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Knowledge of the most common presenting complaints and diagnoses in companion animals is valuable in preparing veterinary students and veterinarians to manage the most frequently observed conditions in clinical practice. Pet insurance databases provide access to large sample populations and have been previously used to describe disease incidence in companion animals. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of presenting complaints and diagnoses in insured Australian dogs through the use of a pet insurance database. Analysis of a de-identified dataset containing pet insurance claims associated with presenting complaints and diagnoses from 488,472 insured Australian dogs insured in the years 2016 and 2017, was performed. Annual incidence rates of presenting complaints and diagnoses were calculated and expressed as, number of events per 1,000 dog years at risk. The presenting complaints with the highest incidence were vomiting (14.21 events per 1,000 dog years at risk in 2016, 15.80 events per 1,000 dog years at risk in 2017) and pruritus (8.79 events per 1,000 dog years at risk in 2016, 10.30 events per 1,000 dog years at risk in 2017). Presenting complaints affecting the gastrointestinal system were the most common (19.20 events per 1,000 dog years at risk in 2016, 20.77 events per 1,000 dog years at risk in 2017). The diagnoses with the highest incidence were otitis externa (34.12 events per 1,000 dog years at risk in 2016, 34.82 events per 1,000 dog years at risk in 2017) and dermatitis (28.05 events per 1,000 dog years at risk in 2016, 29.99 events per 1,000 dog years at risk in 2017). Diagnoses affecting the integument were the most common (216.56 events per 1,000 dog years at risk in 2016, 219.06 events per 1,000 dog years at risk in 2017). The results from this study can aid in the design of relevant veterinary curricula and may be helpful in prioritising research on common clinical conditions.

In late April 2015, the River Dee Trust informed Marine Scotland Science, Fish Health Inspectorate (FHI), that there had been observations of dead and moribund European eels on the River Dee. Later in May, the Spey Fishery Board also reported a number of moribund European eels in a rotary screw smolt trap on the River Spey. In total, 10 cases involving moribund eels were investigated in 2015 and one case in 2016. In addition, a health screen was conducted to investigate the potential presence of Flavobacterium psychrophilum in healthy eels and Atlantic salmon from the River Dee in 2015. Externally, the diseased eels demonstrated white patches in different locations of the body. In all cases, F. psychrophilum was detected by bacterial isolation and/or molecular methods. Three isolates were further characterized by whole-genome sequencing (WGS) as belonging to sequence type 15 (ST15). Histological examination of diseased European eels revealed lesions at the level of the integument. The pathogen screen for F. psychrophilum in wild healthy fish tested negative by PCR. Further investigation is required to understand the pathogenicity of this bacterium on the health of eels and the potential impact on the wild salmonid population.

Facultative air-breathing fish can exchange respiratory gases using an air-breathing organ (ABO), such as the oral cavity of the integument, during environmental hypoxia. The goby Gobionellus oceanicus inhabits areas subject to environmental hypoxia; however, its ABO is unknown. To investigate the respiratory potential of G. oceanicus, the gill and integument surface area, diffusion capacity, and their diffusion barrier thickness were measured. Our results show that although gill surface area is smaller than observed in other facultative air-breathing fish, but it has all features necessary to perform aquatic gas exchange. Additionally the integument of the palate has a short diffusion barrier thickness and a large calculated O2 -diffusion capacity suggesting that it functions as the ABO.

We investigated the morphology of the skin and the biochemistry of the lipids in the skin secretion of Bokermannohyla alvarengai, a montane treefrog that is known to bask regularly, motionless in full sunlight for extended periods of time. Our primary goal was to identify structural and biochemical modifications that might assist this frog species to accommodate the conflicting demands for heat exchange and water balance while basking. The modulation of heat exchange in basking B. alvarengai involves changes in skin coloration. We found that this response was supported by a prominent monolayer of large iridophores, whose light reflectance property is adjusted by the response of intervening melanophores. Mucosubstances and lipid compounds, mainly consisted of saturated fatty acids and presumably secreted from granular glands, were detected on the skin of B. alvarengai. These compounds formed an extra-epidermal layer over the animal's dorsal surface that might assist in the prevention of excessive water loss through evaporation. Additionally, we found well-developed skin folds at the ventral region of the frogs that lead to an increment of surface area. This feature combined with the extensive hypervascularization, also noticed for the skin of B. alvarengai, may play an important role in water reabsorption. The suite of structural and biochemical modifications identified for the integument of B. alvarengai seems to conjugate aspects relevant to both, heat exchange and water balance, allowing for this species to explore basking as an efficient thermoregulatory strategy.

The dorsal integument of nearly all species of Peripatidae—one of the two major subgroups of Onychophora (velvet worms)—typically exhibits 12 plicae (=annuli) per segment. The only exception might occur in Plicatoperipatus jamaicensis, from which 24 putative plicae per segment have been reported. Hence, the number of plicae might have been duplicated in this species. If so, one would expect that the structure of the duplicated plicae would resemble that of all other onychophoran species, and that the structures commonly associated with the plicae, including crater-shaped papillae and hyaline organs, would also have been duplicated. To clarify whether there was indeed such duplication, we compared the structure of the integument in embryos and adults of Pl. jamaicensis (with the putative number of 24 plicae per segment) and Principapillatus hitoyensis (with the common number of 12 plicae per segment). Our scanning electron microscopic data revealed that embryos of both species have 12 plicae per segment. While this number persists in adults of Pr. hitoyensis, 12 additional rows of papillae (=pseudoplicae) occur in the dorsal integument in adults of Pl. jamaicensis. These pseudoplicae differ from the typical plicae of other onychophorans in that they are not equipped with primary papillae and are situated in furrows between the true plicae, as evidenced by the position of hyaline organs and crater-shaped papillae. Our data further show that the number of the ventrolateral plicae, crater-shaped papillae, and hyaline organs is similar in the two species studied. This suggests that the plicae have not been duplicated in the integument of Pl. jamaicensis, but rather that additional pseudoplicae have been inserted between the 12 original plicae. These pseudoplicae might have led to a denser package of dermal papillae in the dorsal integument of Pl. jamaicensis, but the functional significance of this evolutionary change is unknown.

The mechanisms and functions of reversible colour change in arthropods are highly diverse despite, or perhaps due to, the presence of an exoskeleton. Physiological colour changes, which have been recorded in 90 arthropod species, are rapid and are the result of changes in the positioning of microstructures or pigments, or in the refractive index of layers in the integument. By contrast, morphological colour changes, documented in 31 species, involve the anabolism or catabolism of components (e.g. pigments) directly related to the observable colour. In this review we highlight the diversity of mechanisms by which reversible colour change occurs and the evolutionary context and diversity of arthropod taxa in which it has been observed. Further, we discuss the functions of reversible colour change so far proposed, review the limited behavioural and ecological data, and argue that the field requires phylogenetically controlled approaches to understanding the evolution of reversible colour change. Finally, we encourage biologists to explore new model systems for colour change and to engage scientists from other disciplines; continued cross-disciplinary collaboration is the most promising approach to this nexus of biology, physics, and chemistry.

The lepidopterous moth, Spodoptera littoralis Bois. can be easily marked when the larvae were fed on a diet consisting of dry kidney beans, agar, Brewer's yeast and ascorbic acid mixed with one of the two dyes, Calco Oil Blue RA or Calco Oil Red N-1700 at a concentration of 1–1.5 g/1 kg of the diet. The colour was retained throughout the moth life span in the integument, fat bodies, intersegmental membranes, ovaries and spermatophores. The colour was more bright on dissolving the dyes in cottonseed oil before mixing with the diet. Calco Oil Red N-1700 proved to be superior in tagging the moths than Calco Oil Blue RA. These dyes had no adverse effect on the biology and the duration of different developmental stages of the insect. The ease of preparation of the semi-artificial diet, availability and low cost of its components strongly support its use with dyes for producing marked moths. Zusammenfassung Ein Verfahren zur Markierung der Falter von Spodoptera littoralis Bois. zwecks Populations-Verbreitungsstudien Die Falter von S. littoralis konnten auf einfache Weise markiert werden, indem die Raupen mit einer Diat aus getrockneten Bohnen, Agar, Brauerhefe und Ascorbinsaure-Gemisch mit 2 Farben: Calco-Ol Blau RA oder Calco-Ol Rot N 1700 (1–1,5 kg Diat) gefuttert wurden. Die Farbe wird im Integument, in den Fettkorpern, Intersegmentalhauten, Ovarien und Spermatophoren zuruckgehalten. Sie erhielt mehr Glanz, wenn sie vor der Mischung mit der Diat in Baumwollsamenol gelost wurde. Calco-Ol Rot N 1700 war in der Kennzeichnung der Falter der blauen Farbe uberlegen. Beide Farben hatten keine nachteilige Wirkung auf die Biologie und die Entwicklungsdauer der Stadien des Insektes. Die einfache und billige Herstellung der halbkunstlichen Diat empfiehlt in Verbindung mit den gen. Farben dieses Verfahren zur Markierung von Faltern.

Summary 1 The distribution of the moments of penetration into the host in larvae of the Tachinid Eucarcelia rutilla Vill. which deposit the eggs upon the integument, has been studied. 2 Fifty percent of the larvae penetrate before approximately three hours after deposition; only 1–2% after 24 hours. 3 No real differences in the distribution of the penetration moments exist between the five larval instars of Bupalus, or between Bupalus and seven host species, which are mentioned on p. 303. 4 The age of the female parasite has a definite influence upon the period in which the larvae remain inside the chorion. 5 For the five larval instars of Bupalus piniarius a detailed study has been made as to the period in which the empty choria remain upon the host. 6 As a rule the empty chorion disappears with the moult of the cuticle. 7 The processes which cause a “premature” disappearence of the empty choria differ between instar and segment number. It is argued that the choria present on segments 4 to 12 fall victim to a certain extent to the “eating off” reaction of the host, as do the freshly deposited eggs. 8 The fully grown Bupalus larvae do not follow this general scheme. Here a high number (24%) of the choria disappear from the first six segments before the caterpillars transform into the pre-pupal stage. 9 A survey is given of the published data on the penetration into the host in 29 Tachinid species. Zusammenfassung 1 Die Zeitdauer zwischen der Eiablage und dem Einbohren der Larve in den Wirt wurde bei der ovolarviparen Tachine Eucarcelia rutilla Vill., Parasit des Kiefernspanners Bupalus piniarius, untersucht. 2 Funfzig Prozent der Parasitenlarven dringt binnen drei Stunden ein, nur etwa 1-2% erst nach 24 Stunden. 3 Die Verwendung verschiedener Larvenstadien von Bupalus piniarius oder auch anderer Wirtsarten (Semiothisa liturata, Ellopia prosapiaria, Thera obeliscata, Thera firmata, Panolis flammea, Hyloicus pinastri, Diprion pini, Diprion frutetorum und Diprion virens) ergab keinen Unterschied in dieser Zeitspanne. 4 Das Lebensalter der weiblichen Fliege hat einen erheblichen Einflus auf den Zeitabstand zwischen Eiablage und Einbohren der Larve. Bei den von 40 Tagen alten Weibchen abgelegten Eiern ist die Zeitspanne 2- bis 3mal so kurz wie bei den Eiern 20 Tage alter Weibchen. Wahrscheinlich ist der Alterseinflus im Anfang der Legezeit besonders gros. 5 Es wurde auch untersucht, wie lange die leere Eihulle noch weiter auf der Haut des Wirtes (Bupalus) verbleibt. Sie wird in den meisten Fallen bei der nachsten Hautung der Raupe abgeworfen. 6 Was das Verschwinden der leeren Eihullen bereits vor der Hautung betrifft, so sind in dieser Beziehung Unterschiede festzustellen zwischen den verschiedenen Larvenstadien des Wirtes und ebenso zwischen den verschiedenen Korpersegmenten des gleichen Stadiums. 7 Beim funften Larvenstadium von Bupalus verschwinden 24% der leeren Parasiteneier vom vorderen Korperabschnitt bereits vor der Verwandlung zur Prapuppe. 8 Fur 23 andere Tachinenarten sind aus der Literatur Daten uber den Zeitabstand zwischen Eiablage und Eindringen der Larve zusammengestellt worden; fur 6 uber die Dauer des Einbohrens an sich.

The body-wall of the larva of Spodoptera littoralis, consists of epicuticle, exocuticle, endocuticle, epidermis and basement membrane. It increases in thicknes during metamorphosis. Also the head capsule increases in width through the larval instars. The wing buds develop in the one-day-old pupa. The thoracic and abdominal legs start to appear in the prepupa. The repugnatorial gland increases in size through larval instars and disappears in the prepupa as well as in the pupa. Microphotographs of these structures are given. Zusammenfassung Zur Morphologie und Histologie der Entwicklungsstadien der Baumwolleule, Spodoptera littoralis (Bois.) Die Korperdecke der Raupen von Sp. littoralis besteht aus Epi-, Exo- und Endocuticula sowie Epidermis und Basalmembran. Sie — wie auch die Kopfkapsel — nimmt wahrend der Larven- und Puppenentwicklung an Dicke zu. Die Muskelanlagen sind erstmals in der jungen Puppe sichtbar. Die Thorakal- und Abdominalbeine erscheinen im Vorpuppenstadium. Die Repugnatorial-Druse entwickelt sich wahrend der Larvalzeit; sie fehlt der Vorpuppe und Puppe. Die genannten Strukturen werden in Mikrofotos dargestellt.

Summary The structure of the integument of Phormia regina, Rhyparobia madera and Geotrupes silvaticus was investigated in the places later to be treated with insecticide, using frozen sections approximately 10 μ thick stained with azan. The poison was applied to the insects in the following places: Phormia: wing, ventral abdomen, mesonotum Rhyparobia: intersegmental membrane, antennae, pronotum Geotrupes: dorsal abdomen, pronotum. Significant differences in the effect of ‘Gammexane’ could be seen in the insects used according to the site of application. For each species, there is a grading in time of effect in the order shown above. There are significant differences according to the site of application for the mean values as well as the scatter of affect times. At the same time, it is seen that ‘Gammexane’ is able to penetrate homogenous cuticle. In the concluding discussion, it is assumed, from the results obtained, that certain parts of the body, because of the nature of their integument, impede the penetration of the insecticide to a lesser extent. These include the wings of Phormia and the antennae of Rhyparobia with their numerous sensoria and, in Rhyparobia, parts of the integument which are comparatively thin and therefore more permeable. In general, strongly sclerotized parts of the body provide more protection than membranous parts, as is seen from the tests with Geotrupes. The importance of physical factors is discussed.

The green colour of the grasshopper Oedaleus senegalensis, Krauss is not affected by temperature or humidity. It can persist at relative humidities ranging between 0% to 37% and temperatures between 33° C to 48° C (lethal temperature). The green colour of O. senegalensis changed into brown after exposure to light for 48 hours, but the original green colour was not restored after keeping the insects in complete darkness for more than seven days. The dominant pigment in the integument of both green and brown varieties of O. senegalensis is most probably melanin. Zusammenfassung Farbwechsel bei der Heuschrecke Oedaleus senegalensis Krauss (Fam. Acrididae) Die grune Farbe von O. senegalensis wird nicht von Temperatur oder Feuchtigkeit beeinflust. Sie bleibt bei Luftfeuchtestufen zwischen 0 und 37% sowie Temperaturen zwischen 33 und 48° C (Letaltemperatur) unverandert. Die grune Farbe von O. senegalensis schlug unter Dauerlicht von 48 Stunden in Braun um und wurde durch anschliesende Haltung in Dauerdunkelheit nicht wiederhergestellt. Bei dem dominierenden Pigment beider Farbvarianten von O. senegalensis: Grun und Braun handelt es sich sehr wahrscheinlich um Melanin.

Zusammenfassung Es wird der Frage nachgegangen, ob die Haut des an Neurodermitis constituionalis leidenden Patienten vermehrt oder vermindert von Dermatophyetn besiedelt wird. Ein Kollektiv von 106 Neurodermitikern im Alter von 18–66 Jahren wurde untersucht. Auserhalb der Lokalisation der Fuse zeigten sich bei Kranken mykosesuspekte Lasionen, die aber in keinem Fall zu einem positiven Dermatophytenbefund fuhrten. Da bei Patienten im Raume Essen, die nicht an Neurodermitis leiden, in rund 4 % der Falle eine Tinea des Integumentes auserhalb der Fusregion vorliegt, mus der negative Befund bei Neurodermitikern auf Besonderheiten der Haut zuruckgefuhrt werden. Die auffallendste Eigenschaft des Integumentes eines Neurodermitikers ist dessen Trockenheit. Das fur die normale Durchfeuchtung der Haut verantwortliche Wasser-Fett-System ist nach Ude (1974) gestort, so das Wasser verloren geht und so die Haut trocken wird. Nach Rajka (1974) ist der transepidermale Wasserverlust groser als der einer normalen Haut. Das Ausbleiben einer Tinea corporis erklaren wir uns daher durch die weniger hygroskopische Oberflache der Haut und damit des Keratins der Epidermis, das auftreffenden Arthrosporen weniger gunstige Auskeimungs- und Infektionsbedingungen bietet. Das Vorliegen einer Tinea pedis et unguium pedis konnte in 31% (33 Patienten) aller Falle nachgewiesen werden. Dieser Wert liegt nur wenig unter der Normalbevolkerung im Raume Essen. Der Grund fur diese Ubereinstimmung wird vor allem in dem modernen Strumpffasergewebe (Nylon, Perlon) gesehen, das im Zusammenwirken mit dem Schuhwerk die Bildung einer „feudten Kammer” und damit die Ansiedlung von Dermatophyten an den Fusen begunstigt. Summary The question was raised, if the integument of a patient suffering from Neurodermatitis constitutionalis is more often or less, populated with dermatophytes. A collective of 106 patients with neurodermatitis were examined in the age from 18–66. Besides the localisation on the feet, there were other mycosis-suspect lesions, but they did not lead in any case to positive dermatophyte findings. The patients in the area of Essen, which do not suffer on a neurodermatitis, in 4% of the cases a Tinea of the integument beyond the tarsus region is present. The negative findings in patients with neurodermatitis has to be attributed to peculiarities of the integument. The most noteworthy feature of the integument in a patient with neurodermatitis is its dryness. The water-fat-system, responsible for the normal moisture of the skin is according to Ude (1974) disturbed, which leads to water lost, thus the integument is dry. According to Rajka (1974), the transepidermal deprivation of water is more excessive then in a normal integument. The absence of a Tinea corporis could be explained through the smaller hygroscopic surface of the integument and therewith the keratine of the epidermis, which offers for the arthrospores less favourable conditions for germinating and infection. The presence of a Tinea pedis et unguium pedis could be prooved in 31 % (33 patients) of all cases. This estimation lies just below the normal population in the area of Essen. The reason for this correspondence is mostly seen in the modern stocking fibers (nylon, perlon), which in combination with the footwear, they build a “moist chamber”, and thus it favoures the growth of the dermatophytes on the feet.

Summary Two different fluorescence stains, green: 5-hexadecanoylaminofluorescein, and red: BODIPY® 665/676 [(E,E)-3, 5-bis-(4-phenyl-1,3-butadienyl)-4,4-difluoro-4-bora-3a, 4a-diaza-s-indacene, produced good results regarding the demonstration of glycolipids, free fatty acids and triglycerides in mammalian skin material that had been embedded in a water miscible plastic resin (Technovit® 7100). In this way, functional aspects of specific structures (epidermal barrier region, sebaceous glands) could be characterized histochemically in the integument of five mammalian species with sparse or dense hair coats.

Four new genera and six new species of fossil seed (Buarcospermum tetragonium, Lignierispermum maroneae, Lobospermum glabrum, L. rugosum, L. stampanonii, Rugonella trigonospermum) are described from five Early Cretaceous mesofossil floras from Portugal and eastern North America. The four genera are distinguished by differences in size, shape, and details of seed anatomy, but all are unusual in having an outer seed envelope with a distinctive anatomical structure that surrounds the nucellus and the integument. The integument is extended apically into a long, narrow micropylar tube. The four new genera are part of a diverse, but previously unrecognized, complex of extinct plants that was widespread in Early Cretaceous vegetation and that coexisted in similar habitats with early angiosperms. The distinctive structure of these seeds, and the strong similarities to other fossil seeds (Ephedra, Ephedripites, Erdtmanispermum, Raunsgaardispermum, and some Bennettitales) already known from the Early Cretaceous, suggests that this newly recognized complex of extinct plants, together with Bennettitales, Erdtmanithecales, and Gnetales (the BEG group), is phylogenetically closely related.

Twenty live and five dead juvenile and subadult loggerhead sea turtles were examined ultrasonographically. Ten soft tissue areas of the integument were used as acoustic windows: cervical-dorsal and cervical-ventral, left and right cervicobrachial, left and right axillary, left and right prefemoral and left and right postfemoral windows. Anatomical cross-sections were performed on the dead turtles to provide reference data. The fourth and fifth cervical vertebrae, the spinal cord, and the venous sinuses of the external jugular vein were clearly visible through the cervical-dorsal acoustic window, and the oesophagus and the heart were imaged through the cervical-ventral acoustic window. The stomach was more frequently visible through the left axillary acoustic window. The liver could be imaged through both sides, but the right axillary acoustic window was better for visualising the gall bladder. The large and small intestines and the kidneys were visible through the right and left prefemoral acoustic windows; the kidneys were easily identified by their intense vasculature.

The phylogeny of megabats (Mammalia: Chiroptera: Megachiroptera) has been addressed only on molecular grounds, as little effort has previously been made to describe the impressive morphological variation of the group in terms of phylogenetically informative characters. Here we provide a morphological matrix of 236 characters from the integument, dentition, cranial and post-cranial skeleton, digestive apparatus and urogenital system. This data set covers most characters discussed previously in more restricted taxonomic contexts, as well a large number of new characters. Our aim was to generate a phylogenetic hypothesis for megabats based on a combined analysis of morphological characters and available gene sequence data from four mitochondrial and one nuclear loci. We used direct optimization under conventional equal costs, as well as under a cost ratio that maximizes homology when inapplicables (gaps) are present. Our results contradict the allegedly high level of conflict between the molecular and morphological partitions. We found that, although morphology alone recovered trees different and to some extent incompatible with those from previous molecular analyses, the combination of the two sources of evidence easily accommodated the morphological and molecular signals, yielding a resolved and relatively well-supported phylogeny of Megachiroptera that is in reasonable agreement with the current morphology-based taxonomy of the group. Overall congruence favored the maximization of homology by a narrow margin. In addition, partial analyses showed that implied weighting of morphology performed slightly better than equal weighting with respect to the combined analyses. © The Willi Hennig Society 2005.

The skin of the emu Dromaius novaehollandiae is described in its entirety by light microscopy for the first time, therefore providing a basis for comparison with the integument of volant birds. The epidermal and dermal layers have a similar arrangement to other avian species. The concentration of lipid spheres in the basal layer of the epidermis is unique to emus. Although no differences in collagen density with depth of the dermis were observed, collagen bundle diameter is significantly smaller in the stratum superficiale compared to the stratum compactum (P = 0.001). The extensive stratum laxum, comprised predominantly of adipose tissue, may be an evolutionary adaptation to support the large feathers and also enhance insulation against ambient subzero temperatures. Males have a significantly thicker cellular epidermis (P = 0.024) and stratum compactum (P = 0.04) than females. In contrast, females have denser collagen (P = 0.04) within the stratum superficiale and stratum compactum.

For decades, carotenoids have attracted attention for their roles as vitamin-A precursors, antioxidants, and immunostimulants, but we still understand very little about the metabolic processes that accompany these compounds. Animals like birds use carotenoids to color their feathers and bare parts to become sexually attractive. They commonly metabolically derive their body colorants from dietary sources of carotenoids, but the sites of pigment metabolism remain unidentified. Here I test the hypothesis that songbirds manufacture their colorful feather and beak carotenoids directly at these tissues. I offer two lines of evidence to support this idea: (1) in a study of 11 colorful species from three passerine families, metabolically derived feather and beak carotenoids were found neither in the liver (a purported site of carotenoid metabolism), nor in the bloodstream (the means by which metabolites would be transported to colorful tissues from anywhere else in the body) at the time when pigments were being deposited into keratinized tissue, and (2) in a more detailed study of pigmentation in the American goldfinch Carduelis tristis, carotenoids sampled from the lipid fractions of maturing feather follicles yielded a mix of dietary and synthetic carotenoids, suggesting that this is the metabolically active site for feather-pigment production. This fresh perspective on carotenoid metabolism in animals should aid our efforts to characterize the responsible enzymes and to better understand the localized biological functions of these pigments.

To effectively ambush prey, sit-and-wait predators must locate sites where profitable prey are likely to return. One means by which predators evaluate potential ambush sites is by recognizing high-use areas through chemical cues deposited inadvertently by their prey. However, it is unknown whether ambush predators can use chemical cues associated with past prey items in the assessment of potential ambush sites. I examined selection of ambush sites by timber rattlesnakes (Crotalus horridus) exposed to trails made from chemical extracts of the integument of various prey species. I evaluated the role of feeding experience in ambush site selection by comparing the behavior of timber rattlesnakes before and after feeding experience with different sized prey items. Timber rattlesnakes are more likely to select ambush sites adjacent to chemical trails from prey with which they have had feeding experience, but only those fed relatively large prey showed an increase in responsiveness. Increased responsiveness after feeding experience was exhibited in experiments using integumentary extracts of mammals (the natural prey of timber rattlesnakes), but not in those using extracts of fish. These results indicate that ambush predators may learn to recognize chemicals on the integument of profitable food items, and use that experience when subsequently selecting ambush sites. Additionally, these findings provide evidence that size-dependent predation by snakes may be, in some species, a result of active prey selection.

The discovery that structurally unique ''filamentous integumentary appendages'' are associated with several different non-avian dinosaurs continues to stimulate the development of models to explain the evolutionary origin of feathers. Taking the phylogenetic relationships of the non-avian dinosaurs into consideration, some models propose that the ''filamentous integumentary appendages'' represent intermediate stages in the sequential evolution of feathers. Here we present observations on a unique integumentary structure, the bristle of the wild turkey beard, and suggest that this non-feather appendage provides another explanation for some of the ''filamentous integumentary appendages.'' Unlike feathers, beard bristles grow continuously from finger-like outgrows of the integument lacking follicles. We find that these beard bristles, which show simple branching, are hollow, distally, and express the feather-type b keratins. The significance of these observations to explanations for the evolution of archosaurian integumentary appendages is discussed. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 297B: 27-34, 2003. r 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

New ovules from the Fayetteville Formation (Upper Mississippian) of Arkansas expand our knowledge of the morphology and anatomy of Rhynchosperma and suggest it was produced by a medullosan seed fern. Rhynchosperma has been described as radially symmetrical with a two-layered integument and vascularization in the integument only. The apical portion of the integument is ribbed; the nucellus is fused to the integument and apically differentiated into a dome-shaped pollen chamber. The vascular system is incompletely known and apparently restricted to the base of the integument. The new specimens are like Rhynchosperma in external shape, size, number of ribs, and numerous histological features. However, new data reveal that the nucellus is vascularized by a sheath of tracheids, the integument is vascularized by discrete bundles, the pollen chamber has a nucellar beak, and the nucellus is attached to the integument for a variable distance from the base. In addition, the integument is tripartite with an elaborate apical region; ribs formed by the integument are more pronounced at the apex; and internally open, hollow lobes form a stellate micropylar canal. The presence of a tripartite integument, the nature of the vascular system, the nucellus-integument attachment, the pollen chamber structure, symmetry, and the association with medullosan vegetative remains suggest medullosan affinity for these ovules and strengthens the evidence for the origin of the family before the end of the Lower Carboniferous.

The general approach regarding the treatment of sepsis in patients with oncological or haematological malignancies does not differ significantly from that in immunocompetent individuals, however, there are several specialities. The main causes of severe infections in cancer patients include deranged cellular or humoral immunity due to the underlying disease, severe neutropenia as a consequence of cytostatic regimens, lesions of the mucosal barriers due to adverse effects of antineoplastic agents, and violations of the integument by therapeutic interventions. Due to the impaired host defense, life threatening infections can occur more often in these patients, thereby limiting the benefits of antineoplastic therapy. On this account precise and intensive therapy has to be initiated in the early stages of sepsis. In the following, we will not primarily focus on sepsis specific treatment modalities, but merely try to elucidate in more detail the pathomechanisms and special features with regard to infectious complications and specific treatment.

The integrative patagial morphology of Draco volans was examined to elucidate the possible evolutionary pathway of origin of active patagia in the flying dragons and in extinct taxa that are thought to have possessed similarly constructed flight membranes. The area of the patagia and accessory aerodynamic surfaces is compared between Draco volans and Ptychozoon kuhli, a gekkonid with passive patagia. Comparisons of patagial area are also made between selected species of Draco. Scale architecture of the patagium of Draco is described and is related to pertinent aspects of the structure and properties of the integument. The relationships of these characteristics to the morphology of the ribs and their related musculature are emphasized. The overall assessment of these features in relation to patagial form is employed to develop an evolutionary scenario for the origin of active patagia.

Hatchlings of the North American painted turtle (Chrysemys picta) spend their first winter of life inside a shallow, subterranean hibernaculum (the natal nest) where they may be exposed for extended periods to ice and cold. Hatchlings seemingly survive exposure to such conditions by becoming supercooled (i.e., by remaining unfrozen at temperatures below the equilibrium freezing point for body fluids), so we investigated the role of their integument in preventing ice from penetrating into body compartments from surrounding soil. We first showed that hatchlings whose epidermis has been damaged are more likely to be penetrated by growing crystals of ice than are turtles whose cutaneous barrier is intact. We next studied integument from a forelimb by light microscopy and discovered that the basal part of the alpha-keratin layer of the epidermis contains a dense layer of lipid. Skin from the forelimb of other neonatal turtles lacks such a layer of lipid in the epidermis, and these other turtles also are highly susceptible to inoculative freezing. Moreover, epidermis from the neck of hatchling painted turtles lacks the lipid layer, and this region of the skin is readily penetrated by growing crystals of ice. We therefore conclude that the resistance to inoculation imposed by skin on the limbs of hatchling painted turtles results from the presence of lipids in the alpha-keratin layer of the epidermis. Neonates apparently are able to avoid freezing during winter by drawing much of the body inside the shell, leaving only the ice-resistant integument of the limbs exposed to ice in the environment. The combination of behavior and skin morphology enables overwintering hatchlings to exploit an adaptive strategy based on supercooling.

This study explores the relationship between body mass and femoral construction in armoured (dasypodids and manids) and unarmoured (caviomorph rodents) mammals. Predictive equations based on diaphyseal cross-sectional parameters provided the most accurate estimates of body mass in caviomorph rodents and dasypodids. When these equations are applied to the estimation of body mass in manids, relatively low predictive errors (

We report on a comparative scanning electron microscopical study of trophi morphology of the two species making up the Class Seisonidea of Phylum Rotifera. The trophi of the two are generally similar, with morphological differences being interpreted as the result of adaptations to different food sources: the trophi of Seison nebaliae are adapted to particle-feeding, that of Seison annulatus probably functions by piercing the integument of the host using the fulcrum tip, and subsequently sucking out haemolymph. This difference in feeding ecology is believed to contribute to the co-occurrence of both species on the same host. A new hypothesis on the evolution of rotifer trophi is proposed.

Polypterid fishes ventilate their lungs by recoil aspiration. Active exhalation compresses the bony scale jacket; inhalation occurs when the scale jacket recoils to its original shape. Exhalation and loading of the integument are powered by contraction of striated muscle in the lung walls. The integument of polypterid fishes consists of interlocking rhomboid scales held together by collagen fibre strands. The scales imbricate with bevelled edges, so that when the fish is at rest, its integument is circular in cross-section and the overlapping scale edges are parallel. During exhalation, the hemicircular shape of the ventral integument is deformed, and the scales rotate slightly. As the overlapping scale edges become non parallel, the scales act as tiny levers to stretch the collagen fibres between them. When the fish opens its glottis to inhale, the stretched collagen fibres return to their rest lengths and pull the scale jacket back into a circular shape, sucking air into the lungs. Thus, despite the deformation of the integument as a whole in compression, strain energy is stored in tensile elements.

Hair follicle development is driven by interactions between the epithelium and underlying mesenchyme. These reciprocal interactions are essential for development, as a lack of response from either the mesenchyme or epithelium results in arrested growth. A large body of research has focused on the role of mesenchymal cells during hair follicle development and their inductive properties for hair neogenesis. In this commentary, the role of the epidermis during hair follicle induction will be discussed.

The sea otter is associated with a cold, marine habitat, has no insulating fat layer, and relies on its fur layer for insulation. Soiled pelage provides inadequate insulation and can lead to hypothermia and death. Information on sea otter pelage, the surface and bound lipids found in the pelage, and histology of the integument is thus relevant to the development of rehabilitation and management techniques for sea otters soiled with oil. We present detailed data on the sea otter pelage and integument, including hair bundle density (737–2,465 bundles per cm2), hair density per bundle (19–91.1), total hair density (26,413–164,662 hairs per cm2), guardhair length (8.2–26.9 mm), underfur length (4.6–15.8 mm), guardhair diameter (44.0–106.0 μ), underfur diameter (7.6–11.9 μ), angle of hair with respect to the skin (61.9°- 84.3°) and structure of individual hairs as seen with a scanning electron microscope. The hydrocarbon squalene was found to be the major component of the lipids associated with the pelage. Various layers of skin from eight sites on a single animal are described histologically. With the exception of density of the hair coat, sea otter integument is similar to that of domestic carnivores.

Although nutritional deficiencies, imbalances and toxicities may be specific, they all tend to produce general, non-specific skin changes. Tests to determine nutrient levels in tissues or serum are expensive and rarely diagnostic. Careful evaluation of genetic factors and the dietary history may give clues to the diagnosis; and test feedings or trial medications may produce clinical response. Except for food hypersensitivities, which may be common in certain individuals, pets fed complete, balanced commercial diets rarely have skin disorders caused by nutritional factors.

Ultrasonographic examinations were performed on healthy California desert tortoises to evaluate the utility of the anatomic acoustic windows available and to gain information about the normal echoanatomy of the tortoise. A major objective was to evaluate the potential clinical value of this diagnostic tool in these species. The soft tissue areas of the integument were used as acoustic windows. Three imaging approaches were described as mediastinal, axillary, and inguinal openings. The mediastinal and axillary approaches offered good visualization of the heart, liver, and gallbladder. The inguinal window allowed imaging of the intestines, urinary/accessory bladders, kidneys, and gonads. The pancreas and spleen could not be visualized. A tortoise with pericardial effusion and a tortoise with hepatic lipidosis are presented to illustrate clinical applications of ultrasound in diagnosing diseases of the tortoise.

Covering: 1934 to 2007 This review describes the epidermal and glandular chemistry of nonavian reptiles in relation to proposed functions, and includes more than 170 references. The results are presented according to the different reptile taxa.

Introduction Poor hoof angle and hoof pastern alignment has been linked to lameness in mature horses. External characteristics, such as the hoof pastern axis and hoof angle, are commonly used to assess dorsopalmar conformation in the same manner in foals. The hoof wall integument and distal phalanx is parallel in healthy mature horses but not in foals: this is not understood. Methods The front feet of 22 Thoroughbred foals were radiographed and measured in June and again in November. Lateromedial radiographic images were measured (Osirix) for hoof integument angle and width, and proximal, middle and distal phalanx angles. The data were tabulated in Excel and analysed in Minitab. After assessment for normality (Anderson-Darling), potential relationships were assessed for differences between June and November using paired t-tests and regression analysis. Results The dorsal hoof angle became more acute with age, R2 = 0.3326, the mean of June, 59.05 ± 3.662°, was significantly different from November, 53.64 ± 2.7824°, P

Changes induced in intestinal and rectal structure of the stone loach, Noemacheilus barbatulus (L.) by Pomphorhynchus laevis Muller infection are described. Within the gut, the main effect of the infection is the abrasion and flattening of the mucosa by the parasite. Where the praesoma penetrates the gut wall, there is a marked inflammatory response. This inflammatory response tissue is well vascularized and displays esterase activity. Granulocytes and phagocytic cells, which are found both within the inflammation tissue and within capillaries, are probably host leucocytes. The integument of P. laevis appears undamaged by granulocytes in its proximity and it is unlikely that the host's inflammatory response is capable of rejecting the parasite.

Small, anatomically preserved ovules are described from specimens collected at Fremouw Peak in the central Transantarctic Mountains. The ovules occur within a silicified peat in the upper part of the Fremouw Formation, which is considered to be Early to Middle Triassic. Ovules are radially symmetrical and ovoid, with an integument that consists of a narrow endotesta and a complex sclerotesta. The bilayered nucellus has a characteristic scalloped appearance and is attached to the integument only at the base. Of 43 ovules examined, 50 to 60% contain cellular megagametophyte tissue. One specimen contains a possible archegonium with embryo. Although the ovules have not been found attached, their possible affinities are discussed in relation to the known flora from this locality and other, comparable-aged floras

In recent years, the phenomena of hormonal control, embryonic determination and pattern formation have been receiving intensive scrutiny from molecular biologists. In the following «Roots» contribution, Professor Sir Vincent B. Wigglesworth reviews some of the seminal work that he did on these subjects in the insect Rhodnius prolixus.

Expression of the spot pattern on the dorsal surface of metamorphosing froglets of Rana pipiens seems to be determined by the dorsal integument rather than by the neural crest. At the neurula stage, dorsal ectoderm appears to be loosely determined with respect to pigmentary pattern. Results of skin rotation experiments suggest that by early larval stages the prospective dorsal spot pattern is precisely fixed in the integument.

Twenty—six species of adult Namib tenebrionid beetles belonging to the tribes Adesmiini and Zophosini have an extracuticular wax bloom covering either part or all of their body surface. These species occur in the dunes, dry river bed, and adjacent gravel plains of the central Namib. The percentage of species possessing a wax bloom increases from the coastal fog desert to the inland hot dry desert. The amount of bloom and its distribution over the integument also increase in a similar manner along the climatic gradient. Despite considerable diversity in coloration and patterns of the wax blooms, the chemical composition of the lipid components showed little variation. Hydrocarbons were the predominant lipid class, with the size of constituent molecules ranging from 19 to 40 carbon atoms. In all species tested, n—alkanes were more abundant than branches alkanes. Odd—numbered carbon chains (e.g., C27, C29, C31) comprised the bulk of the hydrocarbon fractions. The possible functional roles of these blooms in ...

SUMMARY The early ontogeny of the two ovular envelopes of Ephedra distachya and E. equisetina was thoroughly studied as a part of the comprehensive investigations on the integument and associated structures in Gymnosperms. The outer envelope is initiated as a horseshoe-shaped primordium at the ventral (or axial) and lateral sides to become continuous later on; this envelope grows out more rapidly at the lateral sides, so that the young envelope appears as two opposite projections; the mature envelope is a stout structure vascularized at the lateral sides. The inner envelope, which is initiated a little later than the outer one, arises as a ring-shaped primordium and elongates, more conspicuously so at the ventral side, and finally forms a long micropylar tube. Although the greater part of the inner envelope is of a uniform thinness, the basal part swells up appreciably. Histologically the outer envelope is formed by derivatives of both the dermal and the subdermal cells of the ovule primordium (i.e., it is of dual origin), but the inner envelope exclusively by derivatives of the dermal cells except in its basal part (i.e., it is of dermal origin). Evidence from the morphology and anatomy does not support the homology between the two envelopes and suggests that the outer envelope resembles vegetative leaves more than the inner one. The possible numbers and arrangements of the constituting elements of the envelopes are also discussed.

The clinical signs and histopathology of Saprolegnia sp. [related to S. diclina Humphrey (syn. S. parasitica Coker)] are described in cultured Anguilla anguilla L. elvers under an intensive production system. The main lesions observed were loss of epithelium leading to ulceration, oedema and myofibrillar degenerative changes of the muscle mass. The oedema resulted in swelling of the inter-myotomal connective tissue, loss of nuclei and minor host reaction. Traumatic lesions with subsequent bacterial infections had a mononuclear inflammatory response. It is suggested that the rapid extension of the lesion is due to the loss of integrity of the integument and the widespread oedema, which altered the viability of tissues and assisted the Saprolegnia infection. The condition was fatal for infected elvers.

Changes in the internal pressure of fly larvae during puparium formation were measured by a method previously described. Two different types of pressure changes were recorded: (1) Reversible pulsations of various types corresponding to different kinds of muscular contractions, and (2) an irreversible increase of the pressure baseline caused by dimensional shrinkage and loss of elasticity of the cuticle, association with ultrastructural reorganization and sclerotization. The pressure pulses potentiated by neuromuscular activity are association with the initial stages of pupariation, immobilization, retraction of the anterior segments, and longitudinal body contraction, and can generate pressure peaks of up to 300 mm Hg. By contrast, the steady rise of the basic pressure during the final stages of pupariation is generated independently of muscular activity and is also independent of phenolic tanning. The basic pressure can reach levels of 100 mm Hg and is indispensable for the final rounding and smoothening of the ovoid puparium. Morphogenesis of the puparium thus can be understood as a result of a delicate concert between neuromuscular activity and structural changes in the integument.

Summary 1. Three basic hatching methods are described together with one subsidiary method. The symmetrical method is characterized by rotation of the chick in the egg during hatching climax; a line of damage around the circumference of the egg is evident at the beginning of a pushing phase which causes a fairly symmetrical cap to be broken from the shell. The asymmetrical method is used by a few long-billed species; it involves little or no rotation of the chick in the egg, and produces asymmetrical shell remains. The megapodes have developed a unique hatching method in response to their unusual incubation conditions. Parental assistance has been observed in some species, but only as an auxiliary to either the symmetrical or asymmetrical method. Approximately 150 species have been categorized according to the hatching method(s) they use. 2. Among those species adopting the symmetrical method, there is considerable variability as to how far the chick turns in the egg during hatching climax. On this basis, a spectrum of behaviour, expressed in terms of angle of rotation (θ), has been proposed. At one end lie species such as the bobwhite quail and little owl (θ≥ 360°), and at the other, the ostrich and rhea (θ≤ 90°). 3. The theory that, with the exception of the megapodes, there is only one basic hatching method is examined. The tenets of this theory are found to be inconsistent with recent observations of species differences in hatching behaviour. It is concluded that hatching behaviour is governed by an intrinsic species-specific programme, in turn influenced by mechanical or other external factors. 4. The literature contains several suggestions as to the external factors that might influence hatching technique, but only one detailed investigation. It is proposed that interspecific differences in the mechanical properties of the egg integument (the shell and its underlying membranes) can be regarded as forming a spectrum from very brittle to comparatively tough. The amount of climax rotation by the chick is seen as an adaptive response to brittleness or toughness of the egg integument. The hatching technique of the chick is further modified as a response to the effect of moisture content on the integument. 5. The selective pressures leading to the evolution of the symmetrical and asymmetrical hatching methods are discussed. The previous model for the development of the asymmetrical method is amended to account for those species of gull which may adopt either method.

The histological and physiological effects of the removal of superficial corneous epidermal materials have been studied in several squamate species and a caiman. The gross and microscopic anatomy of the squamate integument has characteristics which make cellophane stripping inherently variable, but in general, when corneous materials are removed, they are replaced over a period of one to two weeks, by a tissue with the histological characteristics of the normal α-layer. This tissue may be produced by stimulated germinal activity and/or metaplasia of other presumptive cell populations. In caiman, the thickness of the corneous tissues of the outer scale surface is reduced by stripping and the tissue is restored to normal in approximately two weeks by stimulated germinal proliferation. Measurements of cutaneous water loss (CWL) before, immediately after, and during two weeks post-trauma revealed the following. There is a sudden rise in CWL immediately after stripping, and values decline over the next two weeks as the corneous tissues are replaced. The results are interpreted as indicating that, as in mammals, the impermeability of the epidermis depends on the thickness of the corneous materials. In squamates it appears that the physiological barrier is the αlayer of the epidermal generation, and while the β-layer cannot be excluded as playing some role in reducing the permeability of the integument, its role appears to be primarily mechanical.

Integumental sensilla and gland openings occur in the integuments of calanoid copepods in what are, essentially, bilaterally symmetrical patterns. Their presence is most easily determined by digestion of the integument in hot alkali to destroy the soft tissues. The sites of the sensilla and gland openings are then seen in the integument, stained with chlorazol black, as spots of light under the light microscope. These pores, or holes, in the integument result from the digestion of the neural innervation of the sensilla or from the digestion of the ducts of the glands which traverse the integument from the epidermis to the outside. The patterns of distribution of these pores are examined in 249 species representing 89 genera ascribed to 28 families of the calanoid copepods. The investigation is confined to the patterns in the five metasomal segments of the species. The metasomal pattern is peculiar to most species and represents a species signature. The pore signature of an individual species consists of several constituent elements. The pores group into several complexes within which individual pores may or may not be developed in that species. The primary elements of these complexes are subscribed to by the signature of the superfamily to which the species belongs. The superfamilial signature with the addition of secondary elements forms the familial signature which is further diversified to form the generic signature. The generic signature is usually further complicated to produce the species signature. In some genera, however, the generic metasomal signature is not complicated to any degree in the constituent species and the distinctive elements of the species pore signature are found more or less restricted to the urosomal segments. These patterns of pores that can be traced from the species and genus through to the corresponding superfamily form one suite of pores. A second suite of pores is developed within some genera and families that probably represents specialization within these taxa. There is a gradual modification of the pore signatures that corresponds with current concepts of the phylogeny of the Copepoda.

The weight of organs and course of long term incorporation of amino acids into proteins are followed during a 48 hr starvation in Philosamia cynthia walkeri. In each organ, both parameters follow synchroneous evolutions: decrease of weight and amount of radio-active proteins since the beginning of starvation in the fat body; rapid increase during the first 6–12 hr in the intestine and integument, then a decrease. In hemolymph, the amount of radio-active proteins increases during 6hr and is stable thereafter. In the same time, the acid-soluble radio-activity is more depressed in the fat body than in hemolymph, and less in the integument and silkgland than in hemolymph. These results are discussed in relation with the influence of the fat body on growth and metabolism regulations during starvation. Two main hypothesis are suggested: intense exportation of amino acids from fat body to hemolymph in order to maintain a high level of material in the internal milieu; continuation of the growth of organs during the first hrs of starvation partly supported by the fat body.

The integument of Tubiluchus philippinensis van der Land, 1984 has been investigated by means of scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The ultrastructure of the cuticle corresponds principally to what has been found in Priapulidae. The tumuli are mere cuticular thickenings. Setae, tubuli, flosculi and scalids are receptor organs. Tubuli additionally serve a second function: they produce a secretion. The male genital area is equipped with various receptor organs, the internal morphology of which has been described. All receptor cells are characterized by apical cilia, which may be surrounded by a circlet of microvilli. They sometimes bear a rather complicated rootlet apparatus.

The clinical findings and treatment of 112 cases involving larger parrakeets and parrots are described. Disorders of the respiratory system, the alimentary system, the integument and the musculoskeletal system were the most frequently observed abnormalities. The relationship of these disorders to diet and eeneral management is discussed.