Definitions

[Graeme Worth <endocrin@opera.iinet.net.au>]

Hi, all
I have 2 queries:
In a discussion of modes of locomotion in prosauropods I've come across the
term "medi-portal", but can't find it in any dictionary I've consulted. If
anyone can translate it into plain english for me, I'd appreciate it.
Secondly I will try again with a request I've sent out before. In the list
of fossils associated with Gilmoreosaurs mongoliensis in Nessov's 1995
monograph, he includes "..., epistropheus nad atlas...". I've also seen the
two terms associated in the title of one of von Huene's papers from the
30's. I know what the atlas is, but cannot find any reference to the
epistropheus. I've asked local anatomists, ornithologists, reptile experts
etc, and put this request to some list members, all without success, so if
anyone out there wants a real challenge, here it is! Presumably it is either
a bone or a bony process at the top of the spine or base of the skull, but
can someone shed more light on this?
It may well be in the Nessov monograph, but I don't have a copy.
Thanks in advance
Graeme Worth