Macro- and micro-anatomical investigation of the oropharyngeal roof of landform greek tortoise (Testudo graeca graeca) and semi-aquatic red-eared slider turtle (Trachemys scripta elegans).

The present investigation examined the oropharyngeal roof of two turtles having different feeding behaviors: the landform Greek tortoise (Testudo graeca graeca) primarily herbivores and the semi-aquatic red-eared slider turtle (Trachemys scripta elegans) lives in freshwater that opportunistic omnivorous grossly and by scanning and light microscopes. Grossly, the Greek tortoise had a V-shaped roof consisting of the upper rhamphotheca, peri-palatine region, upper alveolar ridge, peripheral palatine ridge, median palatine ridge, vomer, choanae, caudal palatine part, and pharynx. At the same time, the red-eared slider had a semilunar roof consisting of upper rhamphotheca, two peripheral palatine ridges, core of palatine ridges, upper alveolar band, vomer, choanae, caudal palatine part, and pharynx. SEM revealed that the red-eared slider roof appeared more straightforward. The upper rhamphotheca is sharp, with a median premaxillary notch in the red-eared slider that gives a powerful bite for cutting to compensate absence of the teeth. Additionally, the red-eared slider's upper alveolar band is interrupted by a single upper alveolar ridge that appears spiky, pointed, and longer as it needs powerful chewing of prey and there are two types of teeth-like projections at its peri-palatine area for food-crushing and chewing. The Greek tortoise palatine region had numerous ridges and folds to provide roughness for food processing. Greek tortoises had small-sized choanae with two choanal folds to minimize choanal openings when eating dusty grasses. Histologically, Greek tortoise palate was rostrally thicker and more keratinized than caudally, and the caudal palatine region was characterized by a single pair of circumvallate-like papilla with multiple mucous openings and secretions, while red-eared slider palate was slightly keratinized at the peri-choanal region, and the rest of the palate was non-keratinized with few mucous openings. The current investigation found various structural oropharyngeal roof adaptations to feeding behavior in the omnivore red-eared slide compared to the herbivorous Greek turtle.

The tongue of the red-eared slider (Trachemys scripta elegans): morphological characterization through gross, light, scanning electron, and immunofluorescence microscopic examination.

The red-eared slider (Trachemys scripta elegans) is renowned for its remarkable adaptations, yet much of its complex biology remains unknown. In this pioneering study, we utilized a combination of gross anatomy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), light microscopy, and immunofluorescence techniques to examine the tongue's omnivorous adaptation in this species. This research bridges a critical knowledge gap, enhancing our understanding of this intriguing reptile. Gross examination revealed a unique arrowhead-shaped tongue with a median lingual fissure and puzzle-piece-shaped tongue papillae. SEM unveiled rectangular filiform, conical, and fungiform papillae, with taste pores predominantly on the dorsal surface and mucous cells on the lateral surface of the papillae. Histologically, the tongue's apex featured short rectangular filiform and fungiform papillae, while the body exhibited varying filiform shapes and multiple taste buds on fungiform papillae. The tongue's root contained lymphatic tissue with numerous lymphocytes surrounding the central crypt, alongside lingual skeletal musculature, blood and lymph vessels, and Raffin corpuscles in the submucosa. The lingual striated muscle bundles had different orientations, and the lingual hyaline cartilage displayed a bluish coloration of the ground substance, along with a characteristic isogenous group of chondrocytes. Our research represents the first comprehensive application of immunofluorescence techniques to investigate the cellular intricacies of the red-eared slider's tongue by employing seven distinct antibodies, revealing a wide array of compelling and significant findings. Vimentin revealed the presence of taste bud cells, while synaptophysin provided insights into taste bud and nerve bundle characteristics. CD34 and PDGFRα illuminated lingual stromal cells, and SOX9 and PDGFRα shed light on chondrocytes within the tongue's cartilage. CD20 mapped B-cell lymphocyte distribution in the lingual tonsil, while alpha smooth actin (α-SMA) exposed the intricate myofibroblast and smooth muscle network surrounding the lingual blood vessels and salivary glands. In conclusion, our comprehensive study advances our knowledge of the red-eared slider's tongue anatomy and physiology, addressing a significant research gap. These findings not only contribute to the field of turtle biology but also deepen our appreciation for the species' remarkable adaptations in their specific ecological niches.

Microscopic Focus on the Thyroid Follicles of the One-Humped Camel (Camelus dromedarius).

The microstructure of the thyroid gland of the one-humped camel (Camelus dromedarius) was described using morphometric, histological, immunohistochemical staining, and ultrastructural standard techniques. The follicular secretory units of the thyroid glands displayed comparable and variable sizes where the large follicles were situated at the peripheral margins; however, the small ones were located in the central region. Semisquamous epithelium (low cuboidal) lined the large thyroid follicles, while high cuboidal (columnar) epithelium lined the small ones. Our electron microscopic findings revealed that the low-sized cuboidal follicular cells lack organelles and are hypoactive. The high cuboidal follicular cells are active cells and rich in cellular organelles such as cisternae of rough endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, colloid droplets, scrolled Golgi apparatus, and secretory vesicles. A few degenerate follicular cells appeared on rare occasions. The parafollicular cells appeared with a more prominent and conspicuous nucleus than the follicular cells. The follicular cells were classified as active, inactive, or degenerated using transmission electron microscopy. The follicular and parafollicular cells showed calcitonin-positive immunoreactivity. Overall, the presented results showed particular convergences of the morphostructural aspects of the thyroid gland of C. dromedarius to that of other mammals with some distinctive features to cope with their physiology and harsh niche.

Novel Insights Into the Architecture of Macro and Microstructures in Cattle Ossa Cordis.

Ossa cordis, bones located within the heart trigones, are often classified as heterotopic or ectopic bones. Despite their high prevalence in cattle and some other bovids, little is known about their structure or development. Scanning electron microscopy, X-ray microtomography, gross dissections, and measurements showed the anatomical locations, prevalence, shapes, and measurements of the cardiac bones in both Egyptian Baladi cattle and Holstein-Friesians. All cattle (n = 12) had an Ossa cordis dextrum (average = 50.70 × 20.91 × 5.40 mm). Additionally, 80% Egyptian Baladi and 57% Holstein-Friesian had a smaller Ossa cordis sinistrum (average = 24.94 × 12.75 × 4.12 mm). Egyptian Baladi Ossa cordis were smaller than observed in Holstein-Friesians. Energy-dispersive X-ray analysis showed the elemental constitution (carbon, oxygen, calcium, nitrogen, phosphorus, sodium, and magnesium) of Ossa cordis and Cartilago cordis. These imaging techniques, plus four histological stains (hematoxylin and eosin, Crossman's trichrome, Alcian blue with Van Gieson, and Sirius Red) and microscopy, demonstrated osteoblasts, osteocytes, osteoclasts, astrocytes, blood vessels, bone marrow, lamellar and woven bone, cortical bone, trabeculations with pores and canaliculi, and fibrous components including collagen in the Ossa cordis dextrum and sinistrum. Hyaline cartilage and fibrocartilage (chondrocytes and cartilage matrix) were found within and surrounding the Ossa cordis. These findings were additionally compared against other cattle breeds and species.

A comprehensive exploration of diverse skin cell types in the limb of the desert tortoise (Testudo graeca) through light, transmission, scanning electron microscopy, and immunofluorescence techniques.

The Greek tortoise, inhabiting harsh desert environments, provides a compelling case for investigating skin adaptations to extreme conditions. We have utilized light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and immunofluorescence analysis to describe the structure of the arid-adapted limb skin in the Greek tortoise. Our aim was to identify the cell types that reflect the skin adaptation of this tortoise to arid conditions. Utilizing seven antibodies, we localized and elucidated the functions of various skin cells, shedding light on how the tortoise adapts to adverse environmental conditions. Our findings unveiled numerous scales on the limbs, varying in size and color, acting as protective armor against abrasions, bites, and other potential threats in their rocky habitats. The epidermis comprises four layers: stratum basalis, stratum spinosum, peri-corneous layer, and stratum corneum. Cytokeratin 14 (CK14) was explicitly detected in the basal layer of the epidermis, suggesting a role in maintaining epidermal integrity and cellular function. Langerhans cells were observed between epidermal cells filled with ribosomes and Birbeck granules. Numerous dendritic-shaped Langerhans cells revealed through E-Cadherin signify strong immunity in tortoises' skin. Melanophores were identified using the Melan-A antibody, labeling the cytoplasm, and the SOX10 antibody, labeling the nucleus, providing comprehensive insights into melanophores morphology and distribution. Two types of melanophores were found: dendritic below the stratum basalis of the epidermis and clustered oval melanophores in the deep dermal layer. Varied melanophores distribution resulted in a spotted skin pattern, potentially offering adaptive camouflage and protection against environmental challenges. Numerous myofibroblasts were discerned through alpha-smooth actin (α-SMA) expression, indicating that the Greek tortoise's skin possesses a robust tissue repair and remodeling capacity. B-cell lymphocytes detected via CD20 immunostaining exhibited sporadic distribution in the dermis, concentrating in lymphoid aggregates and around vessels, implying potential roles in local immune responses and inflammation modulation. Employing Tom20 to identify skin cells with abundant mitochondria revealed a notable presence in melanophores and the basal layer of the epidermis, suggesting high metabolic activity in these cell types and potentially influencing cellular functions. These findings contribute to our comprehension of tortoise skin anatomy and physiology, offering insights into the remarkable adaptations of this species finely tuned to their specific environmental habitats.

Scanning electron microscopy and morphometric analysis of the hair in dromedaries with SEM-EDX in relation to age.

BACKGROUND: Hair characterization is critical for determining animal individuality throughout life. This study aimed to assess the morphological features of dromedary camel hair in relation to age. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Hair samples were obtained from the camel humps of 30 dromedary camels separated into three groups: G1 (n:10) aged one-year, G2 (n:10) aged 3-5 years, and G3 (n:10) at the age of 8-10 years. The hair was examined using light microscopy, SEM, and SEM-EDX. RESULTS: The Maghrebi camel had varied medulla patterns and structures across the ages. In the G1 group 75% had continuous medulla patterns and amorphous medulla structures, compared to 70% in G2, and 90% in G3. The medulla index increased with age, rising from 0.3 to 0.77%. The shaft width grew in size from G1 to G2, then fell to approximately one-third of the G2 size at G3. The cortex and cuticle widths were also determined by age, and they increased in the G1 compared to G3 camels. The shape of the cuticle scales in G1 camels was wavy, like mountain tops with irregular edges, within G2 camels the scales were particularly long, oval-shaped scales with smooth, wavy borders. The scales of the older G3 camels were quite long and rectangular. SEM-EDX spectra recognized carbon, oxygen, nitrogen, sulfur, calcium, aluminum, silicon, and potassium at the medulla and cortex. Sulfur levels were highest in the G2 samples but lowest in the G1 samples. CONCLUSION: The dromedary camel's hair structure and mineral content, particularly carbon and nitrogen, differed as camels aged.

Comparative morphological analysis of telson and uropods in Penaeus canaliculatus (Olivier, 1811), Penaeus semisulcatus (De Haan, 1844), and Metapenaeus stebbingi (Nobili, 1904) using scanning electron microscopy and EDX analysis.

The telson and uropods collectively form the tail fan, playing crucial roles in locomotion, buoyancy, defense, and respiration. We aimed to compare telson and uropod structures in three shrimp species-Penaeus canaliculatus, Penaeus semisulcatus, and Metapenaeus stebbingi-to identify the species with the most robust telson for its environment. Our analysis involved morphological measurements and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), supplemented by a novel approach-Energy-Dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy, a technique not previously utilized in studies on these three species. M. stebbingi exhibited the longest telson length, whereas P. semisulcatus had the longest uropod. P. canaliculatus featured a single pair of fixed spines, while P. semisulcatus had evenly spaced small conical spines along the sides of the median elevation and groove. A distinctive feature of M. stebbingi was the telson, which had three pairs of large spines. Diverse setae on telsons included simple, unipennate, and plumose setae. Notably, specialized branched tubular setae on uropods' endopods may aid in grooming or swimming behavior. EDX spectroscopy revealed that the telson cuticle primarily consists of carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen, with significantly high concentrations alongside comparatively lower calcium and phosphorous concentrations. P. semisulcatus exhibited the highest calcium and phosphorus content among the three species. In conclusion, M. stebbingi's telson is structurally robust, emphasizing the importance of morphology, while P. semisulcatus demonstrated a hard telson through EDX analysis. Our study underscores not solely relying on morphology for telson strength assessment but considering telson composition. These variations among species may be attributed to diverse ecological and physiological adaptations.

Investigating the role of Purkinje fibers and synaptic connectivity in balance regulation through comprehensive ultrastructural and immunohistochemical analysis of the donkey's (Equus asinus) cerebellum.

The donkey's extraordinary capacity to endure substantial loads over long distances while maintaining equilibrium suggests a distinctive cerebellar architecture specialized in balance regulation. Consequently, our study aims to investigate the intricate histophysiology of the donkey's cerebellum using advanced ultrastructural and immunohistochemical methodologies to comprehend the mechanisms that govern this exceptional ability. This study represents the pioneering investigation to comprehensively describe the ultrastructure and immunohistochemistry within the donkey cerebellum. Five adult donkeys' cerebella were utilized for the study, employing stains such as hematoxylin, eosin, and toluidine blue to facilitate a comprehensive histological examination. For immunohistochemical investigation, synaptophysin (SP), calretinin, and glial fibrillary acidic protein were used and evaluated by the Image J software. Furthermore, a double immunofluorescence staining of SP and neuron-specific enolase (NSE) was performed to highlight the co-localization of these markers and explore their potential contribution to synaptic function within the donkey cerebellum. This investigation aims to understand their possible roles in regulating neuronal activity and synaptic connectivity. We observed co-expression of SP and NSE in the donkey cerebellum, which emphasizes the crucial role of efficient energy utilization for motor coordination and balance, highlighting the interdependence of synaptic function and energy metabolism. The Purkinje cells were situated in the intermediate zone of the cerebellum cortex, known as the Purkinje cell layer. Characteristically, the Purkinje cell's bodies exhibited a distinct pear-like shape. The cross-section area of the Purkinje cells was 107.7 ± 0.2 µm2 , and the Purkinje cell nucleus was 95.7 ± 0.1 µm2 . The length and diameter of the Purkinje cells were 36.4 × 23.4 µm. By scanning electron microscopy, the body of the Purkinje cell looked like a triangular or oval with a meandrous outer surface. The dendrites appeared to have small spines. The Purkinje cells' cytoplasm was rich with mitochondria, rough endoplasmic reticulum, ribosomes, Golgi apparatus, multivesicular bodies, and lysosomes. Purkinje cell dendrites were discovered in the molecular layer, resembling trees. This study sheds light on the anatomical and cellular characteristics underlying the donkey's exceptional balance-maintaining abilities.

A novel immunofluorescence study of Lingual Salivary Glands in the Egyptian Tortoise (Testudo kleinmanni) and its ecological significance.

The Egyptian tortoise (Testudo kleinmanni) is remarkably adapted to its harsh desert environment, a characteristic that is crucial for its survival under extreme conditions. This study was aimed at providing a deeper understanding of the lingual salivary gland structures in the Egyptian tortoise and examining how these structures help the tortoise manage hydration and nutrition in arid conditions. Utilizing a combination of light microscopy and immunofluorescence, this research introduced pioneering methods involving seven different antibodies, marking a first in the study of reptilian salivary glands. Our investigations categorized the tortoise's salivary glands into papillary and non-papillary types. The papillary glands were further classified into superficial, deep, interpapillary, and intraepithelial salivary glands, while non-papillary glands included superficial and deep lingual types. Structurally, these glands are organized into lobules, delineated by interlobular septa, and are equipped with a duct system comprising interlobular, intercalated, and main excretory ducts with gland openings on the tongue's surface and the papillae surfaces. Notably, the superficial glands displayed both tubuloalveolar and acinar configurations, whereas the deep lingual glands were exclusively acinar. Immunofluorescence results indicated that α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) was prevalent in myoepithelial cells, myofibroblasts, and blood vessels, suggesting their integral role in glandular function and support. E-cadherin was predominantly found in epithelial cells, enhancing cell adhesion and integrity, which are critical for efficient saliva secretion. Importantly, Mucin 1 (MUC1) and Mucin 5B (MUC5B) staining revealed that most glands were mucous in nature, with MUC5B specifically marking mucin within secretory cells, confirming their primary function in mucous secretion. PDGFRα and CD34 highlighted the presence of telocytes and stromal cells within the glandular and interlobular septa, indicating a role in structural organization and possibly in regenerative processes. Cytokeratin 14 expression was noted in the basal cells of the glands, underscoring its role in upholding the structural foundation of the epithelial barrier. In conclusion, this detailed morphological and immunological characterization of the Egyptian tortoise's salivary glands provides new insights into their complex structure and essential functions. These findings not only enhance our understanding of reptilian physiology but also underline the critical nature of salivary glands in supporting life in arid environments. This study's innovative use of a broad range of immunofluorescence markers opens new avenues for further research into the adaptive mechanisms of reptiles.

Macro- and micro-morphological comparison of the detailed structure of the oral cavity roof in two different feeding habits marine fishes: Pagrus pagrus and Boops boops.

The feeding habits and habitats of fish influence the morphology of the oral cavity. This study used gross anatomy, light microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy, in addition to morphometric analysis, to investigate the anatomical characteristics of the oral cavity roof in Pagrus pagrus and Boops boops, which have different dietary habits. The oral cavity roof appeared U-shaped and divided into the palate and upper pharyngeal regions. The upper lip of P. pagrus was broad, while B. boops' upper lip was small and thin. Both species had a stratified squamous epithelium with an irregular shape and a folded surface. P. pagrus had a horseshoe-shaped upper velum with a high middle part, and its surface resembled sea waves with obvious mucous-secreting openings with cilia and many folds and grooves between them. B. boops's upper velum was thin and appeared as a triangle pouch with a pointed cranial apex. The palate in both species was narrow in the front and increased in width backward until it ended. The upper pharyngeal teeth in P. pagrus appeared as two patches, separated by a median longitudinal ridge and an anterior V-shape separator. Meanwhile, in B. boops, they appeared as a ball patch on both sides and a separator ridge in the middle. Because P. pagrus fed on harder structures than B. boops, their feeding habits were reflected in the structure of the oral cavity roof. P. pagrus, a carnivorous species, had several rows of sharp upper jaw and upper pharyngeal teeth, thick spinous tubercles on oblique transverse ridges, and massive mucous glands. On the other hand, B. boops, an omnivorous species, had only one row of upper jaw teeth, a few upper pharyngeal teeth scattered on two oval patches, and thin filaments on the oblique transverse ridges.

Macroscopic, microscopic, and immunofluorescent characterization of the Greek tortoise (Testudo graeca graeca) oropharyngeal floor with concern to its feed adaptation as a herbivorous land reptile.

The current investigation focuses on gross anatomy, light, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of the Testudo graeca oropharyngeal floor, with particular reference to the immunofluorescence technique to examine its tongue. The T. graeca oropharyngeal floor showed many anatomical structures: the lower rhamphotheca, paralingual ridge, lower alveolar ridge, tongue, laryngeal mound, and glottis. The lower rhamphotheca appeared as a V-shaped jaw line with a highly serrated edge and a median tomium (beak). SEM observations of the lingual apex and the lingual body showed rectangular and conical filiform papillae with porous surfaces and taste pores. Meanwhile, the lingual root had two wings that carried papillae with different shapes: dagger-shaped, conical, bifurcated, and leaf-like papillae, and these papillae lacked taste pores. The laryngeal mound had openings for the laryngeal mucus gland and its secretions. Light microscopy findings showed mucous glands in the propria submucosa and near the mucosal surface of the lingual apex. The lingual root had lingual papillae and two hyaline cartilaginous skeletons between skeletal muscles, and the lingual papillae were elongated filiform, rectangular filiform papillae, and fungiform papillae. The lamina propria constituted the core of the lingual papillae and the mucous gland, they had a positive reaction with the periodic acid schiff (PAS) reagent. The apical surface of the fungiform papillae had taste pores. Under immunofluorescence, the vimentin was detected in taste bud cells, and synaptophysin reacted to the taste buds and nerve bundles. The current study of the Greek tortoise oropharyngeal floor investigated its herbivorous eating habits using its serrated lower rhamphotheca, a large tongue with differently shaped papillae, and numerous mucous glands. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: The Greek tortoise (T. graeca graeca) oropharyngeal floor showed many anatomical structures: lower rhamphotheca, paralingual ridge, lower alveolar ridge, tongue, laryngeal mound, and glottis. SEM and light microscopy observations of the tongue revealed varied types and shapes of lingual papillae with a porous surface on the tongue apex (rectangular or conical filiform papillae), on the tongue body (filiform and fungiform papillae), and on the tongue root (dagger-shaped, conical, bifurcated, and leaf-like papillae). Light microscopy findings: the lamina propria constituted the core of the lingual papillae and had numerous mucous glands that had a slightly magenta-red color with PAS reagent. The apical surface of the fungiform papillae had taste pores. Vimentin and synaptophysin gave a reaction to the taste buds.

Morphological investigation of the brain of the African ostrich (Struthio camelus) / Investigación morfológica del cerebro de la avestruz africana (Struthio camelus)

The aim of the current study focused on the morphological features of the brain of the African ostrich. The brain was studied macroscopically, microscopically and the measurements of all brain parts were demonstrated. The brain of ostrich was rhombus in shape with large obtuse triangular cerebrum with sagittal dorsomedial wulst. The olfactory bulb was small with undeveloped olfactory lobe. The diencephalon gave rise to the pineal gland, which was inverted tubal structure with an obtuse triangle bottom. Large optic chiasm and optic tract demonstrated that continued to the optic lobes. The cerebellum was represented by central vermis that had numerous transverse fissures and two small lateral floccules on its lateral surface. The medulla oblongata with clear pontine flexure and no obvious pons or trapezoid body appeared. The histological results revealed that the cerebral cortex formed of several ill-defined layers of neurons. The most common appearance characterized by few small neurons supported by neuroglia. The cerebellar cortex consists of three layers namely molecular layer, Purkinje cells layer and internal granular layer, the layer of Purkinje cells characterized by a very large cell body. The medulla oblongata was covered by pia mater of loose connective tissue that covered with simple squamous epithelium and vascular supply extended beneath the pia mater. The cell nuclei of the medulla oblongata were formed from few multipolar neurons, supported by few neuroglia. The fourth ventricle was lined by pseudo stratified columnar ciliated ependymal cells.

El objetivo fue describir las características morfológicas del cerebro de la avestruz africana. El cerebro se estudió macroscópica y microscópicamente, y las mediciones de todas las partes del cerebro fueron registradas. El cerebro tuvo una forma romboidal, con cerebelo grande triangular obtuso con una protuberancia dorsomedial sagital. El bulbo olfatorio era pequeño, con un lóbulo olfativo sin desarrollar. El diencéfalo dio lugar a la glándula pineal, que es una estructura en forma de tubo invertida con un triángulo obtuso en su parte inferior. Un gran quiasma y tracto óptico demostraron ser continuos con los lóbulos ópticos. El cerebelo estaba caracterizado por la vermis central que tenía numerosas fisuras transversales y dos pequeños flóculos laterales en su superficie lateral. La médula oblongada mostró en algunos casos una flexión pontina evidente, en otros ausencia de puentes o la aparición de un cuerpo trapezoide. Los resultados histológicos revelaron que la corteza cerebral está formada de varias capas de neuronas mal definidas. El aspecto más común se caracterizó por unas pequeñas neuronas soportadas por neuroglias. La corteza cerebelosa consistió en tres capas, molecular, de células de Purkinje y granular interna; las células de Purkinje se caracterizaron por un cuerpo celular grande. La medula oblongada estaba cubierta por pia madre de tejido conectivo laxo, revestida por epitelio escamoso simple y un suministro vascular extenso bajo la piamadre. Los núcleos de las células de la médula oblongada se formaron a partir pocas neuronas multipolares, soportados por algunas neuroglias. El cuarto ventrículo estaba revestido un epitelio pseudo-estratificado de células ependimarias columnares ciliadas.

Equine anatomedia: development, integration and evaluation of an e-learning resource in applied veterinary anatomy / Anatomedia equina: desarrollo, integración y evaluación de un recurso e-learning en anatomía veterinaria aplicada

In Egypt, there is a growing movement to encourage veterinary student-centered learning using the most up to date educational technologies. This paper focuses on a computer-facilitated learning program "Equine Anatomedia", which comprises now two modules (head and digit) fully integrated with the applied anatomy curriculum at Alexandria and Damanhour Universities. The educational design of this program allows students and clinicians to explore anatomical concepts, principles and procedure guidelines in a manner more suited to their individual learning needs than traditional methods. The program comprises over 300 high quality images and diagrams, audio and video clips as well as animated graphics with colored keys highlighting the anatomical features. Staff and student feedback indicates that Equine Anatomedia is an effective and engaging learning tool which helps students to develop their knowledge in anatomy and to appreciate its relevance in clinical situations. In addition, it encourages student-staff interaction and is a useful tool in overcoming the challenges of limited resources and increasing numbers of students.

En Egipto, hay un movimiento creciente para fomentar el aprendizaje centrado en el estudiante de veterinaria utilizando las más modernas tecnologías educativas existentes a la fecha. Este trabajo se centra en un programa de aprendizaje por computación denominado "Anatomedia de Equinos", que en la actualidad está conformado de dos módulos (cabeza y dedos) totalmente integrados con el plan de estudios de la asignatura Anatomía Aplicada en las Universidades de Alejandría y Damanhour, Egipto. El diseño educativo de este programa permite a los estudiantes y los médicos clínicos explorar los conceptos anatómicos, como así también principios y directrices de procedimiento relacionados a sus necesidades individuales de aprendizaje, de una manera más adecuada que los métodos tradicionales de aprendizaje. El programa cuenta con más de 300 imágenes de alta calidad y diagramas, audios y vídeos, así como gráficos animados con identificaciones de colores que destacan las características anatómicas. La retroalimentación del personal a cargo del programa y de parte de los estudiantes indica que Anatomedia de Equinos es una herramienta de aprendizaje eficaz y atractiva que ayuda a los estudiantes a desarrollar sus conocimientos en anatomía y les permite apreciar su importancia en situaciones clínicas. Además, el programa permite fomentar la interacción alumno-personal y constituye una herramienta útil que ayuda a superar los retos que ocasionan los recursos limitados y el número creciente de estudiantes.

The carpal joint of the donkey (Equus asinus): morphological investigation / Articulación del carpo del asno (Equus asinus): investigación morfológica

The current study has been achieved to be an essential resource for all veterinary practitioners that deal with the anatomy of the carpal joint of the donkey. Ten adult donkeys of both sexes were used in the current study. The topographical approach to the carpal joint was investigated in this study. Radiography and computed tomography (CT) of the carpus delineated the articulations of the carpal joint: radiocarpal, intercarpal, and carpometacarpal. The carpal ligaments were well delineated and the carpal canal was demonstrated with its content such as superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) and deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT). The contrast radiography visualized that the radiocarpal joint outpouched proximal to the accessory carpal bone by large palmarolateral pouch and small palmaromedial pouch, however the intercarpal joint outpouched distal to the accessory carpal bone by two small palmarolateral and palmaromedial pouches. The carpometacarpal joint showed medial and lateral palmarodistal outpouchings in distal direction between the corresponding 2nd and 4th metacarpal bones and the 3rd metacarpal bone. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) displayed two types of synoviocytes macrophages type A cells and fibroblast like type B cells at the cellular lining of the synovial membrane of the joint capsule.

Este estudio constituye un recurso esencial para todos los veterinarios que se ocupan de la anatomía de la articulación del carpo del asno. Fueron utilizados diez asnos adultos, de ambos sexos. Se analizó la articulación del carpo desde un enfoque topográfico. Se realizaron estudios por radiografía y tomografía computarizada para identificar las articulaciones del carpo en su conjunto: radiocarpiana, intercarpiana y carpometacarpiana. Los ligamentos del carpo se encontraron bien delineados y en el canal carpiano se identificó su contenido, como el tendón del flexor digital superficial y el tendón del flexor digital profundo. La radiografía de contraste permitió visualizar que la articulación radiocarpiana se articula proximalmente con el hueso accesorio del carpo a través una larga evaginación palmarolateral y una pequeña evaginación palmaromedial; sin embargo, la articulación intercarpiana se relaciona distalmente con el hueso accesorio del carpo por medio de dos pequeñas evaginaciones, palmarolateral y palmaromedial. La articulación carpometacarpiana mostró evaginaciones palmarodistales, medial y lateral, en dirección distal entre los correspondiente 2 y 4 huesos metacarpianos y el 3 hueso metacarpiano. La microscopía electrónica de barrido muestra dos tipos de células: células A, correspondientes a sinoviocitos macrófagos y células B, correspondientes a fibroblastos, en el revestimiento celular de la membrana sinovial de la cápsula articular.

Gasless laparoscopic anatomy and renal biopsy of the kidney in the standing mare / Anatomía laparoscópica sin gas y biopsia renal de los riñones de la yegua de pie

The current study aimed to provide the topography and renal biopsy of the standing mare kidneys by laparoscopy w ithout CO2 insufflation and to compare between the use of biopsy needle and forceps. Five clinically healthy adult nonpregnant mares weighing 250­300 Kg and aging 7­9 years were used in the current work. The gasless laparoscopic renal biopsy appeared simple, safe, reliable, minimal invasive, timesaving and economical technique. The parallel biopsy portals provided easy and accessible biopsy procedure than dorsal or ventral portals. The biopsies taken from the lateral surface were less hemorrhagic than those taken from the caudal pole. This study recommended the laparoscopic forceps because the biopsy forceps provided satisfactory and representative specimens with minimal hemorrhage than Tru-cut needle.

El presente estudio tuvo como objetivo proporcionar la topografía y la biopsia renal de los riñones en la yegua de pie, por laparoscopía sin insuflación de CO2, y comparar entre el uso de la biopsia con aguja y pinzas. Fueron utilizadas en este studio cinco yeguas adultas no gestantes clínicamente sanas con un peso de 250­300 Kg y edad de 7­9 años. La biopsia renal laparoscópica sin gas es un método seguro, confiable y mínimamente invasivo, económico y permite además ahorrar tiempo. Los portales de biopsia paralelas permiten un procedimiento de biopsia de fácil acceso. Las biopsias tomadas de la superficie lateral fueron menos hemorrágicas que aquellas obtenidas desde el polo caudal. Este estudio recomienda las pinzas laparoscópicas debido a que, a diferencia de la aguja Tru-cut, demostraron ser satisfactorias con una hemorragia mínima.