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Cerebral arterial vascularization of the scimitar-horned oryx (Oryx dammah)
AbstractThe Scimitar-horned Oryx (Oryx dammah) is a large terrestrial mammal native to Africa. Since the year 2000, it is classified as extinct in the wild. It is a subject of various conservation projects. The aim of this study was to describe the arterial vascularization of the brain in this species of oryx. Three different anatomical methods were used to obtain a complete arterial pattern - latex injection, corrosion cast, and computed tomography. The arterial vascularization of the brain was described. The main components of the cerebral arterial circle were the rostral cerebral arteries and the caudal communicating arteries. These vessels were created from the intracranial part of the internal carotid artery, that emerged from the rostral epidural rete mirabile. In the juvenile specimen, the whole internal carotid artery was observed. The anatomical pathways of the blood supply to the brain are important during medical procedures in cases of congestion and fainting caused by inadequate brain blood perfusion.
The arteries of the encephalon base in caracal (Caracal caracal; Felidae; Carnivora)
This study represents the comprehensive anatomical analysis of the arterial circulation at the base of the encephalon in caracal (Caracal caracal), a member of the Felidae family. Caracals are found in various environments in Africa and Asia, and their conservation status is threatened by hunting and habitat loss. This study was conducted on 14 post-mortem specimens obtained from zoos. Three different methods were used to prepare the specimens—corrosive preparation, latex specimen preparation, and computer tomography imaging. This study revealed a configuration of the arterial circulation in the caracal encephalon resembling the shape of the number eight. The presence of the rostral communicating artery in this species is of particular significance, as it is associated with an increased ability to detect dehydration in the forebrain. This adaptation plays a crucial role in responding to challenges related to hydration. Comparative anatomical analysis with other felids highlighted differences in the shape and configuration of the encephalon’s arterial circulation. This study also discussed the obliteration of the extracranial segment of the internal carotid artery in adult caracals, a feature shared with other Felidae members. The results of this study provide valuable information regarding the anatomy of blood vessels in caracals, with potential implications for veterinary practice in zoos and wildlife conservation efforts. This research expands our knowledge of this species’ unique adaptations and physiological processes, contributing to the development of comparative anatomy in the Felidae family.