title: Three-dimensional reconstruction of tissue using computer-generated images.
abstract: In the study of brain ventricles for both teaching and research, it is often of considerable advantage to graphically display the reconstructed shape of the specimen. This paper describes the making of two-dimensional serial cross-sections and their storage for subsequent manipulation and display on a personal computer; the three-dimensional (3D) reconstructions may have hidden lines removed and various parts coloured for definition of areas of interest, for example the density and position of pyknotic (dead) nuclei. Current research involved the investigation of the effects of maternal hyperthermia on early embryonic brains. The 3D reconstructions were found ideal for understanding the temporal changes occurring in embryonic brains subjected to defined maternal heat stresses. The method involved 4 X 4 matrices using homogenous coordinate theory, being the most ideal and allowing a constant mechanism for all transformations. Total time from examination of sections to obtaining an accurate printed 3D reconstruction is approximately 1 h if 22 sections are used.
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001921:Brain / Q000002:abnormalities* / Q000196:embryology; D004626:Embryology / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006168:Guinea Pigs; D006358:Hot Temperature / Q000009:adverse effects*; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods*; D008838:Microcomputers; D008867:Microtomy; D011247:Pregnancy; D011248:Pregnancy Complications; D013312:Stress, Physiological