Cholecystokinin-, galanin-, and corticotropin-releasing factor-like immunoreactive projections from the nucleus of the solitary tract to the parabrachial nucleus in the rat

The parabrachial nucleus (PB) is the main relay for ascending visceral afferent information from the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) to the forebrain. We examined the chemical organization of solitary-parabrachial afferents by using combined retrograde transport of fluorescent tracers and immunohistochemistry for galanin (GAL), cholecystokinin (CCK), and corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF). Each peptide demonstrated a unique pattern of immunoreactive staining. GAL-like immunoreactive (-ir) fibers were most prominent in the "waist" area, the inner portion of external lateral PB, and the central and dorsal lateral PB subnuclei. Additional GAL-ir innervation was seen in the medial and external medial PB subnuclei. GAL-ir perikarya were observed mainly rostrally in the dorsal lateral, superior lateral, and extreme lateral PB. CCK-ir fibers and terminals were most prominent in the outer portion of the external lateral PB; some weaker labeling was also present in the central lateral PB. CCK-ir cell bodies were almost exclusively confined to the superior lateral PB and the "waist" area, although a few cells were seen in the Kölliker-Fuse nucleus. The distribution of CRF-ir terminal fibers in general resembled that of GAL, but showed considerably less terminal labeling in the lateral parts of the dorsal and central lateral PB, and the external medial and Kölliker-Fuse subnuclei. The CRF-ir cells were most numerous in the dorsal lateral PB and the outer portion of the external lateral PB; rostrally, scattered CRF-ir neurons were seen mainly in the central lateral PB. After injecting the fluorescent tracer Fast Blue into the PB, the distribution of double-labeled neurons in the NTS was mapped. GAL-ir cells were mainly located in the medial NTS subnucleus; 34% of GAL-ir cells were double-labeled ipsilaterally and 7% contralaterally. Conversely, 17% of the retrogradely labeled cells ipsilaterally and 16% contralaterally were GAL-ir. CCK-ir neurons were most numerous in the dorsomedial subnucleus of the NTS and the outer rim of the area postrema. Of the CCK-ir cells, 68% in the ipsilateral and 10% in the contralateral NTS were double-labeled, whereas 15% and 10%, respectively, of retrogradely labeled cells were CCK-ir. In the area postrema, 36% of the CCK-ir cells and 9% of the Fast Blue cells were double-labeled. CRF-ir neurons were more widely distributed in the medial, dorsomedial, and ventrolateral NTS subnuclei, but double-labeled cells were mainly seen in the medial NTS.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Topographic organization of facial motoneurons to individual pinna muscles in rat (Rattus rattus) and bat (Rousettus aegyptiacus)

The location and number of motoneurons to individual pinna muscles were determined by retrograde transport of horseradish peroxidase in rat and flying fox. The degree of ear mobility differs considerably between these species in that rats perform simpler ear movements while flying foxes move their pinnae in a sophisticated way. Five pinna muscles were investigated in each species. Motoneurons lay within the medial subdivision of the facial motor nucleus extending over its entire rostrocaudal length. They were topographically organized; however, a somatotopic order could not be observed. With one exception homologous pinna muscles were represented in corresponding areas in both species, supporting the idea of a common representation of ear muscles in mammals. In rat, motoneuron pools overlapped considerably, whereas in flying fox overlap was minute. A total of 1,110 and 1,646 motoneurons were labeled in rat and flying fox, respectively. We conclude that the higher number of pinna motoneurons in the latter species in addition to the more clear-cut topography provide the structural substrates that underlie differences in the quality of ear movements as seen in bats vis-a-vis other mammals.

Three-dimensional structure of renal Na,K-ATPase determined by electron microscopy of membrane crystals

The three-dimensional structure of Na,K-ATPase was determined by electron microscopy and image processing. Tilt series of negatively stained membrane crystals were recorded. The projections were analyzed by Fourier methods and the data combined to a 3-D model. The unit cell contains two rod-shaped stain-deficient regions interpreted as alpha beta-promoters of Na,K-ATPase. The rods are related by dyad axes oriented perpendicular to the membrane. Outside the lipid bilayer the rods contact different protein units on the two sides of the membrane.

[Bildschirmtext-Btx (the interactive videotex information system of the West German Postal Service): a medium for rehabilitation? Decision-making aids for the user]

The rapid development of new electronic information technologies is outlined, which are definitely going to affect existing social and economic structures. The new medium Bildschirmtext Btx (the interactive videotex information system of Deutsche Bundespost) will, in the opinion of the author, radically change many aspects of our life, as had been the case with telephone and television. The question is therefore raised as to the part Btx might have in the field of communication among those involved in rehabilitation. The contribution explains what Btx is and how it works. Examples are given to illustrate the wide scope of possible applications, which make Btx a useful tool in rehabilitation as well. Besides, the question as to the cost involved is answered. In the opinion of the author this new Btx communication technology holds great potential to become the "medium in rehabilitation".

[Wheelchair field testing at the central train station and airport in Frankfurt]

The present article reports the findings obtained from wheelchair field testing at Frankfurt central station and airport, initiated by the working group on "Public Transport Accessibility" of the Federal Rehabilitation Council (BAR) and approved by its managing board. Relevant information concerning accessibility and useability of this major traffic junction for handicapped persons is presented. The test emphases are put forth, namely access of wheelchair users to intercity and suburban traffic as well as to air transport facilities. Planning and implementation of the field test as well as participating persons and organizations are outlined; test sequence and test evaluation are described. Finally, major aspects of test findings and their evaluation are dealt with in more detail.