ALBERT

Notes: The literature on the general subject of freezing and survival both in plants and in animals is briefly reviewed and a bibliography given. Insects representing three ecological groups, (1) the oak borers - exposed to temperature extremes normally; (2) stored-products insects representing supposedly a tropical or subtropical group, and, (3) aquatic insects never exposed to temperatures lower than 0°C., were chosen for this study. Determinations of the freezing and undercooling points were made during the yearly cycle.Both the stored-products insects and the aquatic insects studied showed no periodicity in freezing or undercooling. The oak borers showed marked periodicity. The freezing-point varies directly with the moisture content. Cold-hardiness was produced experimentally by, (1) exposure of insects to low temperatures and, (2) by dehydration. Loss of cold-hardiness was produced experimentally by combinations of high temperature, food, and high relative humidity. The freezing-point ordinarily found corresponds with that of the blood. Repeated freezings of the same insect or tissue showed no hysteresis. There exists in certain insects a secondary freezing-point below that ordinarily found. Oak borers in summer condition die at the first freezing-point; in fully hardened condition they die at the secondary freezingpoint.

Notes: The ant Formica exsectoides F. builds mounds with some reference to sunlight, and measurements of internal temperatures have shown them higher in upper parts of the mound, but different in different faces of the mound - all higher than the earth outside the mound.Inside temperatures are not constant; they are due to the sunshine. The mound is so fabricated that the internal temperatures are conserved during the night. The ants make use of the differential internal temperatures for rearing broods.Some mounds show bilateral symmetry dependent upon sun exposure.Measurements of rate of running of these ants show a falling off with lower temperatures, and possibly this is one factor in the smaller development of northerly aspects of these mounds.

Notes: In the early cleavage stages of Ascaris the homologous chromosomes are of unequal length. Measurements show that these homologues fall into two sharply defined groups suggesting their biparental origin. The shorter are considered to have come from the male.As the age of the embryo increases, these differences between the chromosome mates tend to become less, and it is suggested that at some later period in the history of the animal this difference will entirely disappear in response to the effect of continued existence in a common environment. The length of the chromosomes is very slightly shortened during the early cleavage divisions, while the area of the equatorial cross-section of the cells becomes enormously reduced.

Notes: The rates of oxygen consumption of single pupae of blowflies (Phormia terraenovae, Phormia regina, Lucilia sericata), of the flesh fly (Sarcophaga sarracenioides Aldrich), of the Mediterranean flour moth (Ephestia kuehniella), and of the bee moth (Galleria mellonella) during metamorphosis, until emergence, have been determined. The record for each pupa, with the exception of those of blowflies, is practically continuous day and night during the period of pupal development which lasted from 140 to 300 hours, according to the species, at the temperatures used. During pupal development there is first a period of decrease in rate, which is later followed by a steady increase until a short time before emergence, when a sudden decrease occurs.The ‘oxygen curves’ of the blowfly pupae (Diptera) are quite different from those of the flour-moth and bee-moth pupae (Lepidoptera), although all are of the same general U-shaped type. There are strong indications of a specific difference in the curves of the blow-fly pupae. The flour-moth pupae curves differ slightly from those of the bee-moth pupae. During the major part of development the rates of O2 consumption of pupae of both sexes of bee moth and flour moth are about the same, but near the end of metamorphosis the females have higher rates than the males. No such sex difference appears among the dipterous pupae used.

Notes: The history of investigations on the contractile vacuole is reviewed briefly and brought up to date.The study of the contractile vacuole in Amoeba proteus is considered from standpoints of origin, structure, behavior, and function. The results are obtained from a prolonged study of normal organisms and from their reactions when introduced into conductivity water.The origin of vacuoles is studied by means of dark-field illumination which reveals the vacuole to be formed from a fusion and coalescence of extremely minute droplets.The retaining ‘wall’ of the contractile vacuole is not a permanent structure, but is in the nature of a condensation membrane, totally disappearing with each contraction.The loci of the contractile vacuoles are not permanent, but vacuoles are formed more or less at random. It is unlikely that they are supported in gelated areas, for amoebae with a dozen vacuoles are quite active and there is no interference with amoeboid movement.Conductivity water increases the size, number, and rate of contraction of contractile vacuoles, which suggests that they may function in maintaining an osmotic gradient as well as in the elimination of metabolic waste.

Notes: The eggs of Corella develop in the atrial chamber of the parent at a pH below that of normal sea-water (pH 7.4 ±). When removed to normal sea-water in early stages and under certain other experimental conditions, larval development is more or less inhibited, the tail being most inhibited, the dorsal region somewhat less. The free larval stage may be eliminated and later development and metamorphosis may proceed normally to an advanced stage in the chorion and give rise to normal ascidians. The region most inhibited are, in general, those which possess the highest reducing power, as indicated by KMnO4. Experiments made in the attempt to control development all agree in indicating that the early stages are adjusted to a certain CO2 concentration approximately that of the atrial chamber and presumably near that of the body. Solutions of the same pH may or may not inhibit development according to their CO2 content.The tail, the region of highest reducing power in the embryo during its development, is most inhibited; the dorsal region, the next most rapidly reducing region, is next in degree of inhibition. All differences in reducing power disappear when, or soon after, the animals are killed by other agents before treatment with KMnO4.

Notes: Amoeba proteus was raised in a modified and diluted Ringer solution. When the pH of this culture medium became less than 6.0, the normal activities of the amoebae were interfered with; and when a still lower pH was attained, the amoebae died off. The same was true when the pH became greater than 8.0. At neutrality the activities were subnormal, very dark, and rounded. The rate of locomotion of amoebae raised in solutions with a pH less than 7.0 showed a maximum rate of locomotion at pH 6.6, which decreased as the pH changed in either direction, dropping to a very low rate at pH 7.0 and above and also below 6.0. For amoebae raised at a pH above 7.0 the rate was maximum at pH 7.6 and decreased as the pH changed in either direction; it was low at pH 7.0 and below and also above 8.0.On increasing the external osmotic pressure of the medium it was found that the effects caused varied somewhat with the hydrogen-ion concentration. Small increases in osmotic pressure decreased the rate from the normal at pH 6.0 and 8.0, increased it at pH 6.6 and 7.6, and did not affect it at pH 7.0. Osmotic pressures above that produced by M/20 lactose caused locomotion to cease in a short time at all pH values.

Notes: The highly specialized cranial musculature of the toadfish is characterized by the following features: 1Absence of intermandibularis and branchiomandibularis muscles.2Presence of levator premaxillaris muscle.3Very large branchial chamber, the outer wall of which is formed by seven branchiostegal rays connected by a strong fascia provided with muscles (oblique levators and adductors).4Highly developed masticator muscles (adductor mandibularis and pterygoids).5The rectus abdominis, sternohyoid, and hyohyoid muscles are attached by a median aponeurosis to the hyoid and basibranchial elements and directly to the hypobranchial cartilages; this muscle complex depresses the buccal floor in opposition to the geniohyoid.6The pelvic fins are in the jugular position.7Two narrow muscles connect the cleithrum with the fourth ceratobranchial.8The cranial musculature is obviously adapted to a carnivorous habit and particularly for increasing respiratory capacity under asphyxial conditions.

Notes: Blindfolded persons walk, run, swim, row, and drive automobiles in clock-spring spiral paths of greater or less regularity when attempting a straightaway. The spirals turn either right or left in one and the same individual, and may do so even in one experiment. But either right or left turns predominate in the great majority of individuals, often to a high degree. The paths show marked individuality, and there is some ground for thinking there exists a correlation between temperamental differences and general character of path.The mechanism which produces the spiral path is not located in the locomotor organs, but in the central nervous system and is probably identical essentially with the spiral mechanism in other motile organisms, all of which move in spiral paths when there are no guiding senses to direct the path. The clock-spring spiral in man is interpreted as the expression in two dimensions of space of a helical spiral mechanism which seems to exist in all motile organisms moving in three dimensions of space and in amebas which move in two dimensions. In a large number of lower organisms the number of body lengths per spiral turn is almost constant, being about 4.5. The smallest regular swimming spirals in man are very close to this value, but the smallest regular walking spirals are somewhat larger. The fundamental spiral mechanism seems to be of molecular dimensions, and there seems to exist a demonstrable locomotor bilateral asymmetry in very nearly, if not quite, all organisms.

Notes: A detailed study has been made of the anatomy of one of the fingernail shells, and preliminary observations on the life-history have been carried out. In its general organization Sphaerium notatum is very similar to the larger fresh-water lamellibranchs. A gastric shield, crystalline style, and style sac, very similar to those found in the stomach and intestine of Lampsilis, are present. A pair of slender muscles extending from the dorsal side of the body into the gills, and evidently not previously described, have been found. The nervous system consists of the typical three pairs of lamellibranchiate ganglia, with their connectives, accessory ganglia, and nerve fibers. Particular study was given to the statocysts and osphradia, and attention is called to the fact that the function commonly ascribed to the osphradia is incompatible with their position in the roof of the cloacal chamber.S. notatum, like all the Sphaeriidae, is hermaphroditic and viviparous. The gonads are paired racemose glands lying behind and below the stomach. The sperm-producing follicles form the anterior portion of each gonad and are somewhat smaller and more numerous than the ova-producing follicles which form the posterior portion. The young pass through the early stages of development in brood pouches in the gills and are expelled as relatively enormous individuals.Preliminary observations on the life-history indicate that reproduction reaches its height in the summer and that fertilization probably takes place during the late summer and fall.

Notes: When Menidia eggs are fertilized with Prionotus sperm, the Prionotus chromosomes react in the Menidia cytoplasmic medium just as they do in the cytoplasm of Fundulus eggs. There is lagging, non-disjunction, and elimination of chromosomes during the early cell divisions. The mitotic behavior of the Prionotus sperm in the Menidia egg also resembles the behavior of the sperm of Ctenolabrus in the same medium. This behavior which was expected from what was known concerning the mitotic behavior of the reciprocal crosses between Menidia and Fundulus and between Ctenolabrus and Prionotus and other intercrosses between the members of these two groups is regarded as a function of the physical state of the egg cytoplasm during the division phase of mitosis. This physical character forms the earliest differential factor in the development of these hybrids and shows no correlation with the width of the cross.A comparison of nine teleost crosses, in which both the development and the early mitotic behavior are known, with a rough numerical estimate of the width of the cross brought out the fact that development is most successful in crosses between nearly related species if mitosis is normal and in distantly related crosses if mitosis is abnormal. This indicates that nuclear relationship is also a factor in the development of hybrids.

Notes: Virulent hay-infusion cultures of Bacillus pyocyaneus are toxic to pure-line races of three species of paramecia, but these races may acquire a tolerance for this toxic agent. Races with acquired tolerance have been grown for long periods of time in toxic, pure cultures of B. pyocyaneus by means of the daily-isolation culture method, and here the average division rate is as high as, or higher than, in the chance-mixed bacterial cultures in which these protozoa are usually maintained in the laboratory. The tolerance is lost, however, when the paramecia are removed from the toxic cultures and grown for a number of generations in cultures of non-toxic bacteria.The toxic agent that is lethal to paramecía is probably the soluble toxin of B. pyocyaneus. The investigation shows that the agent is soluble and either thermolabile or volatile. It also shows that all deleterious substances, other than the soluble toxin, known to be produced in cultures of this bacillus, are non-lethal to paramecia.Hay-infusion cultures of Bacillus enteritidis were lethal to paramecia. All attempts to develop tolerance in paramecia for the toxic agent in these cultures failed.Under the experimental conditions that prevailed, diphtheria toxin was found to have no appreciable effect upon the division rate or death rate in three species of paramecia.

Notes: Vasculogenesis of the bursa cloacalis (bursa of Fabricius) was examined in 10- to 21-day chick embryos and in chicks during the first 5 days post-hatching. The entire circulatory system was injected with India ink, and the bursae were then removed and either cleared for examination in toto or sectioned serially. The bursa was supplied by three pairs of extrinsic blood vessels. At 10 and 11 days of incubation, most intrinsic vessels were arranged in a superficial, hexagonal network. In regions of developing plicae, the hexagonal plexus extended into the core of each plica, forming middle plical vessels. The latter were interconnected across interplical areas by cross-connecting vessels. The middle plical vessels gave rise to small capillary offshoots, which soon increased in complexity, forming delicate loops. Branches extended from these loops through the subepithelial lamina propria to incipient epithelial buds by 12 days of incubation. All epithelial buds were supplied by at least one such branch, and similar branches extended to the basal aspect of the epithelium in areas where epithelial buds had not yet formed. This observation is consistent with the hypothesis that blood vessels induce formation of epithelial buds. At about 15 days of incubation, the cortex and medulla of each developing lymphatic follicle were defined clearly, and an intricate, web-like, capillary network coursed throughout the follicular cortex. The medulla appeared to be devoid of capillaries. The diameters of all intrinsic and extrinsic bursal blood vessels gradually increased throughout development. During post-hatching stages, the diameters of the extrinsic vessels continued to increase, whereas those of the intrinsic vessels were markedly decreased from late pre-hatching stages.

Notes: The use of hormone replacement to support limb regeneration in hypophysectomized newts has been the subject of many investigations. Growth hormone, as well as prolactin (PL) in combination with exogenously supplied thyroxine, have all been shown to he effective. However, the bovine growth hormone used to support limb regeneration was contaminated by prolactin and thyroidstimulating hormone (TSH). The present investigation evaluates the significance of (1) prolactin contamination and (2) endogenous thyroxine synthesis resulting from TSH contamination on limb regeneration in hypophysectomized newts. The effect of supplying exogenous thyroxine was also evaluated. Our studies showed that when hypophysectomized newts were injected with contamination levels of PL and TSH, regeneration occurred, suggesting that the newt's thyroid synthesized sufficient thyroxine to support a prolactin-thyroxine synergism. The endogenous thyroxine was synthesized by thyroid glands that were indistinguishable from those of saline-injected, hypophysectomized controls.

Notes: Study of the posterior abdominal epidermis in hypophysectomized/thyroidectomized male and female tokays following surgery, and subsequent androgen therapy, indicates that, contrary to a previous model, all aspects of β-gland differentiation are under direct androgenic control. On the other hand, another epidermal specialization, the digital foot-pad, shows a pattern of histogenesis directly comparable to that of β-glands, but is unaffected by androgens. These data are discussed with respect to the evolution of glandular epidermal specializations in gekkonid lizards and the possible role of androgens in modifying the control of cell differentiation in lizard epidermis.

Notes: There are four major tooth attachment modes in actinopterygians. Type 1 mode is characterized by complete ankylosis of the tooth to the attachment bone; it is the primitive attachment mode for actinopterygians. In Type 2 mode there is a ring of collagen between the tooth base and the bone. In Type 3 mode mineralization extends near or to the bone at the anterior tooth border, and there is a relatively large collagen area on the posterior surface of the tooth; Type 3 teeth are hinged with an anterior axis of rotation. Type 4 teeth also have a relatively large posterior collagen area, but there is no collagenous connection between the anterior basal tooth border and the attachment bone; Type 4 teeth are hinged, with a posterior axis of rotation. Types 2, 3, and 4 attachment modes appear to result from retardation of mineralization and resemble, with some modifications, ontogenetic stages in the development of Type 1 mode; they are considered to be paedomorphic features. Attachment modes 2, 3, and 4 are each associated with a major evolutionary lineage within the Teleostei. The degree to which paedomorphosis has been a factor in teleostean evolution is discussed.

Notes: Bolitoglossa occidentalis, a lowland salamander of Mexico and Guatemala, has a highly derived morphology. The features that are derived with respect to the condition in generalized members of the genus include the following: (1) small body size; (2) short tail; (3) fully webbed hands and feet; (4) reduction and loss of certain phalangeal elements; (5) fusion of carpals and tarsals; (6) absence of prefrontal bones; and (7) reduced skull ossification. The ontogeny of this species was analyzed quantitatively and compared with the patterns of growth and differentiation encountered in two morphologically generalized members of the genus, B. rostrata and B. subpalmata. Most of the derived features can be explained by invoking a single heterochronic process: truncation of development at a small size (most likely the product of early maturation). Therefore, B. occidentalis is a paedomorphic species whose morphology has been attained through the process of progenesis. This result supports Alberch's ('80a) prediction, based on functional analysis, that the principle adaptation to arboreality in B. occidentalis is small size; other derived morphological features are associated with the organism's truncated development and may have no adaptive significance. However, patterns of dissociation are found within this overall progenetic process. Some of these include the following: (1) accelerated growth rates of the metatarsals and first phalanges, and retarded growth rates of the second and third phalangeal elements; (2) dissociation between rates of ossification of the skull and the autopodial elements; and (3) dissociation between the timing of termination of the process of shape change during the ontogeny of the foot (the product of differential growth between digital and interdigital areas) and termination of growth in overall foot size (foot surface area). This later result illustrates the independence of morphogenetic phenomena (shape change) from processes of growth (size increase).

Notes: A table of development (25 stages) for the period of incubation in the pouch was constructed for Gastrotheca riobambae; it can be used to stage embryos of other egg-brooding hylids. Analysis of embryonic weights during incubation shows that the mother does not contribute nutrients, but gases and other factors are probably exchanged between mother and embryos.According to species, incubation on the back of the mother is carried to the froglet or to the tadpole stages. Development in these hylids is characterized by specialized gills, the bell gills derived from the branchial arches. In some species, the bell gills derive from the first branchial arch and cover less than 50% of the embryo, while in others, the bell gills come from both branchial arches I and II and cover from less than 50% to 100% of the embryo. The most complex bell gills derive from the fusion of the two branchial arches.The majority of egg-brooding hylids live in tropical forests and carry development to the froglet stage. Tadpoles are produced by species of Flectonotus, Fritziana, and Gastrotheca. Tadpole-producing species of Gastrotheca have the most complex reproductive adaptations among egg-brooding hylids Acceleration and retardation in development seem to have played important roles in the evolution of these frogs. The evolutionary trend has been toward direct development, i.e., disappearance of the free-living larval stages through maternal incubation, and later to a recovery of the free-living tadpole stages in species of Gastrotheca with the most complex reproductive adaptations.

Notes: The ectodermal eyes, 45-55 μm in diameter, of the cnidarian hydrozoan Cladonema radiatum Dujardin possess a lens approximately 15 μm in diameter enveloped by an eyecup (retina). An overlying layer of intensely vacuolated distal process of the adjoining epithelial cells forms a transparent cornea. The eyecup is composed of three cell types: basal cells, melanin-containing pigment cells, and photoreceptor cells. The last two cell types occur in the ratio of approximately 2:1. Histogenesis of the eye both during ontogeny and regeneration is described from light and electron microscopic investigations. During ontogeny the cell types forming the retina are derived from a compact group of morphologically undifferentiated cells, but during regeneration a primordium is formed by regeneration cells. In both cases the lens is built from distal nonnucleated cytoplasmic portions pinched off from the pigment cells. The cornea is formed by distal lamellar processes of the ocellus adjoining the epithelial cells. Through EM-histochemical methods (silver impregnation and DOPA-oxidase reaction) the pigment of the chromatophores of the retina was identified as melanin.

Notes: The neural organization of the olfactory system in the desert iguana, Dipsosaurus dorsalis, has been investigated by using the Fink-Heimer technique to trace the efferents of the main and accessory olfactory bulbs, and Golgi preparations to determine the spatial relations between olfactory afferents and neurons in the primary olfactory centers.The accessory olfactory bulb projects to the ipsilateral nucleus sphericus via the accessory olfactory tract. The main olfactory bulb projects to the ipsilateral telen-cephalon via four tracts. The medial olfactory tract projects to the rostral continuation of medial cortex and to the septum. The intermediate olfactory tract projects to the olfactory tubercle and retrobulbar formation. The lateral olfactory tract projects to the rostral part of lateral cortex. The intermediate and lateral olfactory tracts also merge caudally to form the stria medullaris, which crosses the midline in the habenular commissure and distributes fibers to the contralateral hemisphere via two tracts. The lateral corticohabenular tract terminates in the contralateral lateral cortex. The anterior olfactohabenular tract terminates in the contralateral olfactory tubercle, retrobulbar formation and septum.The relation of olfactory afferents to neurons in the medial cortex, lateral cortex, nucleus sphericus, and septum corresponds to a pattern of organization that is typical of many olfactorecipient structures. Such structures are trilaminar, with neurons whose somata are situated in the intermediate layer (layer 2) sending spine-laden dendrites into an outer, molecular layer (layer 1). Olfactory afferents intersect the distal segments of these dendrites. By contrast, other olfactorecipient structures in Dipsoaurus deviate from the familiar pattern. Olfactory afferents intersect somata lying in layer 2 of the retrobulbar formation. Olfactory afferents include some fibers which course perpendicularly to the surface of the olfactory tubercle and extend deep to layer 2.

Notes: Microscopic examination of adipocytes isolated from adult rat epididymal adipose tissue revealed numerous small cells (〈 10 μm) morphologically similar to larger adipocytes. These small adipocytes appear identical to a new classification of adipose cells termed preadipocytes. Electron micrographs of these preadipocytes revealed examples of cells 〈 10 μm in diameter in various stages of maturation and lipid accumulation. The percent distribution pattern of these small adipocytes was not significantly altered by exercise although exercise shifted the distribution patterns of the larger cells (〉 30 μm) toward a smaller mean cell size. The quantitative significance of preadipocytes is not established but these preliminary observations indicate that adipocytes 〈 10 μm in diameter may account for a numerically greater proportion of the total adipocytes observed in collagenase isolated preparations than heretofore recognized, although their contribution to total adipose mass is probably negligible.

Notes: When a newt is hypophysectomized prior to or at the time of forelimb amputation a dermal barrier eventually forms between the apical cap of epithelium and the underlying mesenchymal tissues, and the typical regeneration response is transformed to a wound-healing morphology. When hypophysectomized newts are injected on continuous alternate days beginning either at the time of amputation or following a fifteen-day delay, with either growth hormone (GH) or prolactin in combination with thyroxine (PLT4), normal regeneration occurs. Our experiment was designed to examine critically the early changes occurring in apical connective tissue that had been allowed to form as a consequence of hypophysectomy prior to forelimb amputation. Adult newts were hypophysectomized and five days later both forelimbs were amputated distal to the elbow. Following a delay of eight days, to permit the formation of connective tissue beneath the apical epithelium, they were injected intraperitoneally on successive alternate days with GH or with PL in combination with T4 in the aquarium water. The apical connective tissue of the limb stumps underwent a progressive erosion and became discontinuous by day 4. The limb morphology of hypophysectomized newts receiving ACTH or PL or maintained in thyroxine was virtually identical to sham-injected hypophysectomized controls. It appears that an initial effect of GH or PLT4 therapy is to establish the epithelial-mesenchymal interface that previously has been suggested to be a requisite for the regenerative event.

Notes: The external features of the embryo and the first instar larva of Pedetontus unimaculatus are described. Blastokinesis of P. unimaculatus is very similar to that of Petrobius brevistylis (Larink, '69), but differs from that of Machilis alternata (Heymons and Heymons, '05). The superficial structures of three pairs of protocerebral lobes are present. The terga of the mandibular, maxillary, and labial segments take part in the formation of the head capsule. In the maxilla and labium, the palpi are homologous with the telopodites of the legs; the other parts proximal to the palpi are homologous with the coxopodites. No sternal element contributes to the postmentum. Both glossa and paraglossa consist of two lobes. The pleuropodium, stylus and ventral sac are derived from distal parts of appendage anlagen. The pleuropodium of the first abdominal segment is homologous with the styli of the successive abdominal segments; the ventral sacs of succeeding segments are serially homologous. The basal parts of appendage anlagen cover each sternum in the first to ninth abdominal segments to form coxites, which are therefore appendicular in origin. The basal part of the cercus also covers the ventral and lateral surfaces of the eleventh abdominal segment.

Notes: The micropterygid moth Neomicropteryx nipponensis belongs to the most primitive suborder Zeugloptera of the Lepidoptera. During embryogenesis the small circular germ disk formed on the ventral egg surface invaginates deeply into the yolk. It finally separates from the egg periphery or rudimentary serosa, and becomes a sac-shaped germ rudiment. Its anterior part later develops into the germ band, while its posterior part is the future amnion. Just before revolution of the embryo, the embryo assumes a completely superficial position beneath the yolk. Neither amnion nor serosa rupture during revolution; by completion of dorsal closure they have been incorporated into the yolk to form the secondary dorsal organ.The formation of the germ rudiment and embryonic membranes in N. nipponensis resembles those of swift moths, Endoclyta (suborder Monotrysia) and of the caddisflies, Stenopsyche (Trichoptera), but differs from those of ditrysian Lepidoptera. The secondary dorsal organ has never been found in any other lepidopteran embryos; however, it is formed in N. nipponensis and in the Trichoptera. The results of the present study strongly support the general phylogenetic views that the Zeugloptera have a close affinity to the Trichoptera.

Notes: Scanning and transmission electron microscopic observations were made on the rattlesnake lung, which has the form of a cigar-shaped bag enclosing a large axial air chamber. The lungs were fixed by tracheal instillation of fixative to preserve the structural features of inflated lungs. An open tracheal groove along the ventral aspect of the lung is the only structural “airway” present. The wall of the lung has two histologically distinct regions: anteriorly, a respiratory portion, where up to three generations of septa subdivide the wall into cup-shaped gas-exchange chambers, termed faveoli; and posteriorly, a simple, thin-walled saccular portion. The epithelium lining the internal surface of the lung is composed of several cell types: (1) ciliated cells; (2) type I pneumonocytes; (3) type II pneumonocytes, secretory cells characterized by the presence of lamellar bodies; and (4) serous epithelial cells, secretory cells characterized by the presence of homogeneous, densely staining secretory granules. However, the distinctiveness of the secretory cell types in the snake lung is blurred because intermediate-appearing cells have both the lamellar body and homogenous type of secretory granule. The nonepithelial components of the pulmonary wall and septa consist of blood vessels and lymphatics, smooth muscle cells and fibroblasts, embedded in a matrix of extracellular connective tissue fibers. Tubular myelin figures were observed in the faveolar lining layer.

Notes: Autoradiographic, HRP, and Fink-Heimer techniques define olfactory bulb efferents in the channel catfish. The olfactory bulb projects bilaterally to eight targets in the area ventralis telencephali including the preoptic area, five targets in area dorsalis telencephali, and the posterior tuber of the diencephalon. There is additional input to the peripheral margin of the internal cell layer of the contralateral olfactory bulb. Fibers cross in rostral (nervus terminalis and commissure of Goldstein) and caudal components of the anterior commissure and the habenular commissure. HRP techniques reveal the origin of bulb efferents from the internal and mitral cell layers of the olfactory bulb. The olfactory tract is divided into five major components, each with a unique subset of ipsilateral and commissural pathways.

Notes: Anuran (Rana) and urodele (Ambystoma) amphibian eggs were subjected to prolonged unnatural orientations in relation to gravity. In some cases eggs were rotated 90°, while in other instances eggs were rotated 180° (complete inversion). Alterations in the pigmentation pattern, cleavage pattern, and site of involution were observed. Despite these unnatural orientations to gravity, the morphogenesis of axial structures was frequently normal. Reorganization of the egg cytoplasm apparently takes place after the unnatural orientation. Rather than being localized in a fixed position in the egg (e.g., the egg cortex), the determinants for the pattern of early embryogenesis are probably located in that portion of the cytoplasm (e.g., “internal” cytoplasm) that orients to gravity.

Notes: The cytoarchitecture and neuronal morphology of the torus semicircularis in the red-eared turtle, Chrysemys scripta elegans, were examined in Nissl-stained and Golgi-impregnated material. The torus semicircularis begins in the caudodorsal mesencephalon and extends rostrally and laterally to end ventrally to the tectal ventricle. The torus semicircularis consists of a central nucleus and a laminar nucleus, which is interposed between the central nucleus and the ventricle.The central nucleus can be divided into two regions, a small, large-celled area, located dorsally, and a larger area of small spherical (6-17 μm), large spherical (18-25 μm), triangular (15-27 μm) and fusiform (10-26 μm) neurons. The small spherical cells have two dendritic patterns: “radiate” and “single.” The radiate pattern has a dorsoventral orientation, several secondary branches and few dendritic spines. These cells are usually located in the center of the central nucleus. The single pattern is oriented mediolaterally. This cell type is most often observed at the periphery of the central nucleus. These neurons have few secondary branches and dendritic spines. The large spherical neurons display two dendritic orientations: dorsoventral and mediolateral. All dendritic trees have numerous secondary branches and few dendritic spines. The triangular neurons exhibit primary dendrites projecting from the corners of the somata and have few secondary branches and dendritic spines.The fusiform neurons have a majority of their dendrites oriented mediolaterally, few secondary branches and a small number of dendritic spines.The laminar nucleus consists of several layers and three cell types: ovoid (9-15 μm), triangular (20-40 μm), and fusiform (20-40 μm). All neurons have few secondary dendritic branches and few dendritic spines. The dendrites of many neurons course perpendicularly to the long axis of the brainstem and encapsulate the central nucleus. Some ovoid and fusiform neurons display dendrites that enter the central nucleus.

Notes: The morphology of the foregut muscles of five spider families (Theraphosidae, Agelenidae, Araneidae, Lycosidae, Salticidae) was described, and the individual fibre numbers and fibre cross diameters of the muscles were determined. The nomenclature of these muscles was reviewed and modified if necessary.Oxidative enzyme and myosin-ATPase histochemistry revealed eight dilatatory muscles of the foregut to consist of slow (type I) fibres, while fast fibres (type IIB), and intermediate fibres, were only to be found in the two other muscles of the foregut, and in the remaining prosomal muscles (type IIA fibres around the poison gland).The eight sucking muscles proper of the foregut also showed stronger activities of transmitter metabolizing enzymes [monoamine oxidase, glutamate dehydrogenase(NAD)], and comparatively distinct amounts of glycogen and lipids.

Notes: This paper reports observations on the innervation of gill filaments of the lamprey, Lampetra japonica. Nerve fibers run on each side of the afferent filament artery (AFA nerve) and in the connective tissue compartment along the efferent filament artery (EFA nerve). The AFA nerve supplies vasomotor fibers to the afferent filament artery and arteriovenous anastomoses and special visceral motor fibers to branchial muscle fibers (musculus compressor branchialis circularis). Nerve endings of the vasomotor fibers contain large, cored vesicles (60-180 nm in diameter) with a variable number of small, clear vesicles (30-70 μm in diameter), whereas those of the visceral motor fibers have many small, clear vesicles with few large, cored vesicles. The EFA nerve supplies vasomotor fibers to the efferent filament artery. Their endings, containing mixtures of predominantly large, cored vesicles and small, clear vesicles make close synaptic contacts with reticular cells. The latter in turn are connected with each other or with smooth muscle cells in the wall of the efferent filament artery by nexuses. No nerves are found in the axial plate between the afferent and efferent filament arteries nor in the secondary lamellae of individual gill filaments. No afferent nerve supply to the gill filament has been found.

Notes: This study, using the cobalt chloride technique, clarifies the origin of the giant axons in the cockroach, Periplaneta. Each giant axon in the ventral nerve cord arises from a single cell body located in the sixth abdominal ganglion. The position of the soma is always contralateral to the giant axon; it projects anteriorly. In six giant neurons, the axonic and dendritic branches are ipsilateral while the somata are contralateral. In two neurons, both the soma and the dendritic branches are ipsilateral while the axons are contralateral. The dendritic arborizations of the giant neurons form a dense and compact mass of neuropile in each half of the posterior and middorsal part of the ganglion where sensory fibers, primarily from the cercal nerves terminate. The relation of these findings to earlier electrophysiological studies is discussed.

Notes: Untreated adult newts do not undergo normal limb regeneration following hypohysectomy. A fibrocellular dermal barrier (cicatrix) atypically forms between the apical epithelium and the underlying mesenchymal tissues. Historically, continuous administration of growth hormone or of prolactin in combination with thyroxine restored regenerative capacity to these newts. In a previous investigation, we demonstrated that the initial effect of these two hormone treatments, when administered on alternate days to hypophysectomized newts beginning eight days post-amputation, was to facilitate the erosion of the fibrocellular barrier and establish the epithelial mesenchymal interface that is observed in a regenerating limb.The present investigation was designed to evaluate the necessity of continuous hormone therapy to maintain limb regeneration in hypophysectomized newts. One, two, or three injections of growth hormone or of prolactin in combination with thyroxine was administered on successive alternate days to hypophysectomized newts either immediately following limb amputation (ID) or beginning eight days post-amputation (DD). The ID and DD newts receiving one, two, or three injections of growth hormone showed evidence of regeneration to the digitiform stage by day 30 post-amputation, while those receiving prolactin and thyroxine underwent wound healing. While both hormone treatments initially promoted a dermis-free apical epithelium, only hypophysectomized newts that had received growth hormone were able to continue regenerating.We have, therefore, concluded that discontinuous growth hormone therapy is sufficient to initiate and maintain the conducive environment for limb regeneration to advanced stages in the hypophysectomized newt. While initiating this process, prolactin and thyroxine therapy on a discontinuous regime does not maintain regeneration. The direct and indirect role of growth hormone in supporting limb regeneration in normal and hypophysectomized newts is discussed.

Notes: Six types of hemocytes were identified in fifth instars of the Indian meal moth, Plodia interpunctella. The morphology of these cells was characterized by phase contrast and electron microscopy, with Sudan black B, Giemsa, Janus green B, and periodic acid-Schiff staining. Reaction of the hemocytes with seven fluorescing lectin conjugates revealed distinctive binding patterns by their plasma and nuclear membranes and cytoplasmic inclusions. A direct line of descent from prohemocytes to plasmatocytes to granulocytes is suggested from these morphological observations.

Notes: New fossils of the rare Oligocene mammals Xenocranium and Epoicotherium add information on their skulls and provide the first information on their postcranial skeletons. These epoicotheres, the latest surviving palaeanodonts, have numerous fossorial adaptations and must have been predominantly subterranean. Their skeletal specializations are similar to, and equal or surpass in degree of development, those of most living fossorial mammals.Principal modifications of the skull are the expanded, domed occiput with broad lambdoid crests, hypertrophy of the malleus-incus and related changes in other ear components, reduced eyes, and (in Xenocranium) a flaring, upturned, spatulate snout. The neck was strengthened by synostosis of the 2nd through 5th cervical vertebrae. The forelimb elements have exaggerated crests, processes, and fossae for muscles used in digging or in stabilizing certain joints. The scapula has a high, stout spine with bifid acromion, a “secondary spine,” and an expanded postscapular fossa for attachment of the teres major muscle. The humerus has an elongate pectoral crest, large lesser tuberosity, long entepicondyle, and large hooklike supinator crest. The enormous incurved olecranon process of the ulna provided insertion for the massive triceps and origin for the carpal and digital flexors, and the latter gained mechanical advantage by incorporating in its tendon a large carpal sesamoid. In the greatly shortened hand, digit three is largest, with its metacarpal and proximal phalanx fused and its claw-bearing ungual-phalanx very large.These traits indicate that Xenocranium and Epoicotherium were among the most specialized “rapid-scratch” diggers ever to evolve. Their remarkable convergence to chrysochlorids reflects a similar mode of digging, with extensive use of the snout for loosening and lifting soil when making shallow foraging burrows. For deeper burrowing, the forelimbs probably loosened the soil while the rear limbs moved it behind. Like many extant subterranean mammals, Xenocranium and Epoicotherium were essentially sightless, but they were specialized for low frequency sound reception. Their extinction may have been due to a combination of environmental change and competition with other fossorial animals, such as proscalopine insectivores and rhineurid amphisbaenians.

Notes: In the sprawling gait of Varanus exanthematicus, the bicondylar distal humerus requires both the radius and ulna to rotate in the same direction. The joints between the radius and radiale and between the ulna and ulnare and pisiform accomodate these specific rotations. A ligament system between radius, ulna, radiale, and ulnare causes the radius and ulna to approximate one another during external rotation of the forearm. This approximation is conveyed distally resulting in a narrowing of the hand during external rotation of radius and ulna or during pronation of the free hand. The significance of these and related linkages is discussed.

Notes: The overall anatomy of Neodasys as well as data for hemoglobin-containing cells are described. Hemoglobin-containing cells are shown to be mesodermal specializations constituting approximately 14% of the animal's total body volume (4.87 ± 104 μl). These globular cells (10-14 μm) are situated in two longitudinal rows, each dorsolateral to the straight gut. Branches from the cells enwrap perikarya of muscle and nerve cells whose mitochondria are found just below their respective plasmalemmata in intimate association with the hemoglobin-containing cells. The ground substance of the cytoplasm and nucleoplasm of these nearly organelle-free cells is extremely electron-dense and is presumed to represent the hemoglobin molecules. Locomotion analyses indicate that the cells can undergo a threefold change in linear dimension in 0.25 seconds, raising the possibility of convective mixing in these cells. Structural and ultrastructural comparisons with similar cells in adults of other species of Gastrotricha indicate that the hemoglobin-containing cells of Neodasys may be homologous to the socalled Y cells of other species, some of which contain myofilaments. A muscle-cell origin is considered for the evolution of hemoglobin-containing cells of Neodasys.

Notes: The digestive tract of the freshwater amphipod Hyalella azteca is a straight but differentiated tube consisting of foregut, midgut, and hindgut divisions. The foregut is subdivided into a tubular esophagus, a cardiac stomach, and a pyloric stomach. The cuticular lining of the cardiac stomach is elaborated into a set of food-crushing plates and ossicles, the gastric mill, while the pyloric cuticle forms a complex straining and pressing mechanism. Nine caeca arise from the midgut, seven anteriorly and two posteriorly. Four of the anterior caeca, the hepatopancreatic caeca, are believed to be the primary sites of digestion and absorption. The remaining caeca may be absorptive, secretory, or both. The much-folded hindgut wall is capable of great distention by extrinsic muscle action for water intake to aid in flushing fecal material out of the anus; such action also may stimulate antiperistalsis by intrinsic rectal muscles.

Notes: The proximal, intermediate, and distal convoluted tubules of the neprhon of Podarcis (= Lacerta) taurica were examined by electron microscopy. Proximal tubule cells have large, apical cytoplasmic protrusions and microvilli interpreted to function in urate secretion. Adjacent cells are bound apically by tight junctions and desmosomes but interdigitate in their basal region. This situation is repeated in the other tubules with significant differences in intercellular space width. The basal surfaces bear numerous cytoplasmic processes. The intermediate tubule has proximal and distal segments each with dark, ciliated, and light cells, the cuboidal dark cells with dense cytoplasm constituting the main bulk of the wall. As the cells of the proximal and distal segments resemble those of the proximal and distal convoluted tubules, respectively, the intermediate tubule is considered as a transition region. The ciliated cell body has two broad processes extending from the lumen, one to the basement membrane and one to a foot process of a light cell. The light cell is surrounded by dark and ciliated cells. It does not reach the lumen, but contacts the basement membrane through a process running below a ciliated cell to form a mushroom-shaped structure in tubule cross-section, the light cell process forming the stalk and a ciliated cell the cap. The cilia probably propel the glomerular filtrate towards the distal convoluted tubule. This latter tubule has initial, middle, and terminal zones, all nonciliated but with different lumen widths and cell shapes.

Notes: The ultrastructure of the stylets produced by nine species of nemerteans has been examined by scanning electron microscopy (S.E.M.) and polarized light microscopy. Stylets are solid, nail-shaped structures that typically reach lengths of 50-200 μm. Each stylet is composed of a centrally located organic matrix surrounded by an inorganic cortex that contains calcium and phosphorus. When viewed at high magnifications, fine granules can be seen throughout the organic matrix, and the cortex appears to be composed of densely packed homo-geneous material. Fractured specimens and whole matrices isolated from decalcified stylets reveal a close correspondence between the shape of the organic matrix and that of the surrounding cortex. This similarity in morphology suggests that the organic matrix serves as a template during calcification of the stylet. The fact that abundant material can be seen in the core of incinerated stylets, and in the central region of stylets that had been soaked for several hours in sodium hypochlorite, supports the hypothesis that the organic matrix is also highly calcified. Polarization microscopy of nemertean stylets indicates that they are composed of a crystalline, rather than amorphous, form of calcium phosphate. The probable organization of the calcium phosphate crystals is discussed.

Notes: The present study traces corneal morphogenesis in a reptile, the lizard Calotes versicolor, from the lens placode stage (stage 24) until hatching (stage 42), and in the adult. The corneal epithelium separates from the lens placode as a double layer of peridermal and basal cells and remains bilayered throughout development and in the adult. Between stages 32- and 33+, the corneal epithelium is apposed to the lens, and limbic mesodermal cells migrate between the basement membrane of the epithelium and the lens capsule to form a monolayered corneal endothelium. Soon thereafter a matrix of amorphous ground substance and fine collagen fibrils, the presumptive stroma, is seen between the epithelium and the endothelium. Just before stage 34 a new set of limbic mesodermal cells, the keratocytes, migrate into the presumptive stroma. Migrating limbic mesodermal cells, both endothelial cells and keratocytes, use the basement membrane of the epithelium as substratum. Keratocytes may form up to six cell layers at stage 37, but in the adult stroma they form only one or two cell layers. The keratocytes sysnthesize collagen, which aggregates as fibrils and fibers organized in lamellae. The lamellae become condensed as dense collagen layers subepithelially or become compactly organized into a feltwork structure in the rest of the stroma. The basement membrane of the endothelium is always thin. Thickness of the entire cornea increases up to stage 38 and decreases thereafter until stage 41. In the adult the cornea is again nearly as thick as at stage 38.

Notes: Measurements have been made of those changes which lead to increases in the surface area of the intestine during the metamorphosis of three species of lampreys. Although the intestine of the Southern Hemisphere lamprey, Geotria australis, increases in length by 1.13 times and in diameter by 1.12 times, the main factor influencing the 5.71 times increase in surface area is the development of longitudinal folds. The contribution of the typhlosole to the internal perimeter of the intestine is less in most life cycle stages of G. australis than in Lampetra spp. The changes in the various intestinal measurements of the nonparasitic species L. planeri parallel those of the presumed ancestral parasitic species, L. fluviatilis, during the first six stages of metamorphosis. However, the longitudinal folds, but not the typhlosole, subsequently start regressing in L. planeri just after the time when the rate of gonadal development increases markedly. An account is also given of the pattern of fold formation and the development of the typhlosolar vein in G. australis.

Notes: No Abstracts.

Notes: The formation of the alimentary canal, nervous system, and of other ectodermal derivatives in the embryo of the primitive moth, Neomicropteryx nipponensis Issiki, is described. The stomodaeum is formed from an invagination in the medioposterior portion of the protocephalon. The proctodaeum arises as an extension of the amnioproctodaeal cavity. The midgut epithelium orginates from anterior and posterior rudiments in blind ends of the stomodaeum and proctodaeum. The decondary dorsal organ is formed in developing midgut. The development of the brain is typical of insects. The ventral nerve cord originates in large part from neuroblasts arising in 3 gnathal, 3 thoracic, and 11 abdominal segments. Intrasegmental median cord cells probably differentiate into both ganglion cells and glial elements of the ventral nerve cord; intersegmental cells appear not to participate in the formation of the nervous system. The stomatogastric nervous system develops from three evaginations in the dorsal wall of the stomodaeum, and consists of the frontal, hypocerebral, and ventricular ganglia, the recurrent nerve, and corpora cardiaca. Five stemmata arise from the epidermis on each side of the head. Five pairs of ectodermal invaginations are formed in the cephalognathal region to produce the tentorium, mandibular apodemes, corpora allata, and silk glands. Prothoracic glands orginate in the prothorax. Mesothoracic spiracles shift anteriorly to the prothorax during development. Oenocytes arise in the first seven abdominal segments. Invaginated pleuropodia are formed in the first abdominal segment.

Notes: Ultrastructural observations and glyoxilic acid-induced fluorescence of catecholamines indicate that tracts of axons lie at the base of the ciliary bands and run throughout their length in bipinnaria and brachiolaria larvae of Pisaster ochraceus. Two types of nerve cells occur at regular intervals within the ciliary bands. Type I nerve cells are associated with the axonal tracts, and type II nerve cells, which are ciliated, occur along the edge of the ciliary bands. Two prominent ganglia, which appear as accumulations of nerve cells and neuropile, occur on the lower lip of the larval mouth. Smaller ganglia occur irregularly throughout the ciliary band. Synapses were never clearly identified and were assumed to be unspecialized. Nervous tissues were also found associated with the esophageal muscles, the attachment organ, and the larval arms. Organization of the nervous system and its association with effectors suggest it controls swimming and feeding. Several similarities exist between the nervous systems of larval asteroids, larval echinoids, and adult echinoderms.

Notes: The gross morphology and electrical activity of the muscles of the pharyngeal apparatus of centrarchid sunfishes (Lepomis) are analyzed within a monophyletic clade containing species specialized for snail-eating. Outgroup comparisons of both structure and activity patterns of muscles permit examination of the relationship between specialized diet and function of the trophic apparatus. In most sunfish species, electrical activity in the pharyngocleithralis internus muscle significantly overlaps that in the retractor dorsalis muscle during pharyngeal transport, indicating that the upper and lower pharyngeal jaws retract together. Activity in the pharyngohyoideus, levatores externi, and levator posterior also significantly overlaps activity of the retractor dorsalis.Snail-eating is associated with derived morphological, behavioral, and functional features. The shell is crushed before pharyngeal transport, correlated with extensive overlap in activity periods of muscles. One species, Lepomis microlophus, possesses a highly stereotyped neuromuscular repertoire that does not vary with prey type. All prey, even fish and worms, are subjected to crushing. Lepomis gibbosus exhibits the crushing pattern of muscle activity only when feeding on snails. L. microlophus has a hypertrophied levator posterior muscle, but the lines of action of the pharyngeal muscles are similar to the primitive condition. Pharyngeal transport in this species is unique in that activity of the pharyngocleithralis internus alternates with that of the retractor dorsalis.In sunfishes, alterations in the central control of peripheral structures have produced major changes in the sequence in which homologous components of the structural network are activated.

Notes: The scent apparatus of male Eldana saccharina is a glandular complex on the costal area of the forewing. It consists of two parts; glandular complex 1 is composed of five kinds of cells (epidermal cells, scale cells, glandular cells, supporting cells, duct cells); glandular complex 2 also shows five types of cells (epidermal cells, scale cells, glandular cells, duct cells, trichogen cells). The secretory products of the two parts are discharged into separate ducts which converge before opening onto the lower side of the wing. The male also has two prominent hair-pencils borne on the coremata and large secretory trichogen cells on the genital valves. Each of these exocrine gland components plays an important part in formation of the chemically complex pheromones utilized in the precopulatory behavior of the male.

Notes: The cytoarchitectonics of the telencephalon of the channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, are described as a basis for experimental analysis of telencephalic afferents and efferents. The olfactory bulb comprises: (1) an outer layer of olfactory nerve fibers, (2) a glomerular layer, (3) an external cell layer, (4) an inner fiber layer, and (5) an internal cell layer. The telencephalic hemispheres comprise the areas ventralis and dorsalis telencephali. The area ventralis consists of: (1) a precommissural, periventricular zone including nucleus 'nother (Vn), the ventral nucleus (Vv), and the dorsal nucleus (Vd); (2) a precommissural, migrated zone of central (Vc) and lateral (VI) nuclei; (3) a supracommissural nucleus (Vs); (4) a caudal commissural zone of postcommissural (Vp) and intermediate (Vi) nuclei; and (5) a preoptic area (PP). The area dorsalis comprises: (1) medial (DM), (2) dorsal (Dd), (3) lateral [DL, containing dorsal (DLd), ventral (DLv), and posterior (DLp) regions], (4) posterior (DP), and (5) central (DC-1, -2, -3) areas. Nucleus taeniae (NT) is transitional between areas dorsalis and ventralis.

Notes: The morphology of the newly hatched larva of Carcinonemertes epialti Coe has been examined by light and electron microscopy. The newly hatched larva is covered with cilia and measures about 110 μm in length. Four types of epidermal cells are recognizable: (1) Multiciliated cells, (2) vacuolated cells, (3) mucous cells, and (4) “knob cells”. The knob cells protrude from the posterior end of the larva and contain granules and bundles of microfilaments. The gut is incomplete and is located ventral to the bipartite proboscis. A bilobed brain and two subepidermal ocelli are found in the anterior end of the larva. The anterior and posterior cirri are composed of long, tightly appressed cilia that arise from an invagination of the epidermis at each end of the larva. The anterior cirrus is surrounded by two types of glandular cells. It is proposed that the knob cells have a role in larval attachment, combining the functions of the adhesive cells and anchor cells described in the duo-gland system of turbellarians. The cirri are believed to be larval sensory structures that function in substrate selection. Histological and ultrastructural observations suggest that the larvae of Carcinonemertes are relatively long lived and develop into juveniles without a drastic metamorphosis.

Notes: Glycoproteins are present in the web of the orb-weaving spiders Argiope trifasciata and Argiope aurantia. Periodic acid-Schriff reactive glyco-proteins are confined in large part, to the sticky spiral and sticky spiral-radial junctions. Glycoproteins containing amino sugars appear associated with all fibers, especially the radial fibers. Enzymes may be used to remove glycoproteins selectively from the sticky spiral and stabilimentum.

Notes: The pineal organ of Ensatina eschscholtzi, a terrestrial and secretive species of salamander of the family Plethodontidae, is a photoreceptive structure lying on the dorsal surface of the diencephalon. The pineal is flattened with a broad lumen and consists of three cell types: photoreceptors, supportive cells, and neurons. Pineal photoreceptors are typical vertebrate photoreceptors and possess outer segment formations which, however, are frequently contorted and disorganized. Sloughing of apical portions of outer segments and vesiculation along the lateral edges of outer segment membrane disks are consistently observed and presumed to represent mechanisms of outer segment membrane recycling. Photoreceptors have basal processes which synapse with neural dendrites. Synapses between photoreceptor basal processes are occasionally observed. All synapses are characterized by synaptic ribbon structures of variable number, size, and configuration. Dense-core vesicles are occasionally observed mingled with clear synaptic vesicles within photoreceptor basal processes. Supportive cells within the pineal function in phagocytosis and recycling of shed outer segment membrane material, and neurons are localized at the lateral margins of the organ. The latter send axons into the ipsilateral side of the dorsal diencephalon. The pineal organ of Ensatina shows marked variation in overall size (cell total), cell type proportions, absolute neuron number, and ratio of photoreceptor number to neuron number for individual pineals. None of these morphological parameters is correlated with body size, sex, or season, and it is assumed that such variability represents significant variation in photosensory capabilities. It is suggested that the pineal organ of Ensatina is a partially degenerate photoreceptive structure.

Notes: In order to investigate quantitatively and objectively the influence of the normal microbial flora on the ultrastructure of the alveolar macrophage, three groups of mice were studied stereologically: germ-free (GF), conventionally reared under non sterile isolation conditions (IC), and conventionally reared in an open environment (OC). The alveolar macrophages of GF mice possess a smaller mitochondrial compartment, possibly with fewer organelles, than the macrophages of conventional mice. Other influences of the normal microflora on alveolar macrophage substructure are obscured by the effects of nonmicrobial stimuli such as droplets of lung surfactant.No previous comparison exists of alveolar and peritoneal macrophage ultrastructure. Lung macrophages are larger than the phagocytes of the peritoneum, but the difference in size is much less than is commonly believed. Alveolar macrophages are rounder than peritoneal macrophages, and exhibit much less rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) as well as differences in mitochondrial morphometry. No difference in mitochondrial volume fraction exists between the two types of macrophage even though alveolar macrophages represent the extreme of aerobic adaptation in the mononuclear phagocyte system. Phagosomes occupy a significant fraction of cellular volume only in the alveolar macrophages. Moreover alveolar phagocytes contain fewer but larger lysosome-like granules than are found in peritoneal macrophages. The results represent the first objective, quantitative structural evidence confirming the common belief that alveolar macrophages experience greater physiological stimulation than peritoneal macrophages. The normal microflora accounts for only a small proportion of the differing degree of stimulation exerted on the two types of macrophage.

Notes: In this work, we have completed a study of the development of the ovoviviparous lizard Liolaemus tenuis tenuis. Ovoviviparity in this lizard is a condition in which eggs are retained within the reproductive duct for about 60 days. During this period the phases of segmentation, gastrulation, neurulation, presomitic, and somitic embryos transpire. During the months of December and January the eggs are laid, and at this time the embryos are comparable to stage 27 Liolaemus gravenhorsti lizard embryos, or to stage 29 Calotes versicolor lizard embryos. Differentiation of the facial region occurs between Days 12 and 42 after egg laying. Limbs develop rapidly between the 8th and 23rd days. By 53 days the appendicular skeleton is completely formed. After 36 days the mesonephros begins to degenerate, and its function is gradually taken over by the developing metanephros. Newborn lizards do not possess an egg caruncle. During the period up to hatching, there is a great increase of liquid within the egg, presumably amniotic fluid. Cracks develop in the leathery shell shortly before hatching and are, perhaps, the first sign of the onset of hatching. Increase of liquid in the egg during postlaying development accounts for its increase in weight and change in shape. Weight of the embryo at hatching does not exceed 32% of the total weight of the egg.

Notes: The coronary arterial supply and associated structures have been examined and described for 29 species covering 11 reptilian families, with supplementary observations on other species. Variation in the origin, number, and configuration of coronary arterial vessels is mainly interfamilial and the same is true regarding the presence or absence of a gubernaculum cordis. It is suggested that the presence of a hitherto unrecognized intertruncal branch of the coronary artery has been responsible for much of the alleged intrafamilial variation reported in earlier literature. A general review of the cardiac blood supply and coronary arterial supply of other lower vertebrates is presented and used as a basis for interpreting phyletic and functional aspects of the reptilian conditions.

Notes: The enameloid and dentine of Squalus acanthius have been compared histochemically with those of Bos taurus. Squalus enameloid is much less reactive to a variety of stains or reagents than dentine or bovine immature enamel but it does have positive reactions with picromethyl blue, Mallory's and Van Gieson's stains, and Alcian blue. It stains faintly with Biebrich scarlet, indicating some anionic groups. Specific reactions for tyrosine, tryptophane, lysine, histidine, arginine, and cysteine are negative. Bos immature enamel is positive for cationic, anionic, and aromatic reactive groups by all test procedures, and dentine was positive for the anionic components. Bovine maturing enamel, however, is more similar in terms of lack of reactivity to Squalus enameloid but differed because the bovine enamel was moderately positive for tyrosine; tryptophane, and anionic groups and negative with Mallory's picromethyl blue and Van Gieson's stains. A fibrous transitional area between Squalus dentine and enameloid has staining reactions characteristic of both collagen and keratins.

Notes: Five concentrations of nitrogen mustard (methyl-bis-chlorethylamine) have been administrated to different stages of development of trout embryos (Salmo gairdneri), in order to study their effect on the formation of both pelvic fins soft tissue and skeleton. Sensitivity of epidermis and mesoderm toward this cytotoxic agent has been assessed histologically. Although both components are sensitive to nitrogen mustard, mesoderm is more sensitive than epidermis. These results are compared with the results of similar studies on tetrapod limb buds. The pelvic fin skeleton of some treated animals was doubly stained in toto for cartilage and bone by Alcian blue and alizarin, followed by clearing. Other specimens were processed for histological serial sections. Analysis included comparison of the following parameters: (1) dose of nitrogen mustard, (2) stage of fin bud development at the time of treatment, (3) importance of necrosis in the fin bud, and (4) abnormalities of the endoskeleton of the fin (pelvic girdle and radials) and of the dermal skeleton (lepidotrichia and actinotrichia) one month after the hatching of control animals. Results suggest (1) that material of endoskeleton and lepidotrichia are laid down simultaneously, and (2) that differentiation of actinotrichia is independent of differentiation in endoskeleton and lepidotrichia.

Notes: During postnatal development of the pigeon, a large portion of the skeleton becomes pneumatized, displacing the hemopoietic bone marrow. The consequences of pneumatization on distribution and quantity of bone marrow as well as the availability of other sites for hemopoiesis have been investigated. Hemopoietic marrow of differently aged pigeons divided into five groups from 1 week posthatching (p.h.) up to 6 months p.h. was labeled with Fe-59 and examined by serial whole-body sections. Autoradiography and morphometry as well as scintillation counts of single bones and organs were also carried out. No sign of a reactivation of embryonic sites of erythropoiesis was found. Bone marrow weight and its proportion of whole-body weight increased during the first 4 weeks p.h. from 0.54% to 2.44% and decreased in the following months to about 1.0%. The developing bone marrow showed a progressive distribution during the first months of life, eventually being distributed proportionally over the entire skeleton, except for the skull. At the age of 6 months p.h. bone marrow had been displaced, its volume decreasing in correlation to increasing pneumaticity and conversion to fatty marrow. This generates the characteristic pattern of bone marrow distribution in adult pigeons, which shows hemopoietic bone marrow in ulna, radius, femur, tibiotarsus, scapula, furcula, and the caudal vertebrae.

Notes: Artificially incubated fertile eggs from wild alligators have a significantly better hatch rate than those of captive, pen-reared alligators, possibly due to differences in the morphology of the eggshells. We compared the morphology of eggshells of wild alligators to those of captive alligators living in semi-natural environmental pens. Lengths and widths of eggs were measured and volume was determined, assuming an ellipsoid shape. Eggs were also evaluated for the quality of the eggshell (the presence or absence of rough deposits). Pieces of shell were cut from unincubated eggs and from eggs incubated for 55 days (just before hatching) and examined by scanning electron microscopy. Open pores on the outer surface of the shells were counted and thickness of the pieces was measured from micrographs. Results indicated that the number of pores on eggshells was lowest in eggs of captive alligators with early embryonic death. The number of pores was intermediate in eggs with early embryonic death from wild alligators, and the number of pores was highest in eggs with full-term embryos from wild or captive alligators. It is suggested that decreased porosity of eggshells may be associated with early embryonic death, is more prevalent in captive animals, and may, therefore, be related to poor hatch rate among penreared alligators.

Notes: Adult hornets (Vespa orientalis; Hymenoptera, Vespinae) build the brood combs out of organic or mineral matter. The cement that serves to glue the building material together is secreted in their saliva, the latter hardening within seconds to form fibers or plates. This saliva-derived spittle overlies and unites the building particles laminally and vertically. The hornet larvae spin a cocoon within the brood cells, which is largely fastened to and supported by the cell walls and is composed of a network of silk fibers and interlinking flat surfaces. On the outside of the cocoon fibers are spherical button-like structures that are very rich in phosphorus. The chemical composition of the adult salivary cement and the larval cocoon fibers is similar: both contain the elements P, Mg, S, Cl, K, and Ca. The possible biological significance of these findings is discussed.Among social insects belonging to the Hymenoptera, there are three main groups that build a multitude of cells, namely, the paper wasps (Polistinae), the other social wasps or hornets (Vespinae), and the social bees (Apinae). The constructed cells serve mainly for rearing the brood, but in many instances (particularly among various Apinae) they also serve for storing honey and pollen. For building material, Apinae rely primarily on beeswax (a product secreted by the bee itself to which various amounts of plant resins are added). On the other hand, wasps (Polistinae and Vespinae) build mainly from matter collected in the nearby environment, be it organic matter such as tree bark, mineral matter, or a combination of the two.Much information has accumulated on comb and cell building among these insect groups (e.g., Wheeler, '23; Van der Vecht, '57, '65; Lindauer, '61; Michener, '61; Kemper and Döhring, '67; Wilson, '71; Guiglia, '72; Spradbery, '73; Edwards, '80; Brian, '83; Schremmer et al., '85). Species of Polistinae and Vespinae are prevalent in forest areas in Southeast Asia and in central and South America or in the temperate regions in both the northern and southern hemispheres, and they mainly use vegetable matter to build their combs. In contrast, species prevalent in the Mediterranean region, which is dry and relatively unvegetated during the wasp and hornet active season, rely more on nearby mineral than on plant matter. Comb building in the Oriental hornet is well known (Darchen, '64; Ishay et al., '67; Schaudinischky and Ishay, '68; Ishay, '73, '75a, b, '76; Ishay and Sadeh, '75, '76; Ishay and Perna, '79; Ishay et al., '82). Recently Ganor et al. ('86) described the cell wall in the V. orientalis comb, showing it to be composed of mineral particles collected near the subterranean nest, in contrast to the comb of two European species (V. crabro and Vespula) (Paravespula) germanica, which is built primarily of organic matter. Regardless of whether the building material is mineral or organic, the hornets utilize particles of sand or other minerals or pieces of wood wrapped and melded together by saliva. However, nothing is known about the cement or mortar used to glue together these “bricks.” The present investigation was initiated to increase our knowledge of this cementing substance.Combs of V. orientalis were collected from fields in the Tel-Aviv district in 1987 during the active season, which extends over most of the summer months. Because the combs are easily damaged, care was taken to remove them intact from the natural nest. Once removed, the combs were cleared of the existing brood (eggs, larvae, or pupae) and then stored carefully in dry glass vessels until examined. For the present study, combs were collected only from nests in Khamra soil, which is common in the Tel-Aviv district and along the coastal area of Israel. To investigate the morphology of the cement material in the comb, strips of comb wall as well as segments of the pupal silk dome were removed from each comb and prepared for examination. The comb wall strips were cut to a size of 3 × 6 mm and fastened to the stub of a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The silk pieces were processed in two ways: (1)strips of 3 × 4 mm were fastened onto a stub with the convex (outer surface) facing up or (2) with the concave (interior) side upward.Silk strips were boiled for 2 hours in distilled water to remove all impurities, such as foreign matter adhering to the silk secreted by the larvae. Examination of these silk fibres was carried out in the three ways: (1)SEM micrography of the exterior (white portion) of the silk dome; (2) micrography of the interior; (3) micrography of both exterior and interior aspects after boiling for 2 hours in distilled water to remove water-suspended foreign materials that may have clung to the silk dome in the course of ordinary nest activity.The chemical composition of selected specimens was investigated by x-ray analysis. They were done on JEOL 840 Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) equipped with Link 10,000 Energy-Dispersive System (EDS). (With the EDS System, the spectrometer separates the elements according to energy rather than wavelength). Quantitative analysis was by ZAF4 program. Five strips of comb cell wall were examined from a randomly selected comb, each comb from a different nest. Micrographs were taken of isolated silk samples from each of the examined combs.

Notes: Dissections were performed to document buccal anatomy in three species of the pulmonate genus Helisoma Swainson, 1840. The 28 muscles which are responsible for radular feeding in these animals are organized in three concentric and integrated envelopes. The deepest of these includes muscles which manipulate the radula about the odontophoral cartilage. Elements of the middle envelope direct movements of the cartilage within the buccal cavity, and muscles of the outer envelope control movements of the buccal mass within the cephalic haemocoel. Motion analysis by videomicrography showed that muscles of the middle and outer envelopes contribute to the action of radular feeding by acting as antagonists to other muscles and to hydrostatic elements of the buccal apparatus. Observations of radular dentition showed that although each of the three species examined has a unique radula, especially with regard to the specific details of tooth shape, all resemble a radula characteristic of the Planorbidae with regard to other, more general, aspects of ribbon architecture.

Notes: Crocodilians and birds are the extant representatives of a monophyletic taxon known as archosaurs. Their limbs are highly derived in terms of reduction in number of skeletal elements in both the carpus and the tarsus. It is necessary to have a detailed description of crocodilian limb ontogeny to address the evolutionary issue dealing with the origin and organization of the avian limb. In this paper, we present an analysis of the early development of the crocodilian limb skeleton. Contrasting with earlier observations, we redefine the number and composition of carpal, tarsal, and phalangeal elements. This ontogenetic information is then used to introduce a revision of the homologies of the skeletal elements in the crocodilian limb. Some invariances are pointed out in the developmental organization of tetrapod limbs and this evidence serves to readdress several issues concerning the evolution of the avian limb. We present further embryological data in support of the hypothesis that digits 2-3-4 are the components of the wing skeleton in birds. In general, our comparative survey indicates that the elements that appear late in ontogeny are the ones lost in phylogeny. By comparing turtle (primitive) limb development with crocodilian and bird development, we propose a hypothesis in which the derived skeletal patterns found in crocodilians and birds have originated by a heterochronic process of paedomorphosis.

Notes: A unique pathway that utilizes endoplasmic reticulum (ER) networks is proposed for screening pigment granule formation in the retina of adult Eumesosoma roeweri. Smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER) functions to transport pigment particles to the formative site. Each site is composed of concentric, interconnected rings of SER that are filled with dense-cored, spherical pigment particles. Formation of the screening pigment granule begins by the release of particles from the innermost rings of carrier SER. Continued release followed by fusion and condensation of the pigment particles results in the formation of a mature pigment granule.

Notes: Light and scanning electron microscopy of vascular replicas from the facultative air-breathing fish Heteropneustes fossilis show modifications in the macrocirculation of the respiratory organs and systemic circulation, whereas, gill microcirculation is similar to that found in typical water-breathing fish. Three and sometimes four ventral aortae arise directly from the bulbus. The most ventral vessel supplies the first pair of arches. Dorsal to this another aorta supplies the second gill arches, and a third, dorsal to, and larger than the other two, supplies the third and fourth arches and the air sacs. Occasionally a small vessel that may be the remnant of a primitive aortic arch arises from the first ventral aorta and proceeds directly to the mandibular region without perfusing gill tissue. The air sac is perfused by a large-diameter extension of the afferent branchial artery of the fourth gill arch and its circulation is in parallel with the gill arches. Blood drains from the air sac into the fourth arch epibranchial artery. A number of arteries also provide direct communication between the efferent air sac artery and the dorsal aorta. All four gill arches are well developed and contain respiratory (lamellar) and nonrespiratory (interlamellar and nutrient) networks common to gills of water-breathing fish. Air sac lamellae are reduced in size. The outer 30% of the air sac lamellar sinusoids are organized into thoroughfare channels; the remaining vasculature, normally embedded in the air sac parenchyma, is discontinuous. A gill-type interlamellar vasculature is lacking in the air sac circulation. Despite the elaborate development of the ventral aortae, there is little other anatomical evidence to suggest that gill and air sac outflow are separated and that dorsal aortic oxygen tensions are maintained when the gills are in a hypoxic environment. Physiological adjustments to hypoxic water conditions probably include temporal regulation of gill and air sac perfusion to be effective, if indeed they are so.

Notes: The antennae of adult Damalinia ovis, the sheep louse, were studied using light and scanning electron microscopy. Sensory structures are located on all three antennal segments with the predominant sensilla type being tactile. Nine different types of sensilla are described on the basis of external appearance. One of the sensilla, designated a “pit organ” because of its unusual shape, has not been described previously. A pair of these sensilla are present on each antenna, and their function is unknown. A group of 11 sensilla on the tip of each antenna contains olfactory and chemosensory pegs, and a possible thermohygroreceptor. The antennae are sexually dimorphic, the male having more tactile sensilla, two well-developed terminal hooks, and a different cuticular architecture on the posterior surface of antennal segment 1.

Notes: The formation of the unpaired structure ventral to the basibranchial region, the so-called urohyal, differs within osteichthyans. A cartilaginous preformed, unpaired “urohyal” is present in sarcopterygians. A three-tendon ossification is present in Polypterus. An “urohyal” or urohyal is absent in both Amia and Lepisosteus. The urohyal formed as an unpaired ossification of the tendon of the sternohyoideus muscle is a feature of teleosts. A new structure, the parurohyal, arises as a double ossification of the tendon of the sternohyoideus muscle in siluroids; during ontogeny an anterodorsal crest or cup-like structure derives from the anterior basibranchial region and the tendon bone; therefore, the parurohyal is compound in origin. Judging from their formation and their distribution within osteichthyans the cartilaginous preformed “urohyal” and the teleostean urohyal are nonhomologous, whereas the urohyal and parurohyal are homologous. The urohyal is connected by ligaments with the ventral hypohyals in most teleosts, whereas it articulates with the ventral hypohyals in teleosts such as Anguilla and Chanos. The parurohyal is a synapomorphy of siluroids. The parurohyal in siluroids is articulated with both ventral and dorsal hypohyals, and with the basibranchial region in catfishes such as diplomystids and ictalurids, whereas it articulates only with the ventral hypohyals in other catfishes such as trichomycterines. The passage of the hypobranchial artery through the hypobranchial foramen of the parurohyal is a unique feature of siluroids, like the absence of the basihyal bone.An ossified dorsal hypohyal appears late in ontogeny in Amia, as do tooth plates related to the medial side of the hyoid arch and branchiostegal rays in Amia, and tooth plates on the hyoid arch and branchiostegal rays in Elops (unique features within extant teleosts). Two ossified hypohyals, a synapomorphy of teleosts, are present early in ontogeny.There is intraspecific variation in the onset of ossification of the bones of the head, but the sequence of ossification between bones in a defined structural system is conserved (e.g., branchiostegal rays ossify first, then bones of the hyoid arch).

Notes: The vas deferens of Ambystoma macrodactylum is composed of a peritoneal epithelium, connective tissue layer with fibroblasts, circular smooth muscle, capillaries, cells containing lipid, and a luminal epithelium composed of a single layer of cuboidal cells covered by a net of interconnected ciliated squamous cells. The cuboidal cells have abundant rough endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, and PAS + secretory vesicles. Squamous cells of breeding males consistently have tufts of ∼100 cilia located at one end of the long axis of each cell. These cilia may help distribute secretory products. The squamous cells, absent in post-breeding males, are apparently sloughed into the lumen. Lipid vesicles are present throughout the cytoplasm of the cuboidal and squamous epithelial cells and are also in some cells of the connective tissue layer. These vesicles increase dramatically in number during the first 4 weeks after breeding and may serve as an energy pool for the next breeding season. Enzyme-histochemical tests for testosterone synthesis were negative. In addition to the accumulation of lipid and the loss of squamous cells in the vas deferens, after breeding PAS + vesicle production is terminated. These alterations appear to represent energy conservation strategies employed by the sperm-depleted vas deferens.

Notes: The concept of parallel muscle combinations, in which spindle density is significantly higher in small muscles compared to their larger counterparts in large-small muscle combinations acting across a joint, is supported by the results of this study regardless of the joint. Analysis of the canine data as well as previously published guinea pig forelimb and human pelvic limb data revealed no significant difference in spindle density between antigravity and non-antigravity muscles. Furthermore, a gradual increase in spindle density from proximal to distal on the limb was not found, although spindle density was significantly higher in the intrinsic manus or pes muscles compared to more proximal limb muscles in all three species. The significant differences in spindle densities in parallel muscle combinations and in manus/pes versus proximal muscles are discussed relative to their possible role in the control of locomotion.

Notes: The choanocyte chambers of eight different haplosclerid sponge species have been investigated with regard to their histological structure, their relation to the mesohyl, and their arrangement between the canal systems. Two fundamentally different organizational types occur in the investigated sponge species. In Haliclona rosea, H. oculata, H. elegans, H. simulans, H. rava, H. fistulosa, and Acervochalina limbata the choanocytes are separated from the mesohylar tissue, being more or less covered over the outer surface by pinacocytes belonging to the incurrent canal walls. In Haliclona indistincta, on the other hand, the choanocytes are, as in most other Demospongiae, in contact with the mesohyl at their outer surfaces. This indicates that the present order Haplosclerida is polyphyletic and contains sponges of a presumably poecilosclerid origin.

Notes: The three-dimensional structures of the carotid labyrinth in five species of anurans representing four families (Rana nigromaculata, Rana catesbeiana, Bufo japonicus, Hyla arborea, and Xenopus laevis), and three species of caudates representing three families (Cynops pyrrhogaster, Hynobius nebulosus, Ambystoma mexicanum) were compared using vascular corrosion castings and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Anuran carotid labyrinths are spherical in shape and are classified into two groups according to the origin of the external and internal carotid arteries. One group, which included Rana, Hyla, and Bufo, is characterized by the presence of a vascular ring at the proximal end and some vascular routes at the distal end of the labyrinth. The external and internal carotid arteries originate from these structures. The other group, which includes only Xenopus, is characterized by the external carotid artery opening directly from the central chamber or the common carotid artery, and by the internal carotid artery originating from within the vascular maze. The vascular maze is most complex in Xenopus, less so in Rana and Bufo, and simplest in Hyla. The carotid labyrinths in Cynops and Hynobius are oblong in shape. The fundamental organization in salamanders is similar to that in anurans. The vascular maze, however, is much simpler than in Hyla. There is no specialized swelling in Ambystoma mexicanum. The present findings suggest that most amphibian carotid labyrinths have the appropriate architecture for controlling vascular tone.

Notes: The vomeronasal sensory epithelium of a crotaline snake, Trimeresurus flavoviridis, was shown to consist of a superficial supporting cell layer and an underlying sensory cell layer composed of columns of sensory cells. The supporting cell layer consists of both supporting cells and dendrites of the underlying sensory neurons. The apical regions of sensory cell dendrites contain numerous microtubules, many elongated mitochondria, centrioles, and electron-dense bodies. The dendrites terminate as dendritic knobs from which microvilli project into the vomeronasal lumen. Smooth vesicles are abundant in the dendritic terminals and their vicinity. Supporting cells also bear microvilli, and these cells contain large electron-opaque granules and dense vesicles near their free surfaces. Cytoplasmic extensions of the supporting cells form a meshwork which separates dendrxites from each other in the vicinity of the luminal surface. The meshwork becomes obliterated in the infranuclear region of each supporting cell. Bipolar-shaped sensory cells with lightly stained round nuclei contain the characteristic cell organelles of neurons and are thought to be sensory neurons. These cells are especially characterized by well-developed lamellae of rough endoplasmic reticulum and extensive arrays of smooth endoplasmic reticulum. The perikarya of cells located in the apical region of the cell columns tend to contain larger amounts of smooth endoplasmic reticulum and lipofuscin granules than the perikarya of cells located in lower regions. Undifferentiated cells are found in the basal region of the columns. Satellite cells form the framework of the columns and are also found among neuronal elements.

Notes: The protandric hermaphrodite Ophryotrocha puerilis possesses one pair of eyes. They are located in the peristomium. Each light-sensitive organ consists of one sensory cell and one to two supporting cell(s) embedded in a cup-shaped reflector. The sensory-supporting cell complex is enveloped by a basal lamina. This lamina is supposed to be identical with the neural lamella. Thus the eyes proper have to be regarded as protrusions from the brain, while epidermal cells seem to differentiate to crystalline cells (reflector) and are deposited onto the sensory complex.The reflector is built up by several cup-shaped cells (juveniles, 4-5; adults, 10-12). Each of these cells comprises a multilayer of parallel-oriented, membrane-bound crystalline platelets which are thought to be guanine. The sensory cell is of the inverted rhabdomere type. Submicrovillar cisternae, typical for most polychaete eyes, are lacking. The first and always present supporting cell entirely envelops the sensory cell, thus forming the extracellular space around the rhabdomere. It does not contain any pigment granules. Often but not always a second supporting cell has been observed surrounding the sensory cell and first supporting cell. It is interpreted as a glial cell.In the sensory cell beneath the rhabdomere, pino- and phagocytosis can be observed and secondary lysosomes are found in high densities. Preliminary results seem to demonstrate that there is no distinct diurnal cycle of receptoral membrane recycling. In comparison with the ocelli of Dinophilidae, which have been interpreted as a dorvilleid-related family, morphological differences and their application to phylogenetic considerations are discussed.

Notes: The appearance pattern of pharyngeal tooth germs was investigated in the larval Japanese dace, Tribolodon hakonensis, which has a bilaterally asymmetrical dentition. Teeth develop in a series of replacement waves beginning with the initial central tooth (Ce) and continuing with teeth of anterior (An) and posterior (Po) positions relative to the initial one. Identified by wave number (n) and tooth position (r), according to the formula n-1[r], tooth germs appeared in the order of tooth 0[Ce0], 1[Po1], 1[Anl], 2[Ce0], 2[An2], 3[Po1], 3[An1], 4[Ce0], 4[An2], 5[Po1], 5[An1], 5[An3], 6[Ce0], 6[An2] during the larval period. Dentition on the right side, however, lacks the first tooth at position An2 (tooth 2[An2]) and teeth at position An3. Tooth germs on the first, second, and third replacement waves appeared simultaneously on the arches of both sides. During following waves, tooth germs on the left side appeared later than those on the right. Delay of tooth germ appearance On the left side is interpreted as an inhibitory influence of existing tooth germs in accordance with Osborn's (Proc. R. Soc. Lond. Ser. B 179:261--289, '71) theory. The delay of tooth germ appearance on the left arch is most pronounced on the seventh replacement wave. Teeth of the right major row in adults of this species are replaced more frequently than those of the left major row, apparently in correlation with the absence of the first larval tooth at position An2 and teeth at position An3. It is hypothesized that cyprinids evolved the minor rows and specialized teeth of their adult dentition as apomorphic characteristics by the process of neoteny.

Notes: Development of the internal structures of the caudal region (muscles, bones, cartilages, nerves, and blood vessels) of the Da/Da mutant medaka and of wild-type +/+ fish was compared. Muscles and nerves were immunochemically stained by using an antibody to troponin T and antibodies to neurofilament proteins, respectively. Bones and cartilages were stained with alizarin red and alcian blue. In stages 31-32 of the Da/Da embryo, the rudiments of epurals 1, 2, and 3 differentiated dorsally opposite the sites of the ventral rudiments of the parhypural, the lower hypural plate, and the upper hypural plate, respectively. In the +/+ embryo, the rudiments of epurals 1 and 2 differentiated in the later developmental stages (after stage 34), but the rudiment of epural 3 did not differentiate. In the Da/Da embryo, the deep dorsal flexor passed dorsalwards and ended at the rudiment of epural 2, whereas the muscle passed ventralwards and ended at the rudiment of the upper hypural plate in the +/+ embryo. In the Da/Da fry, the epichordal region of the caudal fin fold grew and the notochord extended straight into the tail without bending, while in the + /+ fry, the epichordal region did not grow and the notochord turned dorsalwards within the tail. In the Da/Da fry, extra skeletal rudiments and musculature differentiated in the epichordal region of the caudal fin, whereas these supernumerary structures did not develop in the +/+ fry. The pattern of the epichordal skeleton and musculature in the caudal region of the adult Da/Da fish was an almost mirror-image duplication of the hypochordal structures. These observations suggest that the characteristic expansion of the dorsal fin and epichordal lobe in the caudal region of the adult Da/Da fish is due to a process of ventralization, whereby the dorsal skeleton, musculature, and fin fold are stimulated to differentiate in a pattern like that which is restricted to the anal fin and hypochordal lobe of the wild type.

Notes: Tongue musculature in 24 genera of snakes was examined histologically. In all snakes, the tongue is composed of a few main groups of muscles. The M. hyoglossus is a paired bundle in the center of the tongue. The posterior regions of the tongue possess musculature that surrounds these bundles and is responsible for protrusion. Anterior tongue regions contain hyoglossal bundles, dorsal longitudinal muscle bundles and vertical and transverse bundles, which are perpendicular to the long axis of the tongue. The interaction of the longitudinal with the vertical and horizontal muscles is responsible for bending during tongue flicking. Despite general similarities, distinct patterns of intrinsic tongue musculature characterize each infraorder of snakes. The Henophidia are primitive; the Scolecophidia and Caenophidia are each distinguished by derived characters. These derived characters support hypotheses that these latter taxa are each monophyletic. Cylindrophis (Anilioidea) is in some characters intermediate between Booidea and Colubroidea. The condition in the Booidea resembles the lizard condition; however, no synapomorphies of tongue musculature confirm a relationship with any specific lizard family. Although the pattern of colubroids appears to be the most biomechanically specialized, as yet no behavioral or performance feature has been identified to distinguish them from other snakes.

Notes: Wall and internal organelles of the encysting salt marsh heterotrich ciliate Fabrea salina were examined by bright field and Nomarski interference contrast microscopy and by transmission and scanning electron microscopy. A mucoid sheath believed to be derived from bacteria covers the ectocyst. The possible bacterial origin of this sheath has been demonstrated experimentally by its removal and reappearence after 24 hours. Control ectocyst maintained in sterile seawater did not replace the sheath. The ectocyst has a crinkled appearance. The endocyst is composed of two layers. The inner endocyst material is continuous with that of the plug located at one end of the cyst. The two membranes are separated from one another by an interwall space filled with fibrous material. The cytoplasm, covered by an outer double membrane pellicle, contains mucocysts, pigment granules, microtubules, non-ciliated kinetosomes, Golgi complexes, ribosome-studded endoplasmic reticulum, and mitochondria. The endoplasm contains numerous autophagosomes, mitochondria, and food reserve materials. The macronucleus is centrally located in the cytoplasm of the encysting organism.

Notes: Analysis of lateral and dorsoventral radiographic films shows that ingestion, transport, and mastication in Pedetes capensis (Rodentia) are cyclic and their movement patterns are essentially similar for the three food types offered. During the ingestion cycle, closing of the mouth is accompanied by a backward translation of the condyles, so that movement is predominantly orthal. During the opening stage, the extent of the anterior condylar translation is smaller. As a result the mandibular incisors move ventrally and posteriorly. During the ingestion cycles, food is transported to the back of the tongue, with the transverse rugae and the folds of the upper lip playing important roles.Springhares show a bilateral masticatory pattern; food is chewed on both sides simultaneously. During chewing, the condyles lie in their most forward position at maximum opening of the mouth. The mouth is closed by rotation of the lower jaw around the temporomandibular joint coupled with posterior condylar translation. At the beginning of the slow-closing stage, the upward rotation of the mandible slows and the jaw slowly shifts forward. During the grinding stage, the mandible is shifted forward with both toothrows in occlusion. During the opening stage, the jaw returns to its starting position.Comparison of kinematic and anatomical data on rodent mastication suggests that some dental characteristics form the most important factors regulating the masticatory pattern and consequently allow reasonably reliable prediction of rodent masticatory patterns.

Notes: Avian embryos can be completely paralyzed by injection of neuromuscular-blocking agents. We used a single injection of decamethonium iodide to paralyze embryos at 7, 8, or 10 days of incubation and analyzed the growth of individual bones (clavicle, mandible, ulna, femur, tibia, humerus) and of individual muscles that act upon some of those bones (clavicular and sternal heads of m. pectoralis, and mm. biceps brachii, depressor mandibulae, pseudotemporalis, and adductor externus). Growth of the bones is not equally affected by paralysis. Only 27% of clavicular growth (by mass) but 77% of mandibular growth occurred in paralyzed embryos, whereas the four long bones exhibited 52-63% of their normal growth. Analysis of muscle weight, fiber length and physiological cross-sectional area (weight/fiber length) indicate that there was greater reduction of the muscles acting on the limbs than of those acting on the mandible, i.e., diminished growth of the skeleton is correlated with reduced muscular activity. Specific retardation of clavicular growth is due to fusion of sternal rudiments and collapse of the thorax, as well as virtual absence of the musculature that normally attaches to the clavicle. We discuss these results in the light of intrinsic and extrinsic factors governing growth of tne embryonic skeleton. Paralysis reduces skeletal growth by reducing both the movements taking place in ovo, and the loads imposed on the bones by muscle contraction, changes that represent alterations in the mechanical environment of the skeleton.

Notes: This study using light and electron microscopy indicates that the saccus vasculosus is distinguishable in 9-mm embryos and grows continuously throughout embryonic development to the adult stage. In the saccus vasculosus, epithelial mitoses are observed in all stages studied. Phases of centriologenesis, ciliogenesis, and globule formation have been characterized in developing coronet cells. During the phase of centriologenesis, new centrioles appear in association with pre-existing centrioles and not on deuterosomes. After ciliogenesis, each cilium differentiates to a globule almost at the same time as the other cilia of the coronet cell. The inner membrane system of the globules seems to derive from the ciliary plasma membrane. This membrane system often produces membrane whorls during the development. The different phases of coronet cell development have been found in the same individual and in all the stages studied except the 9-mm embryo. Cerebrospinal fluid-contacting neurons are observed in the saccus epithelium from the 12-mm embryos on and are distinguishable from coronet cells in their early formative stages. The three cell types of the saccus vasculosus increase continuously in number during development. Nerve processes are found in the saccus vasculosus of embryos, whereas differentiated synapses appear later in the fry. The significance of continued coronet cell formation is discussed in relation to a putative coronet cell and/or a globule renewal cycle in the adult.

Notes: Changes of architecture of adult rat gastrocnemius medialis muscle (GM) due to growth were studied in relation to length-force characteristics. Myofilament lengths were unchanged, indicating constant sarcomere length-force characteristics. Number of sarcomeres within fibers was unchanged as a consequence of growth, allowing persistence of differences between proximal and distal fibers in all age groups. Distal fiber length at muscle optimum length was shorter for the 14- than for the 10- and 16-week age groups despite a lack of difference of number of sarcomeres. This is indicative of a shift of optimum fiber length with respect to muscle length to lengths higher than optimum length. Some evidence for the occurrence of distribution of fiber optimum lengths with respect to muscle optimum length was found in other age groups as well, albeit of a smaller magnitude. Muscle and aponeurosis length increased substantially with growth. Functional effects of increased aponeurosis lengths were increased contributions to muscle length changes by the aponeurosis, allowing smaller fiber contributions in older animals. Fiber angle increased approximately 5° with growth. Despite the differences of architecture indicated above, muscle length range between optimum length and active slack length was constant. This was probably caused by widening of this length range in the youngest age group by variations of architecture within the muscle. It is concluded that adaptation of aspects of muscle architecture is an important mechanism for adult muscle growth in rat GM. Of these aspects regulation of muscle length seems a dominant factor.

Notes: The investigation is based upon hemal nodes of dog, man, and sheep. The material can be arranged in a regressive series leading from a typical lymph node, except for the occurrence of blood in parenchyma and sinuses, to a lymphoid structure at a late stage of involution. These structures uniformly lack lymphatics. There is no evidence of direct luminal connection between the blood-vascular supply and the sinuses. The observation that certain cervical and subcutaneous lymph nodes of the rabbit undergo a myeloid metaplasia following atrophy and disjunction of their lymphatics is used as an explanatory key of hemal nodes. According to our view, hemal nodes represent stages in the involution of transient lymph nodes. Disjunction of the lymphatics leaves the sinuses filled with entrapped lymphocytes. These differentiate into erythrocytes. These red blood cells may disintegrate and pass into solution or be removed either by giant cells or mononuclear phagocytes. Late stages in this process are represented by small irregular masses of lymphocytes, with wide sinuses practically free of blood.

Notes: A description is given of the cytoplasmic alterations in the ovarian egg of Limulus polyphemus leading to the formation of yolk. The nucleolus is found to arise by the confluence of substance which passes from the cytosome into the nucleus, and it is suggested that the chondriosomes, and possibly also the dictyosomes, are derived from an excess of this substance which accumulates in the cytosome. Chondriosomes and dictyosomes are not present in the oogonia, but appear first in oocytes after the formation of the nucleolus is completed.During oogenesis the nucleolus is very active and the greater part of its substance is passed back to the cytosome. By the application of the method of Bell and Doisy for the determination of phosphate in body fluids, the nucleolus is found to be richer in phosphorus than are the other constituents of the cell. The nucleolar emissions effect the transport of phosphorus from the nucleus to the cytosome, where it is used in the synthesis of yolk. The definitive yolk arises by the interaction of nucleolar emissions, chondriosomes, dictyosomes, and ground cytoplasm.

Notes: Conjugating individuals of Metopus sigmoides fuse at the anterior end, the pair presenting the appearance of an inverted letter U. The micronucleus of each conjugant by two successive divisions forms four micronuclei. Three of each four degenerate and the fourth by division forms the pronuclei. Cytoplasm and pronuclei from one conjugant pass over into the other, leaving the old macronucleus and a minimum of cytoplasm behind in the shrunken pellicle of the smaller conjugant, which then separates from the larger one. In the larger exconjugant two pronuclei fuse, forming the functional synkaryon; the two residual pronuclei degenerate and disappear. The synkaryon divides. One of the daughter nuclei condenses into the new micronucleus, the other grows into the new macronucleus. The old macronucleus liquefies and is absorbed. The larger exconjugant, after losing its cilia, secretes a cyst wall about itself and becomes dormant. The whole process requires at least six days for its consummation.

Notes: In conjugation fusion occurs along the entire oral surfaces of the proboscides of Dileptus gigas. Two size-reducing divisions occur in rapid succession immediately preceding conjugation. Only one of the many micronuclei takes part in the process of nuclear reorganization. All other chromatic material is massed at this time in the posterior portions of the conjugants. The pronuclei are derived from the single active micronucleus, and interchange occurs immediately preceding the separation of the mating individuals. The fertilization nucleus divides to form two nuclei of diverse size. The smaller one produces thirty-two or sixty-four micronuclei, while the larger one divides to produce a like number of macronuclei, each of which finally breaks up into many chromatic granules which form the numerous densely staining nuclear derivatives which are characteristic of the vegetative stage of Dileptus gigas.In the early stages of this reorganization process specimens are frequently found with from two to eight distinct nuclei often arranged in a series as in a beaded nucleus. This condition probably explains the frequent references in literature regarding such a nuclear condition in Dileptus.Dileptus gigas has, accordingly, in the vegetative stage, a multinucleate condition with reference to the micronucleus and a fragmented or distributed condition with reference to the macronucleus.

Notes: By the use of a satisfactory technique, excellently preserved spermatogenetic tissue was had both for Rattus rattus and Rattus norvegicus. The careful examination of twelve spermatogonial cells of the former species and of twenty in the latter species shows that R. rattus has forty diploid chromosomes and R. norvegicus, forty-two. A careful examination of the haploid cells of both species, both in the first and in the second spermatocyte divisions, confirms the diploid determinations.Both species have an unequal pair in the spermatogonial divisions and the finding of a similar unequal pair in the first spermatocyte division constitutes the evidence for an X-Y mechanism in each. A comparison of the morphology of the first spermatocyte tetrads in the two species reveals the presence of a large K-shaped chromosome in R. norvegicus which is not present in R. rattus. Furthermore, a comparison of the X-Y complex in both the spermatogonial and first spermatocyte divisions shows that these are morphologically different in the two species, the Y in particular being markedly dissimilar in size. A short discussion as to the bearing of these findings on the questions of the origins of the two species and their known intersterility is presented. The marked similarity of the tetrads of the black rat to those described for the mouse is noted.

Notes: The anlage of the abducens musculature appears first at 24-25 somites as a condensation situated dorsal to the mandibular arch.The anlage of the superior oblique grows forward from a mesodermal condensation situated in the maxillomandibular region, termed for convenience the maxillomandibular condensation. This last consists of three parts: (1) the anlage of the superior oblique: (2) the anlage of the abducens musculature, and, (3) an intermediate region.The intermediate portion of the maxillomandibular mass forms a condensation with which the anlage of the abducens musculature fuses. Its fate is, therefore, similar to that of the so-called ‘muscle E’ of elasmobranchs, which has been described as fusing with the lateral rectus. How much muscle is formed from the intermediate condensation in the chick has not been determined.The development of the pyramidalis and quadratus nictitans muscles, derivatives of the abducens complex, is described.The premandibular head cavities are replaced by solid mesodermal condensations, on the surface of which the anlagen of the oculomotor muscles appear. The premandibular mass expands laterally and anteriorly over the bulbus, carrying the oculomotor muscles to their respective positions on the bulbus.Portions of the premandibular and maxillomandibular condensations not involved in eye-muscle formation take part in the formation of choroid and sclera.The growth shiftings of the eye muscles are analyzed. The order of their appearance is commented upon.

Notes: This study represents the first critical investigation on the development of the embryonic skull of the porcupine. A complete series of stages makes it possible to trace the developing chondrocranium from its first formation in precartilage to its later transformation into cartilage bone. Concurrent with this growth is the investment of the cartilaginous cranium by membrane bone.The very primitive nature of the chondrocranium offers an excellent opportunity to discuss the existing problems of the embryonic skull from a new angle. Evidence is presented in support of the assumption that the ala temporalis is the homologue of the cynodont epipterygoid. The lamina parietalis develops from a single chondrifying center, thus producing a different arrangement of parietal elements from that found in most mammals. New evidence as to the relationship of the dens epistrophei and basal plate is presented. The position of the internal carotid artery on entering the cranium is different from the condition found in most mammals and throws new light on the interpretation of surrounding structures. The presence of a structure comparable with the crista longitudinalis of Lacerta shows close affinity to the solum nasi of more primitive forms.The great specialization of the face is seen in the early and rapid growth of the membrane bones. The chondrocranium is long persistent and cartilage bone appears late in embryonic life.

Notes: Observations indicate that this Balantidium from the guinea-pig is Balantidium coli, the form found in the pig and man. The lengths and breadths of this Balantidium and the ratios of length to breadth are very close to the measurements and ratios given by McDonald for B. coli. When plotted, the body lengths of the guinea-pig parasites appear in two groups, the smaller individuals being the exconjugants. Many of these exconjugants resemble Neiva's B. caviae. The structure of the Balantidium from the guinea-pig is essentially identical with that of B. coli as given by McDonald.Fission and conjugation of this ciliate follow the general course found in a number of other ciliates. During fission the micronucleus divides and the daughter micronuclei migrate to each end of the macronucleus before the latter divides. In conjugation there are two divisions of the micronucleus, one of these nuclei dividing to form the pronuclei. Pronuclear exchange and fusion are followed by a heteropolar division of the synkaryon, resulting in the formation of the new macronuclear and micronuclear anlagen.The parasite was found in the intestinal tissue of the host. No reproductive stages were found in the cysts. New hosts are invaded through contamination of the food and drink with the cysts.