Splicing processes (2D)

See Connecting processes in Editing trees (3D)

What is the purpose of splicing?

When tracing in serial sections, two processes may appear to exit a section close together. But when tracing in the next section, it becomes apparent that the two processes are actually one continuous process with a short segment in the second section.

Splicing allows for joining two processes after they have been completely traced in two sections as separate processes.

Procedure

  1. Click Trace>Edit>Select objects and click a branch to select it.
  2. Place the cursor over the end of the branch, right-click and select Splice. A line extends from the end to the cursor.
  3. Move the cursor over the end of the branch you want to join to. A circle appears at the end.
  4. Click to splice the two branches. You are prompted to "adjust the Z values of the spliced branch to match those of the selected neuron."

    Click No to avoid introducing distortion into the Z position of the newly joined branch.

Splicing and directionality

The program marks the first point placed to trace the process as the beginning of the process.

To determine whether a point is a beginning or an ending, click Trace>Edit>Select objects, click the traced process to select it, and hover over the point.

  • The letter E indicates an ending.
  • The letter B indicates a beginning.

To change a point from an ending to a beginning, right-click the ending and select Change Ending Type. Select Origin Ending.