are characterized by contrary surviving strategies, significantly differing in the intensity of metabolism and the activity of the animal. As these differences are presumably reflected in the morphological parameters of the thymus, this work aimed at a comparative study of these parameters of the thymus in representatives of the above two families. A light microscopy technique has been applied. Sections of thymus lobes 5 µm thick have been stained with hematoxylin and eosin, as well as picrofuchsin, according to van Gieson's method, and with azure-eosin, according to Romanovskii–Giemsa. During the processing of the material, the mass index and the cortical-medullar index of the thymus have been determined. The area of the connective and lymphoid tissues on the thymus section has been identified. The number of thymocytes, as well as the number and area of the vessels of the microvasculature of both the thymus cortex and the medulla have been counted within the conventional unit area. The percentage of thymocytes in mitosis has been calculated. The results of the study show that the shrews have a higher thymus mass index than the northern white-breasted hedgehog. This leads to significant changes in the syntopy of the thymic lobules. In comparison to the northern white-breasted hedgehog, the thymus of shrews is characterized by an increased cortical-medullar index, a higher density of the arrangement of thymocytes per unit area, and a higher number and relative area of the vessels of the microvasculature. At the same time, all studied immature representatives of insectivorous mammalian species have equally high relative areas of lymphoid tissue. This indicates an active functional state of the thymus at this life stage in all Eulipotyphla representatives. The relative area of the thymus connective tissue is directly related to the absolute dimensions of the organ, which is necessary for the implementation of the frame function. The values of the mitotic index of the thymus medulla in Eulipotyphla representatives are higher than expected and may indicate the need for increasing the pool of thymocytes at a very late stage of differentiation. The patterns revealed indicate that the morphology of the thymus depends on the biological characteristics of representatives of different families of Eulipotyphla, has a certain adaptive value, and deserves further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ankylopollexia was an abundant and diverse clade of ornithopods present in North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia from the Late Jurassic to the Late Cretaceous. However, the relationships between the basal ankylopollexians are poorly understood. A new ankylopollexian ornithopod genus and species is described here, based on a dentary tooth, an ungual pollex of the manus, and an almost complete left hindlimb. The fossils come from deposits of the Villar del Arzobispo Formation (upper Kimmeridgian–Tithonian). Phylogenetic analysis revealed that Oblitosaurus bunnueli gen. et sp. nov. is the basalmost member of Ankylopollexia, together with Draconyx loureiroi. Furthermore, these results have relevant taxonomic implications for the genus Camptosaurus , being the first phylogenetic analysis to support the monophyly of Camptosaurus species. The estimated size of Oblitosaurus bunnueli suggests that it is the largest ornithopod described in the Upper Jurassic of Europe and one of the largest around the world, and could be the trackmaker of large ornithopod tracks found in the Upper Jurassic of the Iberian Peninsula. This discovery increases the known ankylopollexian diversity in Iberia, revealing the presence of an Iberian basal ankylopollexian clade that does not appear to be present in the contemporaneous outcrops of North America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With a few exceptions, crown-clade Primates differ from other arboreal mammalian clades by having nails instead of claws on most post-axial digits. Distal phalanx morphology of close extant and fossil relatives of crown-clade Primates provides a context in which to study the evolution of this characteristic feature. Plesiadapiforms are a diverse group of extinct arboreal mammals closely related to crown-clade Primates (together classified as total clade Pan-Primates) that have distal phalanges that are indicative of having supported keratinous claws, with the only documented exception being that of Carpolestes simpsoni which may have had a nail on its hallucal phalanx. To contextualize morphological variation among plesiadapiform distal phalanges, we investigated the influence of behavior and phylogeny on post-axial distal phalanx morphology using a broad sample of extant mammalian taxa (273 distal phalanges from 67 species) compared to those known for plesiadapiforms (26 specimens from 9 species). Results show that plesiadapiform distal phalanges share characteristics with those of both extant generalized arborealists/scansorialists and antipronograde specialists, consistent with previous behavioral reconstructions of frequent vertical clinging and climbing based on other regions of the skeleton. Distal phalanges of Plesiadapis cookei, Plesiadapis tricuspidens, and the "Le Quesnoy plesiadapid" are most similar to those of extant species that clasp branches between claws and the rest of the autopod when climbing. In contrast, known distal phalanges of micromomyids and the plesiadapoid C. simpsoni share some similarities with those of extant taxa that rely more heavily on grasping with digital pads when climbing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ability of MRI images to reveal foraminal ligaments at levels L1–L5 by comparing the results with those of anatomical studies. Methods: Eighty lumbar foramina were studied. First, the best MRI scanning parameters were selected, and the transverse and sagittal axes of each lumbar foramina were scanned to identify and record the ligament-like structures in each lumbar foramen. Then, the cadaveric specimens were anatomically studied, and all ligament structures in the lumbar foramina were retained. The number, morphology and distribution of ligaments under anatomical and MRI scanning were observed. Histological staining of the dissected ligament structures was performed to confirm that they were ligamentous tissues. Finally, the accuracy of ligament recognition in MRI images was statistically analyzed. Results: A total of 233 foraminal ligaments were identified in 80 lumbar intervertebral foramina through cadaveric anatomy. The radiating ligaments (176, 75.5%) were found to be attached from the nerve root to the surrounding osseous structures, while the transforaminal ligaments (57, 24.5%) traversed the intervertebral foramina without any connection to the nerve roots. A total of 42 transforaminal ligament signals and 100 radiating ligament signals were detected in the MRI images of the 80 intervertebral foramina. Conclusion: The MRI can identify the lumbar foraminal ligament, and the recognition rate of the transforaminal ligament is higher than that of the radiating ligament. This study provides a new method for the clinical diagnosis of the relationship between the lumbar foraminal ligament and radicular pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Camelids are the only living representatives of the Suborder Tylopoda, and present a unique set of osteo‐myological masticatory features, differing from all other extant euungulates. They combine selenodont dentition and rumination with a fused symphysis, and roughly plesiomorphic muscle proportions. Despite its potential relevance as an euungulate model in comparative anatomy studies, the available data is strikingly scarce. The present study represents the first description of the masticatory muscles of a Lamini, analyzing the functional morphology of Lama glama and other camelids in a comparative framework. Both sides of the head of three adult specimens from Argentinean Puna were dissected. Descriptions, illustrations, muscular maps, and weighing of all masticatory muscles were performed. Some facial muscles are also described. The myology of llamas confirms that camelids possess relatively large temporalis muscles, with Lama being less extreme than Camelus. This plesiomorphic feature is also recorded in suines and some basal euungulates. Conversely, the direction of the fibers of the M. temporalis is mainly horizontal, resembling grinding euungulates such as equids, pecorans, and some derived suines. Although the M. masseter of camelids and equids do not reach the particularly modified configuration of pecorans, in which it is rostrally extended and arranged horizontally, the posterior sectors of Mm. masseter superficialis and pterygoideus medialis have acquired relatively horizontal disposition in the former lineages, suitable for protraction. The pterygoidei complex presents several bundles, and its relative size is intermediate between suines and derived grinding euungulates. The whole masticatory muscles are relatively light when compared to jaw weight. The evolution of the masticatory muscles and chewing of camelids implied that grinding abilities were reached with less extreme modifications of the topography and/or proportions than pecoran ruminants and equids. A relatively large M. temporalis recruited as a powerful retractor during the power stroke is a key feature of camelids. The relaxed pressure on chewing derived from the acquisition of rumination explains the slenderer build masticatory musculature of camelids compared to other euungulates except ruminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Euryoryzomys encompasses six species found across Cis-Andean lowland and montane rainforests in South America. One of the most enigmatic forms of the genus is found in the Brejos de altitude of north-eastern Brazil, where enclaves of dense rainforest in mountain ranges sharply contrast with surrounding semi-arid Caatinga. Here we analyse morphological and molecular data, and demonstrate that these populations are members of a new species, which is described and contrasted with other Euryoryzomys. Phylogenetic analyses based on mitochondrial cytochrome b gene, coupled with morphometrics and comparative anatomy analyses, show that the new species differs from its sister-species, Euryoryzomys lamia from the Cerrado of Central Brazil, and from other forms of the genus, corroborating previous perspectives based on karyological data. The new species of the genus occurs in two distinct areas in the state of Ceará, Serra de Ibiapaba and Serra de Baturité, and one isolated range in Paraíba state. The recovered biogeographic pattern of Brejos de altitude —Cerrado sister-group relationship is novel among studied vertebrates, as most species from Brejos are more closely related to taxa from Amazon and Atlantic Forest. Further taxonomic efforts are necessary to uncover the total diversity within Euryoryzomys, especially for the nominal taxa E. emmonsae, E. macconnelli , and E. nitidus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The formation of bimetallic composites by the electrochemical codeposition of Fe(III)Cl-5,10,15,20-tetrakis(4-aminophenyl)porphyrin and Mn(III)Cl-5,10,15,20-tetrakis(4-aminophenyl)porphyrin was studied. The composites were obtained by the superoxide-assisted electrochemical deposition from mixed solutions of DMSO with equal concentrations of porphyrins. The spectral analysis of the composites showed that they were enriched in the Mn complexes of porphyrin. A comparative analysis of the morphology, electroactive surface area, and specific features of oxygen electroreduction on the films of individual porphyrins and the composites was carried out. It was shown that the catalytic activity of bimetallic composite was higher than that of the materials based on the individual metal complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to provide comparative anatomical data on the mitral valve and to substantiate the choice between large species for pre‐clinical testing of cardiac devices. Different anatomical parameters of the anterior and posterior leaflets, chordae and papillary muscles were measured to characterize the anatomy of the mitral valve in 10 individuals for each four species. Ratios were calculated and used to circumvent the interspecies variations of body and heart size and weight. The results underline many relevant anatomical similarities and differences between man and the three animal species. We confirm that the porcine species is a better model based on anatomical measurements. But many parameters should be considered depending on the shape, size and purpose of the device. The mitral and aortic valve are closer than in man leading to potential damage of the aortic valve by a mitral device. The ovine mitral annulus is more flattened and would sustain more mechanical forces on a round‐shaped stent. The anterior and posterior leaflets have comparable height in the animal species leading to more space for implantation. The porcine valve has more chordae allowing less space around the valve for a transcatheter stent. Our observations introduce new comparative data in the perspective of the choice of a large animal model for pre‐clinical testing of mitral devices. They are very helpful for all cardiologists, surgeons or engineers who need to understand the reasons for success or failure of a device and to have key elements of discussion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article investigates the redefinition of human and animal sociabilities in the light of comparative anatomy. Linnaeus's classification questioned and redrew the frontiers of humanity, raising new debates on what makes a being human, who or what is entitled to humanity, what corrupts humanity, and why some beings degenerate. Enlightenment anthropology, as a new science accommodating itself to philosophical inquiry, became an ideological battleground on which two representations of man's degeneracy were fought out. Was human depravity the consequences of consumption, luxury, and social needs that increasingly characterised European cultures in the eighteenth century, or was it to be understood as a result of physical degeneration, that is, alienation from the civilised world? The natural man, whether as an imaginary state or embodied in 'wild' creatures, crystallised the anxiety about degeneration and natural forces acting upon bodies and organisms. To ring-fence humanity and distinguish it from the lower orders of nature, typically human attributes were constructed in comparative anatomy discourses. Reason, language and sociality came to characterise human behaviours while animals were deprived of any 'social' faculties. Through analogy, the human social group was often compared to insect communities or animal herds, clusters or shoals, yet these animal or insect assemblages were systematically studied from an anthropocentric perspective. The article weaves seemingly disparate discourses - the writings of the Comte de Buffon, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Lord Monboddo, Johann Friedrich Blumenbach, William Lawrence and Samuel Taylor Coleridge - into a dialogue and debate that decisively defined the nature of human and animal sociabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses concerns about the histological assessment in a mouse model of human celiac disease. The authors argue that an accurate CD model in rodents that replicates the features of the disease does not currently exist. They criticize a study that proposed a model for CD in mice, claiming that the histopathological changes observed in the ileum were mild and did not provide clear evidence of villus atrophy, crypt hyperplasia, or inflammation. The authors argue that the study did not adequately validate its findings and lacked crucial information on the involvement of other parts of the small intestine. [Extracted from the article]

As it spread through time and into distinct areas of science—from comparative anatomy to evolutionary biology, cladistics, developmental and molecular biology—the homology concept has changed considerably, presenting various meanings. Despite many attempts at developing a comprehensive understanding of the concept, this context‐sensitive notion of homology has been a subject of an ongoing debate. Inspired by that and following Kevin de Queiroz and Richard Mayden's view on species concept and delimitation, we presented in this article an attempt to systematize and advance the understanding of the homology problem. Our main goals were: (i) to present a comprehensive checklist of 'concepts of homology'; (ii) to identify which are really concepts with ontological definitions (theoretically rooted in structural correspondence and common ancestry), and which are, in fact, not concepts, but epistemological (empirical and methodological) criteria of homology delimitation; (iii) to provide a synonymy of the concepts and criteria of homology delimitation; (iv) to present a hierarchy of homology concepts within Hennig's hologenetic system; and (v) to endorse the adoption of a unified view of homology by treating homology as a correspondence of spatio‐temporal properties (genetic, epigenetic, developmental and positional) at the level of the individual, species or monophyletic group. We found 59 'concepts of homology' in the literature, from which 34 were categorically treated as concepts, 17 as criteria of homology delimitation, Four were excluded from our treatment, and Müller's five concepts were rather treated as approaches to homology. Homology concepts and criteria were synonymized based on structural correspondence, replicability, common ancestry, genetic and epigenetic developmental causes, position and optimization. Regarding the synonymy, we conclusively recognized 21 different concepts of homology, and five empirical and four methodological criteria. Hierarchical ontological aspects of homology were systematized under Hennig's hologenetic system, based on the existence of ontogenetic, tokogenetic and phylogenetic levels of homology. The delimitation of tokogenetic and phylogenetic homologies depends on optimization criteria. The unified view of homology is discussed in the context of the ancestral angiosperm flower. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]