Page:Structure and functions of the body; a hand-book of anatomy and physiology for nurses and others desiring a practical knowledge of the subject (IA structurefunctio00fiskrich).pdf/22

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in the walls of the air tubes, in the ligaments of the spine, etc.

Fatty or adipose tissue is formed by the deposit of fat in the cells of the areolar tissue and is found in most parts where the areolar tissue occurs, though it varies largely in amount in different parts. It is found pretty generally under the skin, fills in inequalities about various organs and about the joints, and exists in large quantities in the marrow of the long bones. In moderate amounts it gives grace to the form and constitutes an important reserve fund.

Fig. 3.—Adipose tissue (Leroy): a, Fibrous tissue; b, fat cells; c, nucleus or fat cells; d, fatty acid crystals in fat cells.

Cartilage consists of groups of nucleated cells in intercellular substance. It is very firm, yet highly elastic, and serves in the joints to break the force of concussion of the harder and less elastic bones. Except when it occurs at the end of a bone, it is covered with a membrane called the perichondrium, which carries its blood supply. In the nose, ear, larynx and trachea it serves to give shape, to keep the passages open, and to afford attachment for