bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anatomical, histological and histochemical observations and changes in the poll glands of the camel (Camelus dromedarius)
Authors: Singh U.B. , Bharadwaj M.B.
Published: July 2008

This study deals with the anatomical, histological and histochemical observations and the changes in the poll glands due to age, seasonal variations and castration. The male camels had two poll glands, one on either side of the mid-line of the poll region. The glands were present in the male camels at birth, while no visible glands were observed in the she-camels at any age. The weight and dimensions of the glands increased with age in the uncastrated camels, but the glands regressed after castration. The active glands were compound tubulo-alveolar glands. The tubules and alveoli were lined by simple squamous to high cuboidal epithelium depending on the secretory stages. The mild PAS-reactive apical blebs of the secretory cells were also positive for acid mucopolysaccharides and alkaline phosphatase. The myoepithelial cells around the alveoli and small ducts were PAS-negative. The intralobular ducts were lined by simple cuboidal epithelium. The stratified cuboidal epithelium lining the initial portion of the excretory duct abruptly changed into the stratified squamous epithelium which continued with the cutaneous epithelium of the skin. The ducts opened into the neck of the hair follicles above the level of the sebaceous ducts. The glands appeared to be modified apocrine sweat glands in the histological appearance. The interglandular connective tissue was reduced to thin strands during the winter months while, comparatively, in the summer months, the connective tissue increased. During the winter months of December to March the pungent coffee-coloured secretion from the glands was most profusing in those camels who were apparently in rut. The tubules and alveoli in such glands were lined by high cuboidal cells with apical blebs. During the summer months, the secretion was scanty except in severe exercises, and the glandular epithelium varied from simple squamous to low cuboidal.
Comparison of the effects of laser on the light- and dark-adapted rodent retinas
Authors: Yew David T. , Chan Yau-wa
Published: July 2008

The effects of laser irradiation on light-adapted (normal cycle) and dark-adapted rat retinas were compared. The dark-adapted retinas suffered very extensive damage following laser treatment.
Neurohistological observations on the kidney of Rattus rattus rufescens (Indian black rat) as revealed by cholinesterase technique
Authors: Purwar R.S.
Published: July 2008

The intrinsic innervation of the kidney in Rattus rattus rufescens (Indian black rat) has been studied by cholinesterase technique, under various temperatures, incubation periods and different pH values. The percentage of myelinated nerves was rather high in the medulla region, whereas the non-myelinated nerves dominated in association with the uriniferous tubules and their branches, glomerulus and renal vein in the cortex region. Periarterial AChE-positive ganglia were recorded in the medulla region. The perivenous and periglomerulus plexuses were formed by the non-myelinated nerves and their branches.
Electron-microscopic and cytophotometric studies on the abdominal pre- and paravertebral ganglia of the cat
Authors: Léránth Cs.
Published: July 2008

Electron-microscopic and cytophotometric studies of the cat abdominal pre- and paravertebral ganglia have revealed that in the prevertebral ganglion there are neurons of two distinct types. The paravertebral ganglion was found to consist of a structurally homogeneous neuronal population.
Muscle weights and succinic dehydrogenase distribution in the hind limb musculature of two rodents (Thryonomys gregorianus and Pedetes capensis) with different locomotory habits
Authors: Stickland N.C.
Published: July 2008

The hind limb muscles of the spring hare (Pedetes capensis) were found to be relatively heavier than the hind limb muscles of the cane rat (Thryonomys gregorianus). The distribution of succinic dehydrogenase activity was investigated in four of these muscles (m. gluteus superficialis, m. semimembranosus, m. biceps femoris and m.rectus femoris) from both animals. It was found that the spring hare had a higher proportion of low-activity fibres in all four muscles than the cane rat. All muscle fibre types were also smaller in diameter in the spring hare than the cane rat. These results are discussed in relation to the different locomotory habits of the two animals.
Die altersabhängige Verteilung und Aktivität von Enzymen des Stoffwechsels in der Humerusepiphyse
Authors: Fischer G.
Published: July 2008

In the chondrocytes of the humerus epiphysis and of the articular cartilage of newborn, 8-, 30-, and 60-day-old albino rats, cytochrome c oxidase, arylsulfatase and carbonate dehydratase activity was found. In the transformation zone, the column cartilage and the proximal hypertrophic cells of 30- and 60-day-old animals, cytochrome c oxidase and arylsulfatase are distinctly present. The reaction of carbonate dehydratase is most pronounced in these cell regions of 8-day-old animals. In the mineralization zone we found only small activity of the investigated enzymes. The cells of the opening zone of all age groups demonstrate an additional activity. In the articular cartilage the cytochrome c oxidase is very distinct. The carbonate dehydratase follows with variable reduction and finally the arylsulfatase with only small activity.
Sharpey fiber bone development in surgically implanted dog mandible
Authors: Kapur Shakti P. , Russell Timothy E.
Published: July 2008

Ticonium metal implant placed surgically in the previously edentulatized adult dog mandible induced the •formation of an extensive Sharpey fiber system. Sharpey’s fibers extended from the peri-implant area, deep into alveolar bone. The frequency of Sharpey’s fibers and the degree of their mineralization varied from scattered location and unmineralized state to heavy clustering and full mineralization. This study suggests that the formation of Sharpey’s fibers and the degree of their mineralization are determined by biophysical forces of pressure received at a given site.
Histological and histochemical studies on the distribution of few enzymes in the neoplastic liver of Uroloncha malabarica (Linnaeus)
Authors: Magon Vijay K.
Published: July 2008

The present work describes histological and histochemical observations made on the neoplastic liver of Indian silver bills, Uroloncha malabarica. The histology of neoplastic tissue as well as liver has been discussed. Further, a few enzymes like alkaline phosphatase, acid phosphatase, 5-nucleotides and non-specific esterase have been localized in the diseased liver. The occurrence of lymphocytoma caused a marked change in the localization of the enzymes. Sometimes total inhibition of the enzyme was encountered. Damaged sinusoid cells and bile canaliculi of the neoplasm as well as liver lobules show no reaction for alkaline phosphatase. However, its counterpart, acid phosphatase, exhibits intense activity in both neoplastic tissue and liver cells. Aggregates of neoplastic tissue give moderate 5-nucleotidase reaction while it gives poor activity in hepatic tissue of the diseased liver. Parenchymatous cells are able to give some activity for the non-specific esterase while it is very dull in the neoplastic tissue.
A quantitative assessment of post-natal development in CF rats
Authors: Padmanabhan R. , Singh Shamer
Published: July 2008

The post-natal development in CF rats from 5 litters was followed anthropometrically from the day of delivery to day 75. Weight, CR length, tail length and patello-calcaneal length of individual rats were measured every day and the rate of gain per day was calculated for each parameter. During this period, the rate of gain in weight showed two peaks (from days 26 to 30 and 56 to 60). The CR length and tail length had only one such peak (from days 16 to 20 and 21 to 25, respectively). The patello-calcaneal length rather exhibited an initial fall in the rate of growth up to day 45 followed by a slight increase till day 50 after which it became steady. Robustness as judged by CR length/3√body weight was found to be maximum in the first few days after birth. Body weight or y‰dy weight showed better correlations with other parameters than the gross age. The growth curves appeared as straight lines having breaks, indicating that though the growth was exponential it had sudden changes in its rate.
Ultrastructural evidence of thin intercapillary anastomoses in the renal glomerulus
Authors: Rovenská Emília
Published: July 2008

Electron-microscopic examination of mouse kidneys revealed in the glomeruli very thin (0.7 µm) vessels, the wall of which has the same structure as the remaining glomerular capillaries. The authoress considers them intercapillary anastomoses which were detected already previously by injection with India ink, however, the structure of their wall was not known hitherto.
Histochemistry of Complex Carbohydrates in the Skin of the Pig Snout, with Special Reference to Eccrine Glands
Authors: Tsukise Azuma , Meyer Wilfried , Schwarz Rudolf
Published: July 2008

The histochemistry of carbohydrates has been studied in the skin of the pig snout with selected methods of light microscopy including peroxidase-labelled lectin-diaminobenzidine (PO-LT-DAB) procedures. In the snout skin the dark secretory cells and the luminal secretion of the eccrine glands contained considerable amounts of neutral glycoproteins, but only a very small amount of acidic ones. It was possible to demonstrate glycogen in the secretory cells of these glands. The other skin structures of the snout also showed positive reactions for complex carbohydrates. Most remarkable were stronger reactions of intercellular substances among the spinosum cells, particularly following the PO-LT-DAB procedures, which demonstrated such saccharide residues as β-D-galactose and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine.
Prolactin Secretion in Normal Male Mice during a Circadian Period
Authors: Gómez Dumm César L.A. , Souto Marta , Estivariz Fernando E. , Moreno Félix R.
Published: July 2008

A quantitative ultrastructural study on the prolactin (PRL) cells of normal male mice was correlated with serum PRL immunoassay determination at different times in a circadian period. Significant time fluctuations in the percentages of cytoplasmic volume occupied by most of the organelles, as well as cyclic variations in serum PRL concentrations were detected. The endoplasmic reticulum appeared more developed at the beginning of the light period, suggesting a higher synthesis of PRL at this time. The evaluation of the Golgi complex and the secretory granules would indicate that packaging of secretory material and storing of PRL granules ccurred mainly during the second half of the light period. This coincided with the lowest values in serum PRL concentration and an increment in mitochondrial mass. The highest emiocytotic activity together with a diminution of total secretory granules were found during the dark period. The peak of PRL serum concentration was also present in this phase, but some hours later. Evaluation of microtubules and lysosomes gave some additional information. The results are in keeping with those from some biochemical investigations performed in mice and rats, but are not in agreement with others. The importance of a morphometric approach to evaluate and corroborate the immunoassay methods in the study of cyclic hormone secretion is emphasized.
Source of the Colours Produced in Tissue Slices with the MBTH Reaction Colour Sources
Authors: Horvath A. , Gonzalez E. , Farias G. , Cabrera R. , Parraguez O. , Vial E.
Published: July 2008

The various colours produced by the MBTH reaction in collagen fibres of frozen tissue slices are caused not only by free aldehyde groups but also by cross-links up to the desmosin stage. The evidence is based on the colours produced by chemical models of the cross-links.
An Autoradiographic Study of the Distribution of Fibers from the Dorsal Motor Nucleus of the Vagus to the Digestive Tube of the Rat
Authors: Connors Natalie A. , Sullivan James M. , Kubb Karen S.
Published: July 2008

At the present time, complete agreement on the origin and course of parasympathetic preganglionic fibers to the alimentary canal has not been reached. The purpose of this study was to trace vagal fibers to the abdominal cavity and to follow the distribution of these fibers to the digestive tube. The technique used was to label neurons in the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (DMX) with 3H-leucine and then to follow the orthograde transport. 16 albino rats were used in this experiment. The right DMX in one group of rats and the left DMX in the other group was injected with 25 μCi of 3H-leucine in three injections. The injection sites and tissue sections from various areas of the digestive tube were processed for autoradiography. A heavy label was observed in the injection site and it could be traced down the vagus nerve through the thorax into the abdomen. Labelled vagal fibers were found in the parasympathetic ganglia of the stomach, small intestine and colon.
Origin of Autonomic Nerve Fibers Innervating the Parathyroid Gland in the Rabbit
Authors: Shoumura Shizuko , Iwasaki Yuji , Ishizaki Noriko , Emura Shoichi , Hayashi Kazuko , Yamahira Tomo , Shoumura Kazuhiko , Isono Hideo
Published: July 2008

The cells of origin of nerve fibers innervating the parathyroid gland were studied in the rabbit using the HRP-retrograde transport method. Numerous labeled neurons were observed in the caudal half of the ipsilateral superior cervical ganglion following HRP injection into the parathyroid gland. Furthermore, in the medulla oblongata, labeled neurons were found in the dorsal nucleus of the vagus and many of them were distributed caudal to the level of the obex.
Semiquantitative Analysis of Rabbit Knee Articular Surfaces Based on Stereomicroscopic Examination of the Cartilage
Authors: Helminen H.J. , Jurvelin J. , Kuusela Tarja , Heikkilä Riitta , Kiviranta I. , Tammi M.
Published: July 2008

A semiquantitative stereomicroscopic method was devised in order to examine rabbit knee articular surfaces. With the aid of a drawing tube mounted on a stereomicroscope, enlarged pictures (magnification of × 14–19) of ink-stained or SEM specimens of joint surfaces were drawn and the structural details classified. The point-counting method or a computer-coupled analyzer was used to analyze the pictures. The data thus obtained underwent statistical evaluation. The method proved to be very useful for the quantitation of experimentally induced changes on cartilage surfaces.
Development of Muscles in the Dorsal Foreleg of Rat Embryos. A Light Microscopic Study with the in situ Cholinesterase Staining Technique
Authors: Bogusch G.
Published: July 2008

The development of muscles from the dorsal side of the forelegs from 13- to 21-day-old rat embryos was investigated under a light microscope. The muscle blastemata and individual muscles were stained in situ with the cholinesterase technique. The first muscle blastemata are visible on the early day 13. It appears that mainly myotubes are stained. The antebrachial and brachial extensor muscles form separated anlagen which connect on the late day 13 in the proximal region of the extensor carpi ulnaris muscle. The individualization of the muscles in a muscle blastema takes place on days 13 and 14. On day 15 all extensor muscles are visible. However, at this time the inserting points of some of these muscles are not yet visible after staining with alcian blue. On the early day 16 the motor end-plates are conspicuous. Due to the content of unspecific cholinesterase in rat embryos the tendons are also stained on day 16. Muscles and tendons remain stainable until birth. In addition to the muscles also the nerves, especially the epifascial nerves, stain very well with the acetylcholinesterase reaction.
The Mesencephalic Root Fibers of the Trigeminal Nerve in the Dog
Authors: Ryu Keiko , Watanabe Kazuo , Kawana Etsuro
Published: July 2008

The trigeminal nerve has motor, intermediate and sensory roots in the dog. The motor root is composed of two bundles: the medial and ventral. The ventral motor root emerges from the pons, forming the common root with the sensory, and then is separated from it to run along with the medial motor root which separately exits from the pons as the ordinary motor root. The mesencephalic root fibers of the trigeminal nerve are investigated in the dog, using the myelin sheath degeneration technique. Degenerated fibers are observed numerously in the ventral motor root and moderately in the medial motor root, and are traced to the mandibular branch of the trigeminal nerve. Some degenerated fibers are observed in the sensory root and they seem to pass through the Gasserian ganglion to enter the ophthalamic and maxillary branches. No degenerated fibers are found in the intermediate root.
Crystal Growth in Matrix Vesicles of Permanent Tooth Germs in Kittens
Authors: Hayashi Y.
Published: July 2008

entionogenesis of permanent tooth germs in kittens was examined in a transmission electron microscope. Crystals of various sizes (3–30 Å in width) appeared in the matrix vesicles. Electron diffractional features revealed that crystal size in electron micrographs reflected various stages of crystal growth. Pairs of small crystals and dislocated crystals were observed in some crystal-containing matrix vesicles. However, these matrix vesicles were not observed in unmineralized matrix just adjacent to calcifying fronts and in mineralized dentin. Furthermore, long crystals were abundant in mature dentin. These findings suggest that crystal growth in matrix vesicles is due to fusion and that dentin maturation progresses through crystal growth along the long axis.
Three-Dimensional Measurements of the Occlusal Surface of Upper First Molars in a Modern Japanese Population
Authors: Kanazawa Eisaku , Sekikawa Mitsuo , Ozaki Tadashi
Published: July 2008

Moiré photographs of the occlusal surface of first molars of Japanese children were taken by means of a specially designed moiré contourograph apparatus. They were then used for three-dimensional measurements. The heights of 4 cusps and some other points were measured by counting contour lines. Distances and angles between them were also measured. Sex differences of these measurements are found mainly around the metacone and hypocone. There is no clear correlation of the four cuspidal heights to the distances between them.
Spermatogenesis in the Non-Scrotal Bat–Rhinopoma kinneari Wroughton (Microchiroptera: Mammalia)
Authors: Singwi M.S. , Lall S.B.
Published: July 2008

Spermatogenesis in the non-scrotal, insectivorous microchiropteran, Rhinopoma kinneari Wroughton, is a cyclic phenomenon. It comprises (i) eleven cell associations, and (ii) 16 evolutive steps in spermiogenesis. In the seminiferous epithelium, spermatogonia of the A, intermediate (In), and B type are characteristically present. Leptotene, pachytene and diakinesis stages were easily discerned in dividing spermatocytes. During the 16-step spermiogenesis, the acrosomic system develops through the Golgi, cap, acrosome and maturation phases. The relative frequency of various cell associations differs markedly and is significantly at variance with other mammalian species. Fully formed spermatozoa are dimorphic with conical or blunt heads.
Localization of Alkaline Phosphatase and NADH Diaphorase in the Principal Cells of the Guinea Pig Epididymis
Authors: Adams C.S.
Published: July 2008

The activities of alkaline phosphatase and reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) diaphorase in the principal cells of the guinea pig epididymis were studied histochemically. Alkaline phosphatase activity was absent from the principal cells but was present in the basement membrane of the epididymal epithelium. NADH diaphorase activity was distributed throughout the cytoplasm of the principal cells in each epididymal segment. There was a gradual increase in NADH diaphorase activity from segments 1 through 7. Possible functions of alkaline phosphatase and NADH diaphorase in the epididymis are discussed.
Zum Ossifikationsprinzip des Kehlkopfskelets von Mensch und Säugetieren
Authors: von Glass Wolfgang , Pesch Hans-Jürgen
Published: July 2008

In 3 oxen, 24 deer, 40 common hares and 27 rabbits, the laryngeal cartilages, freed from soft tissue, were examined roentgenologically for ossification, and compared with the well-known ossification pattern of the human thyroid cartilage. In the human, the thyroid cartilage ossifies in four preferential directions: horizontal-caudal, vertical-lateral, vertical-median, and obliquely tongue-shaped; in cattle ossification is in three directions: horizontal-caudal, vertical-median, and vertical-lateral; and in the deer in two directions: median-concentric and vertical-lateral. The cricoid cartilage in cattle and deer ossifies at the lamina and the upper border of the arch, the arytenoid cartilages ossify at the muscular process. In the common hare the thyroid cartilage ossifies only rarely, the other cartilages, in common with the entire laryngeal skeleton of the rabbit, never. The cause of ossification of the laryngeal cartilages is their deformation by the muscles of the larynx. The differences in the ossification patterns in humans, cattle and deer are due to the species-specific mechanical stress determined by the respective anatomy. The absence of ossification in the common hare and rabbit, on the other hand, is an expression of too small a deformational stress of their laryngeal skeleton. Ossification and nonossification are examples of the same principle, the self-regulating adaptation of connective and supportive tissues to mechanical stresses.
A Time-Dependent Distribution Pattern of Ploidy Classes in Adult Rat Liver Parenchyma
Authors: Bhattacharya Radium Dalwadi , Van Noorden Cornells J.F. , James Jan
Published: July 2008

The distribution pattern of rat liver parenchymal cells of different ploidy classes has been investigated with isolated liver cell preparations on four different time points of the day. The percentage distribution of different ploidy populations was found to fluctuate along the activity-rest cycle of the animals. The mononuclear tetraploid (MT) cell population showed the strongest time-dependent distribution pattern with a 10% variation around the 24 h mean, the variations in the binuclear diploid (BD) cells being somewhat less obvious, but clearly present. The mononuclear diploid cells and the binuclear tetraploid cells occurred in a virtually constant percentage. An inverse correlationship was noted between MT and BD cells, the increase in the number of MT cells being accompanied by a decrease in the number of BD cells. This interdependency in the presence of the two cell types can be related to their relationship in the process of formation.
Pronase Reduces Intramembranous Particle Density in Uterine Epithelial Cells in vivo
Authors: Murphy C.R. , Swift J.G.
Published: July 2008

The proteolytic enzyme, pronase, was injected into the uterine lumen of rats. This treatment removed half the intramembranous particles (IMPs) from the apical plasma membrane of the uterine epithelial cells but tight junctions of these cells were unaffected. We conclude that at least some of the IMPs are proteinaceous in nature and suggest that IMPs not affected by pronase may be deeply embedded in the lipid bilayer.
Regionale Unterschiede der numerischen Purkinje-Zell-Dichte in Kleinhirnen von Albinoratten zweier Stämme
Authors: Heinsen Y.L. , Heinsen H.
Published: July 2008

The total number and the number of Purkinje cells per square millimeter of the surface of the cerebellar granular layer were measured in albino rats from two strains: Chbb-THOM-Wist and Han: SPRD. The total number of the Purkinje cells in the cerebellar vermian lobules L I and L X with the exception of cells in the lobules VIb + c did not differ significantly. Statistically significant differences were found between the individuals of the two rat strains and within single lobules of the cerebella concerning the cell density of Purkinje cells per square millimeter surface of the granular layer. The results suggest heterogeneity of the cerebellar cortex between cerebellar lobules and between albino rats derived from different strains.
Postnatal Development of the Thyroid Gland in the Opossum (Didelphis virginiana)
Authors: Krause W.J. , Cutts J.H.
Published: July 2008

Thyroid lobes of the newborn opossum consist of small epithelial cords or plates, the constitutent cells of which are joined by tight junctions and surround a minute lumen that courses throughout the length of each cord. Occasional cells, not directly associated with the lumina of the cords, show central nuclei and clusters of small electron-dense granules: these may represent parafollicular cells at an early state of development. By the end of the 1st week after birth, parafollicular cells are well established and appear as groups between the epithelial cords and as scattered individual cells within the cords. Growth of the thyroid occurs as the cords continue to elongate and branch. 11 days after birth, thyroid development in the opossum corresponds morphologically to that of eutherians just prior to birth. Primary follicles are present near the periphery of the thyroid lobes, having formed from evaginations of the epithelial cords. There is evidence of synthetic activity by the epithelial cells and colloid is present. Secondary follicles form as a result of evaginations from the epithelium of the primary follicles. At the end of the 2nd postnatal week, epithelial cords are no longer a prominent feature of the opossum thyroid, and the organ is now characterized by numerous, small colloid-filled follicles. As development progresses, the follicles increase in size and number and, by 35 days after birth, the thyroid shows adult features.
Cholinergic Innervation of the Human Pulmonary Circulation
Authors: Amenta Francesco , Cavallotti Carlo , Ferrante Fabio , Tonelli Francesco
Published: July 2008

The cholinergic innervation of the pulmonary circulation was studied in man. Both extra- and intrapulmonary branches of the pulmonary artery and vein are provided with a cholinergic of the vein. In the main branches of the pulmonary vessels, the existence of two nerve plexuses, a superficial and a deep one, was observed. The superficial plexus is localized in the outer adventitial layer while the deeper plexus is localized in the adventitial-medial transitional zone. In smaller arteries and veins, the existence of a single plexus (adventitial-medial) was observed. In some specimens, the presence of diffuse masses of acetylcholinesterase (AChE)-positive material or elbow-shaped AChE-positive formations was observed. The nature of these formations as well as the possible functional role of a cholinergic system in the pulmonary circulation are discussed.
Microstereological and Histochemical Studies of the Salivary Glands of the Giant Rat (Cricetomys gambianus, Waterhouse)
Authors: Asojo T.A. , Aire T.A.
Published: July 2008

The histology and histochemistry of the parotid, submandibular and sublingual glands were studied. The submandibular gland contained only serous acini as in the guinea pig, but unlike in many other mammals. The parotid gland contained only serous acini while the sublingual gland was mixed, mucous acini being the predominant secretory tissue interspersed by a few serous acini. Serous demilunes also commonly formed caps on the mucous acini. The ducts of the gland contributed over 30% of the volume of the submandibular gland, while those of the parotid and sublingual glands formed about 12 and 10% of the gland, respectively. The secretions of the parotid gland, as judged by histochemical methods, contained neutral mucins and some sialomucins. Neutral mucins, sulphomucins and sialomucins were detected in both the submandibular gland and sublingual gland.
The Ultrastructure of the Sinu-Atrial Node of the Bat
Authors: Laskowski Michael B. , D’Agrosa Louis S.
Published: July 2008

The sinu-atrial node (SAN) of the bat, Pipistrellus subflavus, is capable of generating a wide range of spontaneous activity varying from 20 bpm when hibernating to bursts of 800 bpm during active flight. Electrophysiological studies have shown an absence of arrhythmias even below 4°C body temperature. In order to determine whether these physiological capabilities are based upon unique ultrastructural features of the bat SAN, the present study was conducted. We found that the structure of the SAN of the bat is typically mammalian. Diameters of all three cell types in the SAN (nodal, transitional, and atrial) are smaller than those observed in any other mammalian species. A morphometric analysis of cell junctions reveals that nodal-nodal and transitional-transitional cell contacts are primarily undifferentiated with few nexuses. Atrial-atrial cell contacts have a dominance of fasciae adherentes-type junctions with a small area left undifferentiated. Nexuses are much more prevalent in atrial-atrial cell contacts.
Ultrastructural Features and Acetylcholinesterase Histochemistry of the Rat Habenular Complex
Authors: Villani L. , Contestabile A. , Niso R.
Published: July 2008

The ultrastructural features and the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) localization of the rat habenula have been studied. On the basis of different morphology and AChE content, it is suggested that at least two types of neurons are present in the medial habenula (MHb) and three types of neurons in the lateral habenula (LHb). In particular, actively AChE-synthesizing neurons have been noticed in both LHb and MHb. Some unusual ultrastructural arrangements of the endoplasmic reticulum have been described in habenular neurons. Finally, the most common types of synaptic contacts present in the habenular complex have been surveyed.
Mitotic Activity and its 24-Hour Rhythm in the Rat Pineal Gland
Authors: Reuber H. , Vollrath L.
Published: July 2008

Previous studies have yielded equivocal results concerning the 24-hour rhythmicity of mitotic activity in the rat pineal. The aim of the present study was to re-investigate this problem by carrying out three separate 24-hour experiments on alternate days. The results obtained confirm previous findings showing that in the pineal gland of adults mitotic activity is low. On average 22.3 mitotic figures of pinealocytes are seen per pineal gland, corresponding to a mitotic index of 0.2–0.6/1,000 pinealocytes. Mitotic activity is distinctly higher at daytime than at night. The timing of the peaks and troughs differs slightly from experiment to experiment. The majority of observations now indicate that in the rat pineal gland mitotic activity is higher at day time than at night.
Changes with Age in the Number and Size of Myelinated Axons in the Rat L4 Dorsal Spinal Root
Authors: Rao Rupanagudi S. , Krinke G.
Published: July 2008

The number and size of myelinated axons in the L4 dorsal spinal root were determined in young rats and compared to those in the adult (older than 1 year) and in the old rats (older than 2 years). While the total number of myelinated axons was about the same at all ages, the average overall axon diameter showed a growth-related increase in adult animals, followed by a decrease reflecting senile atrophy in old rats. It is suggested that in aging laboratory rats the extent of axon shrinkage could account for the occurrence of secondary radicular demyelination.
Morphological Observations of the Fetal Rat Spleen during Prolonged Gestation
Authors: Thliveris James A. , Petriuk Daniela , Anderson Judy E. , Faridy Edmund E.
Published: July 2008

The ultrastructure of splenic cells and frequency of cell types were examined in fetal rats during progesterone-induced (P23, 24, 25) and surgically-induced (S23, 24, 25) prolonged gestation, and compared to term (T) fetuses and newborn animals (N1 N2, N3). Statistical analysis revealed an increase in numbers of erythroblasts and a decrease in numbers of neutrophils in post-term fetuses distinct from that seen in term and newborn animals. However, there were also significant differences between the post-term groups: the frequency of erythrocytes and total number of cells were higher in the drug-treated group, despite similar splenic weights in the two. The results are interpreted as a response by the spleen (increased erythropoiesis) to fetal hypoxia, which is known to exist during prolonged gestation.
Assemblies of Intramembranous Particles in Astrocytoma: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Cuevas P. , Gutierrez Diaz J.A. , Reimers D.
Published: July 2008

A human astrocytoma has been studied with the freeze-fracture technique. The astrocytic membrane presents many assemblies formed by aggregations of intramembranous particles (5.8–7.8 nm in diameter) in P-face arranged in a square, and complementary pit assemblies in E-face. In the interastrocytic gap junctions the connexions are packed in a crystalline array.
Fate of the Juxtaglomerular Complex after Ischemic Injury
Authors: Mujović Spomenka
Published: July 2008

The juxtaglomerular (JG) complex was studied at different times after 90 min of warm kidney ischemia: 2 h, 24 h, 3 days, 10 and 30 days following the ischemia. The ischemic injury was performed on the left kidney, under two experimental conditons: with and without previous nephrectomy of the contralateral nonischmic kidney. The activity of the JG complex was evaluated by assessing the JG index and by determination of plasma renin activity. Results show that, under given experimental conditions, fate of the particular JG complex depends on the fate of its own nephron. In the presence of the contralateral intact kidney most nephrons of the ischemic kidney underwent gradual degeneration and their JG complexes degenerated too. When ischemic kidney was the sole kidney, the majority of nephron units regenerated and their JG complexes recovered both morphologically and functionally.
Das Trigonum sternocostale und seine Beziehung zu den Blutgefässen der vorderen Bauchwand
Authors: Sehovic S. , Van Der Zypen E.
Published: July 2008

Great divergences concerning the significance of the sternocostal triangle exist in the numerous, mainly German textbooks of the macroscopic anatomy. Some authors believe that it is a muscular fissure through which the internal thoracic artery passes; others are of the opinion that the superior epigastric artery passes through Larrey’s cleft. Our own investigations confirm the opinion of a minority of authors according to whom the sternocostal triangle does not have any relationship to any vessels at all. The transversus thoracis muscle and the transversus abdominis muscle form a continuous plate, which we have termed transversus trunci muscle. The internal thoracic artery and vein pass ventrally to this muscle plate. At the level of the 6th rib, the internal thoracic artery bifurcates into its two end-branches. The stronger end-branch, the superior epigastric artery runs downwards on top of the transversus trunci muscle and then becomes sandwiched between this plate and the rectus abdominis muscle at the level of the 7th rib.
Fluorescence Microscopic Study of the Architecture and Structure of an Adrenergic Network in the Plexus myentericus (Auerbach), Plexus submucosus externus (Schabadasch) and Plexus submucosus internus (Meissner) of the Porcine Small Intestine
Authors: Scheuermann Dietrich W. , Stach Werner
Published: July 2008

The distribution of adrenergic fibres in the ganglionated plexuses of the porcine small intestine has been made on air-dried stretch preparations using the glyoxylic acid fluorescence method. Adrenergic fluorescent fibres occur in the ganglia and internodal strands of the three fundamental ganglionated plexuses: the myenteric plexus (Auerbach) and the two superimposed meshworks of the plexus submucosus, i.e. the plexus submucosus externus (Schabadasch) and the plexus submucosus internus (Meissner). The plexus Auerbach consists of densely glyoxylic acid induced fluorescent (GIF) elongated ganglia with in general a longitudinal axis running parallel to the circular muscle layer and large dense interconnecting fibre tracts with primary, secondary and tertiary subdivisions. In the ganglia, the fibres are varicose, forming large fluorescent ‘baskets’ which might be related to the occurrence of well defined enteric neurones. The plexus Schabadasch can be distinguished from the plexus Meissner by its size, strongly fluorescent ganglia and broad densely fluorescent internodal strands. The pattern of fluorescing ring-like formations at the margin and out of the nodes, clearly present in the Auerbach and Schabadasch plexuses, completely lack in the plexus Meissner, the latter being narrow-meshed with smaller fluorescent ‘baskets’, indicating that the corresponding neurones are smaller in size. In the ganglionic nodes of all three plexuses the axons display comparatively more varicosities than in the fibre tracts. Each of the three main ganglionated enteric plexuses are quite different with regard to the pattern of the adrenergic network both in the ganglia and in the strands.
The Geometry of the Cruciate Ligaments in the Canine and Equine Knee Joint, a Tchebychev Mechanism
Authors: Badoux D.M.
Published: July 2008

The ratio between the length of the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments and the distance between their femoral and tibial attachments in the canine and equine knee joint reveals that these structures form a Tchebychev mechanism for parallel motion.
Smooth Muscle Cell Herniation in the Contracted Arterial Wall of Spontaneously Hypertensive and Normotensive Rats
Authors: Lee Robert M.K.W. , Garfield R.E. , Forrest J.B. , Daniel E.E.
Published: July 2008

Structural changes of blood vessels from hypertensive animals during contraction were studied using light and transmission microscopy. In the arteries, maximally contracted with norepinephrine, vacuoles were found in the media of three categories of mesenteric arteries from two age groups (10–12, 28–30 weeks) of spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) and age-matched normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. These vacuoles were related to contraction of the smooth muscle cells involving shape change, as they were absent in relaxed vessel walls, and also in muscles that underwent isometric contraction. In the SHR, the number of vacuoles/1,000 μm2 of media was positively correlated with the degree of contraction of the vessels. Electron microscopic examination of these vacuoles showed that they were the result of herniation (or evagination) of smooth muscle cells into the intercellular space as well as into the neighbouring cells. When the number of herniae per unit cross-sectional area of the contracted media was used as the basis for comparison between SHR and WKY, we found no difference between the two strains of rats at 10–12 weeks of age. At 28–30 weeks, however, the number of herniae was significantly lower in the SHR as compared with age-matched WKY and younger SHR, suggesting that functional changes, probably related to the physical property of the plasma membrane in the smooth muscle cells, have taken place in older SHR.
Light and Electron Microscopic Studies on the Cytological Changes in the Rat Pancreatic Islets Induced by Sodium Diethyl Dithiocarbamate (DEDTC) Administration
Authors: Nakamura Mitsuo , Fujimori Osamu , Shimada Tatsuo , Kitamura Hirokazu
Published: July 2008

The effect of sodium diethyl dithiocarbamate (DEDTC) administration upon the structure of the pancreatic islet cells has been examined in the rat. In light microscopy, the aldehyde fuchsin stainability of the B cell granules was found to increase notably at 6 h and thereafter following the medication. In electron microscopy, the B cell granules with a porous core were shown to predominate over those with a homogeneous core containing paracrystalline structures between 30 min and 3 h following the medication. Between 6 and 12 h following medication, occasional B cells were seen to be provided with large secretory granules with a porous core. The results of the present study have been discussed with special reference to the chelating action of DEDTC.
Formation of Cytoplasm-Containing Vesicles from Double-Walled Coated Invaginations Containing Oligodendrocytic Cytoplasm at the Axon-Myelin Sheath Interface in Adult Mammalian Central Nervous System
Authors: Novotny G.E.K.
Published: July 2008

Double-walled coated invaginations (DWCIs) of the axolemma, containing oligodendroglial cytoplasm and presumably giving rise to double-walled coated vesicles (DWCVs), are observed in the central nervous system (CNS) of adult monkey and mouse. By means of serial sections, DWCIs are clearly distinguishable from the also observable adaxonal invaginations of oligodendroglial cytoplasm. DWCIs range in diameter from 60 to 190 nm with a circular or oval cross section. Their incidence in different regions of the CNS has been determined and evidence is adduced that DWCIs occur randomly along the axolemma.
Cytoarchitecture of the Periaqueductal Gray Matter in the Cat: A Quantitative Nissl Study
Authors: Gioia M. , Bianchi R. , Tredici G.
Published: July 2008

We studied the periaqueductal gray matter (PAG) in cresyl-violet-stained serial sections from 5 cats applying quantitative determinations. No significant variations were observed in the cytological aspects in the various sites examined (lateral, ventral and dorsal regions, and external and internal portions). The neuronal density was constant in the different regions, but showed a gradual and significant increase in the most external regions of the PAG. Our findings do not, therefore, confirm the existence in the PAG of subnuclei with a specific cytoarchitecture; this does not, however, rule out the possibility that there are specific regions for connections, histochemical properties or functions.
Correlation between Immunodifferentiation and Histodifferentiation in Presumptive Lens Ectoderm of the Chick in vitro
Authors: Rahmani Tahereh M.-Z.
Published: July 2008

The ability of stage-4–9 chick presumptive lens ectoderm to undergo nervous tissue or lens differentiation was studied in vitro. The tissue was cultured alone or co-cultured with alcohol-killed primitive node or optic cup as inducer. Immunofluorescence was studied on paraffin-wax preparations, which were then studied histologically. An attempt was made to correlate immunological and histological differentiation. The presumptive lens ectoderm differentiated both nervous tissue and lens structures in all stages, regardless of the presence or absence of an inducer. The outcome, however, was improved when an inducer was included. The inducers were not qualitatively specific. The stage-4 ectoderm proved to be more apt than older stages to differentiate nervous tissue and form neural tube-like structures. In the former stage, lens differentiation occurred with less readiness. Older stages differentiated lens structures readily and also showed immunological signs of nervous tissue differentiation. No indication of histological differentiation, however, was apparent and no neural tube-like structures formed.
Transmission and Scanning Electron Microscopic Studies of Human Sperm Heads Extracted with 8 M Urea, 1% Mercaptoethanol and Different Concentrations of Salt
Authors: Sobhon Prasert , Tanphaichitr Nongnuj , Patilantakarnkool Malinee
Published: July 2008

Transmission (TEM) and scanning (SEM) electron microscopic studies were performed on the human sperm heads extracted with (a) 1% Triton X-100, 1% mercaptoethanol (ME) and (b) 8 M urea, 1% ME together with increasing concentrations of NaCl ranging from 0.2 to 0.6 M. In the TEM study, the extraction of the nuclear material was first observed when the heads were treated with 8 M urea and 1% ME, with the majority of the chromatin remaining as 400–550 Å thick interconnecting cords and oval bodies. At 0.2 M NaCl the cords and bodies were further separated but linked together by extremely thin 20–50 A fibers. Between 0.3 and 0.5 M NaCl the chromatin bodies within the sperm heads began to be extracted, first at the central part and progressively towards the periphery. Finally, at 0.6 M NaCl only the chromatin cords forming the periphery of the heads remained. In the SEM study, the sperm heads remained unbroken up to the treatment with 8 M urea, 1% ME and 0.2 M NaCl. Between 0.3 M and 0.5 M NaCl the majority of heads were disrupted to form interlacing chromatin cords of 400–550Å thick while the unbroken heads exhibited surface with cross-weaving cords. At 0.6 M NaCl all heads were disrupted and the remaining chromatin existed mostly as exoskeleton of former sperm heads. Protein gel electrophoresis showed that histones and nonhistones were removed from the chromatin when the treatment reached 0.2 M NaCl, whereas protamines started to be removed at 0.3 M, and totally removed at 0.6 M NaCl; HP1 was the first protamine fraction to be extracted. It is concluded that the thick cords are nucleoprotamines laced together by nucleohistone fibers; and that the cords forming the peripheral exoskeleton are sturdier than those in the interior of the sperm heads.
An analysis of the relative effects of VKORC1 and CYP2C9 variants on anticoagulation related outcomes in warfarin-treated patients
Authors: Meckley Lisa M. , Wittkowsky Ann K. , Rieder Mark J. , Rettie Allan E. , Veenstra David L.
Published: July 2008

The objective of this study was to assess the relative influence of VKORC1 and CYP2C9 genetic variants on several clinical outcomes related to warfarin treatment. We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of 172 anticoagulation clinic patients followed from warfarin initiation. We assessed the following clinical outcomes: time to stable dose; time in, above, and below therapeutic range; the probability of overanticoagulation (international normalized ratio [INR] >5); frequency of anticoagulation clinic visits; and the contribution of genetics to maintenance dose. Patients with CYP2C9 variants, compared to those without, achieved stable dose 48% later (p<0.01),spent a higher proportion of time above range in the first month of therapy (14% vs. 25%, p=0.07), and had a higher odds ratio (OR) of an INR >5 (OR: 4.15, p=0.03). In contrast, the only statistically significant effect withVKORC1 was a higher odds of an INR >5 (OR: 4.47,p=0.03) for patients homozygous for theVKORC1 low-dose haplotype (AA) compared to heterozygotes. We did not detect an influence of CYP2C9 norVKORC1 on the frequency of clinic visits. CYP2C9 alone,VKORC1 alone, and a combination of genetic and clinical factors explained 12%, 27%, and 50%,respectively, of the variation in warfarin maintenance dose. In conclusion, genetic variation in VKORC1 appears to have a different influence than CYP2C9 on anticoagulation-related outcomes such as bleeding events and time in therapeutic range. This difference may be due, in part, to pharmacokinetics factors (e.g. drug half-life), which are influenced primarily by CYP2C9; these findings should be confirmed in additional studies.