In the genital tract of male and female mouse embryos cholinesterase activity is described that is independent from innervation. The enzyme activity is localized in the mesenchyme at the junction of Wolffian and Müllerian ducts with the urogenital sinus. During male development prostate buds and vesicular glands grow out into the cholinesterase-active mesenchyme. During female development the active mesenchyme participates in the downgrowth of the vaginal anlage. Ultrastructurally the cholinesterase activity is localized in the perinuclear cisterna and in smooth endoplasmic reticulum of the mesenchymal cells. The enzyme activity disappears with definitive differentiation of the tissue. The embryonic cholinesterase is a component of a primitive muscarinic system. Its relation to the morphogenetic action of testosterone and its possible general functions are discussed.

A 61-year-old woman survived resuscitation after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. The heterogeneity of the resulting cognitive impairments and the recovery over a one-year period are presented, highlighting the need for standardized neuropsychological testing even after short cardiac arrests and for effective treatment both out of hospital and in hospital.