Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry of birds: an examination of excised skeletal specimens.
The ability of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) to measure bone mineral content and density of bird bones has received little attention. This paper represents the first comprehensive study of the methods, precision, and reproducibility of DXA (GE-Lunar DPX-L) for the uniquely shaped, thin and pneumatic bones of birds. Skeletal elements and portions represented by 26 regions of interest (ROIs) are presented and evaluated for the gallinaceous bird species, wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo), ruffed grouse (Bonasa umbellus) and bobwhite quail (Colinus virginianus). Using Lunar small animal software and the methods described in this paper, photodensitometry of bird bones is possible and opens new opportunities for using birds in clinical models in veterinarian science, osteoporosis studies, space biology, and even archaeological and paleontological research.
Biology and Environmental Theories and Applications Programs, Teikyo Post University, 800 Country Club Road, PO Box 2540, Waterbury, CT 06723-2540, USA. fdirrigl@teikyopost.edu
F J
FJ
Dirrigl
G P
GP
Dalsky
S E
SE
Warner
D015502:Absorptiometry, Photon / Q000379:methods / Q000662:veterinary*; D000818:Animals; D001717:Birds / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D015519:Bone Density; D001842:Bone and Bones / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D005269:Femur / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D006811:Humerus / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D013045:Species Specificity