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Somatic chromosomes of 17 northern birch mice, Sicista betulina, originating from lowland and Tatra Mountain populations were studied. In the whole studied material constant diploid number of chromosomes (2n = 32) was found. Polymorphism of a pair of large-sized autosomes was found; acrocentric, subtelocentric and submetacentric chromosomes in homozygous or heterozygous state form the polymorphic pair. Consequently, chromosome arm number (NF) varies within 60 and 62. In this regard Polish populations of northern birch mouse differ from those of more eastward distribution (NF = 63–64).

Northern and western border of pygmy field mouse Apodemus uralensis population area passes through southern Poland. First sites of the species have been discovered in the '50 of the 20th century. Since then, a total of 79 sites has been found. Latest research revise data concerning the occurrence borders of pygmy field mouse. Three out of four newly found stations are located in the western part of the country, north-west from the hitherto known sites of the species.

To determine the applicability and safety of a new canine model suitable for correlative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies and morphological/pathophysiological examination over time after interstitial laser thermotherapy (ILTT) in brain tissue.A laser fibre (Diode Laser 830 nm) with an integrated temperature feedback system was inserted into the right frontal white matter in 18 dogs using frameless navigation technique. MRI thermometry (phase mapping i.e. chemical shift of the proton resonance frequency) during interstitial heating was compared to simultaneously recorded interstitial fiberoptic temperature readings on the border of the lesion. To study brain capillary function in response to ILTT over time quantitative autoradiography was performed investigating the unidirectional blood-to-tissue transport of carbon-14-labelled alpha amino-isobutyric acid (transfer constant K of AIB) 12, 36 hours, 7, 14 days, 4 weeks and 3 months after ILTT.All laser procedures were well tolerated, laser and temperature fibres could be adequately placed in the right frontal lobe in all animals. In 5 animals MRI-based temperature quantification correlated strongly to invasive temperature measurements. In the remaining animals the temperature fibre was located in the area of susceptibility artifacts, therefore, no temperature correlation was possible. The laser lesions consisted of a central area of calcified necrosis which was surrounded by an area of reactive brain tissue with increased permeability. Quantitative autoradiography indicated a thin and spherical blood brain barrier lesion. The magnitude of K of AIB increased from 12 hours to 14 days after ILTT and decreased thereafter. The mean value of K of AIB was 19 times (2 times) that of normal white matter (cortex), respectively.ILTT causes transient, highly localised areas of increased capillary permeability surrounding the laser lesion. Phase contrast imaging for MRI thermomonitoring can currently not be used for reliable temperature readings in vivo. The suggested new canine model proved to be safe, accurate, easy to use, and provides clinical, radiographic, pathological and physiological correlations.

Extending our studies of the effect of arsenite on the metabolism of inorganic selenium (selenite and selenate) to lower doses, we intravenously injected New Zealand white rabbits with aqueous solutions of arsenite, selenite, arsenite + selenite, selenate and selenate + arsenite at 50 µg and 5 µg metalloid per kilogram body weight. Bile samples were collected for 25 min, acid-digested and analyzed for total arsenic and selenium by double focusing magnetic sector field inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. At both dose levels, and in accord with previous observations, an increased mutual biliary excretion of arsenic and selenium was observed regardless of whether selenium was coadministered with arsenite in the form of selenite or selenate. Based on our previous investigations into the in vivo interaction between arsenite and selenite (or selenate), these findings can be rationalized in terms of the biliary excretion of the seleno-bis(S-glutathionyl) arsinium ion, [(GS)2AsSe]−. In addition, the treatment of rabbits with 50 µg arsenic per kilogram body weight in form of arsenite alone also resulted in a significantly increased bile selenium concentration compared with bile from untreated animals (p < 0.05), which implies a mobilization of endogenous selenium to bile. Combined, these results establish a causal relationship between the exposure of mammals to arsenite and selenium deficiency. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Recently concern has been raised about health effects related to environmental sulfur and/or acidic aerosols. To assess long-term effects on respiratory lung function, 8 beagle dogs were exposed over a period of 13 mo for 16.5 h/day to 1.0 microm neutral sulfite aerosol with a particle associated sulfur(IV) concentration of 0.32 mg m(-3) and for 6 h/day to 1.1 microm acidic sulfate aerosol providing an hydrogen ion concentration of 15.2 micromol m(-3) for inhalation. Prior to exposure the dogs were kept under clean air conditions for 16 mo to establish physiological baseline values for each dog. A second group of eight dogs (control) was kept for the entire study under clean air conditions. Nonspecific defense mechanisms in the airways and in the peripheral lung were studied during chronic exposure of the combination of neutral sulfur(IV) and acidic sulfur(VI) aerosols. No functional changes of tracheal mucus velocity were found, in agreement with unchanged morphometry of the airways. However, the exposure resulted in changes of several alveolar macrophage (AM) mediated particle clearance mechanisms: (1) Based on in vivo clearance analysis and cultured AM studies using moderately soluble cobalt oxide particles, intracellular particle dissolution was significantly reduced since phagolysosomal proton concentration was decreased. We deduce exposure-related malfunction of proton pumps bound to the phagolysosomal membrane as a result of an increase of cytosolic proton concentration. (2) Based on in vivo clearance analysis using insoluble polystyrene particles, AM-mediated particle transport from the lung periphery toward ciliated terminal bronchioli and further to the larynx was significantly reduced. Activation of epithelial type II cells at the entrance of alveoli was inferred from observed type II cell proliferation at those alveolar ridges and enhanced secretion of alkaline phosphatase in the fluid of bronchoalveolar lavages. As a result, hypersecretion of chemotactic mediators by activated type II cells at these loci led to the observed decrease of particle transport toward ciliated bronchioli. (3) Based on in vivo clearance analysis using insoluble polystyrene particles, particle transport from the alveolar epithelium into interstitial tissues was increased and (4) particle transport to the tracheobronchial lymph nodes was significantly enhanced. Particle transport into interstitial tissues is the most prominent clearance pathway from the canine alveolar epithelium. We conclude that the deteriorated particle transport toward ciliated terminal bronchioli resulted in an enhanced particle transport across the epithelial membrane into interstitial tissues and the lymphatic drainage. The observed alterations in alveolar macrophage-mediated clearance mechanisms during chronic exposure of these air pollutants indicate an increased risk of health.

Tracheoesophageal fistulae endanger newborn children by aspiration pneumonia. An animal model of this dangerous malformation was thought to be impossible until now. By tracheoesophageal anastomosis, occlusion of the oesophagogastral junction, proximal cervical oesophagostomy and continent gastrostomy in 25 minipiglets a reliable model of tracheoesophageal fistula has been developed. After establishing the model in a pilot study the mortality following the establishment of this procedure was 5.6% and the minipiglets survived in excellent condition for 2-10 week periods under complete alimentary restriction and gastrostomy feeding. Therefore the method seems to be suitable for long-term investigations on major oesophagotracheal surgery.

An electrocatalytic glucose sensor for in vivo application has been developed to determine the glucose level in blood and further to control the insulin dosage in a closed loop system for diabetes therapy. The principle of the electrocatalytic glucose sensor is based on the direct electrochemical oxidation of glucose at a membrane-covered platinum electrode. For a possible clinical application the sensor was built as a catheter. A set of implantations in the vena cava of sheep demonstrated the potential feasibility of the sensor. The sensor values were simultaneously checked by the enzymatic analysis of glucose in blood samples drawn separately from a femoral vein. It was possible to determine the glucose concentration in sheep for more than 130 days with tolerable deviations from glucose reference measurements. The mean error was 2.5 mmol/l. One of the catheters was explanted after 211 days and the histological examination revealed a good biocompatibility of all materials used. In additional experiments, the differences of the glucose concentration in vena cava as well as in the anterior and posterior femoral veins of a sheep were examined during glucose tolerance tests. These experiments verified our method of in vivo calibration of the long-term implantable glucose sensor.

The feasibility of transcatheter laser coagulation of atrial myocardium was tested in a canine model by using a combined electrode-laser catheter. In 17 anaesthetized beagles a total of 264 lesions, 12-19 per dog, and 3-5 in each area were produced in: (1) the lateral walls, (2) the posterior right atrial walls, (3) the inter-atrial septum, and (4) the atrial appendage. The power source was a continuous wave Nd:YAG laser. Irradiance was 1 kW.cm-2, at a wave length of 1064 nm, the irradiated spot diameter was 2.0-2.5 mm, and the pulse duration 5-60 s. Local intra-cardiac atrial potentials recorded from the targeted areas during laser irradiation dwindled after onset of the laser pulse, and their amplitude was reduced persistently by pulses of 15 s or longer. Histopathologically, the acute lesions showed intramural haemorrhage and coagulation necrosis, but there was no tissue vaporization or crater formation. Chronic lesions showed clear-cut oval-shaped areas of transmural fibrosis. Diameters of lesions, dependent on the amount of laser energy applied, measured from 4.6 +/- 0.5 mm (450 J) to 7.8 +/- 1.4 mm (1800 J). Follow-up lasted 6-25 months (average 10.5). All the animals survived the procedure without complications. Transcatheter laser coagulation of atrial myocardium is safe and can be performed in a controllable manner by using the catheter system presented.

An electrocatalytic glucose sensor for in vivo application has been developed. The sensor is a flow-through cell with three electrodes and can be integrated into a blood vessel. The principle of measurement is based on the direct electrochemical oxidation of glucose at a membrane-covered noble-metal electrode. To test the potential long-term in vivo function of the sensor, it was implanted in the carotid artery of a sheep. Thus, the sensor performance was verified over a period of 71 days. During this time, a nearly constant blood flow through the cell was achieved, which indicates good blood compatibility of the materials used. It was possible to set up a calibration that was valid over 24 days (mean error 2.3 mmol l-1). The tested cross-sensitivity of the sensor towards cysteine, acetyl salicylic acid and other small molecules shows tolerable effects on this type of glucose measurement. Only high concentrations of lactate and ethanol require a special adaptation of the calibration to suppress their influence. Minor cross-sensitivity and promising long-term stability recommend this type of sensor for in vivo monitoring of blood sugar level. However, for intravasal application, it is necessary to modify the present sensor design to a catheter-type construction.

In order to control the insulin dosage in diabetes therapy, an electrocatalytic glucose sensor for long-term implantation has been developed. To test the sensor function over a longer period, it was implanted as a flow-through cell in a sheep. The sensor was inserted into the carotid artery and driven by a portable electronic unit worn by the animal. The blood flow characteristics were nearly constant over the whole period of measurement. We were able to verify the sensor performance in one experiment lasting over 71 days. Stable calibrations of the sensor were achieved over longer periods of time, so that only a few calibrations are necessary in monitoring the blood glucose level during the whole period of implantation. It was thus possible to set up a calibration which was valid over 33 days (mean error 2·5 m m ). These calibrations were not adversely affected by host reactions. The cross-sensitivity of the sensor was also verified, and it was found that the tested molecules did not significantly affect the sensor function. Only high concentrations of lactate and ethanol require a special adaptation of the calibration to suppress their influence. The sensor will be further improved to obtain a still longer calibration stability, and adapted for animal implantation, thus making it useful for clinical application.

For the continuous measurement of glucose levels in vivo, an electrocatalytic glucose sensor has been developed. Electrochemical determination of the glucose concentration is effected by measurement of the impedance, which at given potentials is directly dependent on the glucose concentration in the solution. For evaluation and determination of long-term stability, the sensor was first implanted in the carotid artery in the form of a flow-through cell, and was later inserted into the vena cava of a sheep in the form of a catheter. Sensor response was checked periodically by performing glucose tolerance tests. During the implantation period, we also tested the sensitivity of the sensor towards various blood components and medicaments. By adapting sensor calibration, it proved possible to suppress these cross-sensitivity effects. The flow-through cell type of sensor remained functional for up to 71 days post-implantation. So far, data for the catheter-type sensor cover an indwelling time of up to 30 days.

An electrocatalytic glucose sensor for in vivo application has been developed. The principle of measurement is based on the direct electrochemical oxidation of glucose at a platinum electrode without an enzymatic reaction. In an in vivo experiment with sheep the glucose sensor was tested with respect to its cross-sensitivity towards ascorbic acid, paracetamol and sulfanilamide. The influence of these substances could be reduced by an adapted calibration to such an extent, that the sensor performance could be ensured.

Four large whole-body exposure chambers, 19 m3 in volume, are available at this research centre for studies on the effect on lungs following long-term exposure to particulate air pollutants. Each chamber is designed to house up to five beagle dogs according to the floor space requirements for dogs, thus up to 20 dogs are available for one exposure experiment. Clean air is supplied by an air conditioning system with particle, charcoal and adsorbent filters. A horizontal air flow design provides uniform distribution of aerosol, temperature and relative humidity in the chambers with long-term stability. Data acquisition is fully automated. Alarms are available to warn of deviations from airflow settings and aerosol mass concentration. The design of the chambers and their performance during a 290 day exposure are described in this paper.

After a control period of 400 d in filtered, contaminant-free air, eight dogs were exposed continuously for 290 d to a respirable sulfur(IV) aerosol at an S(IV) concentration of 0.3mg−3, equivalent to a sulfur dioxide concentration of 0.6 mg m−3. Long-term particle clearance from the lungs was tested with uniform, moderately soluble cobalt oxide (Co3O4)particles and nearly insoluble fused aluminosilicate particles (FAP) after short-term inhalation. The former were used to analyze translocation of dissolved particle mass from the lungs to blood, and the latter to study mechanical particle transport from the lungs to the larynx and into the gastrointestinal tract, and via lymphatics to the lung-associated lymph nodes.The in vivo translocation rate of moderately soluble test particles was significantly increased (by a factor of 7.8) in three dogs during S(IV) exposure compared to the rate during the control period. The results were confirmed by in vitro measurements of intracellular dissolution of mo...

Eight beagle dogs were exposed for 290 d to a low concentration of sulfur(IV/) aerosol 10.3 mg m−3 S(IV) corresponding to 0.6 mg m−3 sulfur dioxidel. No clinical symptoms were found that could be correlated with the pollutant. However, significant changes were observed in some of the biochemical and cellular parameters determined in sequential bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluids. The protein and albumin concentration increased (p

Respiratory function was studied in eight beagle dogs at the end of a 290-day exposure to a sulfur(IV) aerosol [0.3 mg m−3 S(IV)]and compared to lung function parameters in three dogs exposed to clean air during the same period. The lung mechanics were characterized by lung volumes and quasistatic and dynamic compliances of lungs and thorax. Gas exchange and gas transport were estimated by carbon monoxide rebreathing, single-breath and multiple-breath inert gas washout, and the study of aerosol bolus dispersion. We found a significant decrease in specific lung compliance (728 ± 8 vs. 149 ± 9 ml hPa−1 p

Sixteen beagle dogs were housed in four large chambers under minimum restraint. They were exposed for 16 months to clean air and individual baseline data of markers were obtained. For 13 months, eight dogs were further exposed to clean air and eight dogs for 6 h/d to 1-microm MMAD (mass median aerodynamic diameter) acidic sulfate particles carrying 25 micromol H(+) m(-3) into their lungs. To establish functional responses (lung function, cell and tissue integrity, redox balance, and non-specific respiratory defense capacity), each exposed animal served as its own control. To establish structural responses, the eight non-exposed animals served as controls. Acidic particles were produced by nebulization of aqueous sodium hydrogen sulfate at pH 1.5. Only subtle exposure-related changes of lung function and structure were detected. A significant increase in respiratory burst function of alveolar macrophages points to a marginal inflammatory response. This can be explained by the significant production of prostaglandin E(2), activating cyclooxygenase-dependent mechanisms in epithelia and thus inhibiting lung inflammation. The non-specific defense capacity was slightly affected, giving increased tracheal mucus velocity and reduced in vivo dissolution of moderately soluble test particles. Hypertrophy and hyperplasia of bronchial epithelia were not observed, but there was an increase in volume density of bronchial glands and a shift from neutral to acidic staining of epithelial secretory cells in distal airways. The acidic exposure had thus no pathophysiological consequences. It is therefore unlikely that long-term inhalation of acidic particles is associated with a health risk.

Following the demonstration of morphologic changes induced by a sulphur(IV) aerosol inthe extrapulmonary airways (Takenaka et al., 1990), the pulmonary airways were examined in order to evaluate pulmonary effects. After continuous exposure for 290 days to a respirable sulphur(IV) aerosol at a concentrationequivalent to a sulphur dioxide concentration of 0.6 mg m-3, lung samples from 8 exposed and 3 unexposed beagle dogs were prepared according to the modified cascade sampling and vertical section methods, and bronchial glands and alveolar regions were analyzed morphometrically. No differences were observed in the ratio of bronchial glands to bronchial walls between the exposure and control groups. However, the exposure group showed a slight decrease in the volume density of the septum. This decrease resulted in a reduction in the septal surface area, indicating enlargement of the alveolar air space. One of 8 exposed dogs showed clear morphologic evidence of focal dilation of the alveoli and alveolar sac. There was a significant decrease in the calculated diffusing capacity in the exposure group. These findings indicate that long-term exposure to airborne sulphur(IV) has adverseeffects on both the upper and lower parts of the respiratory system of beagle dogs.

Glucose tolerance tests are monitored by means of an electrocatalytic glucose sensor in an animal experiment in extracorporeal circulation. The sensor is integrated via a vascular graft into an artery of the animal and is operated by the load program of an electronic device. The measurement principle of the electrocatalytic glucose sensor is based on the measurement of the electrode impedance at various potentials. Using the sensor, it is possible to carry out one continuous glucose determination on each day over a week. A calibration applicable to the entire measurement period is found by subsequent correlation of the measured values with the enzymatically determined glucose concentration. In this experiment the measuring error of the sensor is on average 20%.

The extrapulmonary airways of 8 male beagle dogs were examined histopathologically after continuous exposure to a sulphite aerosol at a concentration of 1 mg/m3 for 290 days. Hyperplastic foci were observed in the respiratory region of the posterior nasal cavity. The changes were characterized by a thickened epithelial layer resulting from epithelial proliferation, by a loss of secretory material and by moderate mononuclear cell infiltration. In the larynx an increased number of non-ciliated cells, and slight mononuclear cell infiltration were found. Tracheal changes were limited to an increased number of non-ciliated cells in the membranous portion. TEM (transmission electron microscopy) showed the changes in the trachea to be caused by disorder in the development of ciliated cells. These findings suggest that sulphite aerosols have adverse effects on the extrapulmonary airways of beagle dogs.

During exposure of 8 Beagle dogs for 290 days to particulate sulphur(IV) no clinical symptoms were seen which could be correlated with the pollutant. However, significant changes were observed in some of the biochemical and cellular parameters in the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid. In the second half of the exposure period the protein and albumin content of the BAL fluid increased indicating changes in the transudation kinetics of serum proteins into the alveolar lumen. The lysosomal enzyme β-N-acetyl-glucosaminidase also increased in the BAL fluid indicating a higher release of this enzyme from phagocytes. At the same time alveolar macrophages showed a reduced phagocytosis rate in vitro for polystyrene particles and a reduced production of oxygen-derived free radicals. These results indicate a reduced unspecific defence capacity of the alveolar macrophages as well as a change in their lysosomal activity. In conclusion, chronic exposure to particulate S(IV) at a low concentration can initiate pathobiochemical pathways in the lungs indicating the possibility of a health risk.

An expert Working Group was set up in December 2000 to develop recommendations for users and industry on the evaluation of proper function and operation of individually ventilated cage (IVC) systems. The full report of their recommendations is in two parts—'Part 1: Test Instructions' and 'Part 2: Evaluation Criteria'—both of which have been published in full on the Laboratory Animals Ltd website. They can be found at http://www.lal.org.uk/IVC/index.html. Evaluation of and feedback on the recommendations to further refine their use and scientific basis is encouraged. This Summary Report provides a brief overview of the background to the development of the full report and the issues it addresses.

Correlations of 12 skull measurements in two European mammal species-the common polecat (Mustela putorius L.) and muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus L.) were examined. Correlation connections between different skull measurements were plotted on Czekanowski's diagrams and the correlation structures of the two species were compared by two methods: Terentjev's correlation pleiads and Vyhandu's one. Considerable differences were found in the correlation structures of the skull. The indicator-characters of the skull: condylobasal length (CbL) and diastema length (DL)-exhibit different degrees of connections with the other skull measurements in both of these species. The skull of the muskrat is distinguished by a slight degree sex dimorphism in dimensions which increases with the animal's age. Intensive increase of the majority of its dimensions ends in the second calendar year of the animal's life. Age changes of skull dimensions of the muskrat are also reflected in changes in correlation structures corresponding to periods of isometric and allometric growth. It is possible that these little known statistical methods may have a practical application in medicine.

Morphologic changes were observed in nasal cavities of beagle dogs after long-term exposure to a respirable sulfur(IV) aerosol at a concentration equivalent to a sulfur dioxide (SO2) concentration of 0.6 mg/m3. The changes were characterized by a thickened epithelial layer resulting from epithelial proliferation, by a loss of secretory material, and by moderate mononuclear cell infiltration.

A catheter shaped electrocatalytic glucose sensor for in vivo application has been developed to determine the glucose level in blood and control the insulin dosage in a closed loop system for diabetes therapy. The principle of measurement is based on the electrochemical oxidation of glucose at a membrane-covered platium electrode. For various potential steps, the impedance obtained at two different frequencies is a function of the glucose concentration. A series of implantations in the vena cava of sheep demonstrated the potential feasibility of the sensor. It was possible to determine the glucose concentration in sheep for more than 130 days with tolerable deviations from glucose reference measurements. The mean error was 2.5 mmol/l. The catheter was explanted after 211 days and histological examination revealed a good biocompatibility of all materials used.

For the continuous measurement of glucose levels in vivo, an electrocatalytic glucose sensor has been developed. Electrochemical determination of the glucose concentration is effected by measurement of the impedance, which at given potentials is directly dependent on the glucose concentration in the solution. For evaluation and determination of long-term stability, the sensor was first implanted in the carotid artery in the form of a flow-through cell, and was later inserted into the vena cava of a sheep in the form of a catheter. Sensor response was checked periodically by performing glucose tolerance tests. During the implantation period, we also tested the sensitivity of the sensor towards various blood components and medicaments. By adapting sensor calibration, it proved possible to suppress these cross-sensitivity effects. The flow-through cell type of sensor remained functional for up to 71 days post-implantation. So far, data for the catheter-type sensor cover an indwelling time of up to 30 days.

In an animal experiment with the electrocatalytic glucose sensor, measurements were carried out over one week in the extracorporeal circulation of a sheep. Glucose tolerance tests were performed, and the influence of increased urea concentrations in the blood on the glucose determination was investigated. The sensor constructed as a flow-through cell was integrated via a vascular graft outside the body into the carotid artery of the animal and activated by an external electronic unit of measurement. The glucose concentration was determined by measuring the impedance of the electrode/membrane system at various potentials. By means of a subsequent correlation analysis of the measured values obtained over one week, a calibration valid for the entire measurement period was established. After a zero adjustment, it was even possible to adopt the calibration from the glucose measurement of the preceding animal experiment. The investigations of the influence of urea on the glucose measurement showed that the error in measurement of the sensor, which is 20% on average, is only insignificantly increased when the urea level is raised beyond the maximum physiological concentration.

Previous fecal collection cups with tape fixation frequently led to serious necroses of the rat tail due to strangulations, and did not allow for growth of the tail. A recently developed new model gives space for rapidly growing tails and is securely fixed by a cannula perforating both fecal collection cup and tail. It is transparent, cheap to be made, and easy to empty and was tested in 118 animals for two and four weeks. In no case the cup did loosen or had to be removed due to infections, strangulations or any local problems.

SUMMARYExamination was made of the chromosomes of Common Pipistrelle and Nathusius' Pipistrelle originating from the Bialowieza Primeval Forest (52°42'N, 23°51'E). Identical 2N=44 and NFa=50 were found in both specics. The karyotypes of the species examined differ only in respect of the dimensions of one pair of marker chromosomes. The possibility of the evolution of the chromosome formula in different geographical cytotypes of P pipistrellus is discussed.

The chromosomes from three individuals of Plecotus austriacus (Fischer, 1829) collected in Central Poland were studied. Set 2N=32 and the pattern of G-bands was identical as that in Plecotus auritus and Barbastella barbastellus (Schreber, 1774) were found. The phylogenetic relationships within Plecotini tribe were re-assessed according to these new data.

In the series of skulls of A. agrarius from Poland (n=3228) an additional t3 in tooth M2 occured in 3.9% of the skulls examined, while 0.1% of the skulls from the series of Sylvaemus (n=4911) examined had M2 without t3, representing the pattern characteristic of the striped field mouse

Na kolekcjach czaszek pizmakow, O. zibethica z czterech środkowoeuropejskich populacji (n=352) zbadano wplyw dymorfizmu plciowego i miejsca pochodzenia zwierząt na wymiary (Ryc. 1) i proporcje czaszki. Badano takze związki korelacyjne wymiarow czaszki w aspekcie wiekowym i populacyjnym.

Szereg roznic morfologicznych stwierdzonych u dwoch europejskich podgatunkow nocka wąsatka-Myotis mystacinus mystacinus (Kuhl, 1819) i Myotis mystacinus brandtii (Eversmann, 1845), zadecydowal, ze obecnie obu tym formom przypisuje sie juz status gatunkowy. Obok nocka wąsatka, M. mystacinus (Kuhl, 1819), w sklad fauny nietoperzy Polski wchodzi nowy gatunek-nocek Brandta, M. Brandtii (Eversmann, 1845).

Examination was made of the degree of differentiation - both from the age and population aspect - of dimensions and proportions and also the correlation structures in 596 skulls of common polecat, Mustela putorius L i n n a e u s, 1758, from Poland. Two local populations were distingguished - the Bialowieza and Rzeszow populations, wchich exhibit certain differences in respect of the relations examined in uniform sex and age groups. Na kolekcjach czaszek tchorza zwyczajnego, M. putorius pochodzących z 6 krajowych grup populacyjnych (n=596; 372:224; Tabela 1) zbadano wplyw dymorfizmu plciowego i miejsca pochodzenia zwierzat na wymiary i proporcje czaszki (Fig. 1-5, 7; Tabela 2). Badano takze związki korelacyjne wymiarow czaszki w aspekcie wiekowym i populacyjnym (Fig. 6 i 8 oraz Tabela 4 i 7-9).

A morphological study of sex, age and population variation of Martes martes (Linnaeus, 1758) and Martes foina (Erxleben, 1777) was completed, using a collection of 236 and 47 skulls, respectively. Twenty-three measurements were take on each specimen. Three age groups (juveniles, subadults and adults) were recognized, based on relative criteria such as suture obliteration, tooth wear, and development of crista sagittalis. Univariate and multivariate technigues were used to process the data.

The relative density of the house mouse in Poland was estimated on the basis of the perecentage it formed in 938 collections of owl pellets from period 1955-1971, in squares of the 50X50 km UTM grid. Regions situated to the west of the River Vistula are characterized by low and medium density of the house mouse. High and very high density of M. musculus was found in the Pomeranian Lake District (square CE), Masovian Lowland (DC) and Sandomierz (EB) and Lublin Uplands.

To describe the variation and asymmetry patterns in 220 pine martens, Martes martes (Linnaeus, 1758), and 43 stone martens, Martes foina (Erxleben, 1777), from Poland, some teeth were measured, five groups of morphotypes were distinguished, and congenital oligodonties were counted. Dental characteristics for distinction between M. martes and M. foina, including a few originally described ones, are presented.

During the course of studies on the occurrence of carotenoids in different animals, including mammals (Czeczuga & Malzahn, 1980; cf. also bibliography referred to in their paper) we became interested in bats. The Polish Vespertilionidae appeared particularly suitable for studies on differences in carotenoid content, on account of the fact that these species feed almost exclusively on insects and also hibernate. The results of preliminary examination of seasonal variation in carotenoid concentration in five species of bats (Czeczuga & Ruprecht, 1981) encouraged us to look for an explanation of certain food relations between bats and their prey — insects. This appeared possible because of the good knowledge already obtained of the qualitative composition of body carotenoids in different species of insects (Feltwell, 1979; Czeczuga, 1976. 1980a, b) and also on account of the fact that the composition of the food consumed by the majority of insectivorous bats is also known (Nyholm, 1965; Brosset & Deboutteville, 1966; Sologor & Petrusenko, 1973; Bauerova, 1978; Krauss, 1978). We also wanted to establish whether there was a phenomenon of selective accumulation of certain carotenoids [U]

Haematological parameters were determined in 37 bats, Eptesicus serotinus, taking blood samples from 36 live animals at period of their activity and from one hibernating bat (male).

Differential staining revealed a total accordance of banding pattern for all the chromosomes of Plecotus auritus (Linnaeus, 1758) and Barbastella barbastellus (Schreber, 1774). The kariotypes of these two species are identical and consist of 32 chromosomes, including 10 pairs of metacentric autosomes, 5 pairs of telocentric autosomes, a submetacentric X-chromosome, and a small acrocentric y-chromosome.