[Aanalysis of resistance and its transferability in microflora from primary meat production].

Resistance spectra and their transferability were studied in G- strains isolated from the primary production of meat by the method after Bohus (1974). Out of the set of strains, 93% were resistant, and out of these, 65% were multiresistant. Thirty-five per cent of the resistant strains were R plasmid donors. Of the two recipients, the laboratory strain of E. coli IHE Nx was significantly better. Among the 21 determined resistance spectra, the following were the most frequent: Tc, SmTcSu, and TcAm. Transfer of two to four, or even six, different plasmid types, mostly simple, was recorded from the two most frequent complex types of donor strain resistance: SmCmTcAmSu and SmTcAmSu. The determinants Tc and Am prevailed in the spectra of the transferring R plasmids, mostly as separate markers and only in 21 to 36% of cases in more complex types.


[Therapy of domestic animals affected by alkylphosphates].

Sheep were studied for the possibility of treatment after parenteral (intramuscular) intoxication with EDMM (methylthiophosphorous acid O-ethyl-S-2-dimethylamino-ethylester) and with EDIM (methylthiophosphorous acid O-ethyl-S-2-diisopropyl-aminoethylester). In both cases of intoxication, the therapy was based on a system of an anticholinergic and cholinesterase reactivator administered singly at a time of the maximum development of the clinical signs of poisoning and maximum inhibition of both erythrocytic (AChE, E.C.3.1.1.7.) and plasma (BChE, E.C.3.1.1.8.) cholinesterase. The optimum therapeutic system requires the administration of 20.0 mg atropine s. c. pro toto and 10.0 mg trimedoxim per kg 1. w. i. v. In both cases of poisoning with doses = LD50 in i. m. administration, the mentioned system was actually positive. In a single administration irrespective of the doses of the used drugs, the system does not guarantee survival after ingestion of anticholinesterasic doses above LD50.


[Disseminated aspergillosis in a loon].

A case is described of generalized mycosis in a diver of the species Gavia arctica, caused by the fungus Aspergillus fumigatus. The organism of the bird was so much damaged that the bird died. There is a detailed description of the mycological characteristics of the invading agent and a description of the histopathological changes in the primarily affected organ -- the lungs. Further, a survey is presented of the orders of freely living birds and birds in captivity in which aspergillosis has been detected.


[Cytogenetic analysis of lymphoid blood cells in bovine leucosis].

For the cytogenetic analysis lymphocytes of the peripheral blood were used that had been obtained from cows suffering from leucosis. The blood was taken from a diseased cow, from its 15 months old daughter suffering from leucosis, and from the healthy bull-father (NAT-47). The diagnosis of leucosis was determined by means of hematological examination. In the cow 139 metaphase plates were evaluated, in the daughter 118, and in the bull 132. On the one hand, normoploidy was determined and on the other hand, chromosome aberrations. In the cow 31.0 p. c. of chromosome aberrations were found, in the daughter 32.3 p. c., and in the bull 37.2 p. c. Breaks in X chromosomes were found in the cow (6.7 p. c.) and in the daughter (1.7 p. c.). Longitudinal diversion of arms in the centromere in X chromosomes in the vertical axis into two separate arms was found in the cow amounting to 6.5 p. c., in the daughter to 5.9 p. c., and in the bull to only 0.8 p. c.


[Use of the ECG in bovine cysticerosis].

In two calves with massive cysticercosis and one healthy control calf the method of electrocardiographic examination was applied to a preciser determination of the clinical finding. The examination was performed on the 75th day after the experimental infection. Singly recorded electrocardiographic findings provided no characteristic symptoms indicating an injury of the conductive system of the heart. However, in both infected calves a lowering of the pulse frequency was found and in one of them also a flattening and a change of the polarity of the T wave. Autopsy and histological examination of the heart of the infected calves performed 111 days and 250 days after the infection revealed an attacking of the cardiac muscle by cysticerci and dispersed chronic myocarditis. This finding and the investigated dynamics of pathological changes in the course of cysticercosis in other experimental animals indicate that at the time of the electrocardiographic examination cysticercoid myocarditis at a stage of rest was recorded.


[The proportion of aerobic and anaerobic metabolism in horses during graduated physical loading].

Changes in the concentration of lactate in the blood are described as a response to gradated physical strain, consisting of 1140 m of walk, 2 x 1000 m of trot, and 3 x x 5000 m of gallop in seven horses in thirteen experiments. The dependence of lactate concentration on speed in different track sections was examined and the aerobic and anaerobic stages of metabolism were clearly differentiated. It appears realistic on the basis of the onset and course of anaerobic metabolism to work out tests for evaluating the physical capacities and training abilities of horses.


[Survival of bacteria on zinc-coated and aluminum materials].

The survival of St. aureus. E. coli, and of salmonellae was tested without any protein error and with it on new galvanized and with disinfection disturbed plate and compared with the survival of these microorganisms on new aluminous plate which was considered to be inert. The investigation by means of the impression method lasted for seven days. The growth of the microorganisms was evaluated according to the index of their survival. A distinct oligodynamic effect of the galvanized plate was proved especially on gram-negative bacteria. The effectiveness increased by a disturbing of these plates with a long-term disinfection in a concentrated solution of chloramine BS. An antimicrobial effect was recorded also in aluminous plates disturbed by disinfection. On both kinds of plate the effectiveness was lowered by a protein error--by an adding of blood serum to the broth suspensions.


[Ultrastructure of the double and multiple flagella of the sperm of the drake].

The structure of double and multiple flagella of the spermatozoa of a drake was investigated. In spermatozoa with this defect one or two implantation pits were observed in the head of the spermatozoon with one or two proximal centrioles situated in the extended base of the nucleus. The structure of the proximal centrioles was frequently disturbed. Distal centrioles were placed separately without any marked figural or structural disturbance. The mitochondrial sheath was formed around both or more flagella, and between the flagella only one line of mitochondria was usually found. The ring showed defects in shape and changes in the deposition. An amorphous sheath was formed around each flagellum separately without any marked defects. In single cases insignificant changes were recorded in the arrangement of fibrils of the axial bundle.


[Glycoproteins in the blood of dogs after administration of beta, beta'-dichlorodiethylsulphide].

The protein spectrum of the dog blood serum was studied after the administration of beta,beta'-dichlorodiethylsulphide. Paper electrophoresis was used for this purpose. Fuchsin-positive substances were determined after previous oxidation with periodic acid, which made it possible to reveal that the glycoproteins detected in this way were represented in serum proteins mostly in the fraction of alpha 2 globulins. After beta, beta'-dichlorodiethylsulphide intoxication the values of these glycoproteins significantly increase. The rise is statistically significant 24 hours after administration (average rise by 141%) and within the time scope it reaches its maximum in the terminal stage (rise by 210%).


[The effect of LH releasing hormone on testosterone levels in the blood of boars with sexual dysfunctions].

The levels were assessed of testosterone in the blood plasma before and 90 minutes after i.v. application of 1 mg of synthetic LH-releasing hormone to 57 boars with disorders of sexual functions and to 43 boars without sexual dysfunctions. The group of animals with sexual disorders included boars with inferior ejaculate quality and low fertility (24 animals) and cases with disturbed sexual potency (33 boars). In animals with the studied changes of sexual functions, compared with boars without sexual dysfunctions, no statistically significant difference was found in the basal concentration of testosterone in the blood. LH-releasing hormone application increased significantly the testosterone levels in the group of boars without sexual disorders by 99.5% on an average and in the whole group of animals with changes in sexual functions approximately by only 65.8%. At the same time in the subgroup of inferior ejaculate quality and low fertility the post-application increase of testicular incretion reached 60.4% and in potency disorders 61.6% and was statistically insignificant in the latter. On the basis of these findings it was derived that in boars with reproduction deviations there existed a decreased incretion reserve of the system hypophysis - testicle and the involvement of this factor in the formation of the studied sexual disorders is assumed. The obtained results are discussed in view of the earlier findings about the incretion reserve of the testicles in boars with  changes in sexual functions.


[The effect of high doses of aflatoxin on the pig].

In two experiments, 18 pigs were given feed contaminated with aflatoxin which had been prepared by the extraction of the cultures of toxinogenic strains of the fungus Aspergillus flavus. After the ingestion of aflatoxin (AFB1) at a dose of 5.4 to 10.5 mg per kg of live weight, the pigs showed symptoms of peracute aflatoxicosis and died within 12--20 hours. After ingestion of AFB1 at a dose of 1.4 or 3.1 mg per kg live weight, the pigs suffered from acute aflatoxicosis and died within 3 to 26 days from the administration of the contaminated feed. In the cases of these experimental aflatoxicoses, clinical symptoms, haematological and biochemical changes in the blood and the patho-anatomical and histological findings in the swine organism were described.


[Organoleptic and microbiological examination of suffocated carp stored under various conditions].

A process of dead market carp deterioration was studied in relation to conditions of the environment and the fish treatment by organoleptic and microbiological methods. A scheme is presented for fish assessment according to the symptoms of deterioration and the limits of carp storability under the given conditions of storing are determined. The results of the microbiological examination were not in keeping with the degree of deterioration of the fish.


[The suitability of some chemical methods for evaluation of freshness of stored suffocated carp].

For the assessment of the degree of meat freshness of stored unbleeded carp some simple chemical methods were tested to be used as auxiliary criteria for veterinary decisions regarding the edibility. Under the experimental conditions where the suffocated carp were stored at cooling and room temperatures in water or in the air, differences were determined in the followed criteria between fresh and deteriorating fish which were statistically insignificant for most indicators. In view of requirements regarding chemical indicators only the determination of ribose content was found to be expedient. Changes in the levels of ribose were significantly correlated with the sense-detected changes in meat freshness of the stored carp.


[Change in ribose levels in the meat of stored carp].

To study the changes in ribose levels in carp meat during storage, total ribose soluble in acids was determined, ribose precipitating by barium hydroxide (free ribose), the ratio of these two values, and determination from the alkaline extract of zinc sulphate was also used. Already in freshly suffocated carp relatively high levels of acid-soluble ribose were found as well as free ribose. The even increase of pentose in the alkaline extract of zinc sulphate allows to use the procedure for the evaluation of carp meat loss of freshness during storage; the limiting value for inedible carp meat is the content greater than 10 mumol per kg.


[Uric acid in the tissues and blood of chick embryos].

In the liver, kidney and skeletal muscle of the shank, blood plasma and blood cells of 90 chick embryos of the initial breed Leghorn White, commercial hybrid Primant, uric acid was found in all the intervals within the studied ontogenetic seqeuence. Uric acid was determined colorimetrically in tissue homogenate supernatant; in the blood plasma and in the blood cells it was determined colorimetrically on the 10th, 15th and 20th day of incubation. A significant rise (p less than 0.05) of this metabolite was ascertained in all the samples tested.


[Use of 25-MeV brehmsstrahlung in the combined treatment of cancer of the large intestine].

Preoperatively, 105 patients with cancer of the colon were subjected to radiation therapy with a braking beam from 25 MeV Betatron. The colon was examined roentgeno-endoscopically in all these cases. As a result of the radiation treatment a marked clinical effect was noted in 94 patients, while in 12 cases locally-unresectable tumors were rendered resectable. 77 patients were radically operated upon, and a morphological assay of the operation specimens indicated significant changes arising in the tumor tissue due to the effect of ionizing radiation. The results of the combined therapy of colonic cancer patients prove the rationale of employing high-energy radiation therapy preoperatively.


[Blood serum immunoglobulins in lymphogranulomatosis and other malignant lymphomas].

Under examination were the levels of serum immunoglobulins G, A, M, and D in 25 patients with lymphogranulomatosis and in 22 patients with nonlymphogranulomatous malignant lymphomas. A reliable increase in IgG concentration was found in both groups, but it was more pronounced in cases with malignant lymphomas. The IgA and IgD level also tends to rise but somewhat more sharply in malignant lymphomas. The level of IgM in lymphogranulomatosis patients was not significantly changed, while in nonlymphogranulomatous malignant lymphomas it was raised a little.


[Remote results of preoperative large fractionation gamma-therapy for breast cancer].

The results of using large fractionation irradiation preoperatively in 131 breast cancer patients are reported. A focal dosage for a primary tumor was found to be 2400 rad (1350 ret) and 1800 rad (1100 ret) for axillary lymph nodes, which given by 600 rad in a day neither effect the course of surgical intervention nor increase the number of the postoperative complications. A five-year cure with stage I-II was 66,3 +/- 11,1%, with stage III--47,9 +/- 7,3%. The whole course of radical treatment lasted on the average for 41-46 days.


[Lysosomal beta-galactosidase properties and the molecular genetics of GM1 gangliosidosis].

Review of the data is presented on the hereditary disease gangliosidosis GM1 and on the enzyme beta-galactosidose, deficiency of which is responsible for this disease. Heterogeneity of the disease and existence of various forms of beta-galactosidase are considered. Possible correlation is discussed between the defects of the enzyme forms detected and the type of the disease.


Epidemiology of waterskiing injuries.

Coast Guard statistics indicate a national boating fatality rate of 9.6 deaths per 100,000 crafts. In 1977 in California, five fatalities and 70 serious injuries were directly attributable to waterskiing. The four cases reported here include three patients with propeller injuries, including one nearly fatal amputation. In each case basic measures for boating safety were overlooked.


[Monoclonal gammopathy and platelet function (author's transl)].

This study of 20 patients with monoclonal gammopathy (17 patients with multiple myeloma and 3 patients with Waldenström's syndrome) showed a decreased platlet aggregation induced by ADP and collagen, a reduced platlet retention and a prolonged bleeding time in 25% of the cases in comparison with 30 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Using Wu and Hoak's technique as increased number of reversible platelet aggregates was observed. There was no relationship between the parameters of primary haemostasis and protein analysis. A disturbed mechanism of primary haemostasis is the main factor responsible for the bleeding diathesis in patients with monoclonal gammopathy.


[Clinical effectiveness of the therapeutic nutrition of sick children using enteral feeding preparations and low-lactose mixtures].

The paper concerns the results of clinical trials of new specialized foods--protein, defatted and fat enpits as well as low lactose milk mixtures, which were used in dietotherapy of sick children with different disease entities (hypothrophy, bronchopulmonary abnormalities, emaciation pre- and postoperatively, mucoviscidosis, Laurence-Moon-Bardte-Biedle's syndrome, Marfan's syndrome, galactosemia, lactase deficiency). The diets including new therapeutic foods were shown to exert high therapeutic effects, that gave grounds for the methodological recommendations for using them in pediatrics to be given.


Hyperacidity and hypergastrinemia following extensive intestinal resection.

Increased gastric acid secretion occurs after extensive intestinal resection in man, dog, rat, and monkey. Hypergastrinemia has been observed in patients with short gut syndrome and appears to accompany the hyperacidity after intestinal resection in dog, rat, and monkey. Postresectional hypergastrinemia is caused by increased release of gastrin and/or decreased degradation of the hormone. Other hormonal changes after extensive resection include increased insulin, GIP, pancreatic glucagon, and decreased enteroglucagon.


Liver microsomal oxidations in baboon (Papio papio).

1. The activity of baboon (Papio papio) hepatic microsomes was evaluated using several model substrates. 2. As with other species studied in this laboratory, baboon microsomal enzyme activities were in the decreasing order: aldrin epoxidation greater than p-nitroanisole O-demethylation greater dihydroisodrin hydroxylation greater than benzo(a)pyrene oxidations. 3. Substrate, time, protein and cofactor requirements were examined. 4. Activities of stored frozen tissue and microsomal pellets remained similar up to seven days. 5. In the six animals studied (three male, three female), no differences in hepatic microsomal activity due to sex were apparent.


Metabolic O-demethylation of 3,4-dimethoxyamphetamine in vivo in dog and monkey.

1. The disposition of the hallucinogen 3,4-dimethoxyamphetamine in vivo was examined in dogs and monkeys. 2. O-Demethylation is important since 3-O-methyl-alpha-methyldopamine (3-methoxy-alpha-methyltyramine) was found in the urine of both species, and traces of alpha-methyldopamine were found in the urine of dogs. 3. Also found in the urine of dogs were 1-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)propan-2-one and 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid, which are side-chain modified metabolites of alpha-methyldopamine. 4. 1-(3-Methoxy-4-hydroxyphenyl)propan-2-one, a side-chain modified metabolite of 3-O-methyl-alpha-methyldopamine, was present in the urine of both dogs and monkeys. 5. The 3-O-demethylated isomers 4-O-methyldopamine and 1-(3-hydroxy-4-methoxyphenyl)propan-2-one were not detected.


[Effect of tridemorph on Torulopsis candida Berlese].

From the results of application of various inhibitors, or combinations of inhibitors to cell suspensions of the yeast Torulopsis candida and by determination of O2-consumption and growth rates it is concluded, that a main site of action of tridemorph is localized in the pathway of the respiratory chain. Tridemorph inhibits as well the respiration as the growth of T. candida depending on the concentration and the time of exposition. Tridemorph does not uncouple respiration but inhibits the uncoupled respiration to the same extent. Inhibition of respiration and growth by tridemorph is enhanced by suboptimal concentrations of antimycin A, oligomycin, rotenone, and 2,4-dinitrophenole. That leads to the conclusion that these inhibitors essentially enlarge the permeability for tridemorph which can be more rapidly transported to the site of action.


[The value of the symptom of dysphagia from the surgeon's viewpoint].

Dysphagia is the leading symptom in the most frequent and surgically most important disturbances of the passage of the oesophagus. Possibilities and results of the treatment are analysed on the basis of clinical material from the surgical clinic of Halle university. Nevertheless insufficient results in malignant tumours are opposite to favourable results of the operation in benign diseases (diverticles, achalasia, strictures). Measures for the improvement of the situation of treatment are discussed.


Light and scanning microscopy of the tongue and its gustatory organs in the common toad, Bufo bufo (L.).

Unlike frogs and European tree frogs, the common toad Bufo bufo possesses a tongue lacking filiform papillae on its dorsal surface. Instead, the mucosal epithelium forms irregular, high folds, dividing the surface of the tongue into numerous separate compartments. At the bottom of those compartments occur openings of tubular glands and singular ciliated cells. In a strongly distended tongue the folds of mucosa disappear, and the regions of glandular orifices assume a shape of pocket-like recesses. The taste discs with an average diameter of 120 micrograms are localized on the top of markedly shortened fungiform papillae. The superficial layer of taste discs contains a single type of glandular supporting cells, which in part of discs show features suggesting their gradual dezintegration, probably related to the process of cellular turnover in gustatory organs.


[Isotachophoretic isolation of IgD and IgE and production of monospecific antisera against them].

The method of preparative isotachophoresis in acrylamide gel ensuring a high yield of IgD and IgE with insignificant admixtures of IgG, etc. was used for the isolation of IgD and IgE from the blood sera of myeloma patients. As a result of immunization with these antigens, monospecific IgD and IgE antisera were obtained. These antisera, alongside with specific antibodies, contained antibodies to admixtures; the latter were eliminated by the method of immune absorbtion carried out with the use of a sorbent based on Sepharose activated with bromo-cyanogen and conjugated with normal human blood serum. Ig D antisera were also shown to contain antibodies to idiotypical IgD determinants located in the Fab fragment of this immunoglobulin.


[Certain results of infectious disease prevention in the German Democratic Republic].

The history of the formation of the sanitary and hygienic service in the GDR is outlined with special reference to the friendly assistance of the USSR. The data on the morbidity dynamics in the GDR for the most important infectious diseases are presented for the 30-year period of the existance of the GDR. The role played by the system of immunoprophylaxis developed in the GDR in controlling infectious diseases, is shown and the immediate tasks presented, at increasing the effectiveness of this system on the basis of close and extensive cooperation between the scientists and physicians of the USSR and the GDR.


[Isolation and immunochemical study of the toxic complex of Cl. botulinum type F].

The toxic comples of Cl. botulinum, type F, was separated into the toxic and nontoxic protein fractions by the methods of ion exchange chromatography and gel filtration in accordance with a specially devised purification scheme. Highly purified, electrophoretically and serologically homogeneous toxin with a molecular weight of 150,000 and potency equal to 10 X 10(6) DLM per 1 mg of protein was isolated from the toxic fraction. The nontoxic protein component had faintly pronounced hemagglutinating properties and was essentially different from type A and B hemagglutinins. The toxic complex of Cl. botulinum, type F, was shown to contain a proteolytically active fraction.


[Immunostimulating activity of the lipopolysaccharides of blue-green algae].

The whole cells of blue-gree algae and lipopolysaccharides isolated from these cells were shown to stimulate the production of macro-(mainly) and microglobulin antibodies in rabbits. The macro- and microphage indices in rabbits increased significantly after the injection of LPS isolated from blue-green algae 24--48 hours before infecting the animals with a virulent Y. pseudotuberculosis strain. Besides, the inhibiting action of this strain on the migration of phagocytes to the site of infection was abolished immediately after the injection. The use of the indirect hemagglutination test allowed to prove the absence of close antigenic interrelations between blue-green algae and the following organisms: Spirulina platensis, Microcystis aeruginosa, Phormidium africanum and P. uncinatum.


[Hyperkinesis in acute renal failure (clinico-pathomorphologic studies)].

Results of clinical and pathomorphological examinations of 74 patients with acute renal insufficiency are presented. Various forms of hyperkineses accompanying the grave course of acute renal insufficiency complicated with comatose state are described. The development of hyperkineses in patients with acute renal insufficiency is prognostically unfavourable. A substantial role in the pathogenesis of these neurological disturbances belongs to the water-electrolyte imbalance leading to development of diffuse microcirculatory and degenerative changes in all the divisions of the brain and the spinal cord. The pathomophological changes make it possible to differentiate a syndrome of metencephalic degeneration.


The alkane-hydroxylating enzyme system of the yeast Candida guilliermondii.

The growth of the investigated Candida guilliermondii strain on n-alkanes induces an alkane-hydroxylating enzyme system, which consists of a cytochrome P-450 and a NADPH-dependent reductase. The cytochrome P-450 was purified to 4 nmoles per mg protein. Long-chain alkanes, preferably hexadecane to octadecane, are hydroxylated to the corresponding primary alcohol by this enzyme system. The substrate induces a type I spectrum, other compounds checked type II spectra.


Catalytic properties of the liver microsomal hydroxylase system in reconstituted phospholipid vesicles.

Two types of cytochrome P-450, P-450LM2 and P-450LM3, have been purified from rabbit liver microsomes and incorporated into phospholipid vesicles by a cholate gel filtration technique together with purified preparations of NADPH-cytochrome P-450 reductase. The catalytic properties of the vesicles have been compared with a system reconstituted with small amounts of dilauroylphosphatidylcholine (DLPC). 6 beta-Hydroxylation of androstenedione proceeded at a rate 10 times higher in the vesicles compared to the DLPC-system. The kinetics for the reaction were the same in the vesicles as in intact microsomes i.e. sigmoidal substrate curves were obtained and Hill-coefficients of about 1.4 were calculated in these systems. In contrast, Michaelis-Menten kinetics were obtained for 6 beta-hydroxylation in the DLPC-system. The results could indicate cooperativity between different P-450 molecules in the intact membrane but not in the DLPC-system. P-450LM2-catalyzed 16-hydroxylation of androstenedione was in contrast to the situation with P-450LM3 inhibited in the vesicles as compared to the DLPC system. It is suggested that for evaluation of substrate specificity and other properties of different types of liver microsomal P-450, phospholipid vesicles may be a more relevant integration level than the DLPC-system.


Enzymatic activities of matrix-bound components of the liver microsomal cytochrome P-450 system.

Cytochrome P-450 and NADPH-cytochrome P-450 reductase were covalently attached to Sepharose 4B in different ways in order to find out factors which are important for the organization of the individual components to a catalytically active system. Both proteins can be bound individually, simultaneously, and successively to the matrix retaining N-demethylase activity after reconstitution with the complementary essential components. The activity of the system with immobilized components depends on the individual component, the sequence of fixation if both proteins are bound, the degree of purification, and the level of disintegration (detergent-treated samples). The functional importance of the lipid component is beyond doubt, but its specific role needs further investigations. At present it is difficult to differentiate between the influence of chemical modification on the properties of the proteins and the disturbed interactions within the system as the main reason for the decrease in the activity after immobilization. The cluster-like (aggregated) arrangement of the cytochrome P-450 system is necessary for an optimal activity.


Electronic and steric factors in regioselective hydroxylation catalyzed by purified cytochrome P-450.

A reconstituted hydroxylation system consisting of electrophoretically homogeneous phenobarbital-inducible rabbit liver microsomal cytochrome P-450 (P-450 LM2), NADPH-cytochrome P-450 reductase, phospholipid, buffer, NADPH, and O2 was used to oxidize four cyclohexane derivatives: cyclohexene, methylcyclohexane, norcarane and norbornane. Cyclohexene gave only cyclohexene oxide and allylic cyclohexenol, while methylcyclohexane yielded all possible monohydric alcohols, but with 1 degrees:2 degrees:3 degrees ratios of 0.072:1:1.25. Norcarane yielded 2-norcaranol. While oxidation of norbornane produced exo-2- and endo-2-norborneols in a ratio of 3.4:1, replacement of all four exo-hydrogens by deuterium led to a reversal of the exo:endo ratio to 0.76:1. These and other observations are interpreted as evidence for a selective, hydrogen-abstracting enzyme-bound oxidant exhibiting a large intramolecular deuterium isotope effect. A transient substrate carbon radical is a probable intermediate in the hydroxylation process.


The influence of oestrogen administration in vivo on in vitro prolactin release. Interaction between dopamine and thyrotrophin releasing hormone.

The influence of oestrogen administered to the ovariectomized rat on the interaction between dopamine (DA) and thyrotrophin releasing hormone (TRH) on the release of radioimmunoassayable (RIA) and [3H]leucine incorporated into prolactin ([3H]PRL) was examined in vitro. Dopamine had a more marked suppressing effect on newly synthetized PRL (80%), as determined [3H]PRL, than on total PRL (50%), as determined by RIA-PRL. The administration of 5 micrograms of oestradiolbenzoate (OeB) for 7 days resulted in blocking the suppressing effect of DA when RIA-PRL was measured but not when [3H]PRL was measured. The administration of 5 micrograms of OeB enabled TRH to partially override the suppressing effect of DA and the degree of response was more marked when RIA-PRL was measured than when [3H]PRL was measured. The administration of 50 micrograms of OeB for 3 days enabled TRH to override the DA blockade of prolactin release to levels comparable to that of the control when RIA-PRL was measured but had little to no effect on [3H]PRL. The results are discussed in relation to the two storage pools of PRL in the pituitary and the data suggest that DA acts predominantly to suppress the newly synthetized, rapidly releasable pool. Oestrogen acts to block DA action on the older more stable PRL pool. The ability of TRH to override the DA blockade of PRL release depends upon the presence of oestrogen; here TRH acts predominantly on the older more stable pool of PRL. Oestrogen's action on disrupting the DA suppression of PRL release appears to be related to the time of day the hormone is administered subsequent to when the pituitary is exposed to DA in vitro.


A TSH secreting pituitary tumour causing hyperthyroidism: presentation of a case and review of the literature.

A 45 year old male with a 12 year history of mild hyperthyroidism and a pituitary tumour is presented. He had both clinical and laboratory evidence of hyperthyroidism and his serum TSH was persistently and markedly elevated. A TRH test resulted in no further rise in serum TSH. No evidence of pituitary or peripheral endocrine deficiencies existed and prolactin levels were normal. Craniotomy was performed and a pituitary adenoma was removed. On light microscopy, it was mostly composed of chromophobes. However, occasional granulated cells were observed, and on electron microscopy, most of the cells contained fine granules, which suggested possible thyrotroph origin of the tumour. One week post-operatively the patient's serum TSH returned to normal. Again, TRH produced no response in TSH. The patient became hypothyroid by clinical and laboratory findings and is currently on thyroid replacement therapy. The previously reported TSH secreting tumours associated with hyperthyroidism are reviewed.


The effects of tetraiodothyroacetic and triiodothyroacetic acids on thyroid function in euthyroid and hyperthyroid subjects.

The effects of tetraiodothyroacetic (Tetrac) and triiodothyroacetic acids (Triac) on thyroid function have been investigated in euthyroid and hyperthyroid subjects. 50, 100, 200, 400 or 800 micrograms of Triac were administered to 8 euthyroid volunteers three times (tds) over a 24 hour period. 3 X 800 micrograms Triac/24 h was sufficient to cause a significant reduction in serum T3. Tetrac, given as an iv bolus of 3600 microgram, produced a sustained reduction in serum T3 for up to 4 days after the injection. Intermediate doses of Tetrac (1200 micrograms) or Triac (400 micrograms tds) significantly reduced the TSH response to TRH (66% and 43% respectively). Seven hyperthyroid patients received Triac 200 micrograms tds for 2 days, and in 2, a rapid decrease in serum T3 was seen. Similar changes in serum T3 were also produced with iodide administration. The results suggest that 1) in euthyroidism, Tetrac and Triac act directly at the pituitary level to inhibit the TSH response to TRH; 2) in some cases of hyperthyroidism, Triac produces a block in T3 secretion by virtue of the iodide produced by its metabolism.


In vitro analysis of antisera to relaxin.

This article describes the development of an in vitro assay to quantitate the ability of antisera to inhibit the biological action of the pregnancy hormone, relaxin. The procedure employed a modification of the in vitro assay for the ability of relaxin to inhibit spontaneous uterine contractions as initially described by Kroc et al. (1959). Several antisera were tested that showed inhibition of relaxin activity. Tests of cross-reactivity demonstrated that antiserum produced against porcine relaxin effectively inhibited the activity in relaxin preparations from cows and rabbits but was much less effective in inhibiting the activity in rat relaxin preparations. Agar double-immunodiffusion studies supported the cross-reactivity studies in that cow and rabbit relaxin preparations gave reactions of identity with the porcine relaxin while the rat relaxin preparation did not produce a precipitin line with the anti-porcine relaxin antiserum.


Autoantibodies in serum and sputum from patients with cystic fibrosis.

Sera from 89 patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) and 88 control persons were examined for the occurrence of rheumatoid factors (RF) of the IgG, IgA and IgM classes by an indirect immunofluorescence method and by the latex fixation slide test. The prevalence of RF-IgG was significantly higher (88%) (p less than 0.0005) among the CF patients than among the control persons (7%), while no difference was found between the two groups with regard to RF of the IgA or IgM classes. Fifty-five of the CF patients had chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in their lungs and two or more precipitins against these bacteria in their sera determined by crossed immunoelectrophoresis. These CF patients did not differ from the 34 CF patients without chronic P. aeruginosa infection, neither with regard to prevalence nor titer of RFs, but there was a positive correlation between the number of P. aeruginosa precipitins in the 55 chronically infected CF patients and their titers of IgG-RF. Nineteen CF patients were examined also for RFs, antinuclear antibodies (ANA) and anti-DNA antibodies in their sputum sol phase and corresponding sera. RFs were demonstrated in the sputum sol phase from 6 of the patients by the latex fixation test, whereas their sera were negative in this test, possibly indicating a local production of RF. Positive reactions for ANA and anti-DNA antibodies were found in 7 and 10 of the sputa respectively, and in higher titers than in the corresponding sera, also suggesting a local production. Titers of autoantibodies in sputum were low and no difference was found between patients with chronic P. aeruginosa infection and patients without P. aeruginosa infection. The possible role of autoantibodies in the patogenesis of pulmonary tissue damage in CF patients is discussed.


Adhesion and locomotion of human leukocytes in vitro; importance of protein coating; effect of lidocain, ethanol and endotoxin.

The adhesion of leukocytes to glass beads in protein-free media was quantitatively high and not dependent on divalent cations. Addition of plasma, albumin or gelatin in increasing concentrations gradually reduced leukocyte adhesion, which then became increasingly dependent on divalent cations. Heat inactivation of plasma did not affect leukocyte adhesion. Leukocyte migration in glass capillary tubes, which was dependent on a heat labile plasma factor, was promoted by each of the proteins listed and by siliconizing the tubes. Leukocyte migration in millipore filters was enhanced when albumin was present in the cell starting compartment. Lidocain reduced both leukocyte adhesion to protein-coated glass and leukocyte migration in capillary tubes and millipores filters. Ethanol reduced leukocyte adhesion and leukocyte filter migration. E. coli endotoxin enhanced adhesion of leukocytes but inhibited their migration in tubes and filters. The findings indicate the existence of a relationship between adhesion and migration of leukocytes.


The influence of specific antibodies and cellular immunity in the induction of tolerance of chemotactic activity caused by Bacteroides fragilis lipopolysaccharide.

Exudate aspirated from wound chambers implanted subcutaneously on rabbits at different time intervals after local lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injection, showed a peak of chemotactic mediator concentration in vitro about two hours before the peak of polymorphonuclear lekocytes accumulated in vivo was demonstrated. Injection of LPS locally into the wound chambers three days after the first injection of LPS showed a reduced number of PMNs accumulated in the exudate. Antibodies to the LPS preparation were demonstrated in the exudate and serum by indirect haemagglutination of sheep erythrocytes before the second LPS injection. This antibody titre increased up to two weeks after the first LPS injection, and was slightly higher in the serum than in the exudate. Also, a migration inhibition factor (MIF) activity was demonstrated in the exudates formed. This MIF activity of the exudates increased after the second LPS injection. The increased titre of specific antibody may indicate an accelerated clearance of LPS, and the MIF activity may indicate a reduced response of PMNs to chemotactic mediators. However, the involvement of other biological mechanisms contributing to the decreased response, cannot  be excluded.


Cold activation of complement and kinin.

Differences between serum and plasma complement, which now is called as the cold activation of complement, was investigated in relation with the phenomenon reported as the cold promoted activation of factor VII, to which kallikrein and Hageman factor are known to participate. Despite the presence of several similarities in these two phenomena, it is concluded that the cold activation of complement is not related to the coagulation nor the kinin system. Evidence that tranexamic acid, a potent antiplasmin compound, provided an inhibitory effect on the cold activation of complement, suggested that the phenomenon could not be explained by a single mechanism, and plasmin might be involved in the phenomenon in a limited case.


Purification and characterization of a kininase from human urine.

A kininase has been purified from male human urine which splits the C-terminal arginyl residue from bradykinin, but does not split hippuryl-L-arginine or converts Angiotensin I into Angiotensin II. It contains cadmium ion in its active center, and has a molecular weight of 210,000 by ultracentrifugation.


Regional variation and characteristics of GABA-receptors in the mammalian CNS.

Neurophysiological, biochemical and histochemical analyses have indicated a heterogeneous distribution of the GABA-ergic system in mammalian brain. The poor correlation between the regional distributions of presynaptic markers and synaptic receptors for GABA suggests that it is impossible to predict the functional importance of this neurotransmitter system in any particular brain region using either pre- or post-synaptic determinations alone. The possibility that the receptor affinity for GABA may vary significantly among different brain regions suggests that this may be another mechanism whereby the brain regulates the activity level of this transmitter system. Thus, in any given brain region, the storage and uptake capacities for GABA, the rates of its synthesis and release, and the number and affinity of GABA receptor recognition sites can all play a role in regulating GABA-ergic tone. Subtle alterations in any one or more of these parameters can lead to dysfunction, whose manifestation will depend upon the brain region involved. Regional distribution studies can also yield insights into the possible mechanisms of action of centrally-active drugs. Thus, a significant correlation between the regional distribution of a neurotransmitter receptor and a particular class of drug provides circumstantial evidence that the drug interacts with this receptor site. Such a situation appears to exist for the benzodiazepines and the GABA-receptor.


Peptide inhibition of mammalian histidine decarboxylase.

The hypothesis that N-terminal histidine peptides might act as inhibitors to histidine decarboxylase was investigated. A murine mastocytoma was utilized as enzyme source. The crude extract of this tissue exhibits high rates of decarboxylation of both histidine and DOPA and was used to establish the specificity in the effect of the compounds tested. For kinetic analyses a highly purified histidine decarboxylase fraction was used. The effect of some representative peptides on both enzyme activities were recorded. Histidine decarboxylase exclusively was inhibited by N-terminal histidine peptides. None of the other peptides investigated interfered negatively with this enzyme. This inhibition was consistent in the purified preparation and appeared to be more pronounced with increasing hydrophobicity in the second amino acid. Histidyl-phenylalanine was found to be about 100-fold as potent as the commonly used specific histidine decarboxylase inhibitor alpha-methyl histidine. It is concluded that small peptides with histidine as the N-terminal amino acid might act as specific inhibitors for mammalian histidine decarboxylase. An analog effect of small tyrosyl or phenylalanyl peptides was not seen for the DOPA decarboxylase.


Further evidence on the structure of slow reacting substance of anaphylaxis (SRS-A).

Arachidonic acid stimulates the release of SRS-A from the peritoneal cavity of sensitized rats or from rat peritoneal cells incubated in vitro. When rat peritoneal cells are incubated in the presence of tritiated arachidonic acid, significant amounts of radioactivity migrate in parallel to bioactivity on purification with Amberlite XAD-8, DE-52, Silicic acid and Sephadex LH-20. Lipoxidase (E.C. 1.13.1.13 and E.C. 1.13.11.12) inactivates mouse, rat and human SRS-A in a concentration-dependent pattern. Following extensive purification, rat SRS-A is also inactivated by the 2 x crystalline suspension of lipoxidase. These findings suggest (a) that SRS-A is a metabolite of arachidonic acid and (b) because of the strict specificity of lipoxidase, that the SRS-A molecule contains a cis, cis-1, 4-pentadiene and a structure very close either to arachidonic acid, to linoleic acid or to linolenic acid.


In vitro studies of the effect of metal ions, EDTA and their mixtures on kynurenine aminotransferase and kynurenine hydrolase.

In the present study use was made of the chelating ability of EDTA and the activating property of some metal ions Ca(II), Mg(II) or Mn(II) to counteract the inhibitory effect of Cu(II), Co(II), Pb(II) or Zn(II) ions on the B6-dependent kynurenine hydrolase and on kynurenine aminotransferase. These may be of help in studying the therapeutic trials in the treatment of metal poisoning. EDTA was able to counteract the inhibitory effect of Cu(II) or Co(II) on kynurenine aminotransferase and partially counteract the inhibitory effect of Cu(II), Co(II) on kynurenine aminotransferase and partially counteract the inhibitory effect of Cu(II), Co(II), Pb(II) or Zn(II) ions on kynurenine hydrolase. The difference in the response of the two B6-dependent enzymes to EDTA is attributed to the difference in the functional groups involved in the active site(s) of the two apoenzymes. Moreover, Mn(II), Ca(II) and Mg(II) ions have the ability to counteract some of the inhibitory effect of these metal ions.


The determination of polychlorodibenzo-p-dioxins in pentachlorophenol and wood treatment solutions.

Analytical methods have been implemented to measure levels of polychlorodibenzo-p-dioxins, and polychlorodibenzofurans in pentachlorophenol solutions used in the Boulton wood treatment process. When normalized against the pentachlorophenol (PCP) content, the octachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin level was 34% higher in the recirculating PCP solution than in the fresh PCP solution, and in the sludge it was 90% higher. A smaller concentration increase was observed for the heptachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin in the recirculating solution, but a similar increase was observed in the sludge.


Pseudothrombocytopenia due to agglutinins.

Pseudothrombocytopenia may have any of a number of causes, one of which is agglutination in vitro. This phenomenon was found in samples of blood from six patients. A serum factor responsible for the agglutination was demonstrated. The factor was dependent upon the presence of EDTA and was more active at room temperature than at 37 C. It could be identified as an IgM immunoglobulin in four cases. In the other two cases definite characterization was not possible, but there was some evidence in favor of an IgM factor. All six patients had elevated serum IgM levels, but they had different and unrelated clinical disorders.


An archival system for clinical laboratory data.

A magnetic tape-based archival system that provides for generation of computer-output microfiche has been developed. Data from magnetic tapes written on a turnkey laboratory system are used as the basis for generating the archival tapes. Programmed searches of the tapes allow retrieval directly by name or test(s). Accessing the computer-output microfiche allows retrieval by name and is being used to supplant a traditional file system.


Listeria monocytogens: synergistic effects of ampicillin and gentamicin.

Listeria monocytogenes infections are most common in newborn infants and persons with impaired defense mechanisms. There are reports of successful treatment with ampicillin alone: however, there is uncertainty as to what regimen constitutes the most effective therapy. The purpose of this study was to illustrate the in-vitro synergism between ampicillin and gentamicin against L. monocytogenes. Seven strains of L. monocytogenes isolated from bloods or cerebrospinal fluids of infants and three control strains obtained from the Center for Disease Control were tested. Minimal inhibitory concentrations of ampicillin and gentamicin were determined in Todd-Hewitt broth with an inoculum of 10(5) organisms/ml. Killing curves were determined for ampicillin 6 microgram/ml, gentamicin, 0.5 microgram/ml, and the combination of ampicillin, 6 microgram/ml, plus gentamicin, 0.5 microgram/ml. Incubation of approximately 10(7) organisms/ml with these concentrations of ampicillin and gentamicin caused no significant reduction in the viable bacterial population in 24 hours. The combination, on the other hand, was bactericidal in all seven strains isolated from patients and one control strain. The authors believe the ultimate test of the superiority of this combination to ampicillin alone must come from clinical studies. However, the synergistic and bactericidal effects of ampicillin with gentamicin may be very desirable in treatment of newborns and patients with underlying disease.


An improvemed assay for von Willebrand factor.

The authors have developed an improved assay for von Willebrand factor (VIIIVWF) utilizing 4% dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) to freeze formalin-fixed washed platelets. A platelet aggregometer is used to conduct the assay. The platelets are thawed and an activity curve is established using normal pooled plasma to support ristocetin-induced agglutination. The VIIIVWF level in unknown plasma can then be measured. The platelet preparation is stable for more than a year. Correlation of VIIIVWF measured by this system and Factor VIII antigen (VIIIAg) measured by electroimmunodiffusion was excellent. This is evidence that these two properties reside on the same molecule. Neither VIIIVWF nor VIIIAg correlates well with Factor VIII antihemophilic factor (VIIIAHF).


Infantile sialidosis: a phenocopy of type 1 GM1 gangliosidosis distinguished by genetic complementation and urinary oligosaccharides.

A clinical description of an apparently classical case of type 1 GM1 gangliosidosis is presented. The patient was the first-born child of first cousins. She was diagnosed at 6 weeks and died at 6 months. beta-Galactosidase activity was deficient in cultured fibroblasts using [3H]GM1 ganglioside and [3H]ceramide-lactose as substrates. Genetic complementation studies performed after cell fusion between cultured fibroblasts from the patient and from two other type 1, one type 2, and one juvenile GM1 gangliosidosis strain were positive with all strains. Subsequent studies revealed an increased excretion of a sialic acid-containing hexasaccharide in the patient's cells. Parents' fibroblasts contained normal levels of beta-galactosidase. The case emphasizes the variability of the clinical expression in sialidosis and the importance of demonstrating a primary gene defect in establishing a diagnosis of an inborn error or metabolism.


Carbonic anhydrase-I polymorphism in a Philippine aboriginal population.

Polymorphism of carbonic anhydrase-I (CA1) was found by electrophoresis in an aboriginal group of Mindanao, Philippines, with a remarkably high frequency of variant types. The frequency of the variant allele was estimated at .256. The variant isozyme designated CA1 3Negrito (CA1 3N) is electrophoretically indistinguishable from the "Guam" variant and may be regarded as a potential anthropological marker in the Western Pacific.


Cost-effectiveness of clinical pharmaceutical services: a follow-up report.

The cost-effectiveness of pharmacist-conducted training programs for patients self-administering at home antihemophilic factor, calcitonin, cytarabine, injectable analgesics and parenteral nutrients was studied. Records of 35 patients participating in the training programs from September 1976 through August 1978 were reviewed. The benefits of the patient training programs were measured by approximating the days of hospitalization or outpatient visits saved (and their related costs) per patient. For every dollar charged by the pharmacy service for the patient training programs, 1.25 days of hospitalization and $321.90 in hospital charges were saved. The cost-effectiveness ratios demonstrated the benefits of the patient training programs. Third-party reimbursement can be improved by designing comprehensive measures of cost-effectiveness.


Role of parenteral nutrition in patients with short bowel syndrome.

More patients with extensive resection of the small bowel--secondary to regional enteritis, mesenteric infarction, cancer, etc.--are surviving perioperative treatment. To avoid nutrition-caused malabsorption and to maintain body composition, intravenous nutrition is initiated with a silastic atrial catheter in the immediate postoperative period. The patients are trained in "home hyperalimentation" procedures designed to allow normal nutrition to be maintained during the months required for bowel adaptation to occur. Because bowel adaptation to the absorption and transport of foodstuffs is in part dependent on the intraluminal presence of foodstuffs, elemental and regular diets are ingested during the period of intravenous support which may last for years. By using combined oral and intravenous nutrition, approximately 20 per cent of patients with short bowel syndrome eventually can take sufficient oral nutrients to sustain life.


Protein digestion and absorption in man. Normal mechanisms and protein-energy malnutrition.

Protein is an essential nutrient normally assimilated in an efficient manner following the action of gastric, pancreatic and small intestinal enzymes. After hydrolysis, protein digestion products in the form of amino acids and small peptides undergo mucosal uptake by distinct transport mechanisms. Although gastric and pancreatic enzymes are important, the small intestine appears to be the critical rate-limiting tissue in this process. Impaired intake, assimilation or excessive enteric protein loss may occur with several diseases leading to protein-energy malnutrition. Although the clinical and laboratory features of this condition are nonspecific and wide ranging in spectrum, their presence may provide a clue to underlying disease and serve as an index of patient nutritional status. Disease of the exocrine pancreas or small intestine may cause significant protein-energy malnutrition which, in turn, can cause major structural and functional abnormalities in these tissues.


Drugs, alcohol and malabsorption.

Alcohol and a number of drugs (e.g., neomycin, cholestyramine, antacids, laxatives, paraminosalicyclic acid, colchicine and oral hypoglycemic agents) can cause malabsorption due to drugs and alcohol is surveyed. Examined in detail are the mechanisms of malabsorption produced by neomycin and cholestyramine, and the factors responsible for malabsorption in the chronic alcoholic.


An overview of intestinal immunity and malabsorption.

Intestinal immune responses are adapted to function at external mucosal surfaces. Specialized forms of antibody, secretory immunoglobulin A (IgA) and immunoglobulin M (IgM), provid humoral immunity but little is known of local cell mediated immune reactions. Antigens in the intestinal lumen gain preferential access via Peyer's patches in which sensitised lymphocytes proliferate before entering the lymphatic system. These lymphoblasts return to the intestinal mucosa via the bloodstream to provide predominantly IgA antibody responses. Secretory IgA antibody can neutralize viruses, bacteria and toxins, and appears to block the entry of some food antigens into the lamina propria. Disturbances of intestinal immunity may result in malabsorption. Immunodeficiency states are often associated with malabsorption due to Giardia lamblia infestation. In alpha chain disease there is a malignant expansion of plasma cells in the intestinal mucosa which secrete an abnormal heavy chain fragment of IgA. Arthus type hypersensitivity reactions to milk proteins and gluten may contribute to the mucosal injury in patients suffering from milk allergy and coeliac disease.


H-Y gene expression in apparent absence of the long arm of the Y chromosome.

H-Y antigen expression was detected on cells from an individual having a presumptive 45,X/46,X,i(Yp) karyotype, but was absent on cells from another person having a 46,X,i(Yq) karyotype. This suggests that the short arm of the human Y chromosome is essential for H-Y antigen expression, at least in the subjects studied.


Dyggve-Melchior-Clausen syndrome: genetic studies and report of affected sibs.

We report a brother and sister with Dyggye-Melchior-Clausen dysplasia with mental retardation (MR) but as yet without spinal cord injury due to cervical spine abnormality. Mucopolysaccharide metabolism was studied in several ways and was found to be normal. Segregation analysis and study of consanguinity data confirm that both forms of the syndrome--that with MR, and that without MR (Smith-McCort dysplasia) are rare autosomal recessives. Spinal cord injury and early death is a danger in both.


Inborn errors of lysosomal catabolism--principles of heterozygote detection.

Carriers of an inborn error of lysosomal catabolism can be recognized, as they have enzyme levels approximately half those of normal individuals. Of the various tissues readily available for assay, plasma and leukocytes and, in some situations, tears are preferred. Although mixed leukocytes have proved satisfactory in Tay-Sachs screening programs, purified preparations of granulocytes or lymphocytes will allow better discrimination in most situations. Enzymes are assayed relative to some other reference parameter which must be a constant or highly correlated with test enzyme activity. In the two mass screening programs in operation, beta-hexosaminidase A and alpha-mannosidase have both been assayed relative to total beta-hexosaminidase activity. Carrier detection is particularly important in X-linked diseases. The techniques used mostly involve hair roots or fibroblasts and depend on random inactivation of the X chromosome. In the mucolipidoses II and III, in which there are a number of deficient enzymes in cells, carriers may be identified on the basis of the ratio of beta-hexosaminidase I1 and I2 to total hexosaminidase.


Retinal damage from light.

Exposure of a monkey retina to the light from a slit lamp for 40 minutes produced a visible retinal change that disappeared after four weeks. Exposures of 20, ten, and five minutes produced no visible changes. Extensive retinal damage was produced in the macula of the other eye of the monkey by a one-hour exposure to the light from an operation microscope. This damage was almost unchanged one year later. Exposure of the monkey retina from the same operation microscope, for the same length of time, with the blue light filtered out, produced a much smaller lesion that, after one year, could not be seen visibly but was detected with fluorescein angiography.


Pressure and heart rate responses to raised carotid pressure in the toad.

Neither transient nor steady occlusion of the bilateral carotid arterial trunks had noticeable effects on blood pressure or heart rate of the toad Bufo arenarum Hensel. Distension of isolated carotid labyrinths had no circulatory effects, whereas distension of unisolated carotid trunks by fluid infusion caused an increase in blood pressure proportional to the applied pressure. A simultaneous tachycardia was recorded. These circulatory effects seem to depend on the venous return to the heart because carotid distension was followed by a proportional rise in right atrial pressure. Consequently infusion of small volumes of saline into the right atrium also promoted tachycardia and hypertension. These responses seem not to depend on central nervous mechanisms because they persisted after complete deafferentation or removal of the bulbomesencephalic centers.


Regional distribution of blood flow in awake heat-stressed baboons.

Radioactive microspheres (containing six different nuclide labels) were used to measure blood flow (BF) to most major organs of eight conscious baboons during heat stress. Cardiac output (CO), arterial mean pressure, and arterial PO2, PCO2, and pH did not change, but heart rate increased and stroke volume fell as body temperature increased by as much as 2.56 degrees C. Skin BF increased in all regions sampled so that the fraction of CO distributed to skin (not including feet and hands) increased from 3% (control) to 14%. Increased skin BF was compensated for by decreases in splanchnic (intestines, stomach, pancreas, and spleen) (35%), renal (27%), and possibly muscle BF. There was no change in BF to the brain, spinal cord, coronary, or subcutaneous adipose tissue during heating. Therefore, baboons show a generalized redistribution of BF during heat stress, so that increments in skin BF are provided without increases in CO, whereas man depends on changes in both; despite this latter difference between the baboon and man, the similarity in magnitude of the splanchnic and renal vasoconstriction between the two primates may indicate that the baboon would be a suitable animal model for investigations into mechanisms of changes in regional blood flow in man during heat stress.


Benefit--cost methodology in the evaluation of therapeutic services for alcoholism.

Benefit--cost analysis as a form of "social profitability analysis" can be a powerful tool in the overall evaluation of alcoholism treatment efforts. Alcoholism treatment potentially leads to a multiplicity of benefits in addition to sobriety. Benefit--cost analysis provides a methodology for converting many of these diverse benefits into a common metric (dollars), thereby allowing the comparison of aggregate benefits and treatment costs. The analysis thus leads to the expression of treatment outcome in terms of the return on investment. A benefit--cost analysis conducted on 3034 clients from the Oklahoma data base indicated a return to society of $1.98 for every $1 invested in alcoholism treatment. Such data may represent a critical portion of the information required for responsible resource allocation decisions.


Microimmunodiffusion test for diagnosis of ovine progressive pneumonia.

Two microimmunodiffusion tests (MIDT) for detection and measurement of ovine progressive pneumonia antibody are described. Substrates of various salt concentrations and pH were used to determine the optimal conditions for the tests. In comparisons between two MIDT and one macroimmunodiffusion test, sera from cull ewes were used. The MIDT require less reagents and were more responsive than the macroimmunodiffusion test. After extended incubation of the test materials, results in all three tests were comparable.


Kinetics of detection of blastogenic responses of neonatal calves inoculated in utero with tetanus toxoid, killed Mycobacterium bovis, and killed Brucella abortus.

Nine pregnant cows were laparotomized and their fetuses were immunized with tetanus toxoid, killed Brucella abortus, and killed Mycobacterium bovis. Blastogenesis assays and total leukocyte and differential counts were done when the calves were 1, 2, 3, 7, 14, 21, 28, and 60 days of age. Initial blastogenesis responses to antigens, phytohemagglutinin, and concanavalin A were not positive as frequently as were the responses obtained when the calves were 2 to 3 weeks of age. The probability of obtaining a positive response to an antigen was positively correlated with the magnitude of the response, as determined by delayed-type hypersensitivity skin reactions. Leukocyte and differential WBC counts in immunized calves were similar to those of unimmunized calves. The mean leukocyte count for the immunized calves remained near 16,000 cells/mm3; blood obtained in the first few days after birth contained a greater number of neutrophils than lymphocytes, whereas lymphocyte-to-neutrophil ratio gradually approached those of adult cattle, in which lymphocytes predominate.


Characterization of antigens from Aspergillus fumigatus. IV. Evaluation of commercial and experimental preparations and fractions in the detection of antibody in aspergillosis.

Commercially available preparations of Aspergillus fumigatus, experimental extracts and fractions of A. fumigatus, and extracts of 5 other aspergilli were evaluated in a blind manner for their abilities to detect antibody in 66 serum specimens from patients with aspergilloma, allergic bronchopulmonary and invasive aspergillosis, and unconfirmed aspergillosis. Rocket immunoelectrophoresis was more sensitive than immunodiffusion in 2 dimensions. Although qualitative differences in antigen composition could be detected, commercial preparations compared favorably with the best experimental extracts in detecting positive specimens. Extracts from young, actively-growing myceliums were most effective and produced the largest numbers of precipitin bands. In contrast to all unfractionated preparations, several fractions of A. fumigatus were devoid of substances that react with C-reactive protein of serums, yet were as effective as the best preparations in detecting serums positive for Aspergillus.


Laboratory assessment of prolactin status.

The laboratory assessment of prolactin status was evaluated by detailed study of 921 subjects (587 normal subjects and 334 patients with pathological conditions). The effect on serum prolactin levels of age, sex, circadian rhythm, pulsatility of secretion, stress, drug ingestion, and pregnancy was defined in normal subjects. The normal prolactin responses to stimulation (TRH metoclopramide) and suppression (L-dopa, bromocriptine) were also determined. Basal prolactin levels were measured in patients with defined pathological conditions including prolactinoma, idiopathic hyperprolactinaemia, acromegaly, Cushing's disease, chronic renal failure, primary hypothyroidism, pituitary ablation, Kallman's syndrome, Nelson's syndrome, growth hormone deficiency, gonadotrophin deficiency, craniopharyngioma, panhypopituitarism, and chronic progressive arthropathy. Based on these data, a strategy for the routine laboratory assessment of prolactin status is outlined.


[TRH stimulation test in the diagnosis of hyperthyreosis].

After a review concerning the present knowledge on the hypothalamic peptide releasing hormones, the response of TSH to intravenous administration of TRH in man (Thyreotrophin Releasing Hormone Stimulation Test) is discussed, with regard to clinical endocrinology. Personal investigations with the TRH test were carried out in 3 groups of conditions correlated with thyroid hyperfunction: 1) suspected hyperthyroidism with equivocal routine tests (9 subjects); 2) autonomous thyroid decompensated adenoma, with or without clinical hyperthyroidism (5 subjects); 3) thyrotoxicosis (Graves' disease) in remission phase after pharmacological or surgical treatment (10 subjects). In these conditions the test provided useful diagnostic information for appropriate therapeutical decisions.


Cricopharyngeus myotomy as the only treatment for Zenker diverticulum.

Cricopharyngeal dysfunction, one of the most common causes of pharyngeal dysphagia, exhibits a variety of manifestations, one of which is Zenker diverticulum. This paper examines the physiology of swallowing, pathophysiology of its aberrations, and various methods of treating Zenker diverticulum. It is our purpose to emphasize cricopharyngeus (CP) myotomy as the only needed treatment for this diverticulum. Even in its advanced stages, excision of the diverticulum is a needless surgical exercise. Seven cases of Zenker diverticulum are reported in elderly patients; one of them had an excision of the diverticulum prior to presentation. Some were either completely obstructed or aspirating on esophagram. Cricopharyngeus myotomy, the only treatment provided, proved to be safe and effective without morbidity or fatalities. Patients' ability to eat orally was restored on the night of or the morning after surgery. No Levin tube is necessary and there is no risk of suture line leakage after the conventional diverticulectomy and CP myotomy. Hospital stay is greatly reduced and there is no risk of structure formation. In contrast to endoscopic division of CP muscle, there is no risk of mediastinitis because there is no break through the mucosa.


Thyroid calcitonin cells and parathyroid gland of the Indian rhesus monkey Macaca mulatta in response to experimental hypercalcaemia.

Rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta) were subjected to hypercalcaemia by daily intramuscular injections of vitamin D2 (100,000 IU) and by providing them gram soaked in 1% CaCl2 solution for eating and 1% CaCl2 solution (prepared in tap water) for drinking. After 10, 15, 20 and 30 days of such treatment the serum calcium level recorded a rise (18.24 +/- 0.56, 26.20 +/- 1.30, 17.25 +/- 0.25 and 20.50 +/- 0.55 mg/dl respectively) as compared to those of control animals (12.80 +/- 1.00, 12.30 +/- 0.50, 12.70 +/- 0.20 and 12.30 +/- 0.30 mg/dl). Serial sections of thyroid parathyroid complex and isthmus were subjected to selective staining for lcalising the C cells. The structure and behaviour of these cells both under normal and experimental conditions has been studied. Hypercalcaemia resulted in the increase of these cells. Mitotic figures of the C cells were also encountered after 10 days of hypercalcaemia. The specimens subjected to 30 days treatment showed complete degranulation of these cells. Chronic hypercalcaemia inhibits the activity of parathyroid cells which display degenerative changes. The anterior and posterior poles, the peripheral regions of thyroid and isthmus are completely devoid of calcitonin cells.


[Hashimoto's thyroiditis and monoclonal gammapathy (two cases) (author's transl)].

The authors describe two cases of Hashimoto's thyroiditis with a monoclonal dysproteinemia (IgG lambda in one case and IgG kappa in the other). They show that the antithyroid activity (anti-microsomial in the first case, anti thyroglobulin in the second case) is not carried by the abnormal gammaglobulin. The two diseases, therefore, appear to be separate but can both be considered as the consequence of a particular immunological state.


Competitive ligand - binding assay for thyroxine binding globulin. Comparison with TBG radioimmunoassay and T3 uptake test.

A simple and reproducible competitive ligand binding assay has been utilized to measure serum TBG concentration. In euthyroid subjects TBG concentration (mean +/- SD, mg/l) was 33.7 +/- 4; hyperthyroid 24 -/+ 6; T3-thyrotoxicosis 20 +/- 7; hypothyroid 37 -/+ 7; pregnant 67 -/+ 18; post-partum period 59.8 -/+ 17; oral contraceptives 45 -/+ 7. The correlation of CLBA with RIA measurement of TBG was significant (p less than 0.001). The estimations of serum TBG by CLBA correlated significantly with T3 uptake test (p less than 0.001), but at higher concentration of TBG correlation was non-linear. T4 : TBG ration according to serum T4 and TBG concentration provided a reliable index in the assessment of thyroid function.


[Clinical use of the assay of the thyroxin-binding-globulin (TBG) and of the calculated index: T4/TBG (author's transl)].

The level of TBG in normal adults is 2.21 +/- 0.4 mg/100 ml, without any sex difference. TBG levels are high in the neonatal period (3.26 +/- 0.49 mg/100 ml) and in children under the age of 1 year (2.61 +/- 0.66 mg). Estrogens induce a significant increase (3.96 +/- 1.0 mg) and corticoids a significant decrease of TBG (1.44 +/- 0.32 mg). TBG is also decreased in thyrotoxicosis (1.88 +/- 0.34 mg) but normal in hypothyroidism. There is a strong correlation between T4 and TBG levels, and the T4/TBG ratio appears to be a useful index, which remains constant in normal adults, and under treatment by estrogens and corticoids.


[Serum thyroid hormones and TSH response to TRH during treatment of Graves' disease by carbimazole (author's transl)].

Serum concentrations of Thyroxine (T4), triiodothyronine (T3) free thyroxine index (F.T.I.) and TSH response to TRH were evaluated in 55 Graves' diseases treated by Carbimazole. There is a good correlation between serum thyroid hormones and clinical state: 83,7% for T4; 79,5% for T3; on the other hand there is a discrepancy between T3 and T4 in many cases and between delta TSH and T4 (47%) or T3 (46%). The decrease of T4 occurs before that of T3: 46,6% normal at the 4th month and 72,5% at the 9th month for T4 against 41% and 50% for T3. At the end of the treatment 96,4% of patients are clinically normal but 20% of them remain with T3 and T4 values above normal.


[Neonatal screening for hypothyroidism. Nord-Picardie regional experience (author's transl)].

The routine T4 determination from filter paper blood spots, with supplementary T.S.H. and T.B.G. determinations on subnormal T4 values, is a reliable method for neonatal hypothyroidism screening. Preliminary results, presently reported, agree with previous studies. However a larger experience is still necessary to decide the best way for mass-screening of congenital hypothyroidism.


The TRG Test. Which is the best index of TSH release?.

Prolonged (two hours) TRH tests were performed on 29 controls and 182 thyrotoxicosis patients of varying thyroid status after treatment with radioiodine. The object was to find which of the simple measurements of TSH from the TRH test most faithfully reflected the total amount of TSH (TTSH) released in response to the TRH. The simple indices compared were the absolute levels of TSH (ATSH) achieved at intervals during the test, and the increments in TSH (delta TSH) recorded at the same points in time. TTSH was measured by planimetry of the area beneath the response curve. Patients were classified as normo-responders, hyper-responders or hypo-responders according to normal limits for TTSH deduced from the controls. When each simple index of TSH response  was substituted in turn for TTSH, the overall frequency of misclassification was considerably greater for ATSH than for delta TSH. This was largely due to the wide variability of passive or basal TSH secretion, which seriously confused the distinction between normally-responsive and hypo-responsive patients when ATSH was used. The delta TSH measured at 30 minutes gave the best overall results in terms of least classification error and closest correlation with TTSH.


Tomographic measurement of local cerebral glucose metabolic rate in humans with (F-18)2-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose: validation of method.

Tracer techniques and quantitative autoradiographic and tissue counting models for measurement of metabolic rates were combined with positron computed tomography (PCT) and (F-18)2-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose (FDG) for the measurement of local cerebral metabolic rate for glucose (LCMRGlc) in humans. A three-compartment model, which incorporates hydrolysis of FDG-6-PO4 to FDG, was developed for the measure of kinetic constants and calculation of LCMRGlc. Our model is an extension of that developed by Sokoloff et al. Although small, hydrolysis of FDG-6-PO4 was found to be significant. A PCT system, the ECAT, was used to determine the rate constants, lumped constant, and stability of the model in human beings. The data indicate that cerebral FDG-6-PO4 in humans increases for about 90 minutes, plateaus, and then slowly decreases. After 10 minutes, cerebral blood FDG activity levels were found to be a minor fraction of tissue activity. Precursor pool turnover rate, distribution volumes, and red blood cell-plasma concentration ratios were determined. Reproducibility (precision) of LCMRGlc measurements (approximate 2 cm2 regions) was +/- 5.5% over a 5-hour period. The replacement of arterial blood sampling with venous sampling was validated.


[Mechanisms in group formation and cohesion in Tupaia glis Diard, 1820. Results of long-term studies of a family group].

In long-term studies of a family group, all the partner-orientated interactions are quantitatively registered and analysed in connection with the usuage of space by the animals. From this, the connections between the interactions and respectively status forms of the group members are recognizable. During the growing-up period of the juveniles in the group, beginning with the first leaving of the nest box at the age of about 33 days, three phases can be differentiated. A phase of "integration" of about 5 to 8 days, in which the behavior patterns between adults and juveniles are polarized on licking mouth with the adults and scent marking the juveniles, is obviously the presupposition for including the rising generation in the relational system (including the space system) of the adults. This phase is followed by a "neutral phase", lasting about 30 days, during which the juveniles stand in connection with the adults by means of a space bonding, in which relatively few interactions occur. Through the joint use of parental resting places and through the resting in close spatial neighbourhood, a true retention of experience for the juveniles must be thought of. At the age of about 60 days an 'ambivalent phase" begins, in which the contacts between parents and the offspring increases again, with an alteration and a superposition of sexual and agonistic interactions. Besides, the sex-specific differences become recognizable: the male interacts with his daughters increasingly sexually, with the sons he is more and more aggressive; the relations of the mother with the female offspring are ambivalent, during which she shows male behaviour patterns and with her sons the female scarcely has contact. Lying in bodily contact has, beyond the importance for a pair bonding, significance for a group bonding. Licking the mouth as an element of the care system (infantile behavior) can be used as an appeasement gesture. The age of 90--100 days, in which the parents frequently have aggressive gesture with their offspring of the same sex, is regarded as the time of reaching sexual maturity. A longer lasting integration of a female offspring (and a male) is described. The social organization of Tupaia glis is based on a permanent pair bonding. Through the addition of the young, a parental family with a maximum of two generations of brothers and sisters can arise. Limiting factors of the group size are incest barriers, a density stress, and the possibilities of communication of the species themselves.


[Comparison of the sensitivity of Pseudomonas aeruginosa cultures that synthesize melanin and other pigments to 12 antibiotics and 5-nitro-8-quinolinol].

Sensitivity of 80 Pseudomonas aeruginosa cultures forming melanin and 80 cultures synthesizing other pigments to amikacin, gentamicin, kanamycin, carbenicillin, levomycetin, monomycin, 5-NOK, polymyxin M, rifampicin, streptomycin, tetracycline, tobramycin and erythromycin was determined. It was found that the cultures of Ps. aeruginosa synthesizing melanin were less resistant to most of the antibiotics that the other representatives of this species.


Effect of divalent cation concentrations on the antibiotic susceptibilities of nonfermenters other than Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

The effects of supplementing Mueller-Hinton broth with calcium and magnesium on the minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of eight aminoglycosides, colistin, tetracycline, and carbenicillin for 11 nonfermenters other than Pseudomonas aeruginosa were studied and compared with the effects for Escherichia coli and P. aeruginosa. MICs were simultaneously performed in unsupplemented Mueller-Hinton broth and Mueller-Hinton broth supplemented to contain 5 mg of calcium and 2.5 mg of magnesium per dl. Changes in MICs were expressed as the increases in the number of log(2) concentrations caused by supplementation. The usual increases in MICs of aminoglycosides caused by supplementation were: zero concentrations for E. coli, one to six concentrations for P. aeruginosa, and one to two concentrations for most other nonfermenters. The largest increases (five to six concentrations) were observed with gentamicin and P. aeruginosa. The usual increases in MICs of colistin were: zero concentrations for E. coli, two concentrations for P. aeruginosa, and one to two concentrations for other nonfermenters. Increases in MICs of tetracycline were: one to five concentrations for all organisms tested. The usual increases in MICs of carbenicillin were: zero concentrations for E. coli and P. aeruginosa and zero to two concentrations for other nonfermenters. These observations indicated that supplementation of Mueller-Hinton broth to contain recommended concentrations of calcium and magnesium had little effect on MICs of aminoglycosides and colistin for E. coli but increased MICs for most nonfermenters, increased MICs of tetracycline for E. coli and all nonfermenters, and had little effect on MICs of carbenicillin for E. coli and P. aeruginosa but increased the MICs for several nonfermenters other than P. aeruginosa.


Antimalarial properties of floxacrine, a dihydroacridinedione derivative.

Evaluations of the activities of floxacrine [7-chloro-10-hydroxy-3-(4-trifluoromethylphenyl)-3,4-dihydroacridine-1,9(2H, 10H)-dione] in owl monkeys infected with trophozoites of a chloroquine-quinine-resistant strain of Plasmodium falciparum, a strain of this plasmodium resistant to both of these quinolines and pyrimethamine, or a strain of P. vivax resistant only to pyrimethamine showed that: (i) this compound regularly effected temporary clearance of parasitemia at daily doses of 1.25 to 2.5 mg/kg; (ii) doses required for the cure of established infections were larger by factors of 6 to 64 than those that effected parasite clearance; (iii) there was more than a 10-fold difference in doses required for the cure of infections with the different strains; and (iv) resistance to floxacrine developed rapidly. Evaluations of the activities of floxacrine in rhesus monkeys challenged with sporozoites of P. cynomolgi showed that: (i) 0.625-mg/kg doses administered daily throughout the incubation period provided complete protection against infection; (ii) single 40.0-mg/kg doses delivered 2 h before sporozoite challenge were without prophylactic activity; and (iii) daily doses of 40.0 mg/kg, the maximum tolerated level, productive of a hemorrhagic syndrome in some subjects, would not cure established infections. These observations suggest that the potential contribution of floxacrine to malaria therapy would be limited to the prophylactic area and for practical reasons would be restricted there by the requirement for daily dosage.


Erythromycin and clindamycin resistance in Corynebacterium diphtheriae from skin lesions.

Erythromycin- and clindamycin-resistant Corynebacterium diphtheriae isolates were recovered from skin lesions. Resistance to erythromycin and clindamycin was induced by a subinhibitory concentration (0.03 microgram/ml) of erythromycin. Clindamycin (0.07 microgram/ml) was a more effective inducer of its own resistance than of erythromycin resistance. Erythromycin-inducible cross-resistance to vernamycin B alpha was demonstrated in disk diffusion tests.


Inhibitory effects of carcinogenic mycotoxins on deoxyribonucleic acid-dependent ribonucleic acid polymerase and ribonuclease H.

Fourteen mycotoxins were tested for inhibitory effects on ribonucleic acid polymerase of rat liver and Escherichia coli and nuclear ribonuclease H of rat liver and Tetrahymena pyriformis. These enzymes were strongly inhibited by (-)-luteoskyrin, (+)-rugulosin, patulin, and PR toxin.


Effect of dyes on the quantitative recovery of Yersinia enterocolitica.

A total of 69 dyes were incorporated separately at different concentrations into an agar medium for evaluation of their effects on the quantitative recovery of five serotypes of Yersinia enterocolitica. One strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and one strain of Bacillus cereus were included for comparative purposes. Certain dyes were evaluated further for their selective properties with five additional serotypes of Y. enterocolitica, three strains of P. aeruginosa, and two of Engerobacter spp. Metanil yellow was the only dye which was tolerated bettr by Y. enterocolitica than by P. aeruginosa. Dye sensitivity was variable amond strains of the same serotype of Y. enterocolitica. In general, Y. enterocolitica showed a tolerance to dyes greater than that of gram-positive bacteria and similar to that of other gram-negative bacteria.


Effect of carbon dioxide on growth of Pseudomonas fluorescens.

In minimal medium at 30 degrees C, growth of Pseudomonas fluorescens was stimulated when the pressure (p) of CO2 in solution was 100 mm of Hg, but at higher concentrations the growth rate declined linearly with increasing pCO2. All concentrations of CO2 were inhibitory for growth in complex medium, and at 30 degrees C the maximum degree of inhibition was attained when pCO2 was 250 mm of Hg. The degree of inhibition at a constant pCO2 in solution increased with decreasing temperature. The degree of inhibition was directly proportional to temperature for growth in complex medium, but not in minimal medium. The inhibition of cell respiration by CO2 was the same whether cells had been grown in air or in the presence of CO2, indicating that adaptive enzyme synthesis does not occur in response to CO2.


Effect of chlorine substitution on the bacterial metabolism of various polychlorinated biphenyls.

Of 36 pure isomers (chlorine numbers 1 to 5) of polychlorinated biphenyls examined, 23 compounds were metabolized by Alcaligenes sp. strain Y42, and 33 compounds were metabolized by Acinetobacter sp. strain P6. The major pathway of many polychlorinated biphenyl isomers examined was considered to proceed through 2',3'-dihydro-2',3'-diol compounds, concomitant dehydrogenated 2',3'-dihydroxy compounds, subsequently the 1',2'-meta-cleavage compounds (chlorinated derivatives of 2-hydroxy-6-oxo-6-phenylhexa-2,4-dienoic acids), and then chlorobenzoic acids. The meta-cleavage products were usually converted to chlorobenzoic acids upon further incubation in many polychlorinated biphenyls, but they accumulated specifically in the metabolism of 2,4'-, 2,4,4'-, and 2,5,4'-chlorobiphenyls, which are all chlorinated at the 2,4'-position in the molecules in common. Dihydroxy compounds accumulated mainly in the metabolism of 2,6-, 2,3,6-, 2,4,2',5'-, 2,5,2',5'-, and 2,4,5,2',5'-chlorobiphenyls by Acinetobacter sp. P6. The 2,3,2',3'-, 2,3,2',5'-, and 2,4,5,2',3'-chlorobiphenyls, which are chlorinated at the 2,3-position of one of the rings, were metabolized in a different fashion. Two major metabolites of a chlorobenzoic acid and an unknown compound accumulated always in the metabolism of this group of polychlorinated biphenyls. 2,4,6-Trichlorobiphenyl was metabolized quite differently between the two organisms. Alcaligenes sp. Y42 metabolized this compound very slowly to trichlorobenzoic acid by the major oxidative route. In contrast, Acinetobacter sp. P6 metabolized it to a trihydroxy compound via a dihydroxy compound.


Spore survival during batch dry rendering of abattoir waste.

Normal batch dry rendering practice does not ensure sterile products, because bacterial spores are protected against thermal denaturation by the high fat-low water content environment which results from drying the materials at temperatures below those required for sterilization.


[Analysis on costs-benefits of vaccination against measles (author's transl)].

An analysis has been carried out on costs-benefits of vaccination against measles according to datas available in the Country and particularly in the Lombardy Region. A remarkable economic benefit can be forseen after a transitory period during which only newborns will be vaccinated.


[Characteristics of the virus and of measles vaccines (author's transl)].

Characteristics of measles virus and some aspects of virus-cell interaction are reported. For their interest, findings from recents investigations on comparison between SSPE isolates and wild strains are summarized. Both inactivated and live attenuated measles vaccines are then briefly described. The former has been used in the U.S.A. from 1963 to 1968 and discontinued thereafter mainly for safety problems, the latter, prepared with Schwarz or with Moraten strain, are in use today for the prophylaxis against measles.


Effect of detergent on protease-induced mortality and pulmonary histopathology.

Adddition of an anionic detergent to aerosols of Bacillus subtilis protease markedly increased mortality in guinea pigs following a single aerosol exposure and altered the nature of the lung pathology after exposure. It was observed that the detergent inhibited in vitro activity of serum protease inhibitors and it is suggested that such impairment may be, in part, responsible for the observed in vivo effects of detergent on protease-induced mortality and pulmonary pathology.


Morphologic variations along the length of the monkey vas deferens.

Gross and microscopic morphology of the vas deferens of sexually mature macaque monkeys were studied with special reference to the changes and modifications occurring throughout its entire length. The vas deferens was subdivided into four regional segments designated proximal, middle, distal, and ampulla. Each segment showed morphologic variations and it seemed to correspond roughly to the region located in a different part of the body which it traverses. The longitudinal folds of the epithelium are simple in the proximal region but gradually become more complex towards the distal region. In the ampulla, they often branch and form crypts. Stereocilia of epithelial cells are taller and more uniform in the proximal portion in comparison with the short, irregular stereocilia found in the more distal segment of the vas deferens. The luminal epithelial cells of the proximal part apparently have no granules or cytoplasmic blebbings, while the principal cells in the distal portion contain large numbers of cytoplasmic granules and apical blebs. Cells in the middle segments possess cytological features intermediate to the proximal and distal regions. These structural variations along the length of the vas deferens sug gest that this segment of the excurrent duct of the testis performs functions other than just as a passageway for spermatozoa.


[The incidence of concealed accessory atrioventricular pathways in paroxysmal junctional tachycardias].

Forty patients with normal resting ECGs and a history of paroxysmal junctional tachycardia underwent endocavitory electrocardiography. Accessory atrioventricular pathways were demonstrated in 34 patients (82.5%), 14 of whom (35%) had Kent bundles. The ventriculo-atrial conduction time during ventricular stimulation was constantin 85% of the 40 patients but increased after injection of striadyne (ATP). This may suggest a reentry circuit partially bypassing the atrioventricular node.


[Mitral valve prolapse and spasmophilia in the adult].

75 cases of mitral valve prolapse (MVP) for which no cause was found underwent electromyography (EMG). In 64 cases (85.3%) EMG showed changes suggestive of spasmophilia. The symptoms observed were those already described in this condition. The specific clinical signs of spasmophilia were often elicited with a positive Chvostek sign in 20 out of 30 cases (73.3%). Radiological, echocardiographical and haemodynamic studies underlined the hyperkinetic state of the left ventricle. Biochemical investigations showed a high incidence of low erythrocytic magnesium levels. Chest pain suggestive of angina pectoris, mitral valve prolapse and spasmophilia are frequently associated. The role of the low erythrocyte magnesium on left ventricular hyperkinesis and the production of MVP is discussed.


[Electrocardiographic changes during stimulation of the hypothalamus in the dog].

Electrical stimulation in the area around the ventro-median nuclei of the hypothalamus of the dog produced changes suggestive of ischaemia in the standard bipolar and epicardial leads, principally over the apical, lateral and diaphragmatic walls of the left ventricle. It is suggested that these changes may be the central expression of orthosympathetic stimulation by released catecholamines on the permeability and membrane potentials of the myocardial cells with respect to ions, especially Ca++.


[Late thrombosis of mitral valve prosthesis in 27 cases].

Twenty seven cases of late thrombosis of ball and floating or tilting disc prostheses were studied. All patients were on anticoagulant therapy which appeared to be well adapted in 33% patients. Signs suggestive of thrombosis were inconsistant and the diagnosis was made on the association of severl of the following features: -- systemic embolism (44%); -- radiographic signs of left ventricular failure (51%); -- absence of opening click, variable A2 -- opening click intervals, apparition or aggravation of a systolic regurgitant murmur or a distolic murmur suggestive of obstruction on the phonocardiogramme; -- delayed opening of the mobile component or the presence of abnormal echos between the ball and anterior cage echo on the echocardiogramme; -- a gradient of over 12 mmHg across the prosthesis. An isolated episode of systemic embolism when the rest of the work-up is negative may be managed by the addition of a platelet antiaggregant and reinforcement of the anticoagulant therapy; further investigaton is advisable in the face of progressive symptoms. Fibrinolytic treatment and/or surgery is justified when systemic emboli recur or if the work-up is positive.


[Artefacts during continuous electrocardiography by the Holter method].

Continuous ECG by the Holter method provides valuable information on the electrical activity of the heart but the interpretation of the playback may be made difficult by the presence of artefacts. The principal artefacts which may mimic arrhythmias or blocks, disturb QRS detection or deform the ventricular depolarisation are described. The majority are caused by incomplete preparation of the patient or the electrodes, but others may arise from a mechanical or electrical fault. Artefacts interfere with the automatic analysis of the tape, which is one reason for knowing the limitations of these systems of automatic analysis, and therefore control visual reinterpretation is necessary in cases where there is the slightest doubt. The presence of these artefacts is a limitation of the Holter method, the practice of which demands a certain amount of experience to avoid incorrect diagnoses which could lead to inappropriate or injustified therapy.


[Right ventricular dysplasia; a study in 7 cases].

Seven new cases of right ventricular dysplasia are described, five of which were complicated by ventricular tachycardia. The frontiers of this syndrome are unclear and it is uncertain whether it should be considered as a separate disease entity, or as a minor form of "paper thin" right ventricle or Uhl's disease.


[Antiarrhythmic action of disopyramide: a study of plasma levels].

The action of dysopyramide was studied in 13 patients, 11 with ventricular and 2 with supraventricular arrhythmias. The drug was given parenterally at first and then by mouth. The patients were monitored with an arrhythmia counter and the plasma levels of disopyramide measured throughout the treatment period. The plasma level was stable at about 4 micrograms/ml during the different phases. Toxic levels of 10 microgram/ml were observed in 1 patient in renal failure. The antiarrhythmic action was very effective (70% success), especially on the ventricular arrhythmias. Two of the four patients who failed to respond to treatment had low, non-therapeutic plasma levels. The dosage should be adapted with respect to the patient's weight and renal function.


[Familial cardiomyopathy: a study of two families with myocardial and skeletal muscle biopsies].

Cardiomyopathy was diagnosed in several members of two families. This familial cardiomyopathy showed symmetrical or asymmetrical hypertrophy of the ventricular walls with or without obstruction to the left ventricular outflow tract. Certain forms were asymptomatic and were revealed by the family history and echocardiography. Myocardial and intercostal muscle biopsy was performed for a biochemical and ultrastructural analysis. Different myocardial features were observed in the two families: a large increase in the glycogen deposits in the one, without clinical signs of a glycogen storage disease, and intracellular deposits of a filamentous protein substance in the other.


[Fiessinger-Leroy-Reiter syndrome with non-obstructive cardiomyopathy treated with methotrexate].

The case of a 50 year old male with the Fiessinger-Leroy-Reiter syndrome, ankylosing spondylitis and generalised pustular psoriasis is reported. This condition wax complicated by non-obstructive cardiomyopathy, congestive cardiac failure and first-degree atrioventricular block, the site of which was localised by electrophysiological studies (nodal block with an infrahisian conduction defect). After failure of several therapeutic regimes, a spectacular improvement was obtained with Methotrexate associated with a diuretic; the signs of heart failure regressed and the cardiomyopathy stablised. A parallel improvement was seen in the skin, cardiac and articular lesions and has been maintained with an 18 months follow-up. Left ventricular performance was studied by echocardiography. The mechanism of the beneficial effect of Methotrexate is unclear; this therapeutic trial is to be extended to include other cases of primary cardiomyopathy without obstruction.


[Secondary tamponade following cardiac surgery with reference to 3 cases].

Secondary tamponnade after cardiac surgery occurs after a variable period, generally between the 15th day and the 5th post-operative week. Although this is a rare complication, it occurred three times in a consecutive series of 225 patients (1.3 p. 100). Based on this short experience as compared to the number of cases already published, the authors discuss their opinions on: -- the factors of inflammation and post-operative anticoagulation which predispose to this complication; -- the progress in diagnosis brought about by echocardiography; -- the minimal suggested management of pericardocentesis completed or not by surgical drainage; -- the possibilities of prevention based on prolonged follow-up of patients who present post-operative "pericardial problems". In this way it may be possible to eliminate a not negligeable cause of secondary mortality after cardiac surgery.