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Notes: Summary Spontaneous cell death in the developing brain of 8.5–9 day old mouse embryos has been investigated with the electron microscope. Before closure of the neural tube, areas of cell death are found at the neuro-somatic junction. After closure of the neural tube degenerating cells are found in the dorsal midline of the prospective diencephalon. Ultrastructurally, cell degeneration is marked by chromatin condensation, increase in electron density of the structures in the cytoplasm and, in later stages, by a marked pycnosis of the dying cell. After fragmentation, the necrotic material as well as entire pycnotic cells are phagocytized and digested by cells of the neuroepithelium. An invasion of macrophages has not been observed. The significance of cell necrosis is discussed in relation to the normal formation of the neural tube and to the occurrence of certain induced malformations (exencephalies).

Notes: Summary Round, vacuolated amoeboid cells with a high content of glycoproteids appear temporarily during the embryonic development of the chicken's brain. The cells were identified by the periodic-acid-bisulfit-aldehydthionine-method (Specht, 1970). A comparison of the developmental stages (4.–17. day of incubation) of the cells show that they originate in the mesenchym and probably immigrate by way of the ventricles as well as from the outer brain surface. The cells are mainly found in brain areas containing large, loosely structured extracellular spaces. The large extracellular gaps of these areas are probably developed in response to glycoproteid secretion by PBA-positive cells, as a preparatory measure for subsequent histogenetic growth processes (axon growth with myelinisation). At the same time glycoproteids are also produced by ependymal cells.

Notes: Summary In the 45 μ long midpiece of the spermatozoon of Pantodon buchholzi nine helical, cross-striated fibers run from one end to the other and parallel nine helical mitochondrial threads; both fibers and mitochondrial threads surrounding the axoneme. The fibers have a major period about 750–900 Å and are very similar to ciliary rootlets and other cross-striated structures in terms of which they are discussed.

Notes: Summary Myotendinous junctions in the parietal muscle of the Atlantic hagfish (Myxine glutinosa, L.) and in the diaphragm of rat were studied with the electron microscope. The ends of muscle fibers posses deep tube-like invaginations and also finger-like processes. Terminal I-filaments of the myofibrils attach to the plasma membrane of the invaginations. Collagen fibrils of the tendon attach to the external aspect of the lamina densa. The lamina densa and also collagen fibrils continue into the invaginations. Specializations are present in the zone between the plasma membrane and the lamina densa of the invaginations, being most conspicuous in Myxine. These consist of 60 Å wide spine-like or thread-like profiles 150 Å apart, connecting with both the outer leaflet of the plasma membrane and the lamina densa. Spatially, they form parallel circular ridges oriented transversely in stacks along the invaginations. Similar spine-like profiles are also discernible in the invaginations of rat muscle fibers. In rat, however, their spatial arrangement (ridges or fibrils) remains unknown. These specializations may serve to attach the lamina densa to the plasma membrane, and may be important for the transmission of force from muscle fibers to tendon.

Notes: Summary Lamellated receptors in the skin of reptiles were studied with the light and electron microscope. As revealed by reconstructions of serial sections, there are three types of lamellated receptors: 1. lamellated free endings, 2. lamellated encapsulated endings and 3. lamellated encapsulated endings with a “fluid-filled” capsule space (outer core). The spindle shaped endings have a length of up to 0.5 mm. In Caiman, the lamellae (inner core) of the encapsulated receptor with a capsule space have a structure similar to that of the inner core of the Vater-Pacinian corpuscle. The lamellation (inner core) of the terminals of Natrix and Varan shows similarities with the inner core of the Herbst corpuscle. Lamellated receptors usually form an element of the sensory innervation of touch papillae in the reptile skin.

Notes: Summary The ontogenesis of the urophysial system (caudal neurosecretory system) in the roach (Leuciscus rutilus) was ultrastructurally analyzed. In newly hatched spawns the urophysial components are differentiated in the form of neurosecretory perikarya, axons and terminals and display the characteristics of a functional system although the neurohemal area is not developed. It is assumed that the system is active simultaneously with the preopticohypophysial system during ontogenesis. On the contrary, organogenesis of the urophysis is late, and only at the 14 mm stage do the neurosecretory axons first penetrate the meninx to participate in the formation of the organ. Assumed aminergic cell types associated with the urophysial system are differentiated at the time of hatching, thus indicating a functional relationship. A secretory ependyma releasing its granules into the central canal is described.

Notes: Summary In an investigation concerning the so-called “fusion” of the atrioventricular endocardial cushions in the heart of the chick embryo the following facts were established: 1. The endocardial cushions in the chick embryo do really fuse. However, the region of fusion is less extensive than is generally accepted. 2. No regressive cellular changes were observed in the fusing endothelia with light or electron microscopy. On the contrary, mitotic activity and possibly even erythroblastic transformation were observed in the endothelium as well as in the subendothelial mesenchyme. 3. Under the light microscope, the process of fusion is characterized by interdigitation of the endothelial cells. In later stages the endothelial character of these cells disappears in such a way as to give rise to one single mesenchymal cushion mass. 4. Under the electron microscope the fusing endothelial cells form extremely long tonguelike cytoplasmic processes which protrude freely into the lumen where they may fuse with similar processes from other endothelial cells of the same side. In this way small compartments become segregated from the lumen. the plasma membrane of the processes may also fuse with the plasma membrane of the cell from which they originate. Alternating persistence and disappearance of the plasma membrane gives rise to many membrane-lined intracellular vesicles. 5. The numerous myelin figures found in and between the endothelial surfaces appear to represent the blind and empty membranous linings stripped off from cytoplasmic processes. The intracellular myelin figures are probably incorporated into the cells in the same way as described above. Apart from this form of endocytosis, signs of conventional micropinocytotic activity are present. 6. The density of endoplasmic reticulum suggests intensified protein synthetic activity, in which membrane-bound as well as free ribosomes and polysomes seem to participate. Moreover, increased mitochondrial density in the cells in the fusion region is evident. 7. Specialized junctional complexes between the plasma membranes in the form of desmosome-like junctions are relatively scarce. 8. Fusion of cytoplasmic tongues of endothelial cells with adjacent endothelial cells of the same side or of the opposite side is responsible for the exchange of large quantities of cytoplasma between endothelial cells and, as a consequence, for displacement of cell boundaries without loss of cell individuality.

Notes: Summary Immobilization of the tibialis anterior muscle of the newborn rat was caused by amputation of the hind limb at the talocrural joint. Subsequent muscular atrophy was measured by weighing the muscle and the myoneural morphogenesis in the disused muscle was studied in light and electron microscope. The acetylcholinesterase (AChE; E.C.3.1.1.7) and nonspecific cholinesterase (Ns. ChE; E.C.3.1.1.8) activity at the myoneural junction was followed histochemically. It was observed that the myoneural morphogenesis proceeded normally in the immobilized and atrophied muscle. Cholinesterase activities at the developing myoneural junction were identical on both the immobilized and the contralateral control side. The myoneural morphogenesis may be solely controlled by the nerve since, at the light of the present observations, the abnormally diminished function of the muscle seems to have no effect on the myoneural development.

Notes: Abstract After being treated with isonicotinic acid hydrazine (INH) for 3 months a 3-year-old Jordanian boy with phenylketonuria developed severe hepatocellular jaundice. In addition to INH the patient had received Primidone and Ospolot® for 1 year and a PKU diet for 7 months without any side effects. The liver biopsy 2 weeks after the peak of jaundice revealed no signs of hepatitis on light microscopy. An electron microscope investigation showed a defect in the intracellular transport system of bilirubin; bile pigment was stored in peribiliar lysosomes in the same way as in the Dubin-Johnson Syndrome. The smooth endoplasmatic reticulum was increased and vacuolized, whereas rough endoplasmatic reticulum, mitochondria, and glycogen were reduced. In a control biopsy nearly 6 months after the jaundice the morphologic alterations of the liver had normalized with the exception of the lysosomal changes.

Notes: Summary The effect of spirolactone on the zona glomerulosa was studied in dogs by light and electron microscopy. Results of untreated animals are compared with those pretreated with spirolactone for several days. Light microscopy in control as well as in experimental animals disclosed two different types of cells as far as their staining properties were concerned. With the staining techniques utilized in this study cellular inclusions, so-called spironolactone bodies as previously reported by others, were not seen. The width of the zona glomerulosa, however, was found to be significantly increased in treated animals. Electron microscopy revealed the two respective cell types to be definitely different. Due to their electron density they are referred to her as light and dark cells. Within the cytoplasm of the dark cells laminated inclusions were seen, ranging in size from 1 to 4 µm. These inclusions are thought to be not identical with socalled spironolactone bodies. Spirolactone did not affect the ultrastructural appearance of either light or dark cells, when compared with control, this is also true for the laminated inclusions. It is suggested that the light and dark cells represent the same type of cell at different activity levels. Finally, the functional significance of the laminated inclusions is discussed in view of findings reported elsewhere.

Notes: Summary A morphologic and histochemical study was carried out on the liver of larval and adult lampreys at the optical and electron microscopic level. In the larva the liver is composed of blind ending single cell thick tubules of hepatocytes. The tubular lumina provided with microvilli are morphologically comparable with the canalicular lumens of the higher species of animals. The cytoplasm of the hepatocytes contains numerous inclusions with heterogeneous appearance and crystalline material. The biliary system is composed of numerous bile ductules and ducts. In the adult lamprey, the biliary system has disappeared. The hepatocytes loose their tubular arrangement and the characteristic differentiation of their biliary pole. In contrast to previous reports in the literature the presence of bile pigment in the adult lamprey liver could not be demonstrated with any histochemical technique.

Notes: Summary The interstitial cells of the hen's ovary have two sources: connective tissue mother cells, which are mesenchymal cells or fibrocytes, and epithelial mother cells, which are wall epithelial cells of the medullary cord lacunae or of the tubuli of the epophoron. Criteria are provided for differentiating this fourfold genesis of the interstitial cells.

Notes: Summary 1. In the subependymal and internal zones of the rat median eminence nerve fibres and vascular processes of ependymal and subependymal cells form neuro-glial bundles. They branch in the external zone. 2. In all these three zones of the infundibulum numerous neuro-glial synapses are found between nerve fibres and vascular processes of glial cells. The vascular processes contain a high number of microtubules as well as polymorphous granular inclusions. 3. In certain regions of the subependymal layer the intercellular spaces are enlarged. They form channel-like spaces containing small bundles of delicate nerve fibres. 4. Nerve cells of the infundibular nucleus located in the lateral parts of the infundibulum send dendrites to the medial parts of the infundibulum. In this area axo-dendritic synapses are found. 5. For morphometric analysis, the nerve fibres of the external zone were classified according to the diameter of their granules. It is shown that in the different regions of the external zone the distribution of the various types of nerve fibre is similar. Moreover it can be seen that a direct correlation exists between the size of the sectional plane of a given nerve fibre and the size of the granules it comprises. 6. Nerve fibre endings abutting on the basement membrane of the pericapillary space are mostly found in bulb-like protrusions of the external zone. The extent to which nerve fibres reach the perivascular space—as compared with the vascular processes of ependymal and glial cells—is higher in the medial than in the lateral parts of the infundibulum. 7. In bilaterally adrenalectomized rats the number and diameter of elementary granules increases in nerve fibres located laterally. This increase is directly related to the survival time and may be due to an enhanced synthesis and storage of Corticotropin-Releasing Factor in these nerve fibres. Compared with the findings in untreated animals the neurohemal contact area is significantly enlarged. The perivascular space contains degenerating nerve fibres which are undergoing phagocytosis by connective tissue cells. It is assumed that these alterations are due to the increased growth of nerve fibres towards the vessels of the “Mantelplexus”, and that, following adrenalectomy, this excessive growth leads to a pinching off of nerve fibres.

Notes: Summary Electronmicroscopical examination of the dorsal giant fibers in the earthworms Lumbricus terrestris (L.t.) and Eisenia foetida (E.f.) reveals that their segmental septa are structures of so far unknown complexity. In both species the extracellular cleft between the two axon membranes of the septum amounts to only 65 Å (E.f.) and 75 Å (L.t.) respectively and is therefore regarded as “gap junction”. The following other structural differentiations of the septum were observed: “septate junctions” (E.f. and L.t.), “intermediate junetions” (E.f. and L.t.), densities apposed to both sides of the septum and not surrounded by a membrane (E.f.), and densities resembling “dense projections” on one side of the septum only (L.t.). In addition the septa of L.t. show vesicles on both sides which are bounded by a unit membrane and resemble the vesicles of chemically transmitting synapses in size (φ ca. 575 Å), location, accumulation, and electronoptical habitus. The significance of the findings in regard to electrotonic transmission and the possible existence of a mixed synapse is discussed.

Notes: Summary Epididymal biopsies from rats that had undergone unilateral or bilateral vasectomies from one to eight months previously were compared with biopsies from their contralateral side or from normal controls to ascertain what ultrastructural changes had occurred. After vasectomy, spermatozoa appeared to dissolve in the lumen of the caput epididymidis and to be absorbed by the principal cells. About 5 weeks after vasectomy, numerous lamellar accumulations became apparent in the supernuclear region. Their resemblance to lysosomes or residual bodies was confirmed by an acid phosphatase reaction. After 10 weeks, similar lamellar and polymorphic accumulations on the contralateral side of animals with unilateral vasectomies indicated that resorption had also increased on the unligated side.

Notes: Summary Pictures, in front view, are presented of the nuclear pores from the oocytes of the newt Taricha granulosa. Negative staining is used. It is directly visible, on a substantial proportion of the pores, that the number of subunits in the annulus is 8. This conclusion had been reached earlier by other writers, who had used the rotation technique to ascertain the radial symmetry. The rotation technique is known to be very unreliable, though on this occasion had produced the correct result. A fibrous mesh network, connecting the subunits of separate pores is described.

Notes: Summary The ultrastructure of the normal thymus of the young chicken (Gallus domesticus) is described. Four main cell types, lymphoid cells, epithelial cells, macrophages and myoid cells, can be distinguished. The lymphocytes are more numerous in the cortex than in the medulla, and are quantitatively the most important component of the thymus. The epithelial cells vary greatly in morphology. Reticular epithelial cells, which have long cytoplasmic processes connected by desmosomes, and which appear to afford a supporting network for the free cells of the thymus, are present in the cortex and medulla. Undifferentiated epithelial cells are present in the medulla and cortico-medullary regions and have few intracytoplasmic fibrils or desmosomes. Cystic epithelial cells, showing intercellular and intracellular cyst formation are frequent in the medulla. Also present in the medulla are squamous epithelial cells which contain many intracytoplasmic fibrils and have numerous desmosomes, and which are involved in the formation of Hassall's corpuscles. Macrophages are present in moderate numbers in the cortex and medulla, and immature and fully developed myoid cells are common in the medulla. Other cell types present include granule-containing cells with desmosomes, large pale cells with few cytoplasmic organelles, mast cells, plasma cells, red blood corpuscles and cells of the granular leukocyte series.

Notes: Summary A systematic study of Δ5-3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase in the granulosa cells of immature and mature mice was made. The histochemical results were compared with the ultrastructural findings on the same cells in an attempt to determine whether the granulosa cells are capable of a steroidogenic role. In newborn and immature mice the granulosa cells of a great amount of follicles demonstrated a moderate or strong histochemical activity. In mature mice the granulosa cells demonstrated a weak or moderate activity normally only in preovulatory follicles and in some other atretic follicles. The granulosa cells of the normal developing follicles did not show such activity. In addition the histological control of numerous parallel sections demonstrated particularly in immature ovaries the presence of a great amount of atretic follicles. In the cytoplasm of the granulosa cells of the follicles in immature ovaries only clusters of lipid droplets with ribosomes were noted; while in the preovulatory follicles of mature animals there started to appear mitochondria with tubular cristae, smooth membranes of the endoplasmic reticulum and irregular lipid droplets. In the obviously atretic follicles several granulosa cells as well as theca interna cells showed numerous lipid droplets and ribosomes together with different degenerating organelles. The granulosa cells of the normal developing follicles showed a well developed Golgi complex, granular endoplasmic reticulum and free ribosomes. The histochemical and ultrastructural findings suggest a steroidogenic role of the granulosa cells only in the larger preovulatory follicles (probably related to an early luteinization of this layer) but this role was not demonstrated in the same cells in normal developing follicles. In addition, since an histochemical positivity was demonstrated also in the granulosa cells of some obviously atretic follicles, it is possible that many of the follicles having granulosa cells filled with lipid droplets and attached ribosomes and histochemically positive might be, in the immature ovaries, in a very precocious stage of atresia. It is to precise for these cells whether a cytoplasm with these two strictly correlated components (lipid droplets and attached ribosomes) and showing an histochemical positivity could carry-on all the biochemical steps involved in steroid biosynthesis or only has only a temporary capability to produce some precursors of steroids.

Notes: Summary Tooth germs from foetal rats of 17 days post-insemination were maintained in vitro for 12 days. Odontoblasts and ameloblasts differentiated and secreted their respective matrices in which mineralization occurred. The ultrastructure of the cells was qualitatively similar to that observed in normal development. Odontoblasts contained more lysosome-like bodies and were found to degenerate in some sites. Mantle dentine was formed but few von Korff fibres were observed. Calcospherites were rarely seen and the mineralizing front of dentine was predominantly linear, associated with numerous small early foci of mineral formation. Enamel showed prism formation associated with the Tomes' process of the ameloblast but some local disturbances in the pattern of enamel formation were observed.

Notes: Summary The protonephridial system of the marine gastrotrich Turbanella cornuta Remane was studied with the electron microscope. The terminal cells of the Macrodasyoidea are Cyrtocytes. Each tube for filtration consists of eight longitudinal rods with a net of fine fibrils between them; it contains a single whip. The wall of a terminal cup with its pores and slits is an additional system for filtration. Three or four filtration tubes are ending in a collecting cell. From this cell an excretory channel with one whip formed by an outlet cell arises. The filtration tubes of Macrodasyoidea are similar to those of Chaetonotoidea and differ from other forms of this cell-type.

Notes: Summary In the human placenta at term the blood vessels of the umbilical cord, chorionic plate and trunks and the microcirculation system of the placental lobes have been investigated. Also at the end of pregnancy the vascular endothelium and the smooth muscle cells exhibit all morphological criteria of full functional activity. The vessel wall is characterized by numerous myoendothelial junctions and many adjacent muscle cells being in close contact with one another. Sphincterlike structures can only be observed at the ramifications of the precapillaries. Vascular nerves are always absent. The blood circulation is perhaps regulated autonomously by means of the contractile vessel wall.—In all placental vessels a special tunica elastica never exists. In the umbilical arteries elastic systems are poorly developed. A genuine internal elastic layer only occurs in the corresponding vein.—In the region of the rami and ramuli chorii as well as in the single villi the microcirculation system consists of all types of terminal vessels. The capillaries with small diameter are preferentially situated close to the organellrich syncytiotrophoblast, whereas the distended segments, which may represent the venous capillaries, are in intimate contact with the epithelial plates.

Notes: Summary The proximal collaterals of the dorsal giant fibres of the earthworm were traced through serial sections from the cell bodies to the giant axons. Their structure and synaptic connections were examined. There are chemical as well as electrical synapses. Their fine structure is compared to that of other known invertebrate and vertebrate synapses. Both giant fibre systems have efferent chemical connections with thin postsynaptic arborizations which probably belong to ventral cord motoneurons. Moreover the median giant axon is connected by an electrical synapse with the giant interneurons. The lateral giant collaterals on the contrary receive many afferences through chemical synapses which were partly identified as sensory fibers from the epidermis, multisegmental axons from the main fibre bundles or giant interneurones. Other afferences probably come from unisegmental interneurones. In addition both lateral giant axons form an electrical chiasma synapse with special membrane folds.

Notes: Summary Only three of the five types of monopolar cells which are present in each cartridge of the lamina have synaptic connections with receptor endings (R1–R6). Due to the distribution of their dendrites two of these (L1 and L2) contact the whole length of the six receptor endings of their cartridge whereas the third type (L3) contacts only their outer 2/3rds. Although these three cells may function as the second order neurons of the neurosuperposition eye, their anatomical relationship imply functional differences between them.

Notes: Summary From the 5th day up to the end of 3rd week following local crushing of the frog ventricle myocardium, ca. 13% of myocyte nuclei, in the vicinity of the damaged zone, were labelled after a single 3H-thymidine (3HTdr) injection, and 30–50% of these were labelled after repeated 3HTdr administration. The number of myocyte mitoses was maximal (ca. 1.3%) at the beginning of the 3rd week. The reactive proliferation of myocytes was accompanied by their “partial dedifferentiation”. This involved the nuclear euchromatic rearrangement, increase in size of nuclei and nucleoli, accumulation of the sarcoplasm rich in free ribosomes and rough endoplasmic reticulum, hyperplasia of the Golgi apparatus, and the appearance of 80–100 Å in diameter cytofilaments. Electron microscope autoradiography has shown that all these changes may be more or less pronounced in myocytes incorporating 3HTdr. The myofibril ultrastructure was found to be unchanged during S phase. However, in the mitotically dividing myocytes, the majority of Z-disks were disintegrated resulting in progressive release of myofilament bundles. Both 3HTdr labelled and mitotic myocytes were anchored to the adjacent ones by desmosomes and intercalated disks. No free myoblasts were observed.

Notes: Summary Mucous secretory activity of the human gallbladder epithelium was investigated by light and electron microscopy and with histochemical techniques. There are two types of granules in the supranuclear region of the epithelial cells. The one low in density contains a fine filamentous material and gives a strongly positive silver methenamine reaction. The other is dense and only faintly positive. The granules of the former are considered to be mucous secretory granules and the granules of the latter may be lysosomes. PAS positive granules correspond presumably to both types of granules mentioned above. The mucous secretory granules are considered to be synthesized by the Golgi apparatus and the granular endoplasmic reticulum as has been confirmed in other mucous secretory cells. Their content is released from the cell by reverse pinocytosis. Typical goblet cells occur frequently in the fetal epithelium, but cannot be observed in the adult specimens.

Notes: Summary Ultrastructural studies have revealed the presence of unusual membrane complexes within developing mouse oocytes. These structures, most obvious 18 days post fertilization, are found in the nucleus or cytoplasm of cells in meiotic prophase. The complexes, usually found in small groups, are characterized by a slightly bowed appearance, and a thin middle section that is vesiculated at each end. At high magnification the middle section exhibits a pentalaminar structure similar to tight junctional complexes, while the looped membranes of the vesiculated ends are trilaminar in appearance. In addition to being free in the nucleoplasm or cytoplasm, the complexes are also seen in continuity with the inner and outer leaflets of the nuclear envelope, and with typical membranes forming cytoplasmic tubular systems. The possible formation of these complexes from blebs or vesicles derived from the nuclear envelope is presented and the role that these structures may play in developing oocytes is discussed.

Notes: Summary The effect of thyrotropic hormone (TSH) on the salamander thyroid gland was studied by electron microscopy. The following sequence of changes in the follicular cells was observed: (1) 1–1.5 hrs after a single administration of 1 i.u. of TSH, many large colloid droplets appear in the apical cytoplasm; (2) within about 2 hrs hereafter, most of them are replaced by large vacuolar bodies, and cytosomes are remarkably decreased; (3) 2.5–3 hrs after two administrations of 1 i.u. of TSH at an interval of 20 hrs, large vacuolar bodies with or without filaments are frequently observed but cytosomes are hardly encountered; (4) in the group placed at room temperature for 10 days after a single administration of TSH, large vacuolar bodies almost disappear; (5) in the group placed in the ice room for 10 days after the same treatment, large vacuolar bodies with or without filaments frequently appear but cytosomes almost disappear; and (6) in some of large vacuolar bodies with filaments the different stages of crystalloid formation are discernible. From these findings, it is suggested that large colloid droplets are changed into large vacuolar bodies and that crystalloid originates from large vacuolar bodies with filaments, probably as a result of interrupted hydrolysis caused by a deficiency of cytosomes.

Notes: Summary The adenohypophysis of the newt Triturus cristatus carnifex Laur. shows three types of cells: 1) cells with granules of about 350–550 mμ in diameter, 2) cells with small granules of 200–250 mμ in diameter and globules with a cristal-like arrangement containing cylinders with a diameter of about 960 Å and 3) cells containing small granules only. The AA. discuss the ultrastructural changes of the gland and the modifications of sexual secondary characters (S.S.C.) in animals given Cyproterone acetate (1/2 mg every three days). The animals have been treated for a period of time varying between 3 and 5 months, starting in October-November, when S.S.C. begin to develop again. At the end of the treatment the newths showed a loss of S.S.C., and the ultrastructure of the adenohypophysis resembled that of castrated animals, i.e.: great swelling of R.E.R. and partial degranulation of glycoprotein secreting cells which contain the 200 mμ granules and the globules. The S.E.R. showed also swelling and hyperactivity.

Notes: Summary The effect of AY-9944, an inhibitory cholesterol biosynthesis, on the myelination of the optic nerve of rats was studied. Suckling rats were injected intraperitoneally with the drug every other day from birth, and were sacrificed at 10, 20 and 30 days of age together with littermate controls. The analysis is based on counting, at the electron-microscope level, the number of unmyelinated axons and the number of myelin lamellae surrounding each myelinating axon. The results indicate that a decrease in endogenous cholesterol by AY 9944, induced an overall retardation of the myelination process in the optic nerve: a larger proportion of myelinated axons and smaller number of myelin lamellae around the myelinating axons, when compared with the littermate controls, was observed. Exogenous cholesterol from the maternal milk did not compensate for a lack in endogenous cholesterol. Degenerating myelin sheaths were frequently seen in the experimental optic nerves at 20 and 30 days of age. Numerous membranous, intracytoplasmic drug-induced inclusions were found at all ages studied.

Notes: Summary Cytoplasmic filaments have been observed in the cells of normal and pathological kidneys. These filaments are usually grouped into bundles anchored to electron dense bodies underlying the cell membrane. In the embryonic human metanephros the filaments are found within the cells of different portions of the nephron at various stages of development. They appear first in the podocytes, almost simultaneously in the Bowman's capsule and tubular cells, then in the “mesangial cells”, and finally in the cells of the media of the afferent glomerular and interlobular arterioles. The presence of filaments and their attachment bodies in the mammalian nephron suggests that the podocytes and the so-called mesangial cells have a contractile activity, thus representing an intraglomerular apparatus which regulates the intravascular pressure, blood flow and filtration rate in the glomerular capillaries, whilst the contractile activity of the Bowman's capsule and proximal, distal, and collecting tubules, could facilitate the progression of the filtrate. The increase in number of the filaments in some pathological conditions is probably related to the functional changes of the intraluminal pressure in the glomerular capillaries, in the Bowman's space, and in the tubular lumen.

Notes: Summary Johnston's organ of Camponotus vagus is composed of 55 chordotonal structures, each of them being formed by one or several scolopidia. The dendritic endings of the chordotonal organs are in contact with cuticular cones which occur at the articular joint between pedicellus and the third antennal segment. Each scolopidium is composed of three dendrites. The three proximal segments are enclosed by one cell, CE1, which is connected with neighbouring epithelial cells by specific attachment zones containing microtubules. At the level of the ciliary roots and of the dendritic ciliary segments, the three dendrites are enclosed by the scolopal cell which secretes the scolopal rod around each dendrite. Some junctions occur between the dendrites and the scolopal cell. The scolopal rods are interconnected constituting the scolopal ring. The distal portion of each dendrite exhibits a different ultrastructure: some of them are short and terminate in the scolopal ring while others continue to the joint, here being covered by a cuticular canal. Generally there is only one dendrite which is connected with the joint by a cuticular stalk. Each chordotonal structure is formed by one or several scolopidia. Very often the first ensheathing cells, CE1, of one organ are connected by some intercellular differentiations. Above the scolopal cells two other ensheathing cells, CE2 and CE3 are to be found. These cells define each sensory unit. Intercellular differentiations are described at all levels of the system, between neural elements on the one hand and between neural elements and associated structures on the other hand. Specific inclusions such as associated “arm-bearing” microtubules are described near some of the junctions. The possible role of these specific structures in the process of impulse conduction in mechanoreceptors is discussed. The results are compared with those obtained from Johnston's organs of other species. Their functional significance is discussed.

Notes: Summary Meiosis in male Drosophila melanogaster was studied with the electron microscope. The number and the distribution of ring channels between individual members of a cluster of primary spermatocytes was determined from serial sections. The tubules with a diameter of 45 nm characteristic for meiotic prophase nuclei gave a chromatin type reaction, when treated with EDTA according to Bernhard's technique, thus suggesting that these tubules contain DNA. A material resembling central regions of synaptinemal complexes was observed in the nucleolus of primary spermatocytes during the downward movement in the testis. It is suggested that they represent unused precursors to central components of synaptinemal complexes, which are absent at pachytene of Drosophila males. Up to six tail fibers (kinetosomes + axonemes) were observed in every primary spermatocyte prior to meiosis.

Notes: Summary The formation and development of synaptic contacts between dissociated chick spinal cord neurons has been investigated. By the 6th day in vitro “immature” profiles with few vesicles were observed. By 14–18 days “mature” types with numerous vesicles were found, indistinguishable from those of newly hatched chick spinal cord. After this period degeneration occurred, and was especially marked in the post-synaptic element. Such degeneration could be postponed by the addition of small numbers of somatic muscle cells. The Kanaseki and Kadota (1969) technique was applied to the study of coated vesicles at various stages of synaptic development.

Notes: Summary The results of an objective two- and three-dimensional analysis of the morphological features of normal and triolein-induced mouse peritoneal macrophages are reported. An “equivalent circle“ technique for resolving the effects of volume and surface area on volume-to-surface parameters is described. The method is a simple comparative one which does not require the actual determination of cell volume. Macrophage stimulation promoted increases in mean cell size, cytoplasmic granularity and volume-to-surface ratio. In addition, a reduction in nuclear volume-to-surface ratio accompanied in vivo stimulation. Nucleocytoplasmic ratio remained constant. The equivalent circle procedure showed that the increase in cellular volume-to-surface ratio was due largely to the increase in cell volume; the decrease in nuclear volume-to-surface ratio was primarily the result of a substantial increase in nuclear membrane surface area. Stereological estimations suggest that interiorized cell membrane (in the form of triolein-containing phagosomes) is replaced by newly reconstructed surface membrane.

Notes: Summary The toxicysts of the ciliates Loxophyllum meleagris and Prorodon teres were examined with regard to fine structure and expulsion mechanism. Loxophyllum possesses two morphologically distinct types of toxicysts, whereas in Prorodon only one type is present. As can be shown by discharge inhibition experiments, the expulsion mechanisms, except for small variations, are identical in all three types: Tubes, which in their resting state lie closely packed one within the other possess already at this state their final dimensions; they are inverted, thereby leaving the capsule and thus the cell body. This process is correlated with the excretion of a substance partly filamentous, partly amorphous. The inversion of the tubes during the expulsion is compared to the fundamentally different morphological alterations during discharge of mucocysts and spindle trichocysts. The differences and similarities in fine structure and function between toxicysts on the one hand and mucocysts and spindle trichocysts on the other, indicate that two rather than three fundamentally different organelle types must be distinguished.

Notes: Summary Several types of terminals were found in the three superficial collicular layers of Galago. At least two axon terminals with round vesicles (R1 and R2) could be distinguished on the basis of vesicle packing and electron density of the cytoplasmic and mitochondrial matrices. R1 axon terminals were characterized by aggregations of vesicles in an electron lucent cytoplasm and mitochondria with a relatively dark matrix, while in R2 axon terminals the vesicles were more evenly distributed in an electron dense cytoplasm and the mitochondrial matrix was pale. R2 endings occurred in clusters in the stratum griseum superficiale; they were absent in the stratum zonale. R1 endings were found in all three superficial collicular layers. Both types of R terminals made asymmetrical contacts with small dendrites, dendritic spines and F profiles. Profiles containing flattened vesicles and establishing symmetrical contacts were numerous, and many could be identified as dendrites by accepting as criteria for dendrites evenly spaced microtubules, clusters of ribosomes and the fact that these F profiles were postsynaptic to other terminals. F terminals were presynaptic to other F profiles, dendrites and somata; they were postsynaptic to R terminals and took part in serial synapses. Dendrodendritic contacts were frequent, somatodendritic contacts rare. After eye enucleation most R2 axon terminals underwent the electron dense degenerative reaction. The degeneration process was a lengthy one; many degenerating boutons were found 30 days after axotomy and some persisted up to 180 days postoperatively. There was strong indication that the superior colliculus received more crossed than uncrossed retinofugal fibers. The crossed and uncrossed retinocollicular axons terminated in two different substrata of the stratum griseum superficiale.

Notes: Summary Nuclear bag and nuclear chain intrafusal fibres are present in guinea-pig muscle spindles. Unlike muscle spindles in other species two types of nuclear chain fibre seem to be present. The electron microscopical appearance of one type of nuclear chain fibre is similar to that of nuclear bag fibres. It is suggested that under tension the nuclei of small nuclear bag fibres become sufficiently displaced to form nuclear chain-like fibres. The frequent occurrence of fibres which combine some of the properties of both nuclear bag and nuclear chain fibres indicates the possible occurrence of a third type of intrafusal fibre. The sensory innervation of guinea-pig muscle spindles is similar to that of the cat and the rat. Three types of motor nerve ending which could be classified according to the complexity of their subneural apparatus were seen.

Notes: Summary The hypothalamus of the teleost fish Leuciscus rutilus was investigated with the Falck-Hillarp technique. The nucleus preopticus (NPO) and the nucleus lateralis tuberis (NLT) contain no fluorescent, i.e. catecholaminergic cells. Green fluorescent fibers probably originating from the paraventricular organ and/or the preoptic recess organ, are intermingled with the cells. The electron microscopical study was based on the three fixatives glutaraldehyde-osmium tetroxide, osmium tetroxide and potassium permanganate. In the NPO two cell types are recognized, characterized mainly by dense core vesicles (dcv) with measured diameter of 130 nm and 170 nm across respectively. The endoplasmic reticulum in the former cell type generally has large dark inclusions measuring from 175 to 375 nm across, which are also found in the neurite. In the NLT, four different cell types are identified, some of which are subject to considerable variations. The rostral and the medial parts of the nucleus include a large cell type (I) with dcv of diameter 170 nm. The medial part also has a small cell type (II) with dcv of 80 nm. The lateral part is characterized by two cell types (III, IV). Cell type III occurs in three forms with dcv of about 140 nm. The fourth cell type (IV) is rare and contains irregularly formed granules, the most circular ones measuring about 130 nm and the most elongated ones 110 nm×210 nm. The ventrolateral part contains the same cell types (except for type II) as those found in the lateral and medial parts. The morphological differentiation of the NLT as well as its different cell types strongly indicates its functional diversity. After permanganate fixation the secretory granules of the different cell types in the NPO and the NLT appear as “empty” vesicles. This method also reveals that the cell types of the two nuclei have dcv of about 90 nm. The possible monoaminergic content and the role of these dcv are discussed.

Notes: Summary Motor nerve terminals on “white” and “intermediate” muscle fibers of the Atlantic hagfish (Myxine glutinosa, L.) contain translucent synpatic vesicles and about 1–2% dense-core vesicles. Terminals on “red” muscle fibers contain up to 40% dense-core vesicles with diameter 800–1100 Å. Examinations for formaldehyde-induced fluorescence indicate yellow fluorescence (5-HT ?) apparently corresponding with terminal axons on “red” muscle fibers in craniovelar muscles. Possibly “red” muscle fibers of Myxine receive monoaminergic innervation.

Notes: Summary Synaptosomes and synaptic junctions have been examined employing serial sections, with emphasis placed on four areas of investigation. 1. Starting from unequivocal synaptosomal profiles and tracing them through consecutive sections to the periphery of the synaptosomes, it is clear that vesicles are the one constant feature of the presynaptic terminal. In no instance was it possible to identify an empty membranous profile as synaptosomal. 2. Following a similar procedure it was found that the criteria required to predict the existence of a junctional region within a synaptosomal profile are: the accumulation of synaptic vesicles at one locus within its presynaptic component, and the presence of a postsynaptic profile characterized by two or more junctional features. 3. Serial sections of non-osmicated, PTA stained synaptic junctions confirm the regularity and orderliness of dense projection distribution along the length of the junction. 4. Complex vesicles can usually be followed in two and sometimes three adjacent sections, appearing either as intact vesicles or empty shells. Further observations confirmed that the latter profiles may be sections through the periphery of intact vesicles or through isolated shell fragments. They are more common in the latter form in unbuffered material.

Notes: Summary Young rats were treated with high doses of parathyroid hormone (PTH). Osteoclasts from these animals revealed characteristic alterations in comparison to control cells: a) The cytoplasm contained large vacuoles with phagocytosed cells, some of which resembled osteoblasts or osteocytes. The vacuoles were interpreted as lysosomes because the engulfed cells often appeared partly digested and the vacuoles contained acid phosphatase as demonstrated histochemically, b) lipid droplets were present in the cytoplasm and usually located close to the endoplasmic reticulum and/or in regions with many free ribosomes, c) the Golgi complex was more frequently separated from the nuclei than in control cells, d) small coated cytoplasmic bodies were numerous in the peripheral cytoplasm, e) the membranes of the endoplasmic reticulum were fused in some places, f) cytoplasmic regions with numerous free ribosomes were frequent, g) large ring-shaped granules occurred in some mitochondria. Energy dispersive X-ray analysis of these granules provided evidence that they contained calcium and probably phosphorus, h) in some osteoclasts the mitochondria were enlarged. — The findings are consistent with an increased activity of osteoclasts and in particular a stimulation of the lysosomal system in these cells.

Notes: Summary The process of wound healing in Lymnaea stagnalis was studied by light and electron microscopy. Snails were wounded by making incisions in the skin. The observations showed that the wounds are closed by muscular contraction and by formation of thrombi of blood amoebocytes. These thrombi form a large amoebocyte plug. During the first 72 hrs after incision thin tubules (diameter 175–225 Å) were observed between the amoebocytes in the plug. Possibly these tubules represent a blood clotting protein. The round amoebocytes constituting the plug can be regarded as normal blood amoebocytes. First, ultrastructurally they closely resemble the amoebocytes of the circulating blood. Second, not only blood amoebocytes but also plug amoebocytes of snails injected with India ink before incision contained ink particles, indicating that the cells are of one type. Apparently due to phagocytosis of cell debris the number of lysosomes in plug amoebocytes increased during the first days after incision. Eighteen to twenty four hrs after incision the first signs of differentiation of round plug amoebocytes into flattened cells were observed. Between these cells collagen was seen from 3–5 days after incision and onwards. It is suggested that these flattened amoebocytes produce collagen fibrils. These cells are structurally different from collagen producing fibroblasts and from muscle cells of the surrounding connective tissue. Transformations of amoebocytes into these two latter cell types were not found. Ninety days after incision the connective tissue in the wound area is still different from that on non-injured sites.

Notes: Summary One of two types of paracrystalline inclusions, other than Reinke crystals, was encountered in the Leydig cells of the normal mature testes of 9 out of 10 patients. The basic ultrastructure of these formations was that of parallel arrays of fine filaments (8 cases) or tubules (1 case). The filamentous structures, designated as type A paracrystals, consisted of fascicles of parallel rows of 4 or 5 dense fibrils. The latter typically contained dense granules or banded striations spaced at regular intervals. In 4 cases the inclusions were found in the cytoplasm while in 4 others they were confined to the nuclei. The tubular type of paracrystal, type B, was observed in only one patient. Here, groups of closely packed tubular inclusions occupied large portions of cytoplasm. The tubular walls were composed of closely applied, small, circular profiles. In no instance were paracrystals and Reinke crystals encountered in the same cell. A possible role of the former as precursors of the latter is discussed but there is no strong supporting evidence for this despite certain suggestive similarities in unit and subunit measurements.

Notes: Summary The effects of mating on the depletion of osmiophilic material from dense-core vesicles (DCV) within the external layer of the rabbit median eminence (ME) were investigated. Two different populations of DCV were demonstrated within the ME external layer of the non-mated control animals. A plot of the diameters of these vesicles showed two peaks, one at 90–100 nm, and the other at 120–130 nm. These two populations of DCV were found in separate axons and axon terminals in contact with, or near the perivascular spaces of, portal capillaries. Within these axons and terminals an occasional membrane profile or “vesicle ghost” was also observed. The same two populations of DCV were evident in the ME external layer of animals that were sacrificed at 10 minutes post-coitus. In these experimental animals, the number and size of the smaller population of DCV were the same as those of the none-mated controls. However, there was an obvious decrease in the number of the large (120–130nm) DCV, together with a simultaneous marked increase in the number of “vesicle ghosts”. These ghosts had a mean diameter of 137±14 nm. On the basis of their size, it is suggested that the “vesicle ghosts” represent large DCV that have been depleted of their content following mating. Ultrastructural evidence for the depletion of osmiophilic material from the large DCV of mated animals is provided. According to previous writers the smaller DCV within the ME are aminergic, whereas the larger DCV may contain releasing factors (RF). Our findings provide further morphological evidence to support this hypothesis. Furthermore, RF and biogenic amines appear to be contained within separate nerve terminals in the rabbit ME.

Notes: Summary The distal half of the posterior tentacle of adult Helix aspersa and Cryptomphallus aspersa was removed and the proximal half was studied with light and electron microscopy after different intervals. The tentacle itself does not regenerate, but the receptor organs at the distal end of the normal tentacle differentiate at the level of the section. The newly formed eye is smaller than the control; however, its components and subcellular characteristics resemble those of the normal eye.

Notes: Summary Colchicine (0.1 M) or vinblastine (0.01 M) was locally applied on the sciatic nerves of newborn rats. Both colchicine and vinblastine caused reversible disappearance of axonal neurotubules and appearance of increased amounts of neurofilaments at the site of application. Subsequent morphogenesis of myoneural junctions in the tibialis anterior muscle was studied after histochemical demonstration of acetylcholinesterase (AChE; E.C. 3.1.1.7) and non-specific cholinesterase (Ns. ChE; E.C. 3.1.1.8) activity in the myoneural area. Development of the postsynaptic muscle plasma membrane of the myoneural junction was arrested in the ipsilateral, but not in the contralateral control side, for a period of about three weeks following treatment with the test substances. After this delay the myoneural morphogenesis continued normally and neurotubules were seen in the axoplasm. Since disruption of neurotubules is likely to cause blockage of the intratubular axoplasmic transport system, it seems possible that the neurotrophic influence responsible for the development of the postsynaptic muscle membrane is mediated through a secretory product transported along axons intratubularly to the nerve endings.

Notes: Summary Morphological evidence is presented supporting the possibility of basal secretion into hypendymal capillaries of the adult rabbit subcommissural organ (SCO). The synthetic apparatus of the SCO cell is described as well as the heterogeneous granules and vesicles which are concentrated in the basal processes bordering a widened perivascular space. The origin of the electron dense granules, of which two fairly distinct subgroups are found, is discussed. A binding of secretory sacs to the lateral plasma membrane is seen. The possibility of a lateral secretion is supported by the presence of a system of extracellular channels between SCO cells which are filled with a flocculent material resembling that of the secretory sacs. Nerve perikarya which are separated from the SCO by only a few glial fibers are demonstrated. Synapses are described in nerve fascicles bordering on the hypendymal capillaries. The possibility of an innervation of the hypendymal region is discussed as well as possible nervous connections with the pineal gland.

Notes: Summary The effect of colchicine on the release of neurosecretory material from the posterior pituitary gland was investigated in the rat in vivo and in vitro. Colchicine was administered subarachnoidally when neurophysin, radiolabelled by injection of (35S) cysteine into the supraoptic nucleus, had accumulated in the neural lobe. Dehydration for 3 days of non-colchicine-treated rats was followed by a 100% reduction of neurophysin-bound radioactivity. When colchicine was given prior to dehydration, the reduction of radioactive neurophysin was less marked. Colchicine treatment alone was likewise followed by a lowering of protein-bound radioactivity in the neural lobe, which may indicate that colchicine, in addition to blocking the rapid axonal transport of neurosecretory material, also impedes the slow transport. The release of radioactive neurophysin in response to depolarizing concentration of potassium in vitro was diminished in the presence of colchicine, the reduction being most pronounced after colchicine treatment in vivo. The biochemical data prove the view that colchicine inhibits the release of neurosecretory material from the neural lobe. The ultrastructural findings support the biochemical data. Thus, colchicine treatment alone or followed by dehydration induced a marked increase in the number of organelles, especially of mitochondria and dense bodies. There was a marked increase in the number of enlarged axons filled with dammed organelles in the infundibulum and neurohypophysis. There was an accumulation of dense core vesicles and microvesicles in the axonal terminals in the neurohypophysis after treatment with either colchicine or colchicine followed by dehydration, which indicates an impediment of the release process. Dehydration alone induced a depletion of the dense core vesicles in the terminals. Out from the combined biochemical and ultrastructural findings possible mechanisms for the action of colchicine are discussed.

Notes: Summary By means of electron microscopy, in the median eminence of Rana temporaria, the terminal arborizations of axons of six different types of neurosecretory cells, located in the pars ventralis of the tuber cinereum, were identified. In addition, phenomena connected with the release of neurosecretory material from the axon terminals of these neurosecretory cells into the blood capillaries of the median eminence are described. Preliminary results suggested the existence, in the median eminence, of additional different neurosecretory axon types which could also belong to corresponding neurosecretory cell types probably located in the apical part of the pars ventralis of the tuber cinereum. Moreover, in the external region of the normal median eminence, separate monoaminergic nerve fibres were tentatively identified. Arguments are adduced which plead (1) against the assumption that the ependyma or the pituicytes of the median eminence could produce adenohypophysiotropic hormones; (2) against the inference that the ependymal cells of the median eminence might be involved in the transport of adenohypophysiotropic hormones from the cerebrospinal fluid into the blood capillaries of the median eminence.

Notes: Summary Ketosteroids were demonstrated topochemically in the rabbit thymus following indications given by chemical analysis of thymus lipid extracts. They were revealed by means of the NAHD-reaction (Camber, 1949). The results are thought to be specific, because adulteration by free tissue aldehydes, plasmalogens (Gomori, 1952) and corticosteroids (Khanolkar et al., 1958) can be excluded. The Camber-method selectively reveals the presence of two groups of morphologically differentiable granules in specific rabbit thymus cells which are distributed throughout the entire thymic parenchyme as well as in the connective tissue of the septa and the in so-called “capsule”. They are mainly seen in the vicinity of Hassall's bodies, in the zone between medulla and cortex, the intra- and perivascular space and in the subcapsular space. Both cell groups are Sudan III-, PAS- and eosin-positive, show intensive yellow-green primary fluorescence and can be distinguished from mast cells by differential diagnosis. Electron microscopy reveals that both cell groups show many similarities with the maturation phase of bone marrow eosinophils.

Notes: Summary Four types of striated muscle fibers with distinctive ultrastructure were defined in the Atlantic hagfish (Myxine glutinosa, L.): “white”, “intermediate”, and “red” fibers of m. parietalis, and “red” fibers of m. craniovelaris. “White” fibers are thick, contain very few mitochondria and fat vacuoles, and possess distinct and separate myofibrils with thin Z-disks and distinct M-lines. “Intermediate” fibers are thinner, possess largely similar myofibrils that often are even better separated due to a higher content of fat vacuoles and especially mitochondria and glycogen granules. “Red” fibers of m. parietalis contain large amounts of mitochondria, fat vacuoles, and glycogen granules. Their myofibrils possess M-lines, and although branching more, the myofibrils of “red” fibers conform with a “Fibrillenstruktur” pattern like those of “white” and “intermediate” fibers. “Red” fibers of m. craniovelaris are very thin, possess many smaller fat vacuoles, and large amounts of mitochondria and glycogen granules. The myofibrils are significantly thinner than in m. parietalis fibers, run as quite independent well separated units, possess thicker Z-disks, and lack M-lines. Large amounts of myosatellite cells are associated with these “red” fibers. Triads are located near A/I-junctions in all four fiber types and occur irregularly, the density of triads being different in the various fiber types.

Notes: Summary The plasma membrane of Paramecium aurelia is covered with a ruthenium red stainable surface coat. Results obtained after digestion with pronase, trypsin and neuraminidase suggest the glycoprotein nature of this structure. Lipid extraction also affects the surface coat forming material. The results are consistent with the model proposed by Ginsburg and Kobata dealing with spatial configuration of the surface coat components.

Notes: Summary The integument of Glossiphonia complanata, built up by epithelial cells, contains numerous particular organs (Bayer organs), mainly on the dorsal side of the animal. They consist of a protuberant apical cell, which is surrounded by a ring-shaped muscle cell. All the integumentary formations are studied from an ultrastructural point of view. From the epithelial cells issue afferent nerve fibres, considered as vectors of the perception of mechanical stimuli of pressure at the level of the integument; the response no doubt operating by the contraction of the basal muscle cell of each Bayer organ, innervated by efferent nerve fibres, bringing forth the protrusion of the apical cell. The erection of these numerous papillae of the dorsal integument might be a signal perceived by the sexual partner, fecundation occurring in this group of leeches under the integument.

Notes: Summary Two new types of structure of the cytoplasm of an autonomic neuron were described: (1) Inclusions of the rough ergastoplasmic reticulum, which were named “ergastosomes”, contain finely granular material with moderately electron opaque staining with both glutaraldehyde-OsO4 and KMnO4 fixations. A short comment was made on the nature of the contents of the ergastosomes. (2) Tubular formations of endoplasmic reticulum were found in the axons and/or dendrites of the paracervical ganglion.

Notes: Summary The middle ear capillaries of the guinea pig have fenestrated endothelium, and the intercellular clefts are closed by tight junctions. Intracardially injected horseradish peroxidase penetrates the fenestrae of the endothelium and gains access to the extra-cellular space beneath the epithelium, and the intercellular clefts of the epithelium.

Notes: Summary The fat body sheath which surrounds the ventral nerve cord of the adult stick insect, Carausius morosus, is absent in the hatchling. Since the haemolymph sodium ion compositions of the two stages are similar, it is suggested that the fat body sheath is not a site of a blood-brain barrier dealing with extra-axonal regulation of sodium. Similarities of ultrastructure in connectives of adults and hatchlings are demonstrated, and tight junctions are shown to occur in perineural cells of both stages. The possible significance of this to the blood-brain barrier of this insect is discussed.

Notes: Summary The atrio-ventricular (A-V) node of the monkey heart is located in the focus of converging atrial muscle. Three main atrial muscle strands, coming from the atrio-ventricular ring, the dorsal wall of the atria, and the ventral part of the atrial septum, converge in the nodal region where they overlap and are interconnected. The junctional type of fibers establishing interconnection between the atrial muscle and the nodal tissue are not strictly localized at the periphery of the node, but may be traced further, along the A-V ring and coronary sinus. The A-V node consists of a loose peripheral and a compact distal part. In the former, typical nodal fibers were found, while the compact part shows an important individual variation in structure and cell-types. In some monkey hearts, the nodal fibers gradually become broader bundle fibers, while in other specimens the junctional fibers surround the compact part and than penetrate the nodal-His (N-H) region. These junctional fibers become nodal fibers or are in terminal contact with large clear cells up to 50 μ in diameter. Clear cells of various diameters are often intercalated between the cell rows of the nodal and His-bundle fibers and may form a distinct cellular gate between the node and the His-bundle.

Notes: Summary Sarcomere assemblage in striated muscle of the early developing chick embryo was studied with the electron microscope. In myogenic chick somites, non-striated myofibrils are seen with the electron microscope, prior to striated ones. These crude myofibrils are traversed at regular periodic intervals by a tubular system which is associated with dense Z-line material shortly after its appearance. Longer sarcomeres as well as banding patterns similar to those found in mature striated muscle follow and possibly depend on prior Z-line formation.

Notes: Summary In the sino-atrial (S-A) node of the monkey heart two types of muscle cells occur: 1. typical nodal cells which are the predominant cells and form the nodal fibers. 2. “Intercalated clear cells” with various diameters (4 to 12 μm) and containing poorly developed myofibrils, rich in glycogen and demonstrating poor staining properties. These latter cells are dispersed, few in number, and never form discrete fibers of themselves, but are intercalated between the cell rows of the typical nodal fibers. Such intercalated clear cells become more numerous at the periphery of the node. Interconnection between the S-A node and the conventional atrial muscle is established by a progressive transformation of nodal fibers into atrial fibers producing an intermediate (or junctional) type of fiber at the nodal periphery. However, in addition, few nodal fibers make direct contact with the atrial cardiocytes. Our light and EM studies have failed to prove the existence of truly specialized internodal pathways. Nevertheless intercalated clear cells, nodal-like cells, junctional or intermediate type of cells are relatively frequent in valvular regions (Thebesian, Eustachian, A-V, fossa ovalis) and less frequent in other regions of the atrial wall.

Notes: Summary The pancreatic islets ofCarassius carassius have been studied by electron microscopy. 1. Besides A-, B- and D-cells, two new cell types, the fourth and the fifth, have been identified. The fourth cell type is numerous; it occurs interposed among the other types of islet cells or in small clusters. The secretory granules (90–280 mg in diameter) are round or oval and usually with much lower electron density than α- and δ-granules. The secretory granules of the fifth type of cell (approximately 140–240 mμ in diameter) contain finely granular material and an electron dense core that is round or often tetra- or hexagonal. 2. The islet cells with clear cytoplasmic matrix generally contain large numbers of fine, agranular and cored vesicles 400–680 Å in diameter. They appear, in bead-like chains, or randomly scattered throughout the cytoplasm, or often clustered in aggregates close to the secretory granules and show evidence of incorporation into the secretory granules. The two types of vesicles may be formed by constriction or pinching-off of the tubular smooth endoplasmic reticulum.

Notes: Summary “White” and “intermediate” parietal muscle fibers of Myxine are innervated focally at one end. Most synaptic vesicles are “empty”. These terminals also contain 1–2% large 800–1.100 Å dense-core vesicles. “Red” fibers of parietal and craniovelar muscle are innervated in a distributed fashion, and the presynaptic profiles contain a higher number of large dense-core vesicles (averaging 9% and 15%, respectively; up to 37%). For all terminals the synaptic gap is 450–600 Å wide, and postsynaptic folds are absent. “Empty” synaptic vesicles exist as round or elongated profiles. The proportion of elongated profiles increases by formation from round ones when increasing the molarity of the buffer in the aldehyde fixative. Furthermore, the proportion of elongated vesicle profiles in terminals on Myxine “white” fibers at different buffer molarities, is identical with that in mammalian motor terminals at similar molarities. On this basis the significance and mode of formation of elongated vesicle profiles is discussed. The conclusion is made that the susceptibility of “flattening” depends on the osmotic pressure of the vesicle contents once the aldehyde has influenced the vesicle membrane. The different vesicle populations in terminals on different types of muscle fibers are significant. Terminals on “red” fibers probably contain serotonin (5-HT) either as sole transmitter or in addition to acetylcholine.

Notes: Summary Colchicine was intraperitoneally administered chronically to adult male Sprague-Dawley rats. The ultrastructural study of hind-limb muscles revealed that myofilament desorientation resulted. Bundles of myofilaments were found coursing perpendicular or oblique to the longitudinal axis of the muscle fiber. It is concluded that a colchicine-sensitive factor is involved in maintaining normal orientation of myofibrils in mature muscle. Also found in the sarcoplasm of the colchicine treated animals were complex spheromembranous bodies. These bodies enveloped mitochondria or other organelles and appeared to be derived from the sarcoplasmic reticulum. The lysosomal nature of these bodies is indicated by the localization of acid phosphatase activity in them. Acid phosphatase activity was also displayed in the sarcoplasmic reticulum. The spheromembranous bodies seem to be part of a sarcotubulo-lysosomal system in skeletal muscle.

Notes: Summary In this paper the authors present an investigation at infrastructural level concerning the secretory process in the glandular cells of the anterior kidney-like portion of the deferent ducts in Porcellio scaber Latreille. The observations are directed especially to the Golgi apparatus in all phases of elaboration of secretion in which it seems to have an essential role. After ascertaining that in the process of elaboration of secretion the dictyosomes waste away and disappear, the authors investigated the origin of the new dictyosomes that become involved in the following secretory cycle.

Notes: Summary The connective tissue of the mucosa of the respiratory tract, of the gastric mucosa and of the mucosa of the tongue was investigated in mice. The tissue was fixed in glutaraldehyde and incubated in an alkaline DAB-medium to demonstrate the peroxidatic activity of catalase. In fibroblasts and fibrocytes, as well as in lymphoid cells, membrane bounded particles from 0.10 to 0.25 μm in diameter were found, whose matrices were intensely stained by the histochemical reaction. The reaction is inhibited by the addition of 2×10−2 M 3-amino-1,2,4-triazole. In connective tissue cells of specimens, which were not reacted to demonstrate catalase activity, these organelles show a granular matrix of moderate electron density. They lack a crystalline core. The possibility that these catalase-positive particles (CPs) represent peroxisomes is discussed.

Notes: Four glands of the house sparrow, chicken and turkey were examined histologically and for their content of amylase. These were the external and intermediate mandibular glands, the maxillary gland and glandula anguli oris of the sparrow and the anterior and posterior mandibular, maxillary and anguli oris glands of the chicken and turkey. Amylase was determined by a starch substrate slide method and by biochemical assay. General morphology and mucopolysaccharide staining are described.All four glands of the sparrow demonstrated significant amylolytic activity by the assay. In the external mandibular and anguli oris glands this activity could be traced to mucous and seromucous cells of origin by means of the starch substrate slide procedure. None of the glands of the chicken or turkey displayed significant amylolytic activity.

Notes: A cinematographic analysis of the unrestrained walking, trotting, galloping, jumping and landing movements of 11 adult cats was undertaken to provide previously unavailable information concerning the demands imposed on the nervous system for the control of low and high speed movements and the demands imposed by such natural movements on muscle performance and proprioceptive response.With due regard for the swing (F and E1) and stance (E2 and E3) phases of the step cycle of an individual limb, single frame analysis of the film permitted measurement of instantaneous angles of the lower spine, hip, knee, ankle and metatarsophalangeal joints. Appropriate lever arm measurements were also made on 50 freshly dispatched cats and 25 cadavers such that the Law of Cosines could be used to calculate instantaneous lengths of select hind limb muscles that would apply to the natural movements of adult cats of small (1.5-2.5 Kg), intermediate (2.6-3.5 Kg) and large (3.6-4.5 Kg) size. Muscle displacements were analyzed relative to maximum and minimus in situ lengths and the lengths associated with quiet standing. Use was also made of a previous electromyographic analysis of hind limb muscles during unrestrained locomotion (Engberg and Lundberg, '69).The sequential relations between the four phases of the step cycle are maintained as forward speed increases from walking ( 〈 2 mph) to high speed galloping ( 〉 16 mph). There are significant differences in the time consumed by each phase, however, with a greater reduction in the E3 phase, little reduction in the E2 and E1 phases and virtually no reduction in the F phase. When each phase is expressed as a relative percentage of the duration of the total step cycle, the greatest reduction is again in E3 with little change in the E2 phase. In contrast F and E1 phases increase in the percent of time they occur in each cycle, with the greatest increase in the F phase. For all speeds, analysis of the phase relations between movements of various sections of the hind limb revealed a remarkable unity of knee and ankle joint movement. The hip joint is largely out of phase with the knee and ankle during E1 and E2, all three joints being in phase in F and E3. The digits are essentially out of phase with the other joints except in the stance phase of the gallop.Rates and extents of muscle displacement during natural movements are greater than might be anticipated when expressed in absolute mm's and mm/sec but not when considered in relation to maximum and minimum in situ length and the length associated with quiet standing (Ls). During stepping a progressive increase in forward speed results in: (a) a greater usage of muscles at lengths between Ls and maximum in situ length; (b) for knee and ankle extensors, pronounced increase in the lengthening contraction associated with the E2 (yield) phase of step; and, (c) for both flexor and extensor muscles, an increased active phase of lengthening or near isometric contraction immediately prior to periods of active shortening. In contrast to these changes in active muscle status, the change from walking to galloping has little effect on the extent and rate of passive muscle displacements, particularly the F phase stretch of extensors.For the soleus muscle, calculations were made of the relation between changes in overall muscle length during natural movements and the length of the average muscle fiber and the tendon of insertion. These measurements revealed that the increases in fiber length when passive and decreases in length during active shortening are less than would be anticipated from the extensive liteature on extirpated fibers. In contrast, the increase in fiber length when active is greater than would be expected from the admittedly sparse literature on this subject.The results of this study are discussed largely in relation to two points of neurophysiological interest: the physiological range of muscle stretch as it pertains to the responsiveness of muscle spindles and tendon organs; and those mechanical aspects of lengthening contractions that give insight into the neural control of stepping. For exciting both spindles and tendon organs passive muscle stretch and shortening contractions are shown to be relatively ineffective and lengthening and isometric contractions particularly effective movements. It is suggested that, just as recent literature has emphasized the co-activation of efferent alpha and gamma motoneurons as a muscle becomes active, so too is there a synchronous activation of afferents, particularly the Ia and group II endings of muscle spindles and Ib endings of tendon organs. Finally the thesis is advanced that, while it has been convenient to separate E2 from E3 in the description of the stance phase of the step cycle, extensor muscles are actually undergoing a single mechanical event: an active stretch-shorten cycle for knee and ankle extensors and an active isometric-shorten cycle for hip extensors. This hypothesis has significant implications for the neural control program that regulates the stepping sequence in that it emphasizes the extent to which appropriate changes must be preprogrammed in the mechanical properties of muscles for the smooth execution of stepping.

Notes: Cytological and cytochemical methods were used to identify and characterzie six distinct regions of the crayfish kidney: coelomosac, labyrinth I and II, and nephridial canal I, II, and III. Cells of the coelomosac possess cytoplasm which is strongly PAS-positive, but poor in RNA and protein. Their nuclei possess unusual projections which extend to the basal plasmalemma. Labyrinth I contains columnar cells rich in glycogen. Labyrinth II is characterized by a distended lumen and by shorter cells with high cytoplasmic RNA, many possessing a large intracellular vacuole. A PAS-positive brush border is unique to the two portions of the labyrinth. Cells in the nephridial canal show strong reactions for RNA and Mg++-dependent ATPase. In nephridial canal I and II, cells are flattened to cuboidal with the lumen being more distended in nephridial canal I than anywhere else in the tubule. In nephridial canal III, the cells are large and columnar, and the cytoplasmic RNA concentration is greatest apically. Nuclei in all regions of the tubule epithelium, except coelomosac, are large and react strongly for protein. Coelomosac nuclei and those in blood cells are condensed and contain little protein. The cytoplasm of blood cells displays a significant amount of RNA, and traces of polysaccharide material.These observations demonstrate the presence of highly specialized morphological and histochemical alterations along the length of the kidney tubule and indicate sequential modification of urine in the lumen. Evident morphological and cytochemical likenesses between analogous regions of the mammlian nephron and the crayfish kidney tubule suggest that basic physiological similarities may also exist.

Notes: In the tiger salamnder the distribution of optic fibers, as revealed by the Fink-Heimer method, is compared with the localization of acetylcholinesterase, as revealed by histochemical methods. AChE activity coincides with optic nerve axons in the optic fiber layer of the retina, in the optic nerve, in the optic tracts and in every optic projection. Reginons of optic fiber terminals show heavier activity than optic fibers of passage. Comparison with other vertebrates is also made.

Notes: Light and electron microscope studies indicate that the old ependyma just proximal to the plane of amputation in early lizard tail regenerates shows a sequence of morphological changes which suggests that it as well as the new ependyma growing into the regenerate may play an active role in the initiation and maintenance of early tail regeneration.The old ependyma close to the plane of amputation undergoes hypertrophy and/or hyperplasia causing a partial closure of the central canal and pseudostratification. Its nuclei shift from an original apical position to a basal one. The ependymal processes become more prominent and extend to the pia, a condition not found more rostrally. There is also a significant increase in the amount of Golgi substance and a moderate increase in the rough endoplasmic reticulum. These observations lead to the thought that these cellular changes may be an expression of enhanced secretion and other activities in the old and new ependyma just proximal or distal to the plane of amputation.

Notes: The dorsal proctodeal wall of the Coturnix contains a gland which is especially well-developed in the sexually active male and which secretes a foamy exudate. This gland has not been recorded in any other genus of birds and appears to be unique to members of the genus Coturnix. On the basis of its location in the adult we have named this gland the proctodeal gland (glandula proctodealis). Structure of the gland does not conform to any curently defined category of glands because it is an aggregate of individual glandular units each of which opens independently into the proctodeal cavity but with the entire structure enclosed by a connective tissue capsule. We have thus characterized it as an aggregate gland. Observations on the arrangement and composition of the fibrous capsule and its intimate relationship to the perimysium of M. sphincter cloacae indicate that release of the secretion probably results from contraction of the cloacal musculature. Preliminary data suggest that development of glandular tissue in the female may be a function of age rather than of androgen sensitivity which characterizes the male gland. It is concluded that the chemical nature of the glandular secretion and its function in the sexually active bird, as based on presently available information, remains unknown.

Notes: Wound healing in the integument of the sea cucumber, Thyone briareus, was studied for up to 50 days after inflicting wide excisional wounds and for 14 days after producing incisional wounds. Rapid re-epithelialization of the wound was effected by the migration of epidermal cells and pigment cells from the periphery of the wound margin. This occurred without apparent evidence of concomitant mitotic activity. Dermal wound healing was completed by the fourteenth day in the incision wounds but occurred very slowly in the broad excision wounds. Morula cells seem to be involved in both epidermal and dermal wound healing, although their precise role is unknown. In excisional wounds the integument was never completely restored to its normal appearance during 50 days of observation.

Notes: Some of the cytological and histochemical characteristics of hemocytes of Thyropygus poseidon were studied. Jone's system of classification of hemocytes was extended to millipede hemocytes. Seven classes were identified as prohemocytes, plasmatocytes, granular hemocytes, cytocytes, oenocytoids, spherule cells and adipohemocytes. Oenocytoids were rarely found. All cells except prohemocytes and oenocytoids sequestered oxidized products of catechol. Results of the histochemical tests for proteins also suggest that these cells sequester plasma proteins. Cytocytes do not bring about any visible coagulation similar to the hemocytes of some hemipteran insects. Granular hemocytes contain phenol-oxidase capable of oxidising tyrosine as well as catechol, similar to the hemocytes of crustaceans. In this respect millipede hemocytes differ from insect hemocytes. It is suggested that these cell types may represent distinct cell lines and may not represent transformation of one cell type to another.

Notes: Twenty-three stages in the embryonic development of the western painted turtle, Chrysemys picta bellii are described. The staging is based primarily on morphological changes, as well as age and size of the embryo.

Notes: Scanning and transmission electron microscopy were used to investigate the surface area and number per unit area of microvilli from jejunal villus epithelial cells in the rat, hamster and dog.The calculated mean microvillus surface area was 0.419 μ2, 0.573 μ2, 0.751 μ2 for the rat, hamster and dog respectively.The largest number of microvilli per square micron freeze dried villus surface was measured in the rat with a mean value of 65. Hamster and dog freeze dried specimens had lower mean values of 54 and 34 microvilli respectively.The total microvilli surface area in square micron per square micron villus surface was more closely related for the three species with values of 27.23 for the rat, 30.94 for the hamster and 25.53 for the dog.These data indicate an inverse relationship between the mean microvillus surface area and population density in the species studied. However, the total microvilli surface area per unit villus surface is relatively similar for the three species.The observed number of microvilli per unit villus surface was shown to vary depending upon the dehydration technique employed for preparation of scanning electron microscopic specimens. This variation probably reflects shrinkage artifact and should be considered in soft tissue studies involving the scanning electron microscope.

Notes: In Esox americanus and Esox niger (Esocidae) there are two types of surface pits, sensory and nonsensory. Both types of pits are morphologically very similar and are associated with modified (cardioid) scales. The pits are distinguished by the presence and absence respectively of neuromasts. Ultrastructure of the neuromasts indicates that they are basically similar to previously described neuromasts. However, the hair cells have crystalline-like deposits in the nuclear region. The nonsensory pit contains a small group of distinct epidermal cells, called central cells. These cells occupy a central position in the pit, similar to that of the neuromasts in the sensory pit. The central cells are unlike any cell types described for fishes, and on an ultrastructural basis no function can be ascribed to them and the significance of the nonsensory pit is unknown.

Notes: Esox americanus and Esox niger (esocidae) possess two types of surface pits, sensory and nonsensory. The pits are morphologically very similar and both are associated with modified (cardioid) scales. The pits are distinguished by neuromasts in the sensory and central cells in the nonsensory pit.Neuromasts and central cells are responsible for the formation and maintenance of respectively the pit and cardioid scale. This supports an extension of the epidermal co-participation hypothesis that epidermal cells control the form of dermal structures in addition to contributing to composition.The central cells are similar in structure to induced primordial cells of regenerating neuromasts.The development of primordial cells may be arrested and the cells maintained in a static condition during which time they still influence the dermal tissues and maintain a pit and cardioid scale. Essentially this represents the experimental conversion of a sensory pit into a nonsensory pit. This evidence is taken in support of the hypothesis that the nonsensory pit and central cells represent an aplasic condition of the lateral line system.

Notes: The gular gland of the bat Tadarida brasiliensis is a specialized sebaceous gland located in the skin of the suprasternal region of adult males. It consists of an aggregation of simple branched tubulo-acinar gland units, the number of which varies seasonally. Each acinus is composed of densely packed sebaceous cells at various stages of differentiation. Acinar basal cells and cells of the epithelium of the ducts can differentiate into sebaceous cells. Two main changes appear in the cytoplasm concurrent with the sebaceous transformation: the differentiation of cytoplasmic organelles and the deposition of lipid material. The appearance of a different type of mitochondrion and the development of large numbers of ribosomes and polyribosomes can be recognized in the cytoplasm at an early stage of differentiation. Concomitant with the deposition of significant numbers of lipid droplets, the cells develop abundant agranular endoplasmic reticulum occurring mainly as scattered tubular cisternae. These at times form whorls surrounding lipid droplets. At later stages, the cisternae of the agranular endoplasmic reticulum often occur in crystalline arrays between secretory oil droplets. The roles of the different cytoplasmic organelles, especially in relation to the production of sebum, are discussed.

Notes: The mutant gene srn produces sireniform abnormalities in the mouse. The effects of this gene on normal prenatal development were examined histologically by retrograde analysis from day 10 through day 18 of gestation.The sireniformphenotype is characterized by the fusion of the hindlimbs and accompanying defects of the posterior appendicular skeleton. Visceral defects involve the urogenital system and the lower intestinal tract. A single umbilical artery arises from the dorsal aorta and controls the fetal circulatory pathway normally mediated by the lateral umbilical arteries. This artery is believed to have resulted from the fusion of the paired primitive umbilical arteries.It is suggested that the srn mutation causes a narrowing of the posterior amnion early in development. The resulting abnormal pressure causes a dorsal displacement of the hindgut, allowing fusion of the hindlimb buds. Abnormal structural relationships and pressure in the narrowed posteriior region disrupt normal urogenital and intestinal development and increase the proximity of the primitive umbilical arteries.

Notes: The retinofugal projections of the snake Thamnophis sirtalis were studied by the method of experimentally induced Wallerian degeneration stained by the Fink-Heimer method. The retinal ganglion cells project to all parts of the contralateral lateral geniculate complex, nucleus lentiformis mesencephali, nucleus geniculatus pretectalis, nucleus posterodorsalis, basal optic nucleus and superficial layers of the optic tectum. In addition, the retinofugal projections were observed terminating in portions of the ipsilateral lateral geniculate complex and nucleus posterodorsalis.Examination of the morphology of the retinal terminal areas stained for Nissl substance with cresyl violet led to the conclusion that these regions are well differentiated and should not be considered poorly developed when compared with other reptilian forms such as turtles.

Notes: The course of the statoblast formation in Pectinatella gelatinosa was divided into four stages and studied histologically and histochemically. The bottom of the cystigenous cup is a center of cystigenous cell differentiation and the peripheral zone of the inner cystigenous layer turns to the outer cystigenous layer as the cystigenous cup grows. The annulus is formed by migration and transformation of the outer cystigenous cells.During early stages, the yolk cells have an intensely pyroninophilic or RNA-rich cytoplasm. The cytoplasmic pyroninophilia then diminishes as the amount of yolk granules increases.Several kinds of yolk substances occur in the mature statoblast. During statoblast formation glycogen appears first, then glycoprotein and finally neutral unsaturated lipid.Acid phosphatase activity is associated with granular structures in the cytoplasm. In the cystigenous vesicle, acid phosphatase activity is low and confined to the apical extremity of the cell. Histochemically detectable alkaline phosphatase activity is not involved in the formation of the statoblast.

Notes: The anatomy and physiology of feeding in miniature swine were studied, using gross dissection, electromyography, cinematography, and cineradiography.Small particles are preferred for ingestion, and large items are usually broken down outside of the oral cavity. The particles are initially picked up with the lower lip and then retrieved by the tongue; the tongue very rarely leaves the oral cavity. Geniohyoid, mylohyoid and digastric are the most active muscles during food collection.Mastication is fairly rapid (3 cycles/sec) and involves a transverse component which may be either medially or laterally directed. The direction of motion is generally reversed with every chew. Electromyography indicates that the transverse rotation is caused by a force couple consisting of protrusors (masseter, medial and lateral pterygoids) on one side and retrusors (zygomaticomandibularis and temporalis) on the other. The direction of the rotation is not necessarily related to the side containing the bolus. Mandibular depression is electromyographically biphasic. Concurrent tongue and hyoid movements complicate the interpretation of activity patterns in the oral floor.Both masticated food and liquid are stored between the tongue and the soft palate and epiglottis before being swallowed. Swallowing involves very strong activity in all of the hyoid and tongue muscles and very low activity in the adductors. Liquid is taken in by suction rather than lapping.Comparisons with other mammals are presented.

Notes: The wall of the gametolytic gland in Aplysia and Phyllaplysia consists of a muscular layer lined with an epithelium incorporating four distinct cell types, some of which show intense secretory activity. The cytoplasm of these cells, rich in RNA, has a peripheral layer of densely-packed mitochondria in association with a smooth endoplasmic reticulum. Lipid globules, perhaps resulting from absorption of lumen contents by microvilli, appear in the cytoplasm in the course of growth and reproductive activity. A basal band of fibrillar material appears to serve as a cytoplasmic skeleton. The elaboration of cell types, extensive areas of cytoplasmic RNA, and vigorous secretory activity suggest important roles for this organ such as development of food reserves, recycling of sexual materials of high physiological value, and interaction with the bag cells of the nervous system in coordinating ovulation with the availability of capacitated, exogenous sperm.

Notes: The predaceous neotropical characoid fish Ctenolucius has an essentially homodont dentition, the number of teeth increasing linearly with age. The basic manner of tooth replacement suggests that Ctenolucius is a primitive characoid. Tooth replacement continues throughout life and is similar to that of tetrapods, involving replacement waves which pass from the back to the front of the jaws. The waves containing the greatest number of teeth are found just anterior to the middle of the jaws. In the upper jaw the increase in the number of teeth is restricted to the anterior portion (premaxillary) whereas the number on the posterior part (maxillary) remains constant. In specimens measuring from 68-230 mm in standard length the posterior portion of the upper jaw doubles in length whereas the anterior portion triples. It is suggested that the area immediately anterior to the middle of the jaw, where replacement waves are longest, is where most of the increase in tooth numbers occurs.During growth of the teeth the absolute height is always greater than the absolute width as the shape changes. The final shape of the recurved conical teeth is determined only in the last stages of tooth formation when the main axis of growth abruptly changes.

Notes: Improved histological procedures have revealed in some detail the form and structure of auditory receptor organs in the frog. These organs, the papilla amphibiorum and papilla basilaris, are located in extensions of the saccular cavity, and lie in a path of vibratory fluid motion beginning at the columellar footplate and extending in a continuous circuit through the perilymph spaces and the round window back to the middle ear region.These organs exhibit great uniformity, and for the amphibian papilla there is a high degree of complexity in the tectorial structures that overlay the ciliated ends of the hair cells. In both papillae a “sensing membrane,” which is a derivative of the tectorial body, lies in the path of fluid flow and aids in the stimulation process.The mode of stimulation of the hair cells in the amphibian ear is peculiar, and in principle is the reverse of the familiar one of reptiles, birds, and mammals.

Notes: To determine the prism sheath configurations in human cuspal enamel 80 teeth were initially ground to produce flat surfaces through the following planes: a horizontal series at successively greater distances from the dentinoenamel junction and longitudinally through the center of the cusps. Individual teeth were suspended in an acid-alcohol solution (1 cm3 conc. HCl in 100 cm3 95% ethanol) at 37°C for seven to ten days. The treatment “softened” the enamel to a depth of approximately 1 mm. The teeth were embedded in Epon and sectioned at 0.5 to 10 μm with a diamond knife. Thick and thin ground sections for phase contrast microscopy and acid-etched ground sections for Nomarski differential interference microscopy were prepared through the same regions. In thicker longitudinal sections, the prisms in gnarled enamel formed a zig-zag pattern which was unlike the twisting pattern generally observed in ground sections. The thinnest transverse sections showed the sheath outlines to be dramatically different from those seen elsewhere in the enamel. Some prism sheaths were circular, others were in the form of spirals. What could be described as sheaths within sheaths were also seen. In the thinnest longitudinal sections the prisms were seen to be elongated and discontinuous. Sheath outlines in enamel adjacent to the central core of gnarled enamel were similar to those described elsewhere in the body of the enamel. Keyhole, modified keyhole patterns and arcade forms were the dominant sheath patterns. Other atypical sheath configurations were seen scattered throughout this region.

Notes: The differentiation and degeneration of the cement gland in Xenopus laevis is described. The gland is first observed histologically at stage 19 (neural tube stage) as a packed group of apical ectoderm cells heavily laden with oocyte pigment granules, lying ventral to the cranial neural fold. By tailbud stage 35/36, the gland cells have increased in height and are approximately ten times taller than nonglandular apical ectoderm cells. The nuclei divide the gland cells into an apical region that is eosinophilic and contains oocyte pigment granules, and a basal region that contains clear droplets. The cells are decreasing in height by stage 40 (early tadpole) and begin to lose their pigment granules. Between stages 45 and 48, the pigment is extruded and the clear basal droplets diminish in number. From stage 48 to 49 the cells become vacuolated and the histotypic characteristics of the functional gland are lost. The gland is not vascularized, nor do phagocytic cells appear in its vicinity during any stage of its development. It remains bordered at its base by subjacent basal ectoderm during its entire life cycle of 10 to 12 days at room temperature.

Notes: The morphology of the rectal pads of two cockroaches, Blattella germanica and Blaberus giganteus is described and contrasted with that of Periplaneta americana, studied previously. The columnar absorptive cells of the three species are similar in structure. However, Blattella and Blaberus rectal pads have a second type of cell, termed the secondary cell, that is not present in Periplaneta. The secondary cells are embedded in the pad epithelium and have crypts of cavities opening into the subepithelial sinus. In addition, a multilayered sheath is present between the pad cells and the sinus. The sheath acts as a barrier, perhaps of low permeability, between the subepithelial sinus and the pads. It is interrupted only at the borders of the secondary cells. A mechanism for fluid absorption is presented and the possible role of secondary cells is discussed. It is proposed that the secondary cells reabsorb solute from the sinus and that this solute can then be recycled through the pad cells. Structures resembling neurosecretory terminals within the cavities of the secondary cells may be involved in regulation of recycling. The arrangement of the rectal pads in these insects has structural and perhaps functional similarities with other transporting systems, particularly the cryptonephric system.

Notes: Pyroantimonate precipitate indicates that the epithelium of the proximal tubule is the only segment of the tubular nephron of the fresh water lamprey where large accumlations of cations are distributed. Unusually large amounts of reaction product are located within the lateral intercellular spaces and within vesicles closely associated with the plasma membrane at the lateral and basal surfaces. This technique suggests the continuity of these vesicles with the plasma membrane and alludes to the possibility of an endomembranous system of vesicles and the intercellular spaces as vehicles for ion transport. Lateral intercellular spaces of proximal tubules of lower vertebrates may play a different role in kidney function that their counterparts in higher vertebrates.Osmium-zinc iodide has a specificity for certain cells within the proximal, intermediate, and distal segments, but no structural differences are noted when these cells are compared to unstained cells. Smooth endoplasmic reticulum remains unstained in the distal segment but the stain has a strong affinity for elements of the Golgi apparatus, lysosomes, and the nuclear envelope of all cell types. This technique does not suggest a structural or functional similarity between cells of the distal segment and the chloride cells of the gills of teleosts.

Notes: Anatomical analysis of the forebrain and midbrain of Anelytropsis, Dibamus and feyliniids reveals structural similarities with those of skinks and snakes. Skinks and feyliniids are probably derived from a common ancestral stock. This is suggested by mutual reduction of several telencephalic nuclei, by similar trends in the development of the dorsal thalamus, and by similarities in the lamination of their optic tecta. Anelytropsis, Dibamus, feyliniids and snakes show interdigitation of the periventricular gray zones of the optic tectum and enlargement of lamina 7 of the posterior colliculus. Of these three taxa, Dibamus is most similar to burrowing snakes and many of its brain characters are intermediate between skinks and burrowing snakes. These similarities may suggest common ancestry between Dibamus and snakes rather than parallelism.

Notes: It is possible to monitor the electrical activity of the motor neurons of Drosophila by recording the electrical activity of the muscle fibers. We have found that it is possible to specify the location of the subcuticular terminations and to describe the orientation within the thorax for the individual muscle fibers, because of the large size of the fibers and because the surface anatomy of Drosophila is known in detail. A map has been made to indicate the location of the muscle fibers with respect to superficial landmarks. The importance of the stereotaxic map for physiological studies is discussed.

Notes: The functional anatomy of pulmonary ventilation in Thamnophis elegans was studied by electromyography. Flow of air into and out of the lungs follows a triphasic pattern and occurs while the glottis is held open by a dilator muscle. Non-ventilatory rest periods characterized by a closed glottis and lack of ventilatory movements occur between breaths. Exhalation is caused by contraction of a pair of dorsolateral sheets of muscle that extends from the ventral surface of the vertebral column to the medial surfaces of the ribs and a pair of ventro-lateral sheets that extends from the medial surfaces of the ribs to the mid-ventral skin. Inspiration is powered by contraction of a series of rib levators and retractors. The last phase of the ventilatory cycle is a passive expiration that may be caused by elastic recoil of the walls of the filled lungs and relaxation of muscles used during inspiration. The site of respiratory pumping is shifted craniad after large prey items have been completely ingested. The significance of this shift and its anatomical basis are considered.

Notes: Histological studies of the neurosecretory system during the postembryonic development of a spider, Argiope aurantia, were made at the light-microscopic level.Neurosecretory cells which are found in all stages are classified into type I and type II cells. The type I cells are present in the aboral region of the brain and in pedipalpal, ambulatory and abdominal ganglia of the subesophageal mass. The type II cells which appear from the seventh stage are confined to the cheliceral ganglia. Three stages of secretory activity (poor, medium and full) based on stainability are described in these cells.In both types clear axonal transportation of neurosecretory material is observed. The discrete tracts and commissures formed by these neurosecretory axons are described in the brain and subesophageal ganglion. The complexity of some of these pathways is comparable to that of the ordinary neurons.One pair of nerves from the brain and four pairs of nerves from the subesophageal mass enter a neurohaemal organ, the Tropfenkomplex. This is a paired structure, situated dorsally, on either side of the subesophageal mass. The neurosecretory axons branch extensively within the organ and on their course they from sacs or pools filled with secretory material.The Tropfenkomplex is enveloped by a thin neural sheath which runs deep into the organ dividing it into a series of lobes. Glial cells are distributed within the organ. As in the neurosecretory cells, changes in stainability of secretory material were also observed in the Tropfenkomplex.During intermolt periods two peaks of stainability have been noticed. The first peak lasts for 24 hours after the molt, and this is followed by a low activity period between second and fifth day. From the sixth to the tenth day after the molt the second peak commences. It is suggested that the second peak may be responsible for bringing about molting.The cheliceral group appears (seventh stage) at a time when external indication of reproductive characters are visible. In the ninth stage, by the tenth day after the last molt, several of the type I and type II cells contain much secretion. This is followed by maturation of gonads and oviposition. Thus both type I and type II cells are believed to be involved in the reproduction of the animal.

Notes: Ovaries of the giant silkmoth Samia cynthia Drury have been studied histologically and histochemically during diapause, adult development, and after injury to the diapause animal. In addition to cellular changes involved in follicular growth and vitellogenesis, changes in the intermediate layer cells are very striking, showing a distinct pattern during ovarian development and after injury. Two types of granules, one periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) positive, the other paraldehyde-fuchsin (PF) positive, change in their number and distribution in the intermediate cells during development and after injury. The PAS-positive granules appear during the first one-third of development, increase in number and size until the tenth day, then gradually dwindle in number and size, and disappear in the adult cells. The PF-positive granules, present in moderate numbers in the diapause animal, decrease in number until the tenth day of adult development, then reappear, and are present again in adult intermediate cells. After injury to a diapause pupa, intermediate cells show a greatly increased number of PF-positive granules, but none that are PAS-positive.The PAS-positive granules are a neutral or mildly acidic mucosubstance, and may correspond to lysosomal activity, while the PF-positive granules may be a neurosecretory-like substance or the product of hormone-dependent protein synthesis, since the patterns of granule distribution in the intermediate cells seem to reflect both general metabolic and hormone-related events.

Notes: The distribution of monoamine (catecholamine and 5-hydroxytryptamine)-containing nerve cell bodies in the brain stem and hypothalmus of the frog (Rana temporaria) was investigated with the help of the histofluorescence technique of Falck and Hillarp ('62). At the level of the hypothalmus of this amphibian brain, catecholamine-containing nerve cell bodies are found mainly within three areas of the periventricular gray substance, namely the peroptic recess organ, the paraventricular organ and the lateral recess region. On the other hand, most of the 5-hydroxytryptamine (serotonin)-containing nerve cell bodies of the brain stem of Rana temporaria appear to be concentrated within the midbrain tegmentum. This huge mesencephalic nerve cell collection can be subdivided into medial and lateral groups. More caudally, at the level of the isthmic tegmentum, another group of 5-hydroxytryptamine-containing perikarya located close to the midline, within the so-called raphae region, is clearly outlined. The latter group of neurons extends caudally as far as the level of the medulla oblongata. In addition, a small group of catecholamine-containing nerve cell bodies is also found in the ventromedial portion of the rostral midbrain tegmentum, whereas a few other catecholamine type neurons are scattered throughout the lower brain stem of the frog and more especially near the ependymal wall of the fourth ventricle. As a whole, the 5-hydroxytryptamine-containing neuronal systems of the brain stem of Rana temporaria are much more elaborated than the catecholamine neuronal systems of the same structure.

Notes: The guinea pig soleus muscle is a convenient model for the study of slow-twitch intermediate (STI) fiber ultrastructure because it is composed entirely of fibers of this class. Such fibers were compared with fast-twitch red (FTR) and fast-twitch white (FTW) fibers from the vastus lateralis muscle.FTW fibers are characterized by small, sparse mitochondria, a narrow Z line and, an extensive sarcoplasmic reticulum arranged primarily in longitudinal profiles at the A band and with numerous expansions at the I band. Abundant mitochondria with a dense matrix and subsarcolemmal and perinuclear aggregations are typical of FTR fibers. These fibers contain a plexus of sarcoplasmic reticulum at the A band and a less extensive network at the I band. The Z lines are wider (890 ± 74 Å) than those of FTW fibers (582 ± 62 Å). STI intermediate fibers are distinguished from other types by wide Z lines (1205 ± 58 Å), a faint M band, and a less extensive sarcoplasmic reticulum. Compared to FTR fibers, STI fiber mitochondria are usually smaller with less notable subsarcolemmal accumulations.FTW fibers have a more limited capillary supply, rarely contain lipid inclusions, and thus may be restricted to phasic activity. Extensive capillarity, mitochondrial and lipid context, and fast contraction times indicate possible phasic and tonic roles for FTR fibers. STI fibers, characterized by numerous lipid inclusions, extensive capillarity, relatively numerous mitochondria, but slow contraction-relaxation cycles, are morphologically suited for tonic muscle activity.

Notes: The haemocytes of Calpodes ethlius are described with the light and electron microscopes. Five fine structurally distinct types are distinguishable. However only three of these, the granular haemocytes, sphaerule cells and oenocytoids can be positively identified using a series of histochemical stains on smears and on thick sections of araldite-embedded material. The classification is based entirely on the structural features even though several suggestions concerning their function can be made from their fine structure. Intermediates having features of more than one cell type suggest developmental relationships.