bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intrinsic Innervation of the Rat Knee Joint Articular Capsule and Ligaments
Authors: Marinozzi G. , Ferrante F. , Gaudio E. , Ricci A. , Amenta F.
Published: July 2008

In spite of the practical importance of having a detailed knowledge of knee joint innervation to understand the pathophysiologic aspects, little information is now available concerning the density and pattern of the nerve fibres which are distributed to it. The present study has been designed to investigate the density and distribution of nerve fibres and receptor corpuscles in the knee joint articular capsule, cruciate and collateral ligaments in the rat, using the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) histochemical in toto staining technique. The investigation was performed on male Wistar rats of 3 months of age some of which had been treated with capsaicin to deplete their afferent ‘C fibres of their content of neuropeptides. AChE-positive nerve fibres and different types of receptor corpuscle endings were found within articular capsule and ligaments. The highest density of AChE-positive nerve fibres was noticeable in the fibular collateral ligament followed by the tibial collateral ligament, the posterior cruciate ligament, the anterior cruciate ligament and the articular capsule. In the articular capsule the number of type I endings was higher than in the ligaments. The opposite is true for the other type of receptor corpuscles found as well as for nerve endings. Capsaicin treatment significantly reduced the density of AChE-positive nerve fibres in knee joint ligaments but did not affect nerve fibres in the articular capsule. Moreover, it caused the disappearance of some kind of receptor corpuscles within the collateral and cruciate ligaments. The above data collectively suggest that the AChE in toto staining technique may represent a good method for investigating joint innervation and that a significant percentage of nerve fibres supplying knee joint ligaments is represented by C fibre afferents.
Compartmentalized Mast Cell Degranulations in the Ovarian Hilum, Fat Pad, Bursa and Blood Vessel Regions of the Cyclic Hamster: Relationships to Ovarian Histamine and Blood Flow
Authors: Krishna A. , Terranova P.F.
Published: July 2008

Ovaries from hamsters on each day of the oestrous cycle at 09.00 h were observed for the number of mast cells, the pattern of mast cell degranulation, histamine concentration and blood flow. On day 4 (pro-oestrus), ovaries were also observed at 9.00,15.00 and 21.00 h. Mast cell degranulation was evaluated by 3 criteria: (1) no degranulation = less than 5 granules dispersed from the cell; (2) moderate degranulation = 5 or more granules dispersed but less than 15, and (3) extensive degranulation = 15 or more granules released. Blood flow was determined using radio-active microspheres in anaesthetized animals. Mast cells were observed in fat pad (beyond 2 mm of the bursal mesothelium) bursa (within 2 mm of the bursal mesothelium), hilum and near ovarian blood vessels (these 4 regions are collectively called the ovarian complex). The distribution of ovarian mast cells was not uniform. Most mast cells were near ovarian blood vessels (42.2%) and in the fat pad (37.2%). A moderate number of cells were in the bursal wall (20%) and only a few cells were observed in the hilum (0.64%). Mast cell number remained unchanged on days 1–4 of the cycle in each ovarian compartment. However, summation of the number of mast cells in the entire ovarian complex revealed a significant decline in number at 15.00 h on pro-oestrus. Alterations in mast cell degranulation were primarily restricted to 2 periods of the cycle (pro-oestrus and di-oestrus). An increase in moderate but not extensive degranulation was observed in only the fat pad and bursa on day 2 when compared with day 1 values. In most ovarian compartments on pro-oestrus, degranulation was higher than on any other day of the cycle. At 15.00 h on pro-oestrus extensive degranulation in bursa fat pad and blood vessel regions (but not hilum) coincided with an increase in ovarian histamine and decline in number of mast cells; ovarian blood flow also increased at that time but remained unchanged the remainder of the cycle. The results indicate that significant mast cell degranulation could occur on days other than pro-oestrus, although on pro-oestrus mast cell degranulation was increased, that not all ovarian compartments exhibit the same pattern of mast cell degranulation and that changes in ovarian blood may correlate with increased histamine and mast cell degranulation on pro-oestrus but not necessarily on other days of the cycle.
Relationship between the Cartilage Canal and the Perichondrium in the Rat Proximal Tibial Epiphysis
Authors: Delgado-Baeza E. , Giménez-Ribotta M. , Miralles-Flores C. , Nieto-Chaguaceda A. , Alvarez Santos
Published: July 2008

One of the most widespread hypotheses for chondral canal morphogenesis suggests that the canal is an extension of the perichondrium. To study the possible relation between perichondrium and chondral canal morphology, the proximal epiphyses in the tibias of 42 rats were studied from birth to their 29th day. The study was divided into three periods: from birth to the 4th day before canal appearance; from the 5th day, the moment of canal appearance, until the appearance of the secondary ossification center of the epiphysis on the 9th day; the 3rd ran from this point on the 10th day until its full development. We have also divided the canal into three regions: entrance, neck and bottom. The central portion (lumen) and canal wall were analyzed in each region. Our results show the perichondrium to be a complex structure, composed of a series of cellular layers in a biphasic extracellular matrix (eosinophil and basophil). The canal walls are lined by a layer of elongated cells. In the lumen there are many different cell types: fibroblasts, histiocytes, multinuclear giant cells and multivacuolated cells. Our study of the canal, its walls and lumen show no morphological structure that is reminiscent of the perichondrium. These results suggest that the canal is not itself a continuation of the perichondrium.
Location of Zn in the Testicle of the Rat
Authors: Vera-Gil A. , Pérez M.C. , Castejón C. , Barred M.J. , Recreo P. , Castejón Pérez
Published: July 2008

We studied the location of Zn in the testicle of theWistar rat using the Timm histochemical technique, autoradiography with 65Zn and the dynamic pathway of 65Zn in the organ. Locations of Zn in several cellular components of the spermatogenic chain and in the Leydig cells were observed. This location was proved statistically by a quantitative analysis of the autoradiographs. The presence of Zn in the testicle, prostate and the adrenal gland could be related to the activation of the enzyme β-hydroxy-steroid dehydrogenase although this fact does not exclude any other function of this metal, as far as we know.
Les ligaments rétinaculaires des doigts
Authors: Daroussos N. , Gajisin S. , Zbrodowski A.
Published: July 2008

The aim of this study was to establish a precise architecture of the retinacular ligaments of human digits. Sixty selected digits from human cadavers aged 40–70 years were used in this study. We were able to identify, under the dissecting microscope, two distinct ligamentous complexes: one proximal of greater importance and the other distal of lesser importance. Both structures extend from the periosteum as well as from the fibrous part of the digital sheath to the skin. There are many variations in size and in shape of these structures but they are not related to a particular digit. The role of these ligaments is to prevent the ‘effet de doigt de gant’ to stabilize and to maintain the neurovascular bundle of the digit at the moment of the digital flexion.
Suggestive Evidence for a Microanatomical Relationship between Mast Cells and Nerve Fibres Containing Substance P, Calcitonin Gene Related Peptide, Vasoactive Intestinal Polypeptide, and Somatostatin in the Rat Mesenter
Authors: Crivellato E. , Damiani D. , Mallardi F. , Travan L.
Published: July 2008

A close microanatomical relationship between serotonin-positive mast cells and nerve fibres positive for substance P, calcitonin gene related peptide, vasoactive intestinal polypeptide, and somatostatin has been observed in whole-mount preparations of rat mesentery by an immunofluorescent double-staining procedure. Peptidergic fibres have been shown either to run in close proximity or come in direct contact with mast cells. This supports earlier morphological and immunohistochemical results suggesting an innervation of mast cells and provides a structural foundation for a series of pharmacological studies which outline the influence of various neuropeptides on mast cell secretory activity.
Are Ranvier’s Nodes Artifacts by Preparation?
Authors: Gerhardt E.
Published: July 2008

To avoid artifacts, native nerve fibers were investigated by phase contrast light microscopy. It was shown that Ranvier’s nodes cannot be seen. At the sites at which they can be produced by thermal and chemical effects, a tight joint of the tube ends of the ‘internodes’ inverted to the inside are to be found. Some structures of Ranvier’s nodes do not exist in intact living nerves. This fact can also be proved by electron micrography.
Nigrocaudate and Nigroputaminal Projections in the Monkey
Authors: Carmona C. , Catalina-Herrera C.J , Jiménez-Castellanos J.
Published: July 2008

Following injections of tracers into the caudate nucleus, the putamen or into both structures of the same cerebral hemisphere retrograde cell labeling in the nigral complex of the squirrel monkey has been analyzed. Our goal was to investigate a possible relation of the retrograde neuronal labeling in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) with the histochemical compartmentalization of this structure detected with the aid of the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) technique. Our results confirmed that in the squirrel monkey there was a very precise topography in the nigrostriatal projection system as a whole, and also in the nigrocaudate and nigroputaminal projection systems considered separately. In the cases with injections of two different tracers, we were not able to find any double-labeled nigral cell. Nigrocaudate and nigroputaminal projecting cells generally formed independent groups which at some nigral levels clearly interdigitated, as shown by the group of Parent. However, the presence of nigral cells labeled either by one or another tracer within the same histochemical compartment of the SNc confirmed that the segregation of nigroputaminal and nigrocaudate projecting cells did not explain the AChE compartmentalization of the SNc. Based on our experiments and on the literature we suggest that the histochemical compartmentalization of the SNc could be related, at least in part, to the subdivision of the striatum into AChE-poor striosomes and an AChE-rich extrastriosomal matrix.
Ultrastructure of the Red Pulp in Spleen Innervation in Horse and Pig
Authors: Ueda H. , Abe M. , Takehana K. , Iwasa K. , Hiraga T.
Published: July 2008

The innervation of the red pulp in the spleen of horse and pig was investigated by electron microscopy. In addition, the neurilemma was studied by immunohistochemistry specific for S-100 protein. In the pig, a large population of smooth-muscle cells extending from the smooth-muscle trabeculae was present in the red pulp. The cytoplasmic processes of reticular cells enwrapped the smooth-muscle cells, and nerve fibres were distributed between the smooth-muscle cells and the reticular cells. The nerve terminals clustered toward the facing of the smooth-muscle cells. Nerve fibres and terminals were not disclosed within the sheathed artery. Immunohistochemically the neurilemma showed a reaction positive for S-100 protein. In the horse, no smooth-muscle cells were noted in the red pulp. The nerve fibres terminated around the cytoplasmic processes of the reticular cells. Nerve fibres and terminals were disclosed within the sheathed artery, and the terminals contained both large and small dense-cored vesicles. Immunohistochemically the neurilemma showed a reaction negative for S-100 protein. These findings support the presence of the axon-bearing reticular cells described earlier in the horse spleen.
Morphology and Histochemistry of the Myotendineal Junction of the Rat Calf Muscles
Authors: Kvist M. , Jozsa L. , Kannus P. , Isola J. , Vieno T. , Järvinen M. , Lehto M.
Published: July 2008

The macromolecular composition and morphometry of the myotendineal junction (MTJ) of slow-twitch (type 1) and fast-twitch (type 2) muscle fibers were studied in gastrocnemius-soleus-Achilles unit of the rat. Proteoglycans and glycosaminoglycans, type III collagen, fibronectin and laminin could be detected at the myotendineal junction. Due to the membrane folding finger-like processes were seen at the MTJ. The processes of type 1 fibers were greater in size. However, due to the subdivisions the processes of type 2 muscle fibers had a significantly greater surface length per muscle cell diameter than type 1 fibers. The myotendineal endings of both fiber types had a characteristic basal lamina, which was about three times thicker than in the longitudinal site of the same muscle cells. The basal lamina of type 1 fibers at the MTJ was significantly thicker than that of type 2 fibers.
Microcirculation of the Extra-Ocular Muscles of Rats
Authors: Pannarale L. , Onori P. , Gaudio E. , Ripani M.
Published: July 2008

Specific researches, employing corrosion casts, were performed on different skeletal muscles, but not on extra-ocular muscles (EOMs). The microvascular bed of EOMs was studied by the corrosion cast technique in the rat. Two histologically and physiologically different layers were present in the EOMs. On the whole the capillary pattern of EOMs was less dense than in the other skeletal muscles. The EOM orbital layer turned out to have a higher number of transverse anastomoses and tuning-fork divisions than the global layer had. These different microcirculatory patterns can be related with the physiological function and the anatomical situation of the EOMs.
Relationships between Bone and Skin Atrophies during Aging
Authors: Chappard D. , Alexandre Ch. , Robert J.-M. , Riffat G.
Published: July 2008

Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured in 133 female subjects (age: 61.7 ± 16.3 years) by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). Vertebral bone mineral density (BMD; L1–L4) and BMD of the whole upper femoral extremity were taken into account. In addition, skinfold thickness was measured with a callipers on the dorsum of the nondominant hand. A significant negative correlation was found between skinfold thickness and age (r = –0.623, p < 0.0001). Both vertebral and femoral BMD decreased with age and the slopes were similar to those observed by other authors. Skinfold thickness was significantly correlated with vertebral (r = 0.364, p < 0.0001) and femoral BMD (r = 0.486 p < 0.0001). Skin and bone are connective tissues whose extracellular matrix mainly contains type I collagen. It is postulated that age-related skin atrophy and bone atrophy have a common genetic mechanism. Skinfold thickness measurement may help in defining the women at risk for osteoporotic bone fractures who should be referred for a DEXA examination.
Histochemical Localization of Carbonic Anhydrase in the Testis and Epididymis of the Boar
Authors: Ekstedt E. , Ridderstråle Y. , Plöen L. , Rodriguez-Martinez H.
Published: July 2008

The testis and epididymis of sexually mature, fertile boars were studied for localization of carbonic anhydrase (CA) using a cobalt precipitation technique. In the testis, cytoplasmic CA was found in the Sertoli cells and in the capillaries surrounding the seminiferous tubules. The epididymal duct was divided into initial, middle and terminal segments and regional differences in CA activity were observed. The cell membranes of the basal cells were stained in the initial and middle segments. Strong cytoplasmic CA staining was present only in the apical cells in the initial and middle segments. The basolateral cell membranes were stained in the principal cells of the terminal segment and the ductus deferens. As a rule the capillaries surrounding the epididymal duct were unstained. The enzyme, specifically localized in regions of the male genitalia acting as sperm reservoirs, might be related to the quiescence of the stored spermatozoa by influencing the acid-base status of the epididymal fluid.
Effects of Lactation on the Border Zone Formation in the Female Mastomys (Praomys coucha) Adrenal Cortex
Authors: Tαnaka S. , Nozaki M. , Fujioka T. , Matsuzawa A.
Published: July 2008

Adrenocortical zonation and especially border zone formation were investigated in relation to reproduction in female mastomys of the wild-colored inbred strain (MWC). The adrenal weight and the whole thickness of the cortex remained relatively constant throughout pregnancy, delivery and lactation. During pregnancy the zona fasciculata increased but the z. reticularis decreased in thickness. The border zone between the z. fasciculata and the z. reticularis thickened 2-fold during pregnancy and further 2-fold during lactation. This zone was composed of vacuolated cell layers and nodules in females with a normal reproductive career. In young virgins this zone was barely identified by the presence of a few highly vacuolated cells. These cells became prominent during pregnancy and lactation. During lactation two types of cell aggregations, distinguishable by their stain ability, vacuolation, localization and cellularity, appeared in the thickened border zone. The nodules first appeared within the z. reticularis after lactation. Neither thickening of both border zone and z. fasciculata nor formation of nodules occurred when lactation was interrupted after delivery. Thus, the changes in the female MWC adrenal, above all the appearance of nodules, seemed to be more dependent upon lactation than pregnancy. The vacuolated cells and the nodules might originate from the thickened z. fasciculata and the thinned z. reticularis respectively by the specific metamorphosis of the cells adjacent to the border zone. Their fusion and induction of fibrous tissue migration may result in the wider border zone.
Configurational and Volumetric Changes of the Early Prenatal Human Cerebellar Dentate Nucleus
Authors: Hayaran A. , Wadhwa S. , Bijlani V.
Published: July 2008

The three-dimensional configurational and volumetric changes of the human dentate nucleus (DN) during intrauterine life were examined in 11 fetuses (11 to 27–28 weeks of gestation). During intrauterine life, the dentate nuclear profile successively passes through the pongid, cercopithecus and prosimian phases of configuration. The smooth, elongated, crescent-shaped DN of 11 weeks lies along a dorsal-ventral axis. A 45 ° clockwise shift in the position of the nucleus changes the axis to dorsomedial-ventrolateral at 14–15 weeks, which is maintained in subsequent ages. The formation of gyri is preceded by a thinning of the substantia grisea. This begins at 17–18 weeks in the dorsomedial region of the DN. Gyri first make their appearance at 24–25 weeks. The DN of 27–28 weeks resembles the adult human DN. Two regions are discernible at this stage – a microgyric, magnocellular region and a macrogyric, parvocellular region. The DN volume increases with increasing gestational age. Between 14–15, 19–20 and 24–25 weeks the volumetric increase is statistically significant. This is simultaneously accompanied by a modification of the configuration of the DN.
Anatomical Basis for the Clinical Application of the Arterial Supply of Museums pectoralis major
Authors: Pandey S.K. , Tripathi F.M. , Shukla V.K. , Tripath C.B. , Sonoo J.
Published: July 2008

The pattern of arterial supply to the various parts (clavicular, sternocostal and aponeurotic) of the pectoralis major muscle was studied in 7 cadaver dissections and 10 angiograms by injecting a radio-opaque substance. Three main arteries supplied the muscle, i.e. the pectoral branch of the thoracoacromial trunk (TAT-PB), the lateral thoracic artery and the perorating branch of the internal thoracic artery, supported by other branches of the TAT and the superior thoracic artery. It is observed that the TAT-PB, a chief vascular pedicle, anastomoses freely with other arteries and supplies most parts of the muscle. The present study is mainly focussed on the exclusion of the chief vascular pedicle of muscle to eliminate the confusion of previous studies and prevent the unnecessary hindrance and complications of the muscle flap.
Immunohistochemical Localization of Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor in Ependymal Cells of the Rat Lateral and Third Ventricles
Authors: Cuevas P. , Gimenez-Gallego G. , Martinez-Murillo R. , Carceller F.
Published: July 2008

The presence of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in the third and the lateral ventricular ependyma of the rat has been investigated under the light microscope using a polyclonal antibody against bFGF, through the unlabelled peroxidase-antiperoxidase procedure; bFGF-immunoreactivity (bFGF-IR) is observed in the entire ependymal cell layer of ventricles. Also ependymal tanycytes within the inferior portion of the wall and floor of the third ventricle show bFGF-IR. Tanycytic processes are in close contact with hypothalamic capillaries. The present study strongly suggests that brain ependymal bFGF plays unidentified roles unrelated to its angiogenic or mitogenic capacities.
Quantitative Estimation of Lipid-Laden Cells in Atherosclerotic Lesions of the Human Aorta
Authors: Andreeva E.R. , Orekhov A.N. , Smirnov V.N.
Published: July 2008

The intima of the adult human aorta consists of three sublayers: a muscular layer lying next to the media, a median hyperplastic layer and an innermost connective tissue layer, adjoining the lumen. The cells inhabiting these sublayers were isolated by the method of alcoholic-alkaline dissociation from grossly normal areas, fatty streaks and atherosclerotic plaques. The populations obtained contained cells with different numbers of cytoplasmic inclusions and a number without any. In unaffected intima and in fatty streaks, the cells with lipid inclusions were found predominantly in the outermost intimal layer including the connective tissue and in part of the median hyperplastic layer. In the superficial layer of unaffected intima and the fatty streak, these cells accounted for 15 and 25% of the total cell population, respectively. In the plaque, most cells with lipid inclusions were localized in the median hyperplastic layer of the intima (10%). The muscular layer was characterized by the lowest content of cells with lipid inclusions both in the unaffected intima and atherosclerotic lesions (from 0.75% in unaffected intima to 5% plaques). Among the intimal smooth muscle cells of various shapes, the cells with lipid inclusions were most often found in the stellate cell subpopulation (5–35%). A possible role of stellate cells in atherogenesis is discussed.
Effects of Physical Training during the Growth on the Granulation of Myo-Epithelioid Cells of the Rat Kidney
Authors: Caballero A. , Escanero J.F. , Lopez-Novoa J.M. , Rodriguez S.
Published: July 2008

The behaviour of the granulation of the myo-epithelioid cells of the juxtaglomerular apparatus of the kidney and its relationship with the plasma concentrations of renin, sodium and potassium, and plasma osmolality have been studied in male and female Wistar rats that have been subjected to a programme of moderate physical exercise throughout their period of growth. In the trained rats a significant increase in the juxtaglomerular granulation index and a significant decrease in plasma renin concentration has been observed, the changes being more prominent in the female animals. Moreover in the trained rats significant increases in plasma sodium, potassium and osmolality have been observed.
Morphometric Study of Ventricular Myocardial Cells in the Bat (Pipistrellus pipistrellus), Hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) and Wistar Rat
Authors: Ayettey A.S. , Tagoe C.N.B. , Yates R.D.
Published: July 2008

A comparative morphometric study of ventricular myocardial cells of the West African insect-eating bat, Pipistrellus pipistrellus the hamster and the rat revealed significant differences in volume fractions of mitochondria, myofibrils, lipid bodies and T tubules. In the cells of the bat, mitochondria constitute 35% of cytoplasmic volume compared with 29 and 30% in the hamster and rat, respectively. Notably, crista density is much higher in the bat cells (3.58 × 105 cm–1) than in those of the hamster (2.59 × 105 cm–1) and of the rat (2.48 × 105 cm–1). Myofibril concentration is 40% in the bat, 53% in the hamster and 55% in the rat. There is greater numerical density of lipid bodies in the bat (212.27 × 109 cm–3) than in the hamster (139.20 × 109 cm–3) and in the rat (114.00 × 109 cm–3). The volume occupied by T tubules is 0.02 in the bat and hamster, and 0.009 in the rat. These differences suggest structural design for efficient metabolic activity in the bat which, among mammals, has high exercise tolerance.
Evidence for Secretion Channels in the Gastric Mucous Sheet of the Cat
Authors: Knospe C.
Published: July 2008

Ultrastructural investigations give evidence of secretion channels in the mucous sheet of the gastric mucosa of the cat. These channels are filled with basophilic mucin which may transport the gastric acid to the luminal surface.
Histochemical and Ultrastructural Changes in the Extracellular Matrix of the Developing Chick Semilunar Heart Valves
Authors: Garcia-Martinez V. , Sanchez-Quintana D. , Hurle J.M.
Published: July 2008

The present study analyzes the composition and organization of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and its changes in the course of development of the chick embryo semilunar heart valves. In the present work we have employed chick embryos from stage 29 until hatching, using silver and picrosirius red staining, lectin probes and light and transmission electron microscopy. Our results show that during semilunar valve development a series of elements arise and are organized in the ECM which seem to be more closely related to the maintenance of the structural and biomechanical properties of the valvular leaflets than with morphogenetic processes per se.
Ultrastructure of Mineralized Nodules Formed in Rat Bone Marrow Stromal Cell Culture in vitro
Authors: Satomura K. , Nagayama M.
Published: July 2008

Rat bone marrow stromal cells were cultured in vitro. At days 14–15 of culture, dense clusters of polygonal cells were formed, and they mineralized 2–3 days later. The cells resembling osteoblasts or young osteocytes were histologically observed to be embedded in mineralized or unmineralized extracellular matrices of the nodules. Next, these mineralized nodules were electron-microscopically examined. The osteoblastic cells associated with the nodules had a well-developed rough endoplasmic reticulum, an evident Golgi apparatus and some mitochondria as their intracellular organellae. Some lysosomes and microfilaments were also visible in the cytoplasms. Moreover, some cells protruded cell processes toward the neighboring cells through the extracellular matrix. The extracellular matrix consisted of numerous collagen fibrils which were striated with 60–70 nm axial periodicity and which was similar to bone tissue collagen. A large number of matrix vesicles were scattered among the collagen fibrils in the unmineralized area of the nodules. In contrast, in the mineralized area, numerous matrix vesicles at different stages of maturation and many calcified spherules were observed. That is the mineralization in this culture system was considered to be initiated in association with the matrix vesicles and to progress along the collagen fibrils. From these findings, it was confirmed by the present study that the mineralized nodules formed in this bone marrow stromal cell culture were ultrastructurally similar to bone and that the mineralization also proceeded by going through the normal calcification process. This culture system is considered to be available to study osteogenic differentiation and calcification mechanisms.
Ultrastructural Morphology of Ectoplacental Cone Trophoblasts of Hamster Embryos
Authors: Shukla R. , Mehrotra P.K. , Maitra S.C. , Kamboj V.P.
Published: July 2008

The invasiveness of trophoblast cells is well known, but it is not clear whether they achieve this property by being transformed to other cell types (like malignant ones) or remain benign. Trophoblasts, in culture, were studied ultrastructurally by examining the surface morphology of the cell vis-à-vis their cytoplasmic outgrowth, and the presence and/or absence of ruffling membranes, filopodia, microvilli, pinocytotic pits or bleb-like structures was observed. Results revealed formation of ruffling membranes only on the leading edge a presence of slender filopodia and pinocytotic pits but an absence of microvilli and bleb-like structures, the characteristic features of a transformed cell. The study indicated that the trophoblast cells, in spite of being invasive, do not convert to any other cell type.
Lymphatic Vessels in the Developing Diaphragm of the Rat
Authors: Poggi P. , Marchetti C. , Calligaro A. , Casasco A. , Scelsi R.
Published: July 2008

Diaphragms of fetal, neonatal and young albino rats have been observed both under light and electron microscopes to examine the presence and distribution of lymphatic vessels and their morphological features. In fetal diaphragms of between 18 and 22 days of gestation, no normal lymphatic vessels can be seen; only after birth, specifically in neonatal and 2-day-old rats, small lymphatic vessels appear; they are in close proximity to the blood vessels in the inner areas of the muscle. As the rats get older, lymphatic vessels are also observed in the subserosa where an abundant connective tissue is present. The fine structure of diaphragmatic lymphatic vessels is different at different ages. In neonatal rats of up to 2 days, the endothelial wall is very thin and often holed. The relationships between contiguous endothelial cells are characterized by simple end-to-end or overlapping structures. The basement membrane is virtually absent. Within the first week of life, the endothelial wall becomes more complex; along the wall, complex interdigitations between two contiguous endothelial cells often touch. A discontinuous basement membrane and collagen and elastic fibers surround the vessels. In the older rats (from 14 to 25 to 140 days) next to the complex interdigitations which characterize the junction between two contiguous endothelial cells, cellular flaps interdigitate forming a channel which opens out either to the exterior or the interior of the vessel. Dense bundles of elastic and collagen fibers are closely apposed to the endothelial wall.
Study of the Transformation of Amoeboid Microglial Cells into Microglia Labelled with the Isolectin Griffonia simplicifolia in Postnatal Rats
Authors: Kaur C. , Ling E.A.
Published: July 2008

The transformation of amoeboid microglial cells into ramified microglial cells in the brain of postnatal rats has been studied by labelling the cells with the isolectin Griffoniα simplicifolia (GSA1-B4). The latter served as a specific membrane marker of the cell type. Thus, at the light-microscopic level, the amoeboid microglial cells in 1-to5-day-old rats were intensely stained with GSA1-B4. All the stained cells appeared round. In 10-day-old rats, while most of the stained cells were round, some had assumed an oval appearance. In older rats, i.e. 15–22 days, all the stained cells became flattened or fusiform with long cytoplasmic processes. The present electron-microscopic study confirmed the above features but also added the fact that the reaction for GSA1-B4 was localized at the plasma membrane in the amoeboid microglial cells in all the age groups studied. The reaction for the isolectin was also detected in some vacuoles in the cytoplasm of the round cells. It was concluded from this study that the round amoeboid microglial cells differentiate to become the ramified microglia with age. In the course of this transformation, they retained specific membrane receptors for the isolectin which distinguished them from other glial cell types.
Surgical Anatomy of the Mandibular Ramus of the Facial Nerve in Chinese Adults
Authors: Wang T.M. , Lin C.-L. , Kuo K.-J. , Shih C.
Published: July 2008

One hundred and twenty Chinese adults’ facial halves were selected for this study. The description of the mandibular ramus of the facial nerve was presented under 4 items: (1) the relationship with the lower border of the mandible, (2) the number of its rami, (3) the relationship with the retromandibular vein, the facial vein or the facial artery, and (4) its anastomoses with the buccal ramus and/or the cervical ramus. In these specimens, anterior to the facial artery, 90% of the mandibular rami ran above the lower border of the mandible, and 10% of the mandibular rami ran below the lower border of the mandible. Posterior to the facial artery, 67% of the mandibular rami ran above the lower border of the mandible, and 33% of the lowest mandibular rami passed in an arc with an average of 0.95 cm (the lowest point being 3 cm or less) below the lower border of the mandible. In 32% of the specimens the mandibular ramus had no branch and in 68% of the specimens, the mandibular ramus had two or more rami. There were 100% of the mandibular rami lying superficially to the retromandibular vein and the facial vein, while in 5% of the specimens, some other mandibular rami ran deeply to the facial vein. In 83 % of the specimens the mandibular rami lay only superficially to the facial artery and in only 2% deeply to the facial artery. The remaining 15% ran both deeply and superficially to the facial artery. There were 60% of the specimens in which the mandibular rami had one or more anastomoses with the buccal rami. In addition, in 12% of the facial halves, the mandibular rami had one anastomosis with the cervical ramus. However, only 4% of the mandibular rami had anastomosing branches with both the buccal and the cervical rami. The results of this study indicate that (1) it is recommended and safe to make an incision line at least 0.5 cm below the lower border of the mandible while doing surgeries such as radical neck dissection and open reduction for mandibular angle fracture anterior to the facial artery and 2 finger breadths or 3 cm below the lower border of the mandible while doing the same surgeries posterior to the facial artery, (2) most of the mandibular rami have two branches innervating the depressor muscles of the lip (3) the retromandibular vein can be used as a guide during approaching the mandibular ramus at the mandibular angle and (4) the anastomoses with the buccal and/or the cervical ramus may provide additional innervation to the depressor muscles of the lip. Therefore, our findings suggest the existence of an ethnic variation and the necessity of a more accurate method of approaching the mandibular ramus in clinical practice.
Ultrastructural Study of Cathepsin B Immunoreactivity in Rat Brain Neurons: Lysosomal and Extralysosomal Localizations of the Antigen
Authors: Kloss P. , Bernstein H.-G. , Kirschke H. , Wiederanders B.
Published: July 2008

Cathepsin B was localized in multiple neurons of the rat central nervous system by means of the peroxidase-antiperoxidase technique and immunogold labeling using a polyclonal antiserum produced in rabbits against rat liver enzyme. The main intracellular locus of cathepsin B antigenic sites was in lysosomes. In some cases, however, immunoreactive material was also detected outside lysosomes (i.e. at the membranes of the rough endoplasmic reticulum) . The findings are discussed with respect to the proposed role of the enzyme in the general protein metabolism of the brain and the potency of the antiserum to label the proform of cathepsin B.
Identification of Two Maturation-Related, Wheat-Germ-Lectin-Binding Proteins on the Surface of Mouse Sperm
Authors: Liu H.-W. , Wang J.-J. , Chao C.-F. , Muller C.
Published: July 2008

Epididymal maturation is essential for mammalian sperm to develop fertility. Wheat germ agglutinin (WGA), a lectin which specifically recognizes N-acetyl-glucosamine and sialic acid, was used to investigate membrane characteristics of epididymal sperm in the mouse. Histochemical and cytochemical localization revealed that WGA-binding sites were increased as sperm became mature. The binding sites were mainly localized in the plasma membrane of the anterior acrosome and tails. On Western blots of NP-40 extracts, two WGA-binding glycoproteins, GP-49 and GP-83 were identified on the sperm recovered from both corpus and cauda epididymidis. GP-83 was removed from the sperm surface by centrifugation and resuspension in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) three times. GP-49 was resistant to centrifuging at 400 g for 5 min up to seven times and the treatment with 1M NaCl in PBS.These observations suggest that GP-49 is very likely an intrinsic membrane protein of the sperm, whereas GP-83 is an extrinsic protein.
A Study of the Os goniale in Man
Authors: Vázquez Rodríguez , Velasco Mérida , Collado Jiménez
Published: July 2008

The anterior process of the malleus of the middle ear develops irrespective of Meckel’s cartilage through an intramembranous ossification center that appears in the human embryo of 26.5 mm crown-rump length at a caudo-medial position in relation to Meckel’s cartilage. The malleus has a double origin: the anterior process originates from the os goniale through intramembranous ossification, and the rest from MeckeΓs cartilage through endochondral ossification.
Effects of Aphakia on the Geniculostriate System of Infant Rhesus Monkeys
Authors: Wilson J.R. , Tigges M. , Boothe R.G. , Tigges J. , Gammon J.A.
Published: July 2008

The effects on the visual system of rearing rhesus monkeys with monocular aphakia, corrected with extended-wear contact lenses were assessed with anatomical electrophysiological and behavioral methods. The major finding was that the effects of the various treatments on the aphakic eye varied in degree depending upon the amount of focused pattern input received by the aphakic eye compared to its fellow eye. The behavioral, electrophysiological and anatomical assessments of the treatment effects on the aphakic eyes correlated closely with each other. Because this experimental paradigm is similar to current clinical procedures for treating human infantile monocular cataracts it provides a nonhuman primate model for studying aphakia.
Microvasculature of the Thyroid Gland in the Common Tree Shrew (Tupaia glis): Microvascular Corrosion Cast/Scanning Electron Microscopy Study
Authors: Rattanachaikunsopon P. , Chunhabundit P. , Bamroongwong S. , Somana R.
Published: July 2008

A thyroid vascular cast of the common tree shrew (Tupaia glis) was obtained by injection of Batson’s No. 17 plastic mixture into the ascending aorta. The cast was studied under the scanning electron microscope. It was found that each half of the gland is supplied by a large superior and a rather small inferior thyroid artery. After plunging into the gland, the arteries divide into smaller branches that are the interlobular, intralobular and follicular arteries (afferent vessels). The basket-like capillaries arising from the follicular arteries and encapsulating thyroid follicles are of large diameter and are arranged in a single layer. The follicular side of the capillary casts was observed to contain numerous small and some large projecting knobs compatible with the presence of fenestrations in the endothelial cells. On the other hand, endothelial nuclear imprints were found mainly on the stromal surface of the follicular capillary casts. Transfollicular capillaries connecting the adjacent follicular capillary networks were also observed. Blood from the follicular capillaries either drains into the follicular veins (efferent vessels) or abruptly drains into the intralobular veins before proceeding to intralobular and interlobular veins, respectively. The interlobular veins are collected into a few small superior, a few larger middle and a few even larger inferior thyroid veins. These veins drain directly into the laryngeal vein lying adj acent to the deep surface of the thyroid gland before joining the jugular vein. Venous valves were identified outside the thyroid gland. In addition, the glomerular capillary island of the parathyroid gland was often seen at the cranioanterolateral and sometimes at the cranioposterolateral aspect of the thyroid gland.
Calcium Adenosine Triphosphatase and Secretion of Koilin Membrane in the Gizzard of the Fowl
Authors: Salem A.O. , Kressin M. , Schnorr B.
Published: July 2008

The localization of calcium adenosine triphosphatase (Ca2+-ATPase) was determined histo- and ultra-cytochemicaily in the gizzard gland cells of the adult domestic fowl. Surface and chief gland cells exhibited faint and inconstant basolateral activity in contrast to basal cells, whose basolateral cell membrane constantly showed deposition on the external side. Intracellular enzyme activity was localized on the luminal aspect of Golgi membranes in all types of gland cells. Lysosomes also reacted positive for Ca2+-ATPase. Neither membranes of secretory vesicles nor cortical cytoplasm of the secretory pole exhibited enzyme activity. From these results it is speculated that calcium is not essentially involved in the secretion of the koilin membrane in terms of storage of the secretory material, transport to the secretory surface and release into the lumen. Ca2+-ATPase activity rather seems to be related to differentiation and maturation processes and to intracellular storage of Ca2+.
Anatomical Partitioning of Three Multiarticular Human Muscles
Authors: Segal R.L. , Wolf S.L. , DeCamp M.J. , Chopp M.T. , English A.W.
Published: July 2008

To examine neuromuscular partitioning within human muscles, the innervation patterns and muscle fiber architecture of the flexor carpi radialis (FCR) extensor carpi radialis longus (ECRL) and lateral gastrocnemius (LG) muscles were examined. Consistent patterns of innervation between specimens were found within each of the three muscles. The nerve to the FCR clearly innervates three major architectural divisions of the muscle. The ECRL is innervated by two different muscle nerves. Branches of these nerves innervate at least two distinct anatomical subvolumes. However, the subvolumes of the ECRL defined by muscle architecture are not totally congruent with those defined by the innervation pattern. In the LG, the single muscle nerve branches into two main divisions, and these subsequently divide into branches which supply the three heads. However, each head does not receive a completely private nerve. These results indicate that human muscles are partitioned in a manner roughly similar to the divisions of the same muscles in cats and rats, but with less congruency of architecture and innervation.
Morphometric Evaluation of the Myocardial Interstitial Space after Physical and Chemical Fixation
Authors: Schmiedl A. , Bach F. , Ríchter J. , Schnabel Ph.A. , Bretschneider H.J.
Published: July 2008

The interstitial space separated into tissue clefts and interstitium within bundles of myocytes of left canine ventricle, was investigated qualitatively and morphometrically after using different methods of fixation following aortic cross clamping and 10 min of ischemia at 5 °C. In frozen sections, the size of tissue clefts is significantly lower than in semithin sections after immersion fixation. The interstitium within bundles of myocytes shows similar values independent of the fixation technique (r = 0.83). This constancy permits a free choice between the two fixation techniques, there being no loss of information from the material investigated.
Complex Carbohydrate Histochemistry of the Lateral Prostate and Seminal Vesicle of the Guinea Pig
Authors: Chan L. , Wong Y.C.
Published: July 2008

A systematic histochemical study of the complex carbohydrates of the lateral prostate and seminal vesicle of the guinea pig has been made. The complex carbohydrates of the guinea pig male accessory sex glands were partially characterized by various conventional carbohydrate histochemical methods including periodic acid-Schiff, selective periodate oxidation-Schiff reaction, Alcian blue staining at pH 2.5 and 1.0, and high iron diamine. The results indicated that neutral glycoconjugates with 1,2-glycol groups and sialic acids were present in the luminal border and apical cytoplasm of the glandular cells, basement membrane and connective tissue in the lamina propria of the lateral prostate. Similar patterns were demonstrated in the seminal vesicle except that there were relatively fewer or no neutral carbohydrates in the apical cytoplasm of the vesicular epithelial cells. The epithelial basement membrane and connective tissue at the epithelial-stromal interface of both glands were rich in acidic and sulphated glycosaminoglycans. Partial characterization by bovine testicular hyaluronidase indicated the presence of chondroitin sulphates in the lamina propria of the glands.
Problems Related to Infarct Size Measurements in the Rat Heart
Authors: Greve G. , Sætersdal T.
Published: July 2008

The feasibility of measuring the extent of hypoperf used myocardium and the infarct size was examined in rat hearts after occlusion of the left coronary artery. The extent of hypoperf used myocardium was examined by autoradiography and after perfusion with fluorescent microspheres. Both methods appeared unreliable in this model. Triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining, however, provided a distinct demarcation line between viable myocardium, which was stained red, and the necrotic myocardium, consistent with the ultrastructural border between normal and severely damaged myocytes 5 h after coronary occlusion. TTC staining gives the best demarcation of ischemic tissues. In verapamil-treated rats, there was an apparent reduction in infarct size as compared with untreated rats; 20% reduction in infarct size 5 h after coronary occlusion and 12% reduction after 24 h. There was, however, a large postoperative mortality among the verapamil-treated rats. These problems, and the nonuniform infarct size in rats, may in part explain why infarct size limitation by verapamil has been reported from rat experiments, but not from clinical trials.
Postnatal Development of the Rabbit Pineal Gland
Authors: García-Mauriño J.E. , Boya J.
Published: July 2008

The development of the rabbit pineal gland has been studied by light and electron microscopy from the 1st to the 120th postnatal day. After 24 h of postnatal life, the pineal parenchyma is highly cellular, showing two identifiable cell types: pinealocytes I and II. Immature type II pinealocytes arrange either in cellular cords or clusters or forme rosette-like structures. At the 5th postnatal day, corticomedullar differentiation is established. Rosette-like structures and cellular cords are absent from the cortex. Along the postnatal period, nuclei of pinealocytes are set apart due to cytoplasmic widening and development of cell processes. These structures pervade the cellular cords and rosette-like structures formed by immature type II pinealocytes. Rosette-like structures are no longer seen beyond the 30th postnatal day, and cords of type II pinealocytes from the 90th postnatal day on. At this time, the rabbit pineal gland is considered to be histologically mature.