MULLENIX: EIGHTH CRANIAL NERVE. 237 
C. In Macula neglecta. 
The mode of termination in the macula neglecta is represented in 
Figures 41-43 (Plate 6), and, as will be seen, is similar to that in the 
sacculus and lagena. 
VI. Summary of Observations. 
1. Between the supporting cells and the layer of the sensory cells 
is a region which is rich in nervous material in the form of an entangled 
mass of fibres which extend in various directions. 
2. In this so-called nerve plexus I have not succeeded in finding a 
case in which the neurofibrillae of one axis cylinder are in undoubted 
continuity with those of another axis cylinder. Apparent cases of 
anastomosis have in almost every instance, when studied with care, 
proved to be due to an intertwining of fibres. ‘lhe few cases which 
could not with certainty be so resolved may safely be regarded as due 
to artefact. 
3. The nerve fibres which supply the maculae and cristae are of 
many sizes, varying from fine fibres to what have been called “giant 
fibres.” 
4. Giant fibres often expand, in the cristae, and form terminal 
calyx-like structures, which are associated with large numbers of sense 
cells. 
5. Large fibres, and smaller ones as well, often branch and give 
rise to fine fibres, which end free amongst the sense cells. 
6. It is not unusual to find fine unbranched axis cylinders passing 
from the place where they penetrate the basement membrane to the 
region of the sense cells, amongst which they end free. 
7. It is not possible to make any general statement regarding the 
topographical distribution of giant fibres, fine fibres, and those of 
intermediate sizes. 
8. ‘The terminal brush of giant fibres in the maculae takes a form 
which is somewhat dendritic, and differs from the structure in the 
cristae known as the “‘ Kelchbildung.”’ 
9. I have found no evidence of the existence of a pericellular net- 
work of nervous material. 
10. I have found no evidence of the existence of an endocellular 
perinuclear network of nervous material. 
11. The slight evidence which I have for the existence of intra- 
cellular rings of nervous substance, such as Bielschowsky und Briihl 
have described, may safely be regarded as due to artefacts. 
