[Histonet] Nissl staining question: ignorant question from an ignorant person

[Sharon]

Dear Histonetters,

I have some questions about Nissl staining - (I have looked these 
issues up in histology texts but am still confused because I have 
received contradictory information - please clarify)
Here are my ridiculous questions:
1.  Is crystal violet ever used to stain epon embedded tissue for 
pathology?  (I don't think so)
2.  Is toluidine blue used as a Nissl stain? (I think so)
3.  Are there advantages to Nissl staining with Cresyl Violet vs. 
Toluidine blue? (when you are just looking for pathology with no 
other stain - eg. not using the Toluidine blue or Cresyl Violet as a 
counter stain for some other stain).
4. Is Cresyl Violet used for anything other than a Nissl stain in brain?

Thanks for your indulgence.

Sharon