CHARACTERIZATION OF CEREBELLAR DEVELOPMENT IN THE LEANER MUTANT MOUSE. Abbott, L.C., and F.C. Lau, Department of Veterinary Anatomy and Public Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 778434458.
INTERACTION OF Escherichia coli LIPOPOLYSACCHARIDE (E. coli LPS) WITH SHEEP PULMONARY INTRAVASCULAR MACROPHAGES: ULTRASTRUCTURAL IMMUNOCYTOCHEMICAL STUDY. Singh, B. and O.S. Atwal, Dept. Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON Canada N1G 2W1.
CANINE ANATOMY - AN INTERACTIVE APPROACH. Adams, D.R., L.D. Evans, and L.L. Gerken, Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Iowa State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Ames, Iowa 50011.
EFFECTS OF HYPOTHYROIDISM ON FETAL AND ADULT LEYDIG CELL POPULATIONS IN THE NEONATAL RAT TESTIS. Mendis-Handagama, S.M.L.C., R.L. Haupt, K.R. Teunissen van Manan, Department of Animal Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville. TN 37996.
PRELIMINARY REPORT ON THE BLOOD SUPPLY OF THE REPRODUCTIVE TRACT OF THE FEMALE EMU Dromaius novaehollandiae. Cope, L.A., R.W. Henry, J. Blackford, and T. K. Rowles, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996.
UNEXPECTED VALVE IN AN UMBILICAL CORD ARTERY OF AN EQUINE RETAINED PLACENTA ENCOUNTERED DURING INJECTION OF COLLAGENASE: PRACTICAL IMPLICATION FOR UMBILICAL CORD INJECTIONS. Haffner, J.C. and H. Eiler. Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996.
PREPARATION AND EVALUATION OF PLASTINATED GASTROINTESTINAL SPECIMENS FOR USE IN ENDOSCOPIC TRAINING. Janick, L.M., R.W. Henry, and R.C. Denovo, College of Veterinary Medicine, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996.
GROSS MORPHOLOGY OF THE INTESTINAL TRACT OF THE TILAPIA Oreochromis niloticus. Smith, B.J., S.A. Smith, and B. Tengjaroenkul. VA-MD Regional College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, VA 24061 0442.
ORGANIZATION OF CORTICOTROPIN RELEASING NEURONS AND CATECHOLAMINERGIC NEURONS IN THE BRAIN OF Equus caballus. Littlefield-Chabaud, M. A. and P. A. Melrose, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803-8408.
PORCINE GROSS ANATOMY. Jaeger, L.A., N.H. McArthur, C.C. Farnsworth, H. Haughn, and C.H. Lamar, Department of Veterinary Anatomy & Public Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-4458 and Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, West Lafayette, IN, 47907.
A LITTLE HISTORY OF VETERINARY ANATOMY. Evans, Howard E. Department of Veterinary Anatomy, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 148536401.
BRAINSTEM NUCLEI - 3D REPRESENTATION, PART I, DOG. McClure, R.C. and G.M. Constantinescu, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri - Columbia, Columbia, MO 65211.
AN INTERACTIVE HISTOLOGY COURSE FOR CD-ROM AND WORLD WIDE WEB ACCESS. Caceci, Thomas, Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061-0442.
IMMUNOLOCALIZATION OF CELLULAR RETINOL BINDING PROTEIN IN THE RAT TESTIS AND QUANTIFICATION OF SERTOLI CELLS AND INTERSTITIAL CELL TYPES FROM BIRTH TO ADULT AGE. Ariyaratne, H.B.S., S.M.L.C. Mendis-Handagama, and J.D. Godkin, Department of Animal Science, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996.
ULTRASTRUCTURAL STUDY OF PULMONARY INTRAVASCULAR MACROPHAGES OF LENTIVIRUS-INFECTED SHEEP. Singh B. and A. de la Concha-Bermejillo, Texas A&M University Research Center, 7887 N. Hwy 87, San Angelo, TX 76901.
THE EXPRESSION OF CHOLECYSTOKININ BINDING SITES IN THE DEVELOPING MAMMALIAN BRAIN: A COMPARATIVE STUDY. Kuehl-Kovarik, M.C. and C.D. Jacobson. Dept. of Veterinary Anatomy and Neuroscience Program, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011.
HISTOLOGY OF THE INTESTINAL TRACT OF THE TILAPIA Oreochromis niloticus. Smith, B.J. and S.A. Smith. VA-MD Regional College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, VA.
THE POWER OF NON-AQUEOUS FIXATION. Sims, D.E. and M.M. Horne, Department of Anatomy & Physiology, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, PEI, Canada ClA 4P3.
ONTOGENY OF ANDROGEN RECEPTOR-LIKE IMMUNOREACTIVITY IN THE REPRODUCTIVE TRACT OF MALE BRAZILIAN RAT Monodelphis domestica. Sonea1, I.M., G.S. Prins2, and C.D. Jacobson1. Dept. of Veterinary Anatomy1, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011-6513 and Dept. of Urology2, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612-7316.
OBSERVATIONS ON THE ULTRASTRUCTURE OF UTERINE GLANDS OF MARES INFUSED WITH POVIDONE IODINE SOLUTION. Al-Bagdadi, F.1, G. Richardson2, B. Eilts3, L. Olsen4, D. McCoy3, W. Braun5, L. Archbald6, D. Thompson7, and C. Titkemeyer1, 1Department of Veterinary Anatomy and Cell Biology, 3Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, 7Department of Animal Science, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, 2Department of Health Management, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, PEI, Canada, ClA 4P3, 4Foxland Farm, P.O. Box 117, Keen, KY 40339, 5Department of Veterinary Clinical Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Columbus, MO 65211, 6Veterinary Teaching Hospital, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, FL 623100125.
AMELIORATION OF CARBON TETRACHLORIDE HEPATOTOXICITY WITH GADLINIUM CHLORIDE IN RATS. Gareau, P.J., L.A. Reinke, J.Z. Chen, E.G. Janzen, and S. Yamashiro, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON NlG 2W1.
UNDERSTANDING EQUINE INGUINAL RINGS MADE EASY VIA A FABRICATED MODEL. Henry, R.W., C. L. Henry, and L. M. Janick. Department of Animal Science, College of Veterinary Medicine The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996.
MOVABLE SKELETAL PREPARATIONS OF THE JOINTS OF THE EQUINE FORELIMB. Nguyen, A.Q. and P.T. Purinton, Department of Anatomy and Radiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens. GA 30602-7382.
EFFECT OF EXAMINATION OF A CROSS SECTION OF THE CANINE HEAD ON STUDENTS' ABILITY TO VISUALIZE ANATOMY IN THREE DIMENSIONS. Provo, J., C. Lamar, E. Hinsman, and T. Newby, Department of Basic Medical Sciences and Department of Curriculum and Instruction, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907.
THE BIOLOGY OF THE LUCKE TUMOR
SYSTEM OF Rana pipens. Williams,
C.S.1, J.W. Williams2, S. Torrence2, A. Gamill2, N. Marshall2,
D. Sterling2, D. Carlson3, and R.G. McKinnell4: Departments of
Anatomy1 and Biology2, Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, AL 36088;
Department of Biology3, Augustana College, Sioux Falls, SD 57197;
Department of Genetics and Cell Biology4, University of Minnesota,
St. Paul, MN 55108.
The leaner mouse is a cerebellar
mutant mouse carrying an autosomal recessive mutation on the 8th
chromosome which results in severe ataxia starting at postnatal
day 10 (P10) to P12. Previous work has revealed that cerebellar
granule cells (gcs) begin to die at P10 in these mice and Purkinje
cells (PCs) begin to die at approximately P25-P30. The cell loss
is not random. Rather, when adult leaner cerebella are examined
histologically, it is apparent that the PCs are lost in a series
of rostrocaudal bands such that a band of PCs survive and then
an adjacent band of PCs will die. Gc loss appears to follow a
similar pattern in that many gcs are missing in the same rostrocaudal
bands that show Pc loss. However, some gcs remain in all bands,
resulting in an apparent difference in cell density between bands.
We have also observed in the adult leaner cerebellum that multiple
Pc dendritic spines (Pcdss) synapse with some of the parallel
fiber (pf) varicosities, which is an abnormal finding. We are
investigating possible developmental changes that might be occurring
in the leaner cerebellum which could result in the abnormalities
observed in adults. We examined paraffin sections of leaner cerebella
at P10, P20, P30, and P40 for evidence of programmed cell death
(PCs) in the gcs and PCs. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase
enzyme was used to attach digoxigenin-dUTP to DNA 3'0H ends. Fragmented
DNA (a positive sign for PCD) through a peroxidase-antiperoxidase
(PAP) immunocytochemistry reaction to the digoxigenin-labeled
DNA was detected in some gcs. The number of positive gcs in leaner
cerebella was significantly higher than age-matched controls at
P20. No evidence for PCD has been observed in leaner PCs. Standard
EM procedures were used to examine Pc/pf synapses. The abnormal
synaptic pattern between some Pcdss and pf varicosities observed
in adult leaner cerebella also was observed at P20, suggesting
that the abnormal synaptic pattern is not the result of synaptic
remodelling occurring as a result of the ataxic condition. Earlier
ages will be examined to determine whether further observations
are consistent with already reported.
INTERACTION OF Escherichia
coli LIPOPOLYSACCHARIDE (E. coli LPS) WITH SHEEP
PULMONARY INTRAVASCULAR MACROPHAGES: ULTRASTRUCTURAL IMMUNOCYTOCHEMICAL
STUDY. Singh, B. and
O.S. Atwal, Dept. Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph,
ON Canada N1G 2W1.
Pulmonary intravascular macrophages
(PIMs) of domestic animal species contain novel surface and intracellular
globules, and are believed to play a significant role in the genesis
of pulmonary pathology. This study was conducted to investigate
responses of sheep PIMs to E. coli LPS. Sheep (N=5) were treated
with E. coli LPS (0128:B12) one µgm/ kg body weight iv and
euthanized at 3, 8, 10, 30 and 180 min (n= 1) after the treatment.
One sheep injected with saline solution served as the control.
Lungs were fixed in situ with 2% paraformaldehyde and 2.5% glutaraldehyde
for 30 minutes. Lung tissues were collected and immersion-fixed
for 15 minutes or three hours and processed for TEM. Ultrathin
sections were incubated with 1 % ovalbumin for 30 minutes to block
nonspecific binding and floated face down on a drop of a polyclonal
anti-E. coli LPS antibody (0128:B12; 1:20) for 30 minutes. Primary
antibody binding was detected by exposing the sections to gold
conjugated secondary anti-IgG antibody (1:50) for 30 minutes.
Sections from the control and treated sheep incubated with the
primary polyclonal anti-E. coli LPS antibody and without a primary
antibody respectively served as the negative controls. The PIMs
from control sheep exhibited the globules on their plasma membrane
as well as in the endosomes. Surface as well as endosomal globules
and nuclear matrix of the PIMs were labeled with gold particles
at 8 minutes post-treatment. Negative control specimens were devoid
of any labeling. Simultaneous signs of structural damage to plasma
membrane, endosomes and nuclear envelope, loss of the coat and
multiple endosomes were noticed. Secretory organelles such as
Golgi complex and associated transport vesicles became conspicuous
from 8-30 minutes of the treatment. The results suggest a novel
interaction of E. coli LPS with the coat globules and their probable
role in its rapid endocytosis by the PIMs and their consequent
secretory activation.
CANINE ANATOMY - AN INTERACTIVE
APPROACH. Adams, D.R.,
L.D. Evans, and L.L. Gerken, Department of Veterinary Anatomy,
Iowa State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Ames, Iowa
50011.
This gross anatomy program is authored
in Authorware Professional 3.0 on the PC platform. It consists
of more than 25 files with a combined size of >25 MB. Images
(640 X 480 pixels at 256 colors) are displayed on a monitor set
at 1024 X 768 pixels. Although still not complete, the program
contains 1,300 images distributed as follows: Directional Terminology
(8), Body Regions (8), Musculoskeletal (672), Respiratory (112),
Digestive (153), Urinary (15), Reproductive (33), Cardiovascular
(118), Lymphatic (29), and Peripheral Nervous (122). Some 17 multiple-choice
quizzes in the program permit student selection and self testing.
Each quiz contains randomization of both questions and response
options for each question. Feedback is provided for each response
option selected. Program usage by, and quiz results for, student
users are written to a file for use by the instructor. Now, during
final stages of program development, the authors welcome contribution
from anatomists at other institutions (chapter authorship or revision,
suggestions and criticism, and/or image contribution).
EFFECTS OF HYPOTHYROIDISM ON FETAL
AND ADULT LEYDIG CELL POPULATIONS IN THE NEONATAL RAT TESTIS.
Mendis-Handagama, S.M.L.C.,
R.L. Haupt, K.R. Teunissen van Manan, Department of Animal Science,
College of Veterinary Medicine, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
TN 37996.
We have shown previously that transient
neonatal hypothyroidism in rats causes Leydig cell hyperplasia,
hypotrophy and reduced steroidogenic capacity at 135 days of age.
In the present study we investigated the effects of the same treatment
on fetal and adult Leydig cell populations in the neonatal rat
testes. Transient neonatal hypothyroidism was induced in one day
old Sprague Dawley rats by feeding the lactating mothers with
0.1% (w/v) propyl thiouracil (PTU) in drinking water from the
day of parturition until the pups were weaned at 21 days of age.
Testes of rat pups (1,7,14 and 21 days old; 5 rats per group)
of these PTU-treated mothers were fixed by immersion (days 1 and
7) and by whole body perfusion (days 14 and 21), processed and
embedded in Epon Araldite for microscopy and morphometry. Similarly,
testes were prepared from rat pups of control mothers (no PTU
in drinking water) to use as controls. One micron sections of
testis tissue were stained with methylene blue and used for microscopy
and morphometry. Volume density of fetal and adult Leydig cells
(defined as the volume of Leydig cells per unit volume of the
testis) was determined by the point counting methods. Numerical
density of fetal and adult Leydig cells (defined as the number
of cells per unit volume of testis) in these rats was determined
by the dissector method. The number of Leydig cells per testis
was determined by multiplying the numerical density of Leydig
cells by the fresh testis volume. The average volume of a Leydig
cell was determined by dividing the volume density by the numerical
density of Leydig cells. Qualitatively, fetal Leydig cells in
testes of 1, 7 and 14 day old control rats were observed as large
circular or polygonal profiles containing circular-shaped nuclei
with abundant euchromatin. Lipid droplets were plenty in their
cytoplasm and most of these regions appeared as empty spaces due
to the extraction of lipid during tissue processing. Profiles
of fetal Leydig cells at day 21 in control rats were smaller but
the other morphological characteristics were similar to those
at 1, 7 and 14 days. In PTU rats, fetal Leydig cell profiles appeared
similar in size from birth to 21 days of age. They were similar
in size and morphological characteristics to the fetal Leydig
cell profiles in control rats from 1-14 days of age. However,
in PTU rats many fetal Leydig cells contained irregular nuclear
profiles in them. Leydig cell profiles of the adult generation
in control rats were first detected at day 14, but they were more
in number at day 21 compared to day 14. They were smaller in size
than the fetal Leydig cell profiles from 1-14 days, but approximated
the size of fetal Leydig cell profiles at day 21. A distinct cytoplasmic
characteristic in the adult Leydig cell generation was that there
were little or no lipid droplets in them. In PTU rats, profiles
of adult Leydig cell generation was not observed. Morphometric
studies revealed that fetal Leydig cell number per testis in control
and PTU rats were not different at all ages studied, and did not
change in number from birth to 21 days of age. The average volume
of a fetal Leydig cell in control and PTU rats were similar at
days 1, 7 and 14 days. However, at day 21, average volume of fetal
Leydig cell in control rats was 50% smaller than those at 1-14
days in control rats and 1-21 days in PTU rats. Adult Leydig cell
number per testis in control rats showed a significant increase
at day 21 compared to day 14, however, as stated before, they
were not observed in PTU rats at any neonatal age studied. These
results demonstrate that neonatal hypothyroidism causes an inhibition
of fetal Leydig cell atrophy at day 21 of age and suppression
of the emergence of adult Leydig cell generation in the neonatal
rat testis. Based on these observations we suggest that thyroid
hormones perform an important role in establishing the adult Leydig
cell population in the rat testis. (Supported by NSF IBN 94-09288)
PRELIMINARY REPORT ON THE BLOOD
SUPPLY OF THE REPRODUCTIVE TRACT OF THE FEMALE EMU Dromaius
novaehollandiae. Cope,
L.A., R.W. Henry, J. Blackford, and T. K. Rowles, College of Veterinary
Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996.
The arterial supply to the left ovary
of the female emu was accomplished by the ovarian artery, a branch
of the ovario-oviductal artery. The ovario-oviductal artery branched
from the left cranial renal artery after it diverged from the
left side of the descending aorta and traveled under the ventral
surface of the left kidney. Six vessels supplied the oviduct of
the emu. These arteries were branches of the left cranial renal,
left pubic, left middle renal and left pudendal arteries. From
cranial to caudal, the first artery of the oviduct was the cranial
oviductal artery, a branch of the ovario-oviductal artery. It
supplied the dorsal surface of the infundibulum and magnum. The
second artery was the accessory cranial oviductal artery which
had three main branches. 1) The first branch anastomosed with
a branch of the cranial oviductal artery, 2) The second branch
anastomosed with a branch of the middle oviductal artery on the
dorsal surface of the oviduct, and 3) The third branch anastomosed
with the ventral marginal artery. The third artery, the middle
oviductal artery, supplied the middle of the oviduct. This artery
was a branch from the left middle renal artery. The fourth artery
was the caudal oviductal artery which supplied the caudal extent
of the uterus and proximal part of the vagina. This artery originated
from a branch of the left internal iliac, cranial to its bifurcation
into the lateral caudal and pudendal arteries. The final arteries
of the oviduct were the medial and lateral vaginal arteries which
were branches of the left pudendal artery and supplied the medial
and lateral sides and the dorsal surface of the vagina. The ovary
was drained by an ovarian vein which was formed by anastomoses
of the follicular veins. The ovarian vein emptied into the left
adrenal vein which joined the left side of the caudal vena cava.
The venous return of the oviduct was accomplished by the cranial
oviductal vein, accessory cranial oviductal vein, middle oviductal
vein, caudal oviductal vein and medial and lateral vaginal veins
which were satellites of the arteries and drained into the caudal
vena cava.
UNEXPECTED VALVE IN AN UMBILICAL
CORD ARTERY OF AN EQUINE RETAINED PLACENTA ENCOUNTERED DURING
INJECTION OF COLLAGENASE: PRACTICAL IMPLICATION FOR UMBILICAL
CORD INJECTIONS. Haffner,
J.C. and H. Eiler. Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences,
College of Veterinary Medicine, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville,
TN 37996.
Retained placentas have been successfully
treated in the cow by umbilical cord injections of collagenase.
This has led to the study of the application of this technique
in mares. While attempting to infuse the umbilical cord arteries
of a retained placenta in two mares, significant resistance to
fluid flow in the normograde direction was encountered. This encouraged
us to review the anatomy of umbilical cord vessels for the purpose
of clinical infusion of collagenase via umbilical cord arteries.
Two experiments were conducted. First, a placenta that presented
flow obstruction during umbilical cord artery infusion was dissected.
Second, following normal delivery, placentas were collected, and
these were dissected after fluid flow study. Supportive histological
study was conducted in selected umbilical vessels. The umbilical
cord arteries of the placenta that had been retained contained
valves which impeded normograde fluid flow. The valves were approximately
10 cm from the fetal end of the umbilical cord arteries, and there
were no other valves in the vessels. Arteries from other placentas
studied contained no valves. It was concluded that umbilical cord
arteries may contain valves that oppose normograde flow of perfusate.
The physiologic implication of this is unknown. From a practical
point of view if difficulty to perfuse an umbilical cord artery
is encountered, the catheter should be reinserted about 10 cm
closer to the placenta or above the valve.
PREPARATION AND EVALUATION OF
PLASTINATED GASTROINTESTINAL SPECIMENS FOR USE IN ENDOSCOPIC TRAINING.
Janick, L.M., R.W. Henry,
and R.C. Denovo, College of Veterinary Medicine, The University
of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996.
Endoscopy is an important diagnostic
and therapeutic tool in human and veterinary medicine. Although
live patients are useful as an effective and necessary technique
in endoscopic training, their procurement and preparation are
expensive. Use of live animals is also inefficient and time-consuming,
especially for the "first-time" endoscopist with no
endoscope manipulation experience. As an alternative method of
instruction, plastinated gastrointestinal tracts have been prepared
for use in teaching both endoscopic technique and anatomy. However,
having a lifelike specimen that looks anatomically correct is
not sufficient. These specimens must be engineered to insure that
they: 1) have most or all of the ingesta flushed free, 2) retain
orifices that are large enough to accommodate the GI endoscope
(9.6 mm), and 3) maintain a proper degree of dilation. When properly
prepared these plastinated specimens can provide an accurate model
for the trainee to learn the manipulative skills of guiding the
endoscope through the gastrointestinal tract. The important anatomic
features of the upper gastrointestinal tract [cardiac ostium (ostium
cardiacum), gastric fundus (fundus ventriculi), gastric body (corpus
ventriculi), gastric folds (plicae gastricae), the cardiac notch
(incisura angularis), the pyloric antrum (antrum pyloricum), and
pylorus (ostium pyloricum)] are readily identified. The endoscope
can be easily passed into the duodenum and advanced distally.
Basic manipulations such as retroflex examination of the gastric
cardia (pars cardiaca) and cardiac sphincter intubation of the
pylorus, foreign body removal, and biopsy techniques can be done
using these specimens.
GROSS MORPHOLOGY OF THE INTESTINAL
TRACT OF THE TILAPIA Oreochromis niloticus. Smith,
B.J., S.A. Smith, and B. Tengjaroenkul. VA-MD Regional College
of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, VA 24061 0442.
The intestinal tract of the tilapia
Oreochromis niloticus follows a rather complex course that
includes several loops. From cranial to caudal, the principal
areas have been designated as the hepatic loop, the proximal major
coil, the gastric loop, the distal major coil, and the terminal
segment. Except for the terminal segment, each of these principal
areas is subdivided into readily recognizable regions. On leaving
the stomach and progressing from cranial to caudal, these segments
are: proximal limb of the hepatic loop, distal limb of the hepatic
loop, first centripetal loop (of the proximal major coil), first
centrifugal loop (of the proximal major coil), proximal limb of
the gastric loop, distal limb of the gastric loop, second centripetal
coil (of the distal major coil), second centrifugal coil (of the
distal major coil), and the terminal segment. The major coils
are arranged in a cone-shaped mass, in manner such that their
four individual loops are nested each internal to the previous
one. Thus, the first centripetal loop (i.e. of the proximal major
coil) is external, and the second centrifugal loop (i.e. of the
distal major coil) is most internal. Few external features distinguish
one region of the gut tube from another. However, in general,
the external diameter of the gut loops decreases slightly from
cranial to caudal. Internally, the intestinal mucosa is characterized
by folds. In the cranial regions of the intestine, the folds are
arranged in a chevron pattern and are oriented parallel with the
long axis of the gut tube. However, the pattern becomes irregular
in the region of the gastric loop, and in the second centripetal
and remaining loops, the orientation of the folds lies transverse
to the long axis of the gut tube.
ORGANIZATION OF CORTICOTROPIN
RELEASING NEURONS AND CATECHOLAMINERGIC NEURONS IN THE BRAIN OF
Equus caballus. Littlefield-Chabaud,
M. A. and P. A. Melrose, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology,
School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton
Rouge, LA 70803-8408.
Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH)
and various catecholaminergic cell groups act together to coordinate
stress-dependent activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal
(HPA) axis and the autonomic nervous system (ANS). Work performed
on various species has characterized neuronal pathways involved
in the stress-dependent activation of the ANS. The stress-dependent
activation of catecholaminergic cell groups by CRH suggests that
CRH drives the ANS response to stress. The purpose of this project
was to characterize the distribution of CRH and catecholaminergic
cell groups and fibers in the equine central nervous system (CNS)
in order to determine if the organization of CRH and catecholaminergic
neurons suggest that CRH controls the ANS response to stress in
the equine species. In the first experiment, brains from three
mixed breed ponies were sectioned from the obex to the hypothalamus.
Sections were stained immunocytochemically with antibodies against
CRH and rate-limiting enzymes for catecholamine synthesis. Results
from this study indicated that CRH and catecholaminergic neurons
in the equine species are organized for coordination of ANS activity
by CRH neurons. In the second experiment, messenger RNA (mRNA)
was collected from regions of the CNS and the adrenal gland as
a secondary means of characterizing the distribution of CRH neurons.
Results from this experiment indicated that CRH is widely distributed
throughout the CNS. Combined results of these experiments support
the hypothesis that CRH controls both the HPA and ANS response
to stress in the equine species.
PORCINE GROSS ANATOMY. Jaeger,
L.A., N.H. McArthur, C.C. Farnsworth, H. Haughn, and C.H. Lamar,
Department of Veterinary Anatomy & Public Health, College
of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station,
TX 77843-4458 and Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School
of Veterinary Medicine, West Lafayette, IN, 47907.
A self-directed program was developed
to assist students studying porcine gross anatomy. The program
was created using Authorware and a Macintosh computer. The program
is designed for use with laboratory activities, as well as post-laboratory
review and study. Porcine anatomy is studied from a regional perspective,
and covers major and clinically important features of the porcine
head and neck, thorax, abdomen, pelvis and reproductive systems,
distal limbs, and skeleton. The consensus of initial responses
from the first-year students who utilized this program was that
it was helpful, but should not be used to replace a "hands-on"
laboratory experience. Responses were divided regarding whether
or not this computerized format was an adequate replacement for
a lecture on this topic. This program may also be useful to students
in latter years of the veterinary curriculum who wish to review
porcine anatomy in preparation for animal or necropsy rotations,
as well as for board examination. The program will be available
for distribution on CD-ROM to interested veterinary colleges.
Any comments or suggestions for final revision of this program
are welcome. Supported by a grant from the Center for Teaching
Excellence and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A&M
University.
A LITTLE HISTORY OF VETERINARY
ANATOMY. Evans, Howard
E. Department of Veterinary Anatomy, College of Veterinary Medicine,
Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 148536401.
(No Text)
BRAINSTEM NUCLEI - 3D REPRESENTATION,
PART I, DOG. McClure,
R.C. and G.M. Constantinescu, College of Veterinary Medicine,
University of Missouri - Columbia, Columbia, MO 65211.
This is a report on preliminary efforts
to develop "phantom" depictions of the brainstem nuclei
in the dog, which can be computerized for student use. Visualization
of the structures and their interrelationships is important to
learning and understanding, particularly in anatomy. Illustrations
of cross sections from the Stereotaxis Atlas of the Dog Brain,
Lim, Liu, and Moffitt, (1960) were used as a basic guide for
the development of a model of the brainstem showing the location
and relationship of the motor nuclei. This information was scanned
(digitized) for importation into the computer.
AN INTERACTIVE HISTOLOGY COURSE
FOR CD-ROM AND WORLD WIDE WEB ACCESS. Caceci,
Thomas, Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine,
Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia Polytechnic
Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061-0442.
The level of computer literacy among
incoming veterinary students is increasing rapidly, as is the
availability and affordability of computers with high-resolution
graphics capabilities. At the same time, there has been a shift
in student preferences for learning tools that are visually oriented
and not paper-based. To keep pace with this trend, most colleges
have begun the transition from paper handouts and notes to electronic
ones. "VM8054, Veterinary Histology" is an example.
It is a complete course in electronic format: students are provided
with all administrative course material, course policies, and
extensive exercises in electronic format. The exercises include
the text of previous paper version, plus they incorporate over
600 color images taken from the student slide set and instructor
demonstration slides. These are matched to extended captions that
are linked to the images. The material is accessed either from
a CD-ROM (on a stand-alone basis) or via the World Wide Web server
in our College. Students with modem-equipped computers can log
onto the server and study exercises, complete with images, at
home or from the College library; or they can obtain a copy of
the CD and work independently. The software was written in HTML
language, and is intended to be viewed with NETSCAPE or other
WWW browsers. Images were photographed on slide film, digitized
with a scanner, and edited with graphics software in standard
.JPG format. For students who demand a paper printout, the CD
includes copies in WORD 6.0, and also in Adobe ACROBAT. Not only
does electronic teaching material suit the preferences of modern
students, it saves the College a great deal of money. Prior to
this year, VM8054 alone was costing about $1000 per year in copying
fees. By providing access to the software via the WWW, the cost
to the College of making much more information available is effectively
nil.
IMMUNOLOCALIZATION OF CELLULAR
RETINOL BINDING PROTEIN IN THE RAT TESTIS AND QUANTIFICATION OF
SERTOLI CELLS AND INTERSTITIAL CELL TYPES FROM BIRTH TO ADULT
AGE. Ariyaratne, H.B.S.,
S.M.L.C. Mendis-Handagama, and J.D. Godkin, Department of Animal
Science, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996.
In mammals retinol deficiency causes
infertility. In the testis, spermatogenesis is known to be dependent
on adequate supply of vitamin A, which is taken up as retinol
from blood by the Sertoli cells. Sertoli cells are rich in cellular
retinol binding protein (CRBP) which has an important role in
controlling the uptake of retinol. In Leydig cells, retinol has
been shown to increase testosterone production, however the mechanism
is still unknown. Retinol is known to cause proliferation of peroxisomes
in many tissues and peroxisomes in Leydig cells have been shown
to have a role in their steroidogenic function. Therefore, we
designed the present study to examine the distribution of CRBP
in rat testis cells from birth to adult age to gather preliminary
data to design further experiments to investigate the role of
retinol and CRBP in Leydig cell steroidogenesis. We also quantified
Sertoli cells and different cell types in the testis interstitium.
Sprague Dawley rats of 1, 7, 14, 21, 40, 60 and 90 days (3 rats
per group) were euthanized by carbon dioxide inhalation, testis
were removed, fixed in Bouin's fixative, processed and embedded
in paraffin. Five micron sections were made from each paraffin
embedded testis and CBRBP was immunolocalized using anti-bovine
CRBP antibody. Tissue sections were viewed and cells in the interstitium,
namely, the Leydig cells, intermediate cells (cells which were
morphologically in between Leydig cells and mesenchymal cells),
mesenchymal cells, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, pericytes,
peritubular myoid cells and macrophages, and the Sertoli cells
were quantified. The absolute numbers of cells in the testis interstitium
were calculated by two steps. First, the ratio of each cell type
to Leydig cells was determined. Second, this ratio was multiplied
by the Leydig cell number per testis at each age. The latter value
was obtained using one micron sections of perfusion-fixed and
epon-araldite embedded testicular tissue via the dissector method.
The morphometric results revealed that there was a gradual decrease
of the number ratio of Leydig cells to all other cell types tested
with advancing age. However, the absolute number of all these
cell types per testis was increased concomitantly up to 90 days
of age. The immunocytochemical studies revealed the following.
The Sertoli cells and germ cells stained positively for CRBP in
all ages studied, however, from birth to 21 days of age the staining
was lighter than in the other age groups. The Leydig cells showed
a positive reaction in all age groups studied, and they were the
only interstitial cell type that showed positive reaction from
birth to 21 days of age. On days 40,60 and 90 pale positive reaction
was observed for CRBP in all other interstitial cells tested except
the macrophages, which were not positive for CRBP at all age groups
studied. These results demonstrate that CRBP is present in the
Leydig cells from birth (Leydig cells of the fetal generation)
to adult age (mature Leydig cells of the adult generation) and
from late prepubertal (i.e. day 40, has newly formed Leydig cells
of adult generation) period, CRBP concentration in Leydig cells
is greater than those at neonatal ages studied (days 1-21). This
increase in CRBP concentration in Leydig cells coincides with
the time that Leydig cells undergo maturational changes which
includes cell hypertrophy and hyperplasia of organelle content
to establish the adult Leydig cell population in the sexually
mature animal. Therefore, it is possible that retinol induces
proliferation of peroxisomes during this maturational period and
that CRBP concentration in Leydig cells is increased after 40
days of age to increase its uptake into Leydig cells. This concept
warrants further investigation. (Supported by NSF IBN 94-09288).
ULTRASTRUCTURAL STUDY OF PULMONARY
INTRAVASCULAR MACROPHAGES OF LENTIVIRUS-INFECTED SHEEP. Singh
B. and A. de la Concha-Bermejillo, Texas A&M University Research
Center, 7887 N. Hwy 87, San Angelo, TX 76901.
Ovine lentivirus (OvLV), the putative
cause of lymphoid interstitial pneumonia (LIP), resembles the
human immunodeficiency virus. The OvLV DNA integrates in the genome
of monocytic cells and requires their differentiation into macrophages
for its replication. Although alveolar macrophages are attributed
a central role in the pathogenesis of LIP, yet the precise interplay
of different pulmonary cell types in this disease is not known.
This study was performed to investigate the structural features
of a recently identified phagocyte, pulmonary intravascular macrophage
(PIM), in OvLV infection. Four sheep were infected intratracheally
with 1x106 TCID50 °f OvLV-34 strain while two sheep received
equal volume of the culture medium and were used as the control.
All the infected sheep became seropositive between 14-28 days
post-infection as indicated by the agar gel immunodiffusion test.
The sheep were euthanized at 10 weeks post-infection and lungs
were fixed in situ with 2% paraformaldehyde and 2.5% glutaraldehyde
for 30 minutes. Lung tissue pieces were immersed in the same fixative
for three hours, osmicated, treated with 0.5% tannic acid for
30 minutes and processed for TEM. The PIMs from control sheep
were attached to the capillary endothelium and showed globules
on their plasma membrane and in the endosomes. Some PIMs of the
infected sheep appeared to lack a full complement of the surface
coat globules although intracellular globules seemed unaltered.
These PIMs contained occasional small aggregates of virion-like
particles, and displayed expanded Golgi complexes, secretory vesicles,
microtubules, centrioles, elaborate profiles of rough endoplasmic
reticulum and nuclear interchromatin granules. These results suggest
possible slow replication of OvLV in the PIMs and their enhanced
biosynthetic activation in the infected sheep. Studies for the
immunolocalization of viral proteins in the PIMs of infected sheep
are currently underway.
THE EXPRESSION OF CHOLECYSTOKININ
BINDING SITES IN THE DEVELOPING MAMMALIAN BRAIN: A COMPARATIVE
STUDY. Kuehl-Kovarik,
M.C. and C.D. Jacobson. Dept. of Veterinary Anatomy and Neuroscience
Program, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011.
Neurogenesis in the Brazilian opossum,
Monodelphis domestica, is a predominantly postnatal process,
unlike central nervous system (CNS) formation in placental mammals.
Therefore, Brazilian opossum newborns cannot regulate homeostasis
at the forebrain level, although control centers for food intake
are located in the forebrain of the adult mammal. Thus, the Brazilian
opossum provides an excellent mammalian model to study CNS adaptations
for neonatal existence, and in addition, may provide information
on neural pathways that are specific for the survival of extremely
altricial marsupial neonates. Because the forebrain of the Brazilian
opossum is still forming at birth, we predict that hindbrain nuclei
may be involved in the regulation of nutrient intake. A significant
peptide involved in food intake regulation is cholecystokinin
(CCK). These studies focused on the expression of CCK binding
sites in neonatal rat and opossum brainstem nuclei that could
potentially be involved in the regulation of nutrient intake.
We found that CCK binding sites are transiently expressed in the
FMN of both the neonatal opossum and the developing rat. As the
FMN controls facial musculature, it is intimately involved in
suckling behavior in neonates. The transient expression of binding
sites in this region suggests that cholecystokinin may be regulating
nutrient intake at the brainstem level in mammalian neonates.
Supported by grants from the Whitehall Foundation and the National
Science Foundation.
HISTOLOGY OF THE INTESTINAL TRACT
OF THE TILAPIA Oreochromis niloticus. Smith,
B.J. and S.A. Smith. VA-MD Regional College of Veterinary Medicine,
Blacksburg, VA.
The overall structure of the intestine
of Oreochromis niloticus is similar to that of most vertebrate
species in consisting of the four classical concentric tunics:
mucosa, submucosa, muscularis, and serosa. In turn, each of the
tunics largely fits the generalized model of structure typical
of most vertebrates. The mucosa is comprised of a simple columnar
epithelium interspersed with goblet cells, and a thin lamina propria
that blends with the submucosa. The submucosa is generally composed
of loose connective tissue containing occasional leukocytes, eosinophilic
granular cells, and small blood vessels. The muscularis is comprised
of inner circular and outer longitudinal muscle layers, with prominent
intermyenteric plexuses. The adventitia consists of a thin connective
tissue layer, and can carry larger blood vessels. Like many other
species of fish, this tilapia possesses few distinguishing histological
characteristics in these tunics among the various topographic
regions of the intestine. Still, a general pattern of progression
of some histological features can be observed progressing cranially
to caudally, though the exact level at which they are expressed
is variable. In general, the mucosa of the more cranial parts
of the intestine possess well-developed villi with moderate numbers
of goblet cells. The villi decrease in prominence in the relatively
caudal regions of the intestine, but increase again in the most
terminal segment. The submucosa becomes attenuated in the later
segments, containing fewer cellular components and more open space.
The muscularis generally progresses from having a thicker outer
than inner layer in the more cranial regions, to an approximately
1: 1 ratio of thickness of the two layers in the caudal-most intestinal
area.
THE POWER OF NON-AQUEOUS FIXATION.
Sims, D.E. and M.M. Horne,
Department of Anatomy & Physiology, Atlantic Veterinary College,
University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, PEI, Canada
ClA 4P3.
Fixation methods for light and electron
microscopy have barely changed over the decades. Constant problems,
which teachers and researchers have been forced to tolerate or
compensate for, include adjusting for tissue pH and osmolarity,
and an inability to preserve most carbohydrate structures. An
alternative protocol is offered to circumvent these limitations.
Non-aqueous fixation (also called phase-transition fixation) is
not a new concept, but has been improved by development of superior
coolants for electronics manufacturers. When FC-72TM, a product
from the 3-M Co. Ltd, is used as solvent, and 1 % w/ v osmium
tetroxide is dissolved as a fixing agent, the opportunity exists
to conduct fixations without significant challenges to pH or osmolarity.
Glycoprotein secretions are preserved on fish skin, in mammalian
airways, within blood vessels, and surrounding bacteria. FC-72TM
is a non-toxic perfluorocarbon, and has a high affinity for dissolved
oxygen, enabling preflushing that doesn't create tissue hypoxia.
After initial non-aqueous fixation and a rinse in pure fluorocarbon
to remove any residual osmium, processing for light microscopy
can proceed by cutting tissue to size and placing in conventional
formalin solution, then processing in a routine manner. For transmission
electron microscopy, initial fixation and rinse can be followed
by two dehydration rinses in 100% ethanol, then routine solvent/
embediment steps. For scanning electron microscopy, fixation can
be followed by dehydration in ethanol, than any of the methods
available. Biofilms, mucous coats, and glycocalyxes have previously
been difficult to retain. With nonaqueous fixation methods, they
can be preserved in a manner that compares well to freeze fixation,
but without the artifact of crystal formation.
ONTOGENY OF ANDROGEN RECEPTOR-LIKE
IMMUNOREACTIVITY IN THE REPRODUCTIVE TRACT OF MALE BRAZILIAN RAT
Monodelphis domestica. Sonea1,
I.M., G.S. Prins2, and C.D. Jacobson1. Dept. of Veterinary Anatomy1,
College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA
50011-6513 and Dept. of Urology2, College of Medicine, University
of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612-7316.
To detect when reproductive tissues
become sensitive to the effects of endogenous androgens, the appearance
and distribution of androgen receptor-like immunoreactivity (AR-LI)
was studied in the reproductive tract of the developing and adult
gray short-tailed Brazilian opossum (Monodelphis domestica),
using a rabbit polyclonal androgen receptor antibody (PG2
1) . Androgen receptor-like immunoreactivity was first detected
on the fifth day of postnatal age, in the mesenchymal tissues
of the ductus deferens, gubernaculum testis, and prostatic urethra,
and in the mesenchymal tissue of the perineal, inguinal and scrotal
areas. Androgen receptor-like immunoreactivity was first seen
in the interstitial cells of the epididymis at 45 days of age;
the testes developed AR-LI at 60 days of age. The first epithelial
cells of prostatic glands to contain AR-LI were seen at 80 days
of age; much of the prostatic epithelium was androgen receptor-like
immunoreactive in the adult. The presence of AR-LI during development
correlated well with the known androgen-dependence of the differentiation
of most reproductive organs. The early appearance of AR-LI in
the scrotum suggests that scrotal development in this marsupial
is at least partially androgen dependent. Supported by grants
from the College of Veterinary Medicine of Iowa State University
(IMS), the Whitehall Foundation, and the National Science Foundation
(CDJ), and the National Institutes of Health (GSP).
OBSERVATIONS ON THE ULTRASTRUCTURE
OF UTERINE GLANDS OF MARES INFUSED WITH POVIDONE IODINE SOLUTION.
Al-Bagdadi, F.1, G. Richardson2,
B. Eilts3, L. Olsen4, D. McCoy3, W. Braun5, L. Archbald6, D. Thompson7,
and C. Titkemeyer1, 1Department of Veterinary Anatomy and Cell
Biology, 3Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, 7Department
of Animal Science, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA
70803, 2Department of Health Management, Atlantic Veterinary College,
University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, PEI, Canada,
ClA 4P3, 4Foxland Farm, P.O. Box 117, Keen, KY 40339, 5Department
of Veterinary Clinical Science, College of Veterinary Medicine,
Columbus, MO 65211, 6Veterinary Teaching Hospital, College of
Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, FL 623100125.
The uterine glands play an important
part in nourishing the fetus in the epitheliochorial type of placenta
in the mare. It is a concern to veterinarians that intrauterine
infusion of medications for treatment may produce pathological
changes in the mare's endometrium that interfere with fertility.
This study describes the uterine gland cells and the uterine response
to povidone iodine infusion in mares. Veterinarians have used
various medications to treat endometritis in mares. Five light
horse mares of breeding age were used in this study; they were
infused with 1% povidone iodine solution. The number of mast cells
in the 30 day post povidone iodine infused (PPIM) mares were higher
than the 15 days post povidone iodine infused mares. Some of the
mast cells of the 30 day PPIM were ruptured releasing massive
quantities of histamine and serotonin. The mast cells seemed to
be migrating towards the uterine glands and were morphologically
different from the basal cells. The fine structural morphology
of the basal cells indicate that they do not resemble mast cells
as has been suggested. This study indicates that mast cells, leukocytes
and basal cells are three different types of cells. This preliminary
study indicates that the pathological effects of the intrauterine
infusions of povidone iodine, are more severe after a second infusion,
15 days after the first.
AMELIORATION OF CARBON TETRACHLORIDE
HEPATOTOXICITY WITH GADLINIUM CHLORIDE IN RATS. Gareau,
P.J., L.A. Reinke, J.Z. Chen, E.G. Janzen, and S. Yamashiro, Department
of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University
of Guelph, Guelph, ON NlG 2W1.
In our previous electron microscopic
studies on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induced hepatotoxicity
in rats, we observed a paucity of phagosomes in Kupffer cells
(KC) of gadlinium chloride (GdCl3) treated rats, which exhibited
no hepatocytic injury with CCl4. Suspension of inert carbon particles
(India ink) was used to visualize the KC phagocytic activity in
rats with or without GdCl3 prior to the CCl4 treatment. Rats received
CCl4 (320 µl/kg i.p.) or CCl4 and GdCl3 (l0 mg/ kg, i.v.)
or GdCl3 alone. In the separate study, the comparable treatment
groups received India ink (0.5 ml of 1% suspension per animal)
immediately after the respective treatment. Hepatotoxicity was
evaluated 24 hours after CCl4 administration by light microscopy,
and serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) as well as
magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Rats injected with GdCl3 exhibited
no KC phagocytic activity of India ink with or without CCl4 treatment,
suggesting the KC inhibitory activity of GdCl3. Treatment with
CCl4 resulted in elevated ALT activity in the serum, periacinar
necrosis in histopathology and a greatly increased signal intensity
within the liver MR images. In rats pretreated with GdCl3 the
severity of CCl4induced liver injury was dramatically reduced.
GdCl3 reduced the elevation in ALT activity by approximately 75%.
Lower ALT activities and histopathology indicated protection from
liver damage by GdCl3.
UNDERSTANDING EQUINE INGUINAL
RINGS MADE EASY VIA A FABRICATED MODEL. Henry,
R.W., C. L. Henry, and L. M. Janick. Department of Animal Science,
College of Veterinary Medicine The University of Tennessee, Knoxville,
TN 37996.
The inguinal rings and canals, as
well as, the vaginal ring and process are often conceptually difficult
for veterinary students to understand. To help students understand
the inguinal area, a model was fabricated using cloth (netting
and batiste) and a prepared osteology specimen of the equine pelvis
and femurs. The bone preparation was prepared using typical maceration
and degreasing technologies, assembled and mounted on a wooden
base. The internal and external abdominal oblique muscles were
tailored from cloth and the superficial and deep inguinal rings
were formed. The courses of the genitofemoral nerve and branches
of the pudendoepigastric vessels: caudal epigastric, external
pudendal and caudal superficial epigastric vessels were indicated
using ribbon.
MOVABLE SKELETAL PREPARATIONS
OF THE JOINTS OF THE EQUINE FORELIMB. Nguyen,
A.Q. and P.T. Purinton, Department of Anatomy and Radiology, College
of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens. GA 30602-7382.
Movable joints are valuable teaching
aids for demonstrating limb position and movement in Veterinary
Gross Anatomy. Illustrated here are articulated specimens of equine
shoulder, elbow, carpus and digit produced at the University of
Georgia, College of Veterinary Medicine. The object was to prepare
skeletal specimens that would mimic the normal direction, articulation,
and range of movements. Several specimens are on display to illustrate
these valuable teaching aids.
EFFECT OF EXAMINATION OF A CROSS SECTION
OF THE CANINE HEAD ON STUDENTS' ABILITY TO VISUALIZE ANATOMY IN
THREE DIMENSIONS. Provo,
J., C. Lamar, E. Hinsman, and T. Newby, Department of Basic Medical
Sciences and Department of Curriculum and Instruction, Purdue
University, West Lafayette, IN 47907.
A cross-section of the canine head
was used to enhance the understanding of first year veterinary
students of anatomy of the head in three dimensions. In addition
to the dissection of the head done by control students, experimental
groups in two successive classes (n=124) identified structures
visible in the cross-section. A paper-and-pencil test was designed
to measure student's ability to visualize anatomy in three dimensions
by requiring 1) prediction of structures visible in a cross-section;
2) correct placement of structures within an outline of the cross-section;
and 3) correct placement of 8 structures within two perpendicular
views of the head. Validation procedures for this test instrument
demonstrated content validity, strong inter-rater reliability,
and moderate test-retest reliability. Questions requiring visualization
of anatomical structures were also included on one live animal
examination. Multivariate analysis of covariance revealed statistically
significant effects on the dependent variables of performance
on prior course examinations and quizzes, and a statistically
significant three-way interaction effect between group membership,
prior examination and prior quiz performance. A separate analysis
was performed using data from the second class (n=62) in this
study, when spatial ability of the student was also used as a
covariant. Results show a statistically significant effect of
spatial ability, and statistically significant two way interactions
between group membership and prior quiz performance. Qualitative
methods, including surveys completed by all students, and interviews
with 15 students randomly selected from a pool of volunteers,
were used to collect data regarding students' self-perceptions
of ability to visualize anatomy in three-dimensions and opinions
about the value of the instructional methods used for this study.