Decussation as an axial twist: A comment on Kinsbourne (2013).

One of the great mysteries of the brain, which has puzzled all-time students of brain form and function, is the contralateral organization of the forebrain and the crossings of its major afferent and efferent connections. As a novel explanation, two recent studies have proposed that the rostral part of the head, including the forebrain, is rotated by 180° with respect to the rest of the body (de Lussanet and Osse, 2012; Kinsbourne, 2013). Kinsbourne proposes one 180° turn while we consider the 180° being the result of two 90° turns in opposite directions.

Structure and function of the median finfold in larval teleosts.

This paper offers a structural and mechanical analysis of the median finfold in larval teleosts. The median finfold is strengthened by bundles of collagen fibres, known as actinotrichia. We demonstrate that these structures contribute to increase the mass of backward accelerated water during swimming.

Effect of low ambient mineral concentrations on the accumulation of calcium, magnesium and phosphorus by early life stages of the air-breathing armoured catfish Megalechis personata (Siluriformes: Callichthyidae).

The accumulation of calcium, magnesium and phosphorus was measured during an 8-week period in the early life stages of the air-breathing armoured catfish Megalechis personata acclimated to low-mineral fresh water (0.073 mmol l-1 calcium, 0.015 mmol l-1 magnesium, <0.

Intra-oral food manipulation of carp and other cyprinids: adaptations and limitations.

The heterogeneity of the cyprinid fishes (about 2000 species) and their feeding requires a general model of aquatic feeding. In this model the timing of mouth and gill slit opening and the relative contribution of head expansion and swimming are determining factors. The following elements have been distinguished in the feeding process of cyprinid fishes: search/choice, intake (particulate intake and gulping), size-and taste selection, intra-oral transport (including repositioning), mastication and deglutition.