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Abstract
The binocular region of area 17 (17B) has a greater number of neurons under a given
unit of cortical surface (NC, number per column) than either the monocular region
of area 17 (17M), area 18 or the posteromedial suprasylvian area (PMLS). The latter
three areas follow the general principle of basic uniformity in the number of neurons
under given units of cortical surface formulated by Rockel et al. This basic uniformity
is maintained in layers I and II. The NC of other layers varies. The greatest differences
are found in layer IV where the NC of each area is significantly different from that
of each other area. Though the difference between layer IV of 17M and of either 18
and PMLS is largely offset by changes in the third layer, layers V (PMLS) and VI (18
and PMLS) also contribute to the compensation. The compensation between 18 and PMLS
is due entirely to changes in layer VI. It is important to note that there are statistically
demonstrable interindividual differences in the neuronal NC of the cats used in the
present study. We suggest that these may be due to age, breeding, or rearing conditions,
probably the latter.