STUDIES IN DECEREBRATION

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Abstract
In two previous communications1it was pointed out that simultaneous ligation of the basilar and carotid arteries produced a decerebrate preparation which was free from the objections of mutilation and shock. The resulting decerebrate rigidity corresponded in all particulars to that obtained by other workers who transected the brain stem. The present study consists of observations of ten anemic decerebrate cats in which the labyrinths were destroyed. We propose to show that the posture of a caricature of standing assumed by an ordinary decerebrate animal, under certain conditions, may be changed into another lasting posture with the forelegs in flexion, when the labyrinths are destroyed. This is interpreted to mean that the so-called "standing reflex" is but one pattern of increased tone, that may be released from the brain stem. This particular pattern is dependent largely on stimuli which are determined by the position of the head. When the

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