Library

Notes: Abstract Removal of the soluble proteoglycans from slices of bovine costal cartilage by extraction in 4 M guanidinium hydrochloride permitted the visualization of abundant amounts of dispersed and disaggregated collagen in the matrix. Proteoglycans which are resistant to extraction are seen as small granules which are concentrated in the perilacunar regions. Large proteoglycan granules appear to originate in the chondrocyte. As they come to occupy positions in the matrix distant from the chondrocyte, the granules become smaller. A non-granular, “amorphous” component masks the collagen fibers so that they cannot be readily seen in the intact cartilage.

Notes: Summary Ultrastructural observations of morphological changes in nuclei and cytoplasm of pig embryos during cleavage and early blastocyst stages are presented. Compact nuclear bodies (nucleosphaeridies) are demonstrable in the cleavage stages, and occasionally in the inner cell mass of blastocysts. The transformation of nucleosphaeridies leading to the formation of a peripheral network are usually found at the eight-cell stage. In morula, nucleoli make their first appearance as clearly distinguishable morphological entities. A marked disorganization of nuclear envelope is observed near to the cytoplasmic annulate lamellae (CAL) indicating a possible process of transformation of the former to the latter. During premorula stages cytoplasmic organelles (Golgi complex, endoplasmic reticulum, and CAL) are predominantly concentrated around the nucleus. CAL associated with fibrillogranular material similar to the material of the nucleoplasm occur in juxtanuclear positions. In the two-cell stage, degenerating paternal mitochondria are observed. In the morula the number of spherical mitochondria fell while that of elongated mitochondria increase. The trophoblast cells of the blastocyst stage contain cytoplasmic microfilaments which are closely associated with cell organelles, particularly the desmonsomes. Structurally changed mitochondria near the yolk globules and inclusion bodies of various morphology are found. A basal lamina is discernible parallel to the trophoblast layer facing the blastocoel. The observations are discussed in relation to physiological phenomena known to occur during embryogenesis.

Notes: Summary The effect of progesterone and oestrogen on the central uterine stroma has been examined in order to analyze what changes occur when the uterus is hormonally prepared for implantation. Both progesterone and oestrogen, when given separately, cause nucleolar enlargement and growth of the granular endoplasmic reticulum. However, after progesterone treatment the nuclei are large and spherical whereas they are spindle-shaped after oestrogen treatment. When oestrogen is administered to the progesterone-treated rat little change occurs in the stromal morphology. There is little morphological support to the view that oestrogen acts on the stroma to increase endometrial sensitivity. Further, progesterone seems to stimulate the synthesis of RNA and of cellular protein only in the stromal cell while oestrogen has a similar effect in all cell types of the uterus.

Notes: Summary The boundary tissue of the porcine testicular seminiferous tubule (membrana propria) exhibits a distinct stratification: the basement lamina of the tubular epithelium (a) is followed by a non-cellular layer with collagen fibrils (b), the peritubular cells (d) with an inner (c) and outer (e) basement lamina and finally the intertubular loose connective tissue (f). Fully developed peritubular cells have many morphological features in common with smooth muscle cells, for instance inpocketings of the plasmalemma (pinocytotic vesicles) and a great number of filaments measuring 60–70 Å in diameter. These filaments are fixed at the inner side of the plasmalemma by means of electron-dense structures. The Golgi apparatus, rough endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria and microtubules prefer a juxtanuclear position. In contrast that is seen in other species the porcine peritubular cells develop many of their characteristic features before puberty. In samples of the 4th day a fine network of filaments is already visible within the cytoplasm. These filaments are strongly augmented at the 25th day, and from now on they are arranged in a regular fashion. Other findings, also, underline an increased activity of the peritubular cells around day 25. At that time the concentrations of histochemically demonstrated alkaline phosphatase, adenosine triphosphatase and glucose-6-phosphatase reach the high levels typical for the stages of further development and the fully differentiated cells. Pinocytotic vesicles appear in great numbers from day 97. At the 140th day the morphology of the porcine peritubular cell is completely developed.

Notes: Summary The mesobranchial area and the median thyroid anlage of embryonic albino mice were investigated from the somite stage 4 to 40 (81/2–10 days of gestation). In stage I (5–25 somites), there is an unequal growth and differentiation of the epithelium in the floor of the pharynx, whereby a mesobranchial area with a stratified or pseudostratified epithelium is formed. This area is distinct from the remaining pharyngeal epithelium, among other things by an apical microfilament system in the superficial epithelial cells. It is found just basal to a row of plump cytoplasmic protrusions, which extend into the lumen of the pharynx. In stage II (26–40 somites), the cranial part (median thyroid anlage) of the mesobranchial area thickens in relation to the caudal part and grows down into the underlying mesenchyme. The filament system is concentrated in the superficial cell layer of the median thyroid anlage at the beginning of stage II and disappears during downgrowth. In both stages, but most pronounced in stage II, there is a population of 0.1–5 μ intracellular bodies, which occasionally contain the remains of organelles. The larger bodies, which often contain the remains of nuclei, are usually found peripherally while the smaller ones are more evenly distributed. Acid phosphatase can often be demonstrated histochemically in small bodies, while larger bodies are usually without reaction. Cells with pycnotic nuclei and/or degenerated cytoplasmic components are regularly found. Acid phosphatase can also be demonstrated in Golgi complexes and surrounding vesicles. Basal to the epithelium, bodies are occasionally found which may possibly have been extruded from that tissue.

Notes: Summary Seven cases of diabetic amyotrophy were investigated by histochemistry and electron microscopy of biopsied muscles. Type II fibre atrophy of various grades was observed in the proximal atrophic muscles. Various changes of Z-band were observed in type II atrophic muscle fibres. In addition, mitochondrial changes, accumulation of glycogen, thickening of the capillary basement membrane and changes in the intramuscular nerves were also observed, both in the proximal and distal muscles. Some impaired motoneuron innervation of proximal muscles as well as distal muscles in a poorly controlled diabetic condition is suspected in “diabetic amyotrophy”.

Notes: Summary The ultrastructure of a sacrococcygeal chordoma is presented. The cells vary in their size and electron density but are thought to have a common origin. The nuclei presented prominent nucleoli and intranuclear bodies. Centrioles were seen in some of the cells. The rough endoplasmic reticulum was prominent and in most cells was very distended and corresponded to the intracellular vacuoles of light microscopy. The contents of the rough endoplasmic reticulum and the abundant extracellular substance were similar.

Notes: Summary The effect of purified Naja nigricollis phospholipase A on slices from motor cortex from rat brain was analysed at an ultrastructural level. Samples stabilized directly with glutaraldehyde were compared with samples incubated in buffer with or without enzyme. Plasma membranes of nerve terminals, synaptic contact regions and synaptic vesicles were the main parameters studied. As judged by the electron microscopic technique the synaptic areas show a high resistance to the enzyme treatment. The intercellular space of the synaptic cleft seems unaltered. At the highest concentrations of the enzyme an increased density is noticed at the presynaptic part of the membrane. The extracellular space widens and nerve terminals and mitochondria become distended with increasing enzyme concentrations. The membranes all through the tissue appear ruptured to small pieces and at the highest enzyme concentrations used, altered in their structural organization. Quantitative analysis shows that the number of synaptic vesicles per unit surface area decreases, while ruptures of the plasma membranes of nerve terminals increase in number with increasing enzyme concentrations.

Notes: Summary The nervous system and small intestine of mice infected with herpes simplex virus were examined by electron microscopy from the viewpoint of virus-host interaction. The host cells examined included the neuron, astrocyte, oligodendrocyte, and Schwann cell. The susceptibility of the latter was not less than that of the neuron. The endothelial cell, perineural fibrocyte and smooth muscle cell were also host cells. Replication of herpes virus in the nervous system was proven to be identical to that occurringin vitro; initial reproduction of nucleocapsids in the nucleus and subsequent maturation at the nuclear membrane with envelope formation, followed by discharge into the cytoplasmic reticular cavities and finally release from the host cell. Inconsistency in the distribution of virus particles and viral antigen was chiefly concerned with the host cell nucleus and the glial cytoplasm. Herpes virions, though few, were identified in the axons of peripheral nerves, and in the periaxonal space of myelinated fibres in the brain and the nerve ganglia. Virions were present in tiny vesicles in the perikarya or as naked particles. In the distal parts of peripheral nerve, there was marked dissociation in the amount of virions between Schwann cells and the axon. The significance of the endoneural space and the axon in the neural speread of infection is discussed briefly.

Notes: Summary The ultrastructure of glycerol extracted thrombocyte models was studied before and after incubation with ATP and under the influence of Salyrgan as inhibitor of contraction. The contractile system of the thrombocytes—thrombosthenin—consists of a spatial network of 50 Å wide thrombosthenin A and 100–120 Å wide thrombosthenin M filaments. At rest, the contractile system is arranged in a marginal zone. The ATP-induced contraction led to a concentric condensation of the network which resulted in a central cluster of cell organelles and at a later stage, disruption of the plasma membrane and release of the thrombocyte granules. All these changes which also occur during the formation of the hemostatic plug in vivo are therefore attributed to the reaction of the contractile protein.

Notes: Summary In the mouse, the rostral zone of the pars intermedia is almost exclusively composed of typical corticotrophic cells. They are located around and even within the neural stalk, at the level of transition between stalk and neural lobe. In the rat, the corticotrophic cells of the rostral zone are found in scattered islets among the MSH producing cells, and also in the neural lobe. In both the rat and mouse, these cells are in direct contact with various types of nerve terminals. Synaptoid contacts with aminergic and neurosecretory nerve fibers are observed. Furthermore they are also closely related to the hypophysial portal vessels. Following adrenalectomy, the cells located in the neurohypophysis always react more intensely than tose in the rostral zone. The functional significance of these corticotrophic cells which are subject to both humoral and neural regulation remains as yet hypothetical. Their participation in neurogenic stress response seems probable.

Notes: Summary In order to characterize different sub-zones in the palisade zone of the rat median eminence, quantitative ultrastructural parameters were applied to brains fixed in aldehyde-osmium tetroxide. The palisade zone has been subdivided in 4 successive sub-zones. Increasing numbers of granular vesicles (GV), especially those smaller than 110 nm, are observed from dorsal to ventral sub-zones. There also are more GV per unit area of nervous tissue in the perivascular than in the more dorsal sub-zones. The individual nerve profiles exhibit a larger size in the perivascular layer than in the more dorsal areas, whereas the number and size of nerve profiles devoid of vesicles diminish from dorsal to ventral. As a consequence more GV occur in the perivascular nerve profiles. In the GV containing nerve profiles the concentration of GV is, however, constant in the different sub-zones. A fluctuating size of the preterminal and terminal parts of the nerve fibres is suggested.

Notes: Summary The ultrastructure of Cyclidium, including the cilia, kinetosomes, pellicle, microtubules and kinetodesmal fibers is similar to that recorded for other ciliates. Of special interest is the attachment of rod-shaped bacteria within the longitudinally directed shallow surface folds of the protozoan. Both the bacteria and the surface of Cyclidium seem to possess an outer coating of a sticky substance which upon contact holds the bacteria to the protozoan. The bacteria appear to be attached by only a relatively small area of their surfaces. A dense substance appears within the alveolus of the pellicle at the regions of the attachment of the bacteria. The association of the organisms is probably a temporary one, and it is unknown whether either organism is benefited or harmed by the association. The position of the mitochondria in Cyclidium is unusual in that they all lie flattened against the inner membrane of the pellicle, usually in a position directly opposite to that of the attachment of the bacteria to the surface, thus being separated from the bacteria by only the outer cell membrane and the pellicle. Whether or not this close topographical relationship is of significance is unknown.

Notes: Summary Acclimation to low salinity induces changes in the ultrastructure of the gill cells of the marine euryhaline amphipod, Gammarus oceanicus. The gills are composed of a single cell type. In 100% artificial sea water, these cells contain moderate numbers of mitochondria which are randomly distributed in the cytoplasm. The plasma membrane is extensively invaginated at the apical, lateral, and basal surfaces. Acclimation to 20% artificial sea water induces a further invagination at the apical cell membrane to form an elaborate apical labyrinth. The extracellular spaces between the folds in the basal cell membrane dilate to 1500 Å or more. Mitochondria are more abundant and in many cells they undergo a change in conformation. The mitochondria are crowded into thin leaflets of cytoplasm between the dilated basal invaginations or into the narrow space between apical and basal cell membranes. Consequently, they lie in close contact with the plasma membrane over much of their surface.

Notes: Summary The structure of the segmentally arranged somata of the dorsal giant fibres Günther, 1969) in the ventral nerve cord of the earthworms Lumbricus terrestris L., is described. These neurones are compared with other neurones of invertebrates and vertebrates. The paired lateral giant cells (LGC) are often multipolar in contrast to the single unipolar median giant cell (MGC). Up to four fibres originate from each LGC. The dotted appearance of both these neurones (clear and dark perikaryal areas) is due to the regular distribution of osmiophilic strands of cytoplasm containing the majority of organells and other inclusions (e.g. endoplasmatic reticulum and ribosomes). The majority of ribosomes are not associated with membranes but are found scattered freely in the cytoplasm. A typical “axon hillock” with an accumulation of mitochondria is often found. The cells show large deposits of glycogen. Some of the LGC-somata have synaptic contacts.

Notes: Summary 1. The orientation of the rhabdoms shows no regularity within the retina of the honeybee. 2. The arrangement of the eccentric cells is also irregular within the retina of the honeybee. 3. The morphology of the retina is discussed regarding the ability of the honeybees to orient according to the pattern of the polarization of light reflected from the blue sky.

Notes: Summary A subectodermal nerve-net is demonstrated in ten species of Ctenophores by means of either Methylene Blue vital staining or silver impregnation. There is no evidence of subendodermal nerve-net. The ectodermal nerve-net displays a characteristic polygonal pattern which is thought to result from morphogenetic events. Both bipolar and tripolar neurones occur. Three types of concentrations of nervous tissue are described: a) a high accumulation of nervous perikarya at the aboral sensory pole; b) a noticeable densification of the net along the eight meridional ciliary strands of every species, and around the lips of Beroidea; c) in the Cydippids Pleurobrachia and Hormiphora two thick strands of fibers and neurones interconnecting the aboral organ and the tentacles: the tentacular nerves. Ultrastructural evidence is given for the presence of nervous elements under and amidst ectodermal epithelial cells. Three features allow the recognition and characterization of neurites and neurones: a) numerous clear and/or granulated vesicles; b) microtubules in variable amounts; c) frequent and highly differentiated synaptic contacts. The very peculiar arrangement of the presynaptic elements is observed in all the species of Ctenophores so far studied. These synaptic contacts suggest chemical transmission in the nerve-net. On the basis of ultrastructural evidence the author refutes the nervous nature previously attributed to the ciliated cells of the meridional grooves. A parallel is drawn between nervous systems of Cnidaria and Ctenophora.

Notes: Summary Thin sections of rat incisor enamel were studied with the electron microscope. Fringe patterns having repeat periods in the range 3.1–8.2 Å were seen in individual enamel crystals. These images were interpreted as representing the resolution of corresponding planes in the hydroxyapatite crystal lattice. The lattice spacings and interplanar angles were identified by comparing the observations with available data derived from X-ray diffraction analysis.

Notes: Summary Five categories of granulated cells were distinguished by their ultrastructural features, and quantitative analyses were made of the pars distalis cells in normal and castrated lizards. The gonadotropin-producing cell was identified on the basis of its uniform distribution in the gland as well as from cytological changes resulting from castration. The secretory granules of the gonadotropic cell vary in size (100–500 mμ) and density, and lipid bodies are commonly present. Following castration, the endoplasmic reticulum proliferates, forming many small, rough-surfaced, dilated cisternae which do not coalesce greatly as in other vertebrate species. Degranulation is accompanied by hypertrophy and hyperplasia of the mitochondria and by the appearance in the cytoplasm of conspicuous clusters of microfilaments. The designated gonadotropic cell was the only class of secretory cell showing consistent changes following three weeks of castration. In addition to the uniformly distributed gonadotrope cell, two secretory cells occur mainly in the rostral half of the gland, and two in the caudal half. Tentative identification of the cell types is discussed in the light of available information on the localization of the hormones in the pars distalis of this species.

Notes: Summary Smooth muscle-like cells are present in thecae externae, corpora lutea, and interstitial tissue of hamsters and gerbils. The smooth muscle-like cells, as examined by electron microscopy, are fusiform with central nuclei; the cytoplasm contains numerous myofilaments, dense bodies, micropinocytotic vesicles, and dense accumulations of glycogen-like particles. In addition to the smooth muscle-like cells, fibroblasts and cells that have characteristics of both fibroblasts and smooth muscle are located in the thecae externae of both species. There is no ultrastructural evidence of innervation in the theca folliculi, corpora lutea, or interstitial tissue of either species. A possible function for the smooth muscle-like cells is discussed.

Notes: Summary During the transition between the fetal and postnatal periods associations between cell junctions and cell organelles appear in the liver of the mouse. These associations are of two types: desmosome-organelle and nexus-organelle. 1.Nexus-Organelles Association. Unilaterally or bilaterally, various organelles — mitochondria, cysternae, microbodies or lysosomes — adhere tightly along the gap. These associations appear only between the 21st day of gestation and the first postnatal day. Thereafter they gradually disappear and are replaced by desmosome-organelle associations. Another type of structure — ergastoplasmic saccules or cisternae of rough endoplasmic reticulum — become associated with the cell membrane. 2.Desmosome-Organelle Associations. In these complexes the desmosomal microfilaments are in close contact with membranes of the associated organelles — mitochondria or peroxysomes. The associations, which exist as early as the 13th day of gestation increase after the first postnatal day. The significance of these associations remains to be ascertained, especially since they occur in many other tissues. A few hypotheses are presented.

Notes: Summary The fat body of the adult housefly is composed of two types of cells, the lipid-and glycogen-rich fat body cells and the oenocytes. A comparison of the fine structure of the abdominal fat body in 4-day old and 31–35 day old male houseflies indicated an increase in lipid and a decrease in glycogen content in the fat body cells of old flies. Oenocytes of old flies exhibit deteriorative alterations with an accumulation of secondary lysosomes. Both fat body cells and oenocytes in senile flies are ingested by hemocytes.

Notes: Summary The pathway of the tentacle nerves and the organisation of the peripharyngial nervous belt from which they arise, have been studied in Electra pilosa by silver stained whole mounts (Bielschowsky technique), and by ultrastructural investigation. Each tentacle is innervated by four nervous fascicles without any differentiated glial sheath, running between the epithelium and the collagen layer which surrounds the muscles and the peritoneal cells in the internal tentacle canal. Three nerves are gathered underneath the three rows of epithelial cells forming the oral edge of the tentacle. The fourth nerve is in medio-dorsal location. The oral epithelial cells show such ultrastructural adaptations in their general shape, in the density of their cytoplasm, in their ciliary apparatus reduced to a single cilium and in their close topographical and cytological relationship with the underlying tentacle nerves that it seems most probable they have a tactile function. The analysis of the pattern of the peripharyngial nervous belt shows a precise organisation and the intrication of the connections which coordinate the tentacles and link the lophophore set to other pathways of general innervation.

Notes: Summary The response of somatotrophs to large doses of purified bovine growth hormone was examined in uninephrectomized rats drinking 1% sodium chloride in an attempt to prolong the action of the hormone. Growth hormone produced a triphasic response in the ultrastructure of somatotrophs. Uninephrectomy and salt alone induced no changes in somatotrophs as compared to unoperated animals consuming tap water. In the first phase (3 days) the cross sectional area of the cell increased, the size of the largest granule per cell as well as the number of granules per cell increased significantly. All these parameters then reached control level after 7 days of injections during a second phase. Suppression of somatotrophs by exogenous growth hormone was evident by 16 days (third phase) when the area of the cell, the size of the largest secretory granule as well as the number of granules per cell all decreased significantly. Somatotrophs apparently did not react to suppression by a lysosomal mechanism inasmuch as no increase in the number of lysosome-derived structures was seen even at 16 days.

Notes: Summary The ultrastructure of the cecal epithelium of the mouse resembles that of more distal parts of the colon. A brief discussion is presented of the possible significance of apical cytoplasmic granules to the glycocalyx and of the close association of microorganisms with the lining epithelium.

Notes: Summary The ultrastructure of the secretory cells of the adenohypophysis of juvenile sockeye salmon was investigated. Pituitary glands were collected from immature fish transferred experimentally to sea water and subsequently returned to fresh water. The rostral pars distalis contained three cell types: ACTH cells, prolactin cells, and non-secretory cells. The prolactin and non-secretory cells were joined together in the form of follicles by desmosomes and they both had cilia and microvilli projecting into the follicle lumen. Various follicular structures such as lumen, multivesicular structures, and peripheral basement membrane are discussed as possible sites of prolactin cell granule release. The columnar ACTH cells were found at the junction of the rostral pars distalis and the neurohypophysis. The cytoplasmic granules in these cells were characteristically separated from their limiting membrane by a clear space. Multivesicular structures were also found in association with this cell type. The caudal pars distalis also contained three cell types: one acidophil (putative somatotrop) and two basophils (putative thyrotrops and gonadotrops), all of which were similar to those described in adult fish. The pars intermedia contained only one cell type. They appeared to be active cells and were characterized by containing membrane-bounded granules similar to those found in the ACTH cells. Changes in ambient salinity had no apparent effect on any cell type described.

Notes: Summary The eyespots of tornariae of enteropneusts (Ptychodera flava from Hawaiian waters and an unknown species from southern California) were studied by electron microscopy. An ocellus is composed of two types of cells: sensory and supportive. The former is characterized by a bulbous cilium (with 9+2 axoneme) at its distal end, one or sometimes two arrays of microvilli from its sides below the cilium, and a basal axon. The latter features large, clear vesicles which presumably contained the reddish-orange pigment seen in the ocellus of a living larva. Five-day old tornariae of P. flava are positively phototactic. Both cilium and microvilli may function as photoreceptors. The tornarian ocellus studied is compared with eyespots of other invertebrates, and the evolutionary significance of its putative photoreceptors is discussed.

Notes: Summary The early spermatid possesses a round nucleus and a diplosome which is close to the cellular membrane and with which paracentriolar formations are associated; a sole mitochondrion is located between the diplosome and the nucleus. During the spermatid evolution, the nucleus is laterally elongated, its main axis being perpendicular to the flagellar axis; the mitochondrion migrates towards the lateral end of the nucleus; the distal centriole is extended along the nucleus, then leaves the cell as a pseudoflagellum. This centriolar extension is made up of regular triplets and of a particular type of doublets that we have called “A–C doublets“. The authors call attention to the similarity between the spermatozoa of this Elopiforme and the spermatozoa of the Anguilliformes. This observation favours Greenwood et al.'s proposition, to place these teleost into the super-order of Elopomorpha.

Notes: Summary The fine structure of the lutein cells in guinea pigs corpora lutea of pregnancy (15th, 35th, 45th, 50th, 55th, 63th day and 2 days after birth) and during oestrous cycle (9, 14, 16, 20 days after ovulation) is described. During the active phase of the corpus luteum the formation of concentric whorls of agranular endoplasmic reticulum around lipid droplets is observed, but later the granular endoplasmic reticulum increases. In this stadium the mitochondria are round with tubulous cristae and the lipid droplets are increased in density. During the involution of the corpus luteum the endoplasmic reticulum does not form concentric whorls, the mitochondria are elongated, polymorphic, the lipid droplets have lower electron density. These ultrastructural changes in the lutein cells are discussed concerning the role of the cell organelles in the steroid synthesis.

Notes: Summary The postnatal development of porcine testicular interstitial cells proceeds in a wave-like manner and may be divided into four periods. In the period of early postnatal proliferation fusiform intertubular cells change into polygonal Leydig cells. This process starts with formation of smooth endoplasmic reticulum in one of the cell poles. Later the smooth endoplasmic reticulum is abundant and consists of irregular vesicles and concentrically arranged cisterns. Mitochondria increase in number and develop tubular cristae. In the period of prepubertal hypertrophy Leydig cells reach maximal size (approx. 30 μm) and possibly may be capable of androgen biosynthesis. The cells of this period exhibit two different zones, since the smooth endoplasmic reticulum prefers the periphery, the other organelles, however, occupy the central region of the cells. The period of prepubertal regression is characterized by cellular degeneration and diminuation of the surviving interstitial cells. In the period of pubertal proliferation an increase of Leydig cell size is accompanied by multiplication of mitochondria and development of smooth endoplasmic reticulum. Both periods of proliferation are initiated by appearance of numerous cytoplasmic filaments which subsequently decrease in number. Interstitial cells of all periods studied exhibit the following features: They possess lysosomes, microbodies, polyribosomes, microvilli and are surrounded by a kind of basement membrane. Cell connections appear as tight junctions and desmosome-like structures. The mitochondria contain closely packed tubules joined by electron dense material.

Notes: Summary After the staining of nervous tissue with phosphotungstic acid in absolute ethanol (E-PTA), a selective opacification occurs at certain specific sites, while other structures, especially the plasma and intra-cellular membranes, remain electron-lucent. Among those selectively stained sites, our studies have been focussed on: (1) The dense synaptic material consisting of several presynaptic clumps, termed projections, an intrasynaptic dense line and a subsynaptic web from which fine fibrillar wisps extend into the surrounding ground substance; (2) Neurofilaments and neurotubules, the surface of which is bristled by numerous side-arms; (3) A microfilamentous network intertwines the neurotubules, the neurofilaments and the mitochondria in the dendrites and axon, and is also connected to the E-PTA dense undercoating delineating the inner aspect of the plasma membrane and to the fine wisps emanating from the subsynaptic web. A three-dimensional microfilamentous latticework is thus formed in the nerve cell processes; (4) Dense cytoplasmic inclusions, termed nematosomes, which are usually located in the ground substance of the perikaryon among or in the vicinity of clusters of ribosomes. Tiny microfilaments emanate from the peripheral strands of these bodies. The presence of basic residues in the chains of structural proteins of which consist the subsynaptic web and the nematosome is plausible, since the specificity of the E-PTA staining procedure for the detection of basic residues has previously been put forth. The occurrence of a three-dimensional microfilamentous network in the nerve cell processes led us to hypothesize that it plays a role in translocation of materials. It may provide the motive force for the axoplasmic transport, for instance, with the neurotubules, as well as, plausibly, with the neurofilaments, serving as attachment sites and guideways.

Notes: Summary Oogenesis was studied in adult Triturus vulgaris (Urodela) with the electron microscope. The oocytes investigated ranged between 50 μm and 1600 μm in diameter. Two types of yolk platelet formation were found. Since both types involve the incorporation of high numbers of pinocytotic vesicles they are believed to be of an extraoocytic origin. On the basis of the order of their appearance they were named primary and secondary yolk. Five different types of vesicles were found, which participate in a variety of activities, such as yolk formation and the formation of the Golgi apparatus. They originate from four different sources, namely the nuclear membrane, the cytoplasm in connection with ribosome-like particles, the Golgi apparatus and the plasma membrane through pinocytosis. The results obtained were discussed especially with respect to differences found between the anura and the urodela, such as the presence or absence of cortical granules or equivalent structures.

Notes: Summary 1. The ultrastructure of the corpora allata of last larval instars and adults of Oncopeltus was studied. The unpaired gland undergoes submicroscopic alterations and shows signs of degradation in old animals. The organ is partly covered and penetrated by corpus cardiacum tissue. Axons with different types of neurosecretory granules form synaptoid contacts with the corpus allatum cells. 2. “Dark” and “light” gland cells can be differentiated on account of the degree of electron density. The former predominate during the last larval stage and in the young imago, the latter in mature males and females. It is highly probable that the “light” cells are the active (i.e. hormone producing) ones and the “dark” cells the inactive ones. 3. The active cells are characterized by rough endoplasmatic reticulum (often in whorls), small amounts of smooth endoplasmatic reticulum and many multivesicular bodies. Abundant free ribosomes, a not particularly well developed Golgi apparatus, dense bodies, and cytolysomes are present in active and inactive cells. 4. The nuclei contain one to four prominent and variously shaped nucleoli, which show differences between adult males and females with respect to their location in the nucleus. 5. The corpus allatum cells of Oncopeltus are obviously engaged in extensive protein synthesis. Tangible structural indications for the manufacture of juvenile hormone were not observed. Possible sites of hormone release are discussed.

Notes: Summary The normal ultrastructure of rat substantia nigra was investigated. Special attention was paid to the different types of boutons, and the mode of termination of the striatonigral connection was examined. Two different types of nigra neurons with deep nuclear membrane indentations were observed. The synaptic organization of rat substantia nigra is very complex. Six types of boutons, with many characteristics, could be differentiated: pleomorphicvesicle boutons (40%), elongated-vesicle boutons (10%), small-round-vesicle boutons (10%), large-round-vesicle boutons (20%), “clear-terminal” (15%) and dense-core-vesicle boutons (about 5%). Vesicle-containing dendrites were observed entering dendro-dendritic synapses. One to four days after large unilateral striatal lesions were made, a great number of degenerating boutons were seen in the ipsilateral substantia nigra, while the contra-lateral substantia nigra was entirely free of degeneration. The newly defined pleomorphic-vesicle boutons were found almost exclusively in the process of degeneration. The neuronal origin of the other bouton types is discussed.

Notes: Summary The pecten oculi of the sparrow consists of capillaries, pigment cells and a superficial membrane. Because of the loose structure of the first two components broad intercellular spaces occur in the pecten. The capillary wall consists of endothelial cells and a perivascular membrane. The bodies of the endothelial cells are flattened, while the plasmalemma of both their surfaces (basal and luminal) is strongly folded and forms numerous microfolds with an average thickness of 700 Å. The height of the inner microfolds is 1.4–1.8 μm, the outer microfolds measure 1.3–1.6 μm. They lie densely packed side by side and are separated by recesses of the capillary lumen ca. 500 Å wide. Due to this the surface of the endothelial cell is increased by approximately 20-fold. The adjoining endothelial cells abut or overlap with margins, and are joined by the zonulae adherentes. Pigment cells form numerous processes and microvilli. Some rest on the capillary walls, while others penetrate the superficial membrane of the pecten or fill the intercellular spaces.

Notes: Summary Vasa deferentia of rats chronically treated with high doses of guanethidine sulphate (30 or 60 mg/Kg/day i.p.) were examined using electron microscopic, fluorescence histochemical and pharmacological techniques. Counts of the axon population in segments of the proximal (urethral) end of the vas deferens showed a reduction to approximately 55% and 35% in the number of axon profiles after treatment for one week with the two dose levels respectively. In the same period only a few cell bodies in the hypogastric ganglion (from which most of the adrenergic innervation of the vas deferens arises) reached the stage of terminal degeneration. Although many axons showed some abnormalities, the number of axons observed in terminal stages of degeneration in treated tissue did not exceed, at any stage examined, the very small numbers observed in control tissue. Organ bath studies showed that the contractile response to transmural stimulation was lost fastest at the distal (epididymal) end of the treated vas deferens. These results have led to the conclusion that, in contrast to the degeneration of adrenergic axons produced by surgery or 6-hydroxydopamine, the sympathectomy produced by guanethidinein vivo involves theretraction of adrenergic axons prior to complete degeneration of the cell bodies.

Notes: Summary Neuromuscular junctions, muscle fibers, and intramuscular nerve branches in crayfish opener muscles denervated for periods up to 368 days were examined with the electron microscope. The majority of the denervated muscles responded to stimulation of the isolated distal part of the motor axon with electrical activity and contractions. The neuromuscular junctions and muscle fibers appeared normal in such preparations: synapses and synaptic vesicles were present in the nerve terminals, and the organization of filaments and tubules in the muscle fibers was not distinguishable from that in normal muscles. In some preparations denervated for a long time, and in others denervated by tying the motor axon close to the muscle, the motor axons showed physiological and morphological evidence of degeneration. Synapses, when present in such preparations, showed few synaptic vesicles, which were often clumped. Muscle fibers showed signs of degeneration. These observations suggest that isolated distal motor axon segments can remain alive for at least a year, retaining normal structure. As long as the motor axon is viable, the muscle remains normal in appearance, but if the axon degenerates, the muscle becomes abnormal. A trophic interdependence between nerve and muscle is probably involved.

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.

Notes: Four hemocyte types have been identified in the late last larval instar of Galleria mellonella. Plasmatocytoids are round to spindle shaped cells, 10-20 μ long and 5-10 μ wide. The cytoplasm contains no distinguishing inclusions. Golgi complexes, rough endoplasmic reticulum and free ribosomes are abundant. Granular hemocytes are oval shaped cells, 10-20 μ long and 5-10 μ wide. The granules, their most characteristic feature, have a diameter of 0.2 μ, a microtubular sub-structure, and are made up of acidic mucosubstances. Lipid droplets may be present in these cells at some stage of development. These cells appear to be phagocytic. Spherule cells are oval shaped, 15-20 μ long and 5-10 μ wide. The spherules, approximately 2 μ in diameter, have a highly ordered substructure and are made up of acidic mucosubstances. Oenocytoids are the largest cells, 20 by 40 μ. The cytoplasm contains mostly free ribosomes and microtubules.

Notes: Formation of secondary palate in hamster was studied with electron microscopy. Prior to assuming horizontal position, the palatal shelves were covered by a two to three cell layer thick epithelium which was separated from the underlying mesenchyme by an intact basal lamina. Epithelial cells were attached to each other by desmosomes. Early hemidesmosomes could be identified as thickenings of the cytoplasmic membrane opposing the basal lamina. Epithelial cells, like other embryonic cells, contained only few organelles but were rich in polyribosomes. As the horizontal shelves approached each other towards the midline, lysosomes and tonofilaments appeared in the superficial and basal cells of the epithelia. Superficial cells showed degeneration and eventual lysis. Fusion of the opposing epithelia occurred between the deeper cells by means of newly formed desmosomes. The epithelial seam resulting from fusion of the epithelia was limited on each side by a continuous basal lamina. Its subsequent thining and eventual fragmentation resulted from the loss of cells by autophagy. There was no evidence of mesenchymal invasion of the epithelial seam. Mesenchymal macrophages appeared in the later stage of palatogenesis and were responsible for phagocytosis of cellular debris.Formation of the soft palate was basically similar to that of the secondary hard palate and occurred by fusion of the opposing shelves. Similarly, anterior closure of the palate occurred by fusion of the lower end of the nasal septum to the primary and secondary palates. Hyperplasia of the opposing epithelia, prior to their fusion, was often seen.It is suggested that formation of the palate occurs in predictable and coordinated fashion and that timely appearance of lysosomes causing lysis of intervening epithelia is of great significance in normal palatogenesis.

Notes: Gross anatomical, histological and histochemical studies of heart development in Mexican salamanders, Ambystoma mexicanum, are reported. Gross observation suggests that heart development in this urodele species is similar to other amphibians. Histological studies in early embryos show the ventromedially migrating sheets of precardiac mesoderm to be composed of two layers of cells. The right and left dorsal layers fuse and give rise to the myocardium, while the ventral layers form the pericardium. The endocardium arises from cells released by the leading edges of the migrating mesoderm mantles. In early myocardial cells, most of the proteins and carbohydrates are contained in yolk platelets; subsequently, these substances become distributed throughout the cytoplasmic matrixes. In early heart cells free lipid droplets are abundant but decline in size and number as development progresses. Concomitantly, there is an increase in bound lipids. Reticular fibers are detected in the endocardial-myocardial spaces simultaneously with trabeculae formation. Collagen appears somewhat later in development.

Notes: The description of the superficial veins of the face and neck was based upon the dissection of 28 male and female adult tufted or brown capuchin monkeys (Cebus apella), captured in southern Goiás, Brazil.Although the venous arrangement of these areas is basically the same in all primates, some characteristic differences were noted: 1. the anterior jugular and common facial veins were absent; 2. most specimens had a venous hyoid arch, and a connecting vessel between the external jugular and subclavian veins; 3. the inferior petrosal sinus drains into the external jugular v. through the postglenoid foramen; 4. the facial, lingual and cephalic veins open into the external jugular vein; 5. both the internal and external jugular veins have about the same diameter; 6. the vascular pattern appears to be quite stable; anatomical variations appear to be few and unimportant.

Notes: The photoreceptors of the adult Anableps anableps have been investigated by light microscopy, scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The fish is a surface swimmer and the eye is divided by the water meniscus. In general, the photoreceptors (rods, single cones, and double equal cones) resemble those of other vertebrates, but there are several unusual features: (1) The outer segment discs of the double cones differ in the two members. (2) All cones have a prominent accessory outer segment derived from the single connecting cilium, and there is no second centriole. (3) The exterior of the inner segments is ridged and grooved longitudinally, most markedly so in the cones. (4) A membranebounded oil droplet is present in the distal cone inner segment, formed from mitochondria which enlarge, fuse and transform in a vitreal-scleral gradient. (5) There are knob-like invaginations of rod cytoplasm into the cones immediately scleral to the external limiting membrane. (6) Subsurface cisterns underlie apposed plasma membranes of double cone inner segments and direct rod-cone inner segment contacts. (7) Fine “fins” on the cones interdigitate, with Müller cell cytoplasm between, just scleral to the external limiting membrane. (8) In the rod spherule there is a greater density of vesicles and the cytoplasm is darker than in the cone pedicle.The well-defined cone mosaic has a linear pattern peripherally and a square pattern centrally. The photoreceptors undergo photomechanical movements. Photoreceptor ultrastructure is alike in both dorsal and ventral parts of the retina, but the ventral retina contains more cells and is thicker than the dorsal retina.The adjustments necessary for simultaneous air and water vision are found mainly in lens shape, corneal thickness and curvature, and the greater number of cells in the ventral retina.

Notes: The ventral pelvic integument of anurans in hypervascular as compared to other skin regions. Recent studies indicate that this area is primarily responsible for water uptake and rehydration. Nine species representing four genera of terrestrial and aquatic Anura were dissected for comparison of vascularity in the pelvic area. Major differences in the ventral pelvic integumental vessels were found between aquatic and terrestrial genera. These variations are described, and names are suggested for previously unnamed vessels. Changes in vascularity are discussed and related to the literature on Anura pertinent to rehydration rates, tolerance of desiccation, resistance to desiccation, and habitat.Data from this study and previous studies suggest a correlation among the parameters discussed and habitat. The suggestion is made that when species are classified as xeric, mesic, or aquatic on the basis of the habitat in which they live, their responses to rehydration, tolerance to desiccation, and vasculatity should be considered, as these characteristics more accurately represent the micro-habitat.

Notes: The development of electric organ spindles of Gymnarchus niloticus has been investigated with respect to the exact time and place of origin and the process of formation of the adult plan. The results are compared with those of Dahlgren ('14). A common primordium for all the electroplates of of a spindle as held by Dahlgren ('14) is not supported by the present work.

Notes: Smooth muscle in the ovaries of estrus and anestrus cats was studied with the TP-Levanol Fast Cyanine 5 RN technique and adrenergic nerves were visualized with the Falck-Hillarp fluorescence procedure. Numerous bundles of smooth muscle fibers were observed in the mesovarium, and the hilar, medullary, and cortical regions of the estrus ovary. Also, theca externa of large vesicular follicles contained many smooth muscle fibers. Adrenergic nerves with varicosities were present in ovarian perifollicular tissue. Anestrus animals had a reduced number of cortical and perifollicular muscle fibers and the intensity and density of fluorescent nerves was reduced. It is suggested that contraction of ovarian smooth muscle facilitates ovulation. These contractions may be, at least partially, under local neural control.

Notes: The effect of hypophysectomy, growth hormone (GH) and an amino acid-glucose mixture on the regenerative ability of the hypophysectomized Triturus pyrrhogaster yielded the following results: 1The survival time of hypophysectomized newts can be prolonged substantially by the sulfamide application.2Although the limb regeneration in the hypophysectomized newt is retarded as compared with that of the pituitary intact control, it finally completes morphogenetic process under such conditions of prolonged survival.3The injection of 100 μg of GH restored the speed of regeneration of pituitary-deprived limbs to almost a normal level.4Injections of the amino acid-glucose mixture also promoted the limb regeneration in hypophysectomized newts. However, initial delay in regeneration to the time of bud appearance was not restored by the nutrients.

Notes: An anatomical analysis of the chicken trigeminal ganglion was made using light microscopy on specimens prepared by usual chemical fixation or freeze-drying methods and by electron microscopy. Two types of neurons were consistently seen, dark and light cells. Dark cells contained a dense cytoplasm with Nissl substance distributed evenly throughout, whereas light cells had a less dense cytoplasm containing clumps of Nissl substance. The Nissl bodies in light cells contained only a few small cisternae of granular endoplasmic reticulum as compared with many stacked cisternae in Nissl bodies of dark cells. The ratio of dark to light cells was approximately 62:38 in all regions of the ganglion. Dark cells were consistently smaller than light cells. In the seven-day old chick, the mean diameters of the dark and light neurons were 21.4 μ and 29.5 μ respectively; in the adult the values were 29.9 μ and 39.7 μ respectively. It is concluded that the dark and light cells belong to two distinct neuronal cell populations.

Notes: The ultrastructural features of cardiac muscle cells and their innervation were examined in the tarantula spider Eurypelma marxi Simon. The cells are transversely striated and have an A band length of about three microns. H zones are indistinct and M lines are absent. Thick and thin myofilament diameters are approximately 200 and 70 Å respectively. Eight to 12 thin filaments usually surround each thick one. Accumulations of thick and thin myofilaments occur perpendicular to the bulk of the myofilaments in some cells. The Z line is discontinuous and thick filaments may pass through the spaces in the Z line. Extensive systems of sarcoplasmic reticulum and transverse tubules are present; these form numerous dyadic junctions in both A and I band regions. Sarcolemmal invaginations form Z line tubules; lateral extensions of the plasma membrane portion of these invaginations form dyads. Nerve branches of the cardiac ganglion make multiple neuromuscular synapses with at least some of the cardiac muscle cells. Both large granular and small agranular vesicles are present in the presynaptic terminals. Intercalated discs similar to those present in other arthropod hearts occur between the ends of adjacent cardiac muscle cells.

Notes: The paddlefish (Polyodon spathula) is one of the most primitive and unique freshwater fishes of North America. It is adapted as a plankton filter-feeder. The wide mouth and greatly expansible pharyngeal cavity allows it to process a large quantity of water. Numerous setiform gillrakers, which operate against the flattened surfaces of the gill arches and opercula, are capable of filtering out small food particles. The abundance of taste buds and mucus secreting cells in the buccal cavity and pharynx probably aids in selecting and entangling the food. The first segment of the stomach is provided with peculiar, large longitudinal rods of fat which may help in selecting food from water by causing occlusion of the small lumen when the striated fibers of the muscularis contract. Teeth, unnecessary for microphagous fishes, are absent in adults.The digestive tube is one of the most complex present in fishes. It has two distinct divisions of the stomach and four distinct divisions of the intestine besides possessing a large caecum. Ciliated epithelial cells occur in many parts of the gut and may be an aid in moving or processing the small items of food.Besides the presence of cilia, other primitive features of the digestive tract include the lack of distinction between the esophagus and stomach, the presence of a spiral valve, and the presence of some of the diffuse pancreatic tissue within the wall of the gut.The numerous Peyer's patches in the wall of much of the intestine may be an immunological response to the heavy parasitic infestation.

Notes: The cranial glands of ten species of turtles were studied by the use of histochemistry applied to serial sections of whole heads. The majority were stenohaline species, but one brackish water form, Malaclemys, was included. The results show that all species have two major orbital glands, an anterior Harderian gland, and a posterior lachrymal gland. The latter is seromucous in all species except Malaclemys terrapin in which the gland shows little evidence or organic secretion. External and medial nasal glands are found in all species studied, and also are seromucous glands. With these reslts, combined with a review of the literature the following conclusions are made. The Harderian gland is by definition the orbital gland opening through the medial surface of the nictitating membrane at or near the anterior canthus. It is of constant occurrence, and histological appearance, probably serving the same function. However, despite much recent study this function remains unknown. The lachrymal gland is defined as the orbital gland which opens through the lateral surface of the nictitating membrane, or medial surface of the lower eyelid, at or near the posterior canthus. It is of variable occurrence, absent in many reptiles, and has a histological structure which is also variable. In the stenohaline species it is apparently involved in organic secretion, while in the brackish water Malaclemys it may be involved in salt secretion, as it is in Cheloniidae. The nasal glands in turtles are probably homologous with the nasal salt glands of lizards and birds, but they do not appear to subserve the same function. In all species of turtles studied the nasal glands are seromucous. They are perhaps involved in the maintenance of the epithelium of the olfactory cavity.

Notes: The duodenal glands of four marsupial species, the kangaroo, native cat, marsupial mouse, and bandicoot, form a narrow lobular collar immediately distal to the gastrointestinal junction. In two species, the koala and wombat, the duodenal glands are diffuse and scattered along the intestinal tract distal to the gastrointestinal junction for considerable distances. The glands of all species examined empty independently into the intestinal lumen. Histochemical studies indicate that the latter two species, the koala and wombat, elaborate an acid mucin whereas the former species produce a neutral mucosubstance. Ultrastructural examination shows that generally the duodenal glands are comprised of large pyramidal cells that show a definite polarity, with basally-placed nuclei and apically-situated secretory granules. Species differences, with regard both to the morphology and nature of the secretory granules and to the proportions of cell organelles, exist. The diversity of diet between species is discussed.

Notes: Cytodifferentiation of the myoepithelial cells (MEC) of the rat submandibular gland (SMG) was observed by studying the prenatal and postnatal development of the gland in vivo and in vitro by light and electron microscopy. The anlage of the SMG first appeared on the fourteenth day of gestation and, from its earliest inception, was surrounded by an intact basal lamina. Presumptive myoepithelial cells were first seen at 18 days of gestation coinciding with the onset of secretion in the rudiment. These cells were flattened, peripherally located and subjacent to the epithelial basal lamina. Initial deposition of cytofilaments in the MEC's was observed during the first three days following birth and fully matured cells were seen as early as one week after birth. Presumptive and immature MEC's were observed undergoing mitosis, but once cytofilament deposition had begun in the cells they did not divide. Myoepithelium developed in relation to embryonic secretory structures and were only observed surounding acini and intercalated ducts in the adult gland. New myoepithelial cells were formed as long as new acinar-intercalated duct units were formed. Myoepithelial cells did not produce secretory type granules at any time during their development or in their mature state.Development of the MEC's in vitro paralleled that in vivo and supported the above observations.

Notes: Larval compound (jointed) setae of the polychaete Nereis vexillosa Grube were examined by scanning and transmission electron microscopy and by polarization microscopy. Long-bladed spinigers and short-bladed falcigers are described. The proximal shaft of each of these types of setae flares distally into a serrated collar and encloses the proximal end of a toothed blade. The collar projects on one side as a boss. The blade and the cortex of the shaft have longitudinal channels. A large excentric cavity in the shaft (the medullary channel) contains a loose meshwork of trabeculae. In the distal part of the shaft these trabeculae are aggregated into diaphragms. The seta is invested with an electron dense layer of enamel. Juvenile setae contain both chitin and protein. With respect to the long axis of the seta, the blade and the cortex of the shaft are positively birefringent and the medullary diaphragms are negatively birefringent. KOH extraction renders the setae negative to a test for protein and reverses the sign of birefringence of the cortical material of the shaft.

Notes: The marine priapulid Priapulus caudatus has a voluminous body cavity filled with a blood-like fluid containing erythrocytes and leucocytes (amoebocytes). The hematocrit of animals weighing 0.5-14 gm was 2-10%. The erythrocytes contain a hemerythrin blood pigment. The structure of the coelomocytes was studied by light and electron microscopy. The erythrocytes are nucleated and contain marginal bands, vacuoles and occasionally crystals. The cytoplasm has few organelles. The leucocytes are amoeboid motile cells, the cytoplasm of which contains numerous organelles. The most conspicuous of these are oval particles, probably representing developmental stages of lysosomes. Most of these organelles contain tubules stretching from one pole to another. In the hind part of the animal, certain tissues, primarily the posterior warts contain large numbers of coelomocytes. The histological picture is complicated, showing some resemblance to the lymphoepithelial tissues of vertebrates.

Notes: The dissected tooth bearing bones of 20 specimens of Amia calva (Pisces:Holostei) ranging from the third to tenth season have been examined radiographically and in alizarin red S stained and cleared specimens. Although forms of alternate (1:1) tooth series replacement (sensu Edmund, '60) were frequently observed, even in the youngest, immature specimens, many examples of irregular replacement were recorded. In several bones, the maxillae in particular, series with every third (2:1) or fourth (3:1) tooth replacing were seen and possible patterns of 2:2, were recorded. It is concluded that these data are not consistent with the Zahnreihen concept but support a morphogenic field concept of tooth development.

Notes: The first description of vertebral development in a plethodontid salamander is presented. Eurycea bislineata has larvae that hatch at a rather early stage of development. Somites and the notochord appear early. Somitic differentiation is slight, and no distinct sclerotome can be found. As a result, there is no clear primary segmentation of the skeletogenous tissue. No evidence of a sclerocoele can be found. The amount of sclerotomal cells surrounding the notochord is very low, relative to other tetrapods. Yet discrete perichordal rings of cells do form, in nearly midsegmental positions, and these give rise to the intervertebral cartilages. Osteogenesis of the centra is initiated prior to hatching and is coincidental with ossification of the neural arch. There is no sign of a neurocentral suture. The centrum forms as a thin shell of bone directly from sclerotomal cells. The notochord is a prominent feature of the vertebral column throughout life, retaining its integrity until late in life when some disintegration occurs locally. The notochord is filled with cartilage midvertebrally in late larval stages, and some additional cartilage forms later in life. The intervertebral cartilage enlarges greatly in late larval life. An opisthocoelous joint forms in this cartilage, apparently as a result of differential changes in the cells of the perichordal ring rather than by an invasion of cells from an external source. The intervertebral cartilage is a dominant structural and highly important functional feature of the adult vertebra. In metamorphosed individuals it may become extensively mineralized, and it consists of many different structural kinds of cartilage.The cranio-vertebral joint seems to form in a single segment, contrary to the condition reported by some early investigators. It is complex, and consists of articulations between the odontoid process of the atlas and the occipital arch, as well as between the occipital condyles and atlantal cotyles. The notochord plays a dominant role in the early development of the odontoid, but then changes radically and is absent in the adult process.The anterior trunk region seems to be much more conservative than posterior parts of the column. The patterns of nerve routes and nature of development of the ribs and rib bearers differs greatly from conditions elsewhere in the column. The rib patterns are similar to presumed ancestral conditions. Rib development on the sacral and caudosacral vertebrae is in some ways more similar to that of the anterior vertebrae than of the central trunk vertebrae.Quantitative aspects of variation in the vertebrae of adult salamanders are presented. There is more regional variation and less site variation than would be expected from literature reports.Evolutionary aspects of the origin of the cranio-vertebral joint, transverse process and ribs, patterns of segmentation, and centrum development are considered in the light of the new information on Eurycea. There is no evidence that more than one vertebra is involved developmentally or evolutionarily in the cranio-vertebral joint. The most generalized condition of rib bearers in living salamanders is one in which the dorsal and ventral bearers are in cartilaginous continuity during development. There are many variations on this theme in living species. It is inappropriate to speak of a resegmentation of the sclerotome in Eurycca, even though the adult vertebra is a transsegmental structure, because there is no primary segmentation of the scanty sclerotome. The important feature found in vertebral development in all tetrapods is the perichordal tube and its subsequent differentiation. Questinos concerning precise homologies of the salamander vertebral centrum with those of other vertebrates cannot be answered by data from development sequences with currently used criteria of homology. On the other hand, it appears that all centra, regardless of subdivision, are homologous in all tetrapods.

Notes: The Oberhautchen of scales from the dorsal, parietal, and ventral regions of Sceloporus occidentalis (Iguanidae), Gerrhonotus multicarinatus (Anguinidae), and Anniella pulchra (Anniellidae) were examined with a scanning electron microscope. At low magnification, all scales of S. occidentalis exhibit well-defined outlines of cells belonging to the Oberhautchen layer and the previously overlying clear layer. The dorsal and parietal cells of this species exhibit a minutely dentate Oberhautchen that forms tooth-like spinules 0.2 to 0.5 μ long and arranged in irregular rows. Minute pits 0.1 to 0.3 μ in diameter characterize the Oberhautchen of a ventral scale.Cell outlines are not evident on the scales of G. multicarinatus. The Oberhautchen of dorsal and parietal scales of this species is prominently laminated. Laminae are less prominent on scales of the lateral fold, and no intrinsic surface structure is evident on a ventral scale. In contrast, the fossorial anguinomorph Anniella pulchra exhibits Oberhautchen surfaces with practically no intrinsic microornamentation. However, what appear to be outlines of Oberhautchen cells are visible on the dorsal and ventral scales.These observations suggest that modifications of Oberhautchen microornamentation may have evolved to reduce friction with the substrate or other scales. The lack of pronounced microornamentation of the Oberhautchen on some body scales may indicate that a complex interdigitation between clear layer and Oberhautchen cells is not essential to the sloughing process.

Notes: Stolonic growth has been compared among several genera of calyptoblastic (Campanularia flexuosa, C. calceolifera, Gonothyraea and Sertularia) and gymnoblastic (Pennaria, Bougainvillia, Eudendrium and Cordylophora) hydroids with respect to such features as the (1) complexity and uniformity of the tip movements, (2) constancy of growth cycle duration, (3) variability in growth among cycles, (4) growth rate, and (5) variability of retractions among cycles.The “growth cycle,” previously described in C. flexuosa, is the basis for elongation in all species observed. Its pattern is indistinguishable between the Campanularia species; however, at the generic level the tip movements show peculiarities which delineate each genus from all others. In addition, the movements in all calyptoblasts are uniform from cycle to cycle and comparatively simple, whereas those of the gymnoblasts are complicated by the variable appearance of one or more secondary forward thrusts between crests.A dichotomy is seen between the calyptoblasts and most gymnoblasts in other respects as well. Cycle time is very predictable and cycle-to-cycle variability in growth is relatively narrow in all calyptoblasts. However, in most gymnoblasts both features are much more loosely regulated: only Pennaria shows some degree of control to its timing mechanism, and only in Bougainvillia and Eudendrium does the uniformity of growth per cycle reach the calyptoblast level.On the premise that calyptoblasts are evolutionarily the more advanced group, simplicity and regularity of growth movements are concluded to be the evolved, and complexity and variability the primitive, conditions. On this basis the evolutionary relations among the four gymnoblasts, as deduced from their stolonic growth behavior alone, are consistent in many but not all respects with those interpreted from morphological considerations.

Notes: In order to clarify the morphology of the circulatory system of amphioxus the blood vessels were investigated using modern techniques of light and electron microscopy.The pattern of circulation in amphioxus is forward ventrally and backwards dorsally. In addition, circulating corpuscles, usually associated with the blood of higher chordates, are absent.The circulatory system of amphioxus consists of well defined contractile vessels and vascular spaces or sinuses within a connective tissue matrix. The contractile vessels have a discontinuous endothelial lining resting on a basal lamina and are enclosed by a simple layer of contractile myoepithelial cells. Discontinuous endothelial linings occur throughout the vascular tree, including major and minor afferent and efferent vessels and blood sinuses. This is in contrast to higher animals where the endothelium forms a more or less continuous lining along the inner surface of the boundary layer.It is suggested that the endothelial cells of amphioxus, like the endothelial cells in capillaries of higher chordates, most likely play a role in the physiology of the circulatory system by removing residues of filtration from the basal lamina, thereby facilitating an exchange of materials to and from the surrounding tissues.

Notes: The axillary sinus of G. variegata is formed from a perivascular lymphatic which locally invests the lateral vein. Within the sinus the wall of the vein is distended by lymphoid tissue which is itself supported by reticular fibres. Lymphocytes, reticular cells, macrophages and mast cells occur in the tissue. The overall appearance of the structure is lymph node-like. Although Cardianema sp. (Nematoda:Filarioidea) parasitised the lymphatic system of some geckos examined, the non-pathologic origin of the lymphoid tissue is indicated by its presence in both axillae of infected and uninfected geckos alike. Comparison is made with lymph nodes and node-like structures in other vertebrates.