Growth and sporulation of auxotrophs of Bacillus subtilis in a medium with limited nutrients.

Growth and sporulation were examined for 30 auxotrophs of Bacillus subtilis in a chemically defined medium with suboptimal amounts of nutrients. All strains except for some adenine-requiring mutants could not overtake sporulation stage II when amino acids, vitamins, or bases were limited, whereas they sporulated fairly well without limitation. Abnormal structures, a cell with thickened cell wall and a cell with several refractile bodies, were found in some strains after the vegetative growth stopped.


[In vitro studies with piperacillin. Effectiveness against enterobacteriaceae and pseudomonas aeruginosa compared to other antibiotics (author's transl)].

The in vitro activity of piperacillin, a new semisynthetic penicillin was compared with the inhibitory effect of other broad-spectrum penicillins and beta-lactamase stable cephalosporins. The examination was carried out by agar diffusion test with 1699 gram-negative strains. The antibacterial activity of piperacillin was generally superior to that of the other penicillins. Less than one per cent. of pseudomonas aeruginosa strains tested was resistant against piperacillin. Only klebsiella spp. showed a higher sensitivity against cefoxitin and cefuroxime.


[Abolition of compulsory vaccination against smallpox. Increased danger to humans from animal smallpox? (author's transl)].

After the world-wide eradication of human smallpox, compulsory vaccination against smallpox will no longer be applicable in future in most countries. Although the human smallpox virus (variola virus) appears to have no animal reservoir, humanity is increasingly endangered in future by animal smallpox viruses pathogenic in man against which he has been so far protected by the general smallpox vaccination. This is a virus type of the Genus Orthopox virus. The risk from animal pox viruses, which are not related to the Orthopox virus, remains unchanged. Of the animal Orthopox viruses the monkey pox viruses deserve special attention; possibly rodents also play a decisive role in transmission of smallpox.


[Current information on treatment and prophylaxis of malaria (author's transl)].

Malaria is not a disease of the past. As long as worldwide eradication has not been achieved there is a close connection between countries which export it and those which import it. If the European doctor is presently confronted with a feverish disease which may have been brought in from a tropical area, he should immediately think of malaria and take the necessary measures for treatment. If patients or travelers come into the office and enquire about drugs and preventive measures against malaria, the doctor must choose the correct methods. This is best done by two questions: Where have you come from? and Where are you going? In this way the doctor can obtain ideas on the possibility of resistant strains of parasite in the region in question. Tourists should not forget that a rational and regular chemoprophylaxis is the best protection against serious attacks of malaria.


[Antimicrobial therapy in pregnancy (author's transl)].

At the present time there is no medicament completely harmless to the embryo or fetus. Passage through the placenta probably occurs by simple diffusion. Substances with a molecular weight under 600, low protein binding, a low degree of ionization and good solubility in lipids cross the placenta most easily. The harmful effects of the different groups of medicaments are describedand the substances classified into those not particularly toxic, those which can only be used in certain conditions and those only to be used in exceptional cases. The treatment of the most common infections in pregnancy is dealth with in detail. Infections of the maternal urinary tract and amnionitis raise most problems. For the treatment of amnionitis, direct instillation of the medicament into the amniotic sac is recommended.


[Modern therapy of intestinal helminthiasis (author's transl)].

The modern chemotherapy of intestinal worm diseases is essentially based on niclosamide, thiabendazole and mebendazole. Thus an effective therapy with few side effects has become possible for these helminthiases. In infections with Taenia, Ascaris, Trichuris, Ankylostoma, Strongyloides, Trichostrongylus and Oxyuris, as the most frequently imported helminths, an elimination rate of over 90% of the parasites can be attained. Infections with nematode larvae as with Larva migrans and trichinoses are more problematic therapeutically because the anthelmintics are directed principally against the adult worms.


[Current state and development of biliary tract surgery].

Status and Development of Biliary Tract Surgery: Diseases of the abdominal cavity are no longer the concern of the internist, general practitioner or surgeon alone. They belong in the hands of the gastroenterologist who are the symbiosis of general practitioner, internist and surgeon. This applies particularly to the wide range of diseases of the biliary tract. On the conservative side this means quick recognition of biliary tract diseases with inclusion of the neighboring organs in the diagnosis; conservative therapy of inflammatory or other additional diseases; establishing a condition suitable for operation and referring the patient to the surgeon before the gallbladder disease has become a biliary tract disease and the operative chances are destroyed by serious complications.


[Diseases of the gallbladder and biliary tract. Indications for operation (author's transl)].

Surgery of the gallbladder and biliary tract has undergone a few technical changes and widening of possibilities in the last 10 years. Opinions of the surgeons on the one hand and the rest of the medical profession on the other hand differ, often markedly, on the indications for operation in the gallbladder and biliary tract area particularly. For this reason it seems appropriate to present the current position of gallbladder and biliary tract surgery and its indications.


[Whipple's operation for the treatment of diseases in the duodenopancreatic region (author's transl)].

Whipple's operation is a big intervention. Only through it have patients with serious and severe diseases of the duodenopancreatic region a real chance of cure. The decision to perform Whipple's operation in chronic relapsing pancreatitis, which in principle is a benign disease, is certainly not a light one. But there is no doubt that the chronic inflammatory and abscess-forming diseases of the head of the pancreas cannot be considered benign, either clinically or morphologically. The results are not satisfying, but understandable in view of the severity of the disease and the magnitude of the operation. In addition to operative experience, a better early diagnosis in particular gives a better chance of survival.


Differentiation of coital behavior in mammals: a comparative analysis.

The evidence reviewed suggests that in all mammalian species the adult male's ability to display masculine coital behavior depends in part on exposure of the developing brain to testicular testosterone or its metabolites. In many mammals, particularly rodents, ruminants, and some carnivores, perinatal exposure to androgen also causes behavioral defeminization, i.e., reduced capacity to display typically feminine coital behavior in response to gonadal hormones in adulthood. The data reviewed suggest that no such process occurs in certain other mammalian species, including ferret, rhesus monkey, marmoset, and man. Testicular androgen may cause behavioral defeminization only in those species in which expression of feminine sexual behavior normally depends on the neural action of progesterone, acting synergistically with estradiol; new data support this claim in the ferret. The possible contribution of estrogenic and 5 alpha-reduced androgenic metabolites of testosterone to the occurrence of behavioral masculinization and defeminization is considered in those mammalian species for which data are available.


Freeze fracture studies on the interaction between the malaria parasite and the host erythrocyte in Plasmodium knowlesi infections.

The freeze fracture technique has been used to study the internal cyto-architecture of the surface membranes of the parasite and erythrocyte in Plasmodium knowlesi infections. Six fracture faces, derived from the plasma membrane and 2 pellicular membranes, have been identified at the surface of the free merozoite. The apposed leaflets of the 2 pellicular membranes show the characteristic features of E fracture faces, a result compatible with the view that the pellicular membranes line a potential cisterna. There is evidence to suggest that there may be changes in the distribution and density of the integral proteins in the merozoite plasma membrane at invasion. Furthermore, vesicles consisting of stacked membranes occur within and around the erythrocyte invagination at invasion; it is suggested that these vesicles are released from the merozoite rhoptries. Formation of the parasitophorous vacuole is accompanied by dramatic changes in the density and distribution of intra-membraneous particles (IMP) in the vacuolar membrane. Initially there is a great reduction in particle numbers, but subsequently the particles reappear and show reversed polarity. The possible causes and implications of these changes are discussed. The intra-erythrocytic parasite synthesizes new transmembrane proteins as development proceeds, and the trophozoite and schizont stages of development are characterized by the appearance of circular, particle-free regions in the parasite plasmalemma. There is a decrease in the density of transmembrane proteins in the erythrocyte plasma membrane during parasite maturation, and the P face IMP show the characteristic features of aggregation.


Pathophysiological changes in urine and blood from calves experimentally infected with Sarcocystit cruzi.

Two 8-week experiments were conducted to determine the relationships between nutritional stress and pathophysiological changes in male Holstein calves infected with Sarcocystis cruzi. Calves were infected by oral inoculation with 200 000 S. cruzi sporocysts. In the first experiment weight gain reduction was greatest in inoculated calves during weeks 4 and 5 after inoculation. Feed intake was reduced during the 5th week. Erythrocyte count was reduced during week 5 and haemoglobin was reduced during week 6. The 24-h excretion of urinary and urea nitrogen from the inoculated calves was increased by treatment. In the 2nd experiments, both the feed-restricted and inoculated calves lost weight during weeks 4 and 5; feed intake was lower from week 5 to 8 inclusive. Urine volume from inoculated calves was lower during week 8. Lower urine excretions of sodium and potassium resulted from S. cruzi inoculation. There was a non-significant trend for higher urinary zinc excretion in the inoculated group during week 4. Urine nitrogen excretion from inoculated calves was higher during week 6. The urinary excretion of 3-methylhistidine from the inoculated calves was higher during week 4 and excretion of guanine was higher during weeks 4, 5 and 8. S. cruzi has several specific pathophysiological effects on calves beyond those induced by nutritional stress.


The effects of pargyline, scopolamine, and imipramine on territorial aggression in the convict cichlid (Cichlasoma nigrofasciatum).

Scopolamine, pargyline, and imipramine reduce territorial aggression in the convict cichlid. Imipramine is effective at much lower doses than either scopolamine or pargyline. None of the drugs affected activity or predation/feeding, indicating that the observed drug effects are relatively specific.


Behavioral influences on tolerance to the effects of morphine on schedule-controlled behavior.

Responding of pigeons was maintained under a multiple fixed interval, fixed ratio schedule of food delivery, and 10 mg/kg morphine was administered daily. Responding during both schedule components was initially decreased and measurable tolerance developed to this effect after four daily injections. However, the rate of tolerance development differed depending on whether or not presence of the drug coincided with performance during experimental sessions. Tolerance developed more rapidly when morphine was given before daily experimental sessions than when morphine was given daily but animals did not perform daily in experimental sessions. Tolerance to the rate-decreasing effects of morphine depended on relations between presence of the drug and exposure to experimental sessions.


Effects of repeated administration of chlordiazepoxide on spontaneous locomotor activity in mice.

Spontaneous locomotor activity has been studied in mice treated with single or repeated doses (five daily injections) of chlordiazepoxide. The repeated administration enhanced the stimulatory action of the lower doses of the drug, while the depressant effect of the higher doses was reduced.


The effects of chlorpromazine and pentobarbital on behavior maintained by electric shock or point loss avoidance in humans.

Human volunteer subjects were trained to press a lever to avoid or escape electric shock or loss of points which could be redeemed for money at the termination of the study. The effects of pentobarbital and chlorpromazine on avoidance and escape behavior were compared. Both aversive stimuli maintained behavior which was differentially sensitive to these two drugs. Chlorpromazine caused a decrease in avoidance responding at doses which had little effect on escape responding. Pentobarbital, in contrast, suppressed avoidance responding at doses which also had a suppressant effect on escape responding.


Growth and behavioural effects of ethyl alcohol on the offspring of mice; a comparison with its short-term actions.

Ten percent ethyl alcohol as drinking fluid of breeding mice did not affect gestation period, litter size or litter weight. Alcohol was secreted in milk, and weight gain up to weaning was reduced in offspring of treated mice, males having significantly reduced weights at 3--4 weeks. When weaned at 21 days, treated offspring were given 10% alcohol to drink. Intake amounted to 31 mg/g body weight each day on average. Ethological analysis of behaviour occurring in encounters between alcohol-treated and control mice of the same sex showed that exploration and scanning were increased in duration in treated mice of both sexes and were increased in frequency in treated females. The frequency of self-grooming was reduced in treated mice of both sexes and scratching in treated males. Ethyl alcohol (10%) as drinking fluid for 5 days to 21 day old mice procuced different behavioural effects. In treated males the social elements, 'investigate', 'sniff' and 'follow' were increased in frequency during encounters and 'digging' was reduced. Treated females showed no change in social behaviour. Weight gain was reduced in treated males.


Interaction of apomorphine and haloperidol: effects on locomotion and other behaviour in the marmoset.

The behavioural effects of increasing doses of apomorphine and haloperidol were observed in a group of six marmosets. Behaviour was classified quantitatively into categories: Locomotion, inactivity, checking (small head movements), social interaction and purposeful activities. Statistical analysis revealed that apomorphine had a stimulant effect on checking and locomotion which could be antagonized by haloperidol. Activities and social contact were severly reduced by both apomorphine and haloperidol. Inactivity was increased by the lowest dose of apomorphine in otherwise untreated animals. It is suggested that haloperidol antagonizes the stimulant effects of apomorphine but is synergistic to its suppressant effects, and that the low dose effect of apomorphine on inactivity is mediated by a mechanism which may be different from that acted upon by haloperidol.


Interaction of cannabidiol and alcohol in humans.

Six male and four female healthy volunteers were given oral placebo (glucose capsule and orange juice), cannabidiol (CBD 200 mg capsule and orange juice), alcohol (1 g/kg in orange juice and glucose capsule), and CBD (200 mg capsule) plus alcohol (1 g/kg in orange juice) in a double-blind, crossover, randomized design. Treatments were spaced one week apart. Parameters measured were a finger tap test (motor performance), cancellation and differential aptitude tests (psychomotor performance), a 1-min time production task, subjective effects (66 item adjective-pair semantic differential), and breathalyzer estimations of blood alcohol levels. Compared to placebo, alcohol and alcohol plus CBD, but not CBD alone, produced significant impairments of motor and psychomotor performances, overestimations of time production and subjective responses indicating an accurate self-perception of their intoxication and deficits. The combination of alcohol plus CBD resulted in significantly lower blood alcohol levels compared to alcohol given alone, however, there were few differences observed between the pharmacological effects of the two alcohol conditions. Thus, the inactivity of CBD, a major marijuana constituent, on motor and mental performance and effects also extends to its interaction with alcohol.


Protection by 4-amino-hex-5-enoic acid (gamma-vinyl GABA) and hypobaric hypoxia against kainic acid neurotoxicity.

The behavioral effects following IP injection of kainic acid in rats could be cancelled with hypobaric hypoxia (8% O2 corresponding to 7000 m altitude) or with IP injections of 7-amino-hex-5-enoic acid at a dose of 0.9 g/kg-1. This protection may result from increased accumulations of GABA in brain tissues.


Kinetics of tryptophan accumulation into synaptosomes of various regions of rat brain.

The kinetics of synaptosomal tryptophan accumulation has been determined in five regions of the rat brain. For tryptophan concentrations ranging from 2.5 -- 20 microM, we found an active uptake in all the structures studied, i.e.: Corpus striatum, midbrain, brainstem, hypothalamus and cerebral cortex + hippocampus. The Vm of tryptophan uptake was highest in the cortex, followed in descending order by corpus striatum, hypothalamus, midbrain and brainstem, while the Km was highest in the cortex, then in descending order corpus striatum, brainstem, midbrain and hypothalamus. In spite of the possible nonspecific high affinity tryptophan uptake into serotoninergic neurons, we found a correlation between the Vm of tryptophan uptake and the different results in the literature concerning uptake and release of serotonin. These observations might indicate a correlation between the Vm of tryptophan uptake and the functional activity of serotonergic neurons.


Dose-related effects of ethanol on avoidance-avoidance conflict behavior in the rat.

The effects of ethanol on avoidance-avoidance conflict behavior were examined, utilizing a 3- x -3 factorial design in which rats were trained and tested after drinking sugar-water solutions containing 0, 3, or 6% ethanol. Avoidance tendencies were established by initially training rats to escape from electric shock by running in one direction in a white alley, and in the opposite direction in a black alley. In subsequent shock free conflict tests, the rats were placed into an alley with one black wall and one white wall, an environment in which incompatible tendencies to avoid both ends of the alley were aroused. During training, ethanol decreased the speeds with which rats escaped shock. In the subsequent avoidance-avoidance conflict tests, rats that previously received shock escape training after drinking ethanol ran more slowly, and exhibited lower total movement and oscillation range scores than did animals trained after drinking plain sugar-water. Administration of ethanol just prior to the conflict tests resulted in dose-related increases in running speeds, total movement scores, and oscillation ranges. These results suggest that moderate doses of ethanol increased responding by differentially weakening conflicting avoidance tendencies.


Evidence against serotonin involvement in the tonic component of electrically induced convulsions and in carbamazepine anticonvulsant activity.

Intraventricular injection of 5,7-dihydroxytryptamine, selective destruction of descending serotoninergic neurons by 5,6-dihydroxytryptamine or electrolytic and chemical lesions of the nucleus raphe dorsalis did not affect the electroconvulsive threshold in rats. No effect was observed after the systemic administration of drugs known to increase central serotonin transmission, such as quipazine, m-chlorophenylpiperazine, and moderate doses of d-fenfluramine, whereas p-chlorophenylalanine, an inhibitor of serotonin synthesis, decreased seizure susceptibility. The anticonvulsant activity of carbamazepine was not modified in animals with the same experimental lesions. The results, in relation to the high selectivity of the experimental procedures employed to deplete brain and spinal cord serotonin, do not bear out any involvement of serotonin in the tonic component of electrically induced convulsions or in the action of carbamazepine.


The effect of housing and gender on preference for morphine-sucrose solutions in rats.

To determine whether opiate consumption is affected by laboratory housing, individually caged and colony rats were given a choice between water and progressively more palatable morphine-sucrose solutions. The isolated rats drank significantly more of the opiate solution, and females drank significantly more than males. In the experimental phase during which morphine-sucrose solution consumption was greatest, the isolated females drank five times as much, and the isolated males sixteen times as much morphine (mg/kg) as the colony females and males respectively.


Effects of nicotine, mecamylamine, and hexamethonium on shock-induced fighting, pain reactivity, and locomotor behaviour in rats.

Three series of experiments were performed to evaluate possible nicotinic cholinergic influences on fighting behaviour in rats. Each series consisted of three tests (naive animals in each test); shock-induced fighting, pain threshold estimation and locomotor activity. In the first series, nicotine (0.25 -- 1.00 mg/kg) was found to produce a dose-dependent inhibition of fighting without altering shock thresholds. However, the highest dose used also significantly reduced rearing in the activity test. In the second series, mecamylamine (a centrally active antinicotinic) produced a facilitation of fighting at low doses (2.5 mg/kg) and an inhibition at higher doses (10 mg/kg). Whilst these effects were unrelated to changes in shock thresholds, the high dose resulted in a reduction in both horizontal activity and rearing. Finally, as a control for possible peripheral effects of nicotinic blockage, a third series examined the behavioural effects of hexamethonium. Low doses of this compound (2.25 -- 4.5 mg/kg) had little effect on fighting whilst higher doses (9 -- 18 mg/kg) attenuated these responses. Interestingly, although hexamethonium had no effect on shock thresholds, the highest dose (18 mg/kg) produced a facilitation of horizontal activity. Results are discussed in relation to the hypothesis of central nicotinic cholinergic inhibition of agonistic behaviour.


The effects of deanol on cognitive performance and electrophysiology in elderly humans.

Deanol (900 mg/day for 21 days) had no effect on learning a list of words when tested at weekly intervals. Tests of simple and complex reaction time and a test of continuous serial decoding of digits showed no enhancement with the drug. Several components of evoked potentials recorded from several scalp sites did show enhanced amplitude under drug treatment. These changes were not accompanied by changes in the EEG spectrum as are seen with some other psychoactive drugs. Deanol seems to be an ineffective treatment for the normal slowing of cognitive function seen in the normal elderly person or those elderly with only minimal cognitive decline and free of symptoms of dementia. Contrary to earlier reports, elderly persons were found to be able to benefit from warning signals in a complex reaction time task.


Bartter's syndrome: 10 cases in childhood. Results of long-term indomethacin therapy.

Ten children with Bartter's syndrome are described. Their ages at diagnosis ranged from three months to 15 years and there was an equal sex distribution. A wide spectrum of severity of clinical and biochemical features was found. Hypercalcaemia, hypophosphataemia, hypercalcuria, nephrocalcinosis, rickets and urine acidification defects were seen in some patients. Two affected children were siblings. Six children were treated over periods of six to 24 months with indomethacin with remarkable clinical and biochemical improvement. Catch-up growth was demonstrated in all treated cases. Tolerance to indomethacin appeared to develop in some children. Only one serious complication was seen with this therapy, a duodenal ulcer in a child on high dosage. Of those children not treated with indomethacin, one died, one is now on indomethacin elsewhere and two are well without therapy.


[Variation of the leukocyte number and formula in pregnancy in relation to the ABO blood group and Rh (D) factor].

A statistical research has been carried on 334 pregnant women considering the variation of leucocyte number and leucocyte formula beginning from the 2nd month on. The resulting variations either of the leucocyte number or their formula structure might favour etiological researches for a better understanding of the deep changes caused by pregnancy. These variations refer also to blood group (ABO) and Rh (D) factor.


Metabolism of two PGF2 alpha analogues in primates: 15(S)-15-methyl-delta 4-cis-PGF1 alpha and 16,16-dimethyl-delta 4-cis-PGF1 alpha.

The metabolism of the prostaglandin F2 alpha analogues, 15-methyl-delta 4-cis-PGF1 alpha and 16,16-dimethyl-delta 4-cis-PGF1 alpha, has been investigated in the cynomologus monkey and the human female. The two analogues, tritium labelled in the 9 beta-position, were administered by intramuscular injections into the monkeys and by subcutaneous injections into the human. Excretion of tritium labelled products were followed in urine (in both species) and feces (in monkeys only) and several metabolites were identified by GC/MS. The analogues were found to be resistant to the 15-hydroxy dehydrogenase and furthermore the degradation by beta-oxidation was delayed. About 13% of the given dose of 15-methyl-delta 4-cis-PGF1 alpha was excreted unchanged into urine and feces from the monkey. The corresponding figure for 16,16-dimethyl-delta 4-cis-PGF1 alpha was about 20%. In addition, a large part of the metabolites had the carbon skeleton intact and were only metabolized by omega-oxidation. The relative resistance to degradation of these two analogues is likely to be the basis for their prolonged pharmacological activity.


Radiorespirometric analysis of glucose metabolism in the rat during feeding with 3'-methyl-4-(dimethylamino)azobenzene--radiorespirometry after partial hepatectomy.

In previous papers we reported that the earlier peak time (PT) in radiorespiratory during feeding with 3'-methyl-4-(dimethylamino)azobenzene(3'-Me-DAB) is due to activation of the hexose monophosphate (HMP) pathway together with hepatic cell proliferation reflecting the toxic effects of this carcinogen. In this study, we investigated the correlation between the results of radiorespiratory and the levels of enzyme activities of HMP pathway in regenerating rat liver in connection with hepatic cell proliferation. [3H]Thymidine incorporation into rat liver DNA and the activities of hexokinase (HK) and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase(G-6-PD) reached a maximum at the 3rd day after partial hepatectomy. On radiorespirometry using [U-14C] glucose, the peak time (PT) was much earlier at the 2nd to 3rd day after partial hepatectomy. The peak height (PH) decreased to less than 1/2 of the initial level at the 2nd, but began to recover from the 3rd day. The yield value (YV) remained below the initial level for 4 days after the operation.


Association between HBsAg and race in a mixed population of Northeastern Brazil.

The frequency of Australian antigen carriers (HBsAg) was studied in three samples from northeastern Brazil. In sample A there were 1000 women from Tsylla Balbino Maternity in Salvador; in sample B there were 1,512 blood donors from Salvador, and in sample C there were 930 blood donors from Aracaju. In sample A, B and C the observed frequency of carriers (HBsAg) was 1.20%, 1.58% and 2.04% respectively. These differences were not significant (x22 = 2.2; p greater than 0.25). There was no association between the carrier state and sex, age, ABO and Rh blood groups, Chagas' disease and rural origin. However, the frequency of carriers (HBsAg) increases from White to Black, as follows: Whites = 0.5%; Mulattoes = 1.91%, and Black = 1.96% (x22 = 7.91; p less than 0.02).


[The use of 10-percent mannitol solution in colonic surgery].

Based on the experience acquired in 20 cases the authors discuss the use of the mannitol solution in the surgery of the colon. The colic voiding was evaluated in 19 cases as very good, a fact that stresses the efficiency of this method of mechanical preparation of the colon. The method is very well tolerated by the patients, and the secondary biological modifications are not significant. Contraindications are limited to the very aged (above 75 years), in patients with cardiac disease, or in those with hepatic and renal diseases, as well as in those with occluding forms of neoplasies.


Immunological responses of fluke-infected and fluke-free cattle to Salmonella dublin and other antigens.

Immune responses to heat-killed Brucella abortus strain 19 and to ovalbumin were compared in 15 fluke-infected and 15 fluke-free Friesian heifers. B abortus was injected 16 weeks and ovalbumin 19 weeks after the oral administration of 1000 metacercariae of Fasciola hepatica. Agglutinating antibody responses to B abortus were similar in both groups. Immediate type hypersensitivity to ovalbumin was apparently suppressed in fluke-infected animals when assessed by active and passive cutaneous anaphylaxis two weeks after sensitisation. However, when assessed by Schultz-Dale responses of intestine, in vitro, 36 weeks after sensitisation there was no difference between the groups. The heifers were subsequently given live Salmonella dublin intravenously. The fluke-infected animals which became carriers of S dublin had the most persistently elevated titres of agglutinating antibodies in their sera and the highest incidence of immediate-type hypersensitivity, as assessed by Schultz-Dale responses of intestine, but the weakest cutaneous delayed hypersensitivity reactions to S dublin. The latter might have been related to lymphopenia which developed after fluke infection. The increased susceptibility of fluke-infected cattle to S dublin cannot be attributed to impaired agglutinin responses but may result from effects on cell-mediated mechanisms.


Experimental studies on the serological relationships between Yersinia enterocolitica and Brucella abortus.

Yersinia enterocolitica O9 was shown to provoke O, OH and H antibody response in calves. Brucella abortus failed to generate Yersinia H antibody response and generated Brucella O antibodies that cross-reacted with Yersinia O and OH antigens. The presence of Yersinia H agglutinins along with a higher titre of Yersinia OH antibody than Brucella O antibody is suggestive of subclinical infection with yersiniosis rather than brucellosis. Cross-absorption of sera from calves with established Yersinia infections indicated that absorption of sera with Brucella O antigens, although completely removing Brucella O antibodies, failed to remove completely Yersinia O, OH and H antibodies, and thus provides an additional method of distinguishing between the two infections.


Isoenzyme variation in piroplasms isolated from bovine blood infected with Theileria annulata and T parva.

Blood from calves infected with Theileria annulata and T parva was freed from host cell elements and the piroplasms liberated from the red cells by ammonium chloride lysis. Lysates of the purified piroplasms and control host cell material were examined electrophoretically for several enzymes. Zymograms stained for glucose phosphate isomerase showed distinct differences between the host cell enzyme pattern and parasite enzyme patterns. The isoenzyme pattern of T annulata piroplasms differed from the isoenzyme pattern of T parva piroplasms.


The prevalence of Sarcocytis spp in dogs, foxes and sheep and Toxoplasma gondii in sheep and the use of the indirect haemagglutination reaction in serodiagnosis.

Sporocysts of Sarcocystis spp were found in the faeces of 39.3 per cent and 25 per cent of farm dogs and foxes respectively. The indirect haemagglutination serodiagnostic test suggested that nearly all sheep in the area sampled became infected early in life and diagnosis of infection by this means correlates well with trichinoscopy findings. The sarcocystis antigens used in serodiagnostic tests did not cross react with sera positive for Toxoplasma gondii. Sarcocystis antigens derived from cattle cross reacted with ovine sera but comparative tests showed the titres to be less than where the homologous antigen was used.


Monkey pulpal response to composite resin restorations in cavities treated with various cleansing agents.

Pulpal response to composite resin restorations placed in experimentally prepared cavities treated with various cavity cleansing and etching agents were studied in monkey teeth. The use of etching agents and cleansers with a demineralizing potential enhanced the pulpal response to composite resin restorations. Bacterial proliferation on the cavity walls around the composite restorations may be one of several factors causing the harmful pulpal responses found. The protective effect of a calcium hydroxide-containing cavity lining material was confirmed.


Maturation of bursal stem cells within allogeneic or syngeneic bursal microenvironment: surface determinants and capacity for germinal centre formation.

Maturation of bursal stem cells in an allogeneic environment was studied. The occurrence of surface IgM, surface IgG, and Ia-like antigens on B cells after differentiatoin within an allogeneic bursa was studied. Furthermore, the immediate capacity of B cells to form germinal centres after differentiation in an allogeneic bursa was studied by injecting them with histocompatible T cells into "test-tube" birds. The results indicate that the switch to surface-IgG-bearing cells occurs in an allogeneic bursa in a similar manner as in a syngeneic bursa. Studies of the occurrence of Ia-like antigens on bursa cells demonstrate that they retain their original Ia-like antigens, even during maturation in an allogeneic host. Third, the results demonstrate that after differentiation within an allogeneic environment bursa cells have acquired the ijmediate capacity to cooperate with histocompatible T cells as measured by germinal centre formation in "test-tube" birds.


Paracoccidioidal infection in the wife of a patient with paracoccidioidomycosis.

Three agar immunoprecipitin techniques (double immunodiffusion, immunoelectrophoresis and immunoelectroosmophoresis-immunodiffusion) made with paracoccidioidin and serum of a paracoccidioidomycosis patient's wife, permitted us to observe a specific band in 6 successive samples of blood taken from the wife over a period of 21 months. The case represents an example of a subclinical paracoccidioidomycosis infection that is usually diagnosed in its disseminated, progressive form. Three possible sources of infection are discussed. But an interhuman contagion appears to be the most feasible.


Correlation between the growth inhibitory effects, partition coefficients and teratogenic effects of lipophilic acids.

The inhibition of cell duplication by many lipophilic acids was measured in Bacillus subtilis and in the following mammalian cell lines, the human epithelial-type cell lines HeLa, strain R and strain L-132, the human fibroblast cell line VA-13, and the rat glial cell line C. The results were correlated to the partition coefficient and the distribution coefficient (= apparent partition coefficient at pH 7.2) of the compounds, using octanol/water partition coefficients and pKa values either from the literature or measured for this work. For B. subtilis, the logarithm of the inhibitory potency of most compounds increases linearly with the logarithm of the partition coefficient. Exceptional high potencies were observed for compounds that can efficiently delocalize the charge of the negative ion over the whole molecule. Most compounds inhibit tissue cultures at least as potently as they inhibit B. subtilis. But some compounds are significantly more potent in tissue cultures than would have been expected from the B. subtilis data; such compounds (analgesics/antipyretics, anti-inflammatory compounds, butyrate, norepinephrine) presumably inhibits mammalian cells by specific reactions with certain cell components. However, most compounds inhibit the different cell lines to a similar degree, indicating no cellular specificity; exceptions to this rule are chlorambucil, chlortetracycline and dexamethasone. Many of the lipophilic acids that are potent inhibitors of mammalian cell replication are also teratogenic. Exceptional compounds may not reach the embryo. We propose that a number of other lipophilic acids that are potenta inhibitors and to which humans are frequently exposed should be tested for their teratogenic effect.


Mycoplasma pneumoniae and the aetiology of lobar pneumonia in northern Nigeria.

Over a six-month period we studied 74 adult Nigerians who presented consecutively to Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria, with lobar or segmental pneumonia. Pneumococcal infection was diagnosed in 50% by the detection of pneumococcal polysaccharide antigen in serum or purulent sputum: 24% had pneumococcal antigenaemia. Twelve patients had evidence of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection and half of these also had pneumococcal infection. The suggestion that M pneumoniae respiratory infection may predispose to serious bacterial pneumonia is discussed. The initial clinical and radiological features were similar in the pneumococcal and M pneumoniae groups. Raised cold agglutinin titres were not a reliable indication of M pneumoniae infection, perhaps due to altered autoantibody production in Nigerians. Pneumonia was commoner in the dry season, probably related to depressed nasopharyngeal defences caused by drying. Less common causes of lobar pneumonia that were found are also discussed and no cases of legionnaires' disease were identified.


Observations on glutaraldehyde-treated heterologous cardiac valves.

Recent publications on commercial porcine bioprosthetic cardiac valves have stated that the endothelium disappears during the glutaraldehyde processing and that in many cases histological evidence of early tissue deterioration was found. Our experiences have shown that porcine aortic valves can be processed in glutaraldehyde without loss of the integrity of the endothelium and with the development of optimum collagen fibre structure. The valve mounted in a Dacron tube is not restricted in diameter and performs well under biological conditions up to a period of six months.


In vivo recovery of factor VIII: a comparison of one-stage and two-stage assay methods.

The recovery and half-life of VIII:C in the plasma of severely haemophilic patients was measured by one-stage and two-stage assays after injection of two Factor VIII concentrates (Hemofil, Hyland and Fraction I-O, Kabi). Plasma volumes were measured with an Evans' Blue technique, and both concentrates and post-infusion samples were measured against the same plasma standard. There was a highly significant difference in recoveries estimated by the two assay methods. The one-stage assays gave the most consistent results, in that the average recovery was 100%, whereas the two-stage assays gave only about 80% of the value expected from in vitro assays. There was no differences in recoveries between the two concentrates. The two-stage assays gave a slightly shorter half-life than the one-stage assays, and the half-life of Hemofil was also shorter than that of Fraction I-O.


Effects of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin on indocyanine green blood clearance in rhesus monkeys.

To assess effects of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) on liver function adult male rhesus monkeys were treated with a single oral dose of acetone/corn oil (control) or 5, 25, or 75 micrograms/kg TCDD. Each monkey was used as its own control and indocyanine green (ICG) blood clearance and the following serum enzymes: glutamic pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), sorbitol dehydrogenase (SDH) and gamma glutamyl transpeptidase (gamma GTP), were measured at regular intervals for 4 weeks before and 17 weeks after treatment. In control monkeys ICG blood clearance and serum enzymes were similar before and after treatment. However, in the monkey that received 5 micrograms/kg TCDD there was a mild increase in ICG blood clearance followed by a slight decrease. The magnitude of this biphasic change was greater in monkeys that received 25 and 75 micrograms/kg TCDD and the decrease in clearance was invariably associated with a 1--2-week period before the monkeys died. SDH and SGPT activities were elevated at some time during the course of intoxication in all TCDD-treated monkeys but gamma GTP activity was not altered. The monkey treated with 5 micrograms/kg TCDD survived but monkeys treated with 25 and 75 micrograms/kg died 4--6 weeks after treatment. Light microscopy of the livers of TCDD-treated monkeys that died revealed fatty infiltration with minimal hepatocellular necrosis.


Heroin addiction: relationship between the plasma levels of testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, androstenedione, LH, FSH, and the plasma concentration of heroin.

Changes in sexual function and hormone levels are commonly found in subjects addicted to narcotics. In this study we examined 16 male and 3 female addicts who had been taking heroin (H) in the last year in doses higher than 150 mg/day. In these patients, who presented similar clinical problems, we assayed by RIA the plasma levels of heroin, testosterone, (T), dihydrotestosterone (DHT), androstenedione (A), luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) for periods of 150 min, 6 h and 9 h. We found a significant reduction of T and DHT concomitant with higher plasma concentrations of heroin but no relevant changes of A, LH and FSH. T and DHT returned to the initial levels after the decrease of heroin concentration. The GnRH test effectd on a female subject allowed us to make the diagnosis of hypothalamic amenorrhea. In the same patient no circadian rhythms for T, DHT and A were detected.


The toxicity and renal handling of paraquat in cynomolgus monkeys.

The acute intravenous and oral toxicity of single doses of paraquat dichloride was studied in the cynomolgus monkey. Renal handling and effects upon renal function were also investigated following an oral dose of [14C]paraquat. Clinical signs consisted of vomiting, anorexia and dyspnoea. By 48 h all animals showed signs of acute renal failure with oliguria, high plasma urea and SGPT levels and metabolic acidosis. Animals dosed orally showed similar, though less severe, signs to those dosed intravenously. The oral LD50 was approx. 70 mg paraquat cation/kg. Following an oral dose plasma levels peaked by 2 h, but were constant from 12 h to 24 h. Paraquat clearance was high initially and exceeded the creatinine and urea clearance, but fell off markedly after 14 h as renal failure developed. By 18 h urine production had ceased. It is concluded that acute renal failure and acute pulmonary damage are the main causes of death, with interstitial pulmonary fibrosis being a factor in animals surviving the acute phase.


Haematobium schistosomiasis in the squirrel monkey (Saimiri sciureus).

The squirrel monkey (Saimiri sciureus) accommodates Schistosoma haematobium moderately well. Adults occur in the major viscera but the extent of tissue egg deposits and associated pathology is variable. Pathologic involvement of the urogenital system occurs in a large proportion of hosts exposed to moderate to heavy infections, and bladder pathology is indicative of conditions associated with bladder carcinoma.


On the life cycle of Theileria velifera (Uilenberg, 1964) in the gut and the haemolymph of the tick vector Amblyomma variegatum (Fabriciu, 1794).

The development of Theileria velifera in the gut and the haemolymph of the tick vector Amblyomma variegatum is described. Between days three and eight after repletion various sexual stages are present in the gut of the nymphs. Zygotes were detected in the gut on day 14, while undifferentiated kinetes first appeared on day 15. In the haemolymph, differentiated kinetes were observed from day 16 after repletion onwards. Zygotes and kinetes were also found after the moult, in the adult tick, for a prolonged period of time. The results of this study show that the developmental stages of T. velifera in the gut and haemolymph are characteristic of the genus Theileria.


Drug resistance in newly discovered untreated tuberculosis patients in Poland, 1974-1977.

Between March 1974 and November 1977 altogether 2568 strains from 509 newly discovered, previously untreated tuberculosis patients from many areas of Poland were tested for susceptibility to 4 antituberculosis drugs: isoniazid (INH), streptomycin (SM), ethambutol (EMB) and rifampicin (RMP). Twenty seven patients (5.3 %) were infected with tubercle bacilli resistant to 1 (4.1 %) or 2 drugs (1.2 %). Sixteen patients (3.1 %) were infected with strains resistant to INH alone; t (1.0 %) to SM alone and 6 (1.2 %) to both INH and SM. Twenty two cases (4.3 %) were resistant to INH and 11 cases (2.1 %) to SM. No bacilli resistant to EMB or RMP, alone or in combination, were found. No relationship was found between sex or age and primary resistance rates.


Intercellular glycosaminoglycans in human cancer.

Intercellular glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) from various tissues were analyzed by cellulose acetate electrophoresis and enzymatic treatment with specific mucopolysaccharidases. Each tissue exhibits a particular composition of sulfate and unsulfated molecular species. Invariably, malignant human neoplasias and their metastases show striking variations in the electrophoretic pattern typical of the corresponding normal tissue. An absolute or relative increase in surface ChS A/C and HA seems to be a consistent feature of neoplastic transformation. On the other hand, the GAGs composition of benign noninfiltrative tumors does not vary greatly with respect to the original normal tissue.


[Decarboxylase activity study of Pasteurella multocida].

Ornithine-, lysine- and arginine-decarboxylase activity of 218 P. multocida strains, isolated from birds of varying disease symptoms in Bulgaria and CSSR, and from pigs, rabbits and birds in Cuba, USSR and CSSR, was studied after the method of Moller. Positive ornithine decarboxylase activity was established in 211 strains, low -- in 2, and negative -- in 5 strains. Low arginine decarboxylase activity was observed in 12 Pasteurella strains, while in 14 -- low lysine decarboxylase activity. The presence of ornithine decarboxylase activity can be used, along with the cultural and biochemical properties and with lyzation by a specific bacteriophage, as a taxonomic character for the species. All Pasteurella strains pathogenic for white mice, produce ornithine-decarboxylase. Lines of the strain X 73 obtained following gamma-irradiation having lost their ornithine-decarboxylase are pathogenic for white mice.


[Effect of varying amounts of lysine in the ration on chickens].

The effect of varying lysine quantities given in the daily ration to 20 day-old chickens was studied for a 40 day-period. Highest body gain (157% as compared to the control group) was observed in group I (0.20% lysine). Two and four per cent of lysine in the ration reduced the basic body gain by 69.7% and 66.9% respectively. The level of calcium, blood sugar, carotene and vitamin A rose considerably, while phosphorus and magnesium content was reduced. SGOT and SGTP values remained without significant changes. The relative kidney weight increased.


[Differentiation of nonspecific serological reactions in brucellosis].

Differentiation of non-specific agglutination was performed by the complement binding reaction, Coombs' reaction, Hajdu reaction, the surface fixation and agglutination reaction and the reaction of complement binding with heterologic antigens. For that purpose the following were used: 1) Serums--antiglobulin against cattle globulin, 5720 serum of various animals which had manifested non-specific agglutination with brucella antigen and brucella serums of experimentally infected sheep, of naturally infected swine and of cattle--received from abroad. 2) Antigens--of Br. abortus 99, of bacteria heterologic to brucellae: Proteus vulgaris, Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus albus, Escherichia coli, Streptococcus pyogenes, S. abortus ovis, for O and OH agglutination, water extraction antigens--for complement binding and concentrated suspensions of all bacteria used in brucellose and non-brucellose serum absorption. Highest number of non-specific reactions were observed in cattle serums and lowest--in goat serums. Titers with heterologic antigens were higher than these with brucella antigens. Often the serum having non-specific agglutiantion reacted not only with one, but with more heterologic antigens. Non-specific complement binding reactions were not produced in complete antibodies with the brucella antigen. Heterologic brucella antigens were exhausted more fully than heterologic complement binding antibodies. In their effectiveness (differentiation of non-specific agglutination with brucella antigen in cattle serum) the serological reactions studied rank as follows: complement binding reaction, slow agglutination with serums absorbed by heterologic antigens, surface fixation reaction, Coombs' reaction, and Hadju agglutination.


[Is breast cancer screening effective? (author's transl)].

Two groups of patients consisting of women with and without breast symptoms are compared. They were mammographed in the same institute under identical technical conditions. Carcinomas found by screening were considerably less advanced. The findings confirm the experience of numerous authors that screening improves the prognosis; applied tandem method--physical examination and mammography--is far from ideal, but represents at present the best method to reduce breast cancer mortality. The final conclusion is to intensify the screening programs.


Alternative carboxylation reactions in type II methylotrophs and the localization of carboxylase activities in the intra-cytoplasmic membranes.

The peripheral arrangements of the intra-cytoplasmic membranes (ICM) as well as the guanine + cytosine (G + C) content of 63% indicate that our obligate methanotrophic strain M 102 would belong to the type II Methylotrophs. There are no active transport mechanisms for some organic additives, some of which are known to stimulate CO2-fixation. The CO2-acceptor molecules, Pyr (pyruvate) and PEP (phospho-enolpyruvate), must be metabolically intracellularly furnished. More than one carboxylating system could be induced in cell fractions. The carboxylating activities were variably registered in cell-free extracts and fragments. Indications that the site of the carboxylating activities are the ICM are discussed. The fact that the CO2-fixation intensities decreased at about the middle of the active growing phase indicates that the formation of the intermediate C4-compound OAA (oxaloacetate) must be furnished through some reactions by-passing the PEP-carboxylation step. The common serine-pathway for C1-assimilation is rearranged so as to fit in the discussed findings.


Influence of pesticides on the growth of cyanobacteria.

Two unicellular and two filamentous cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) were exposed under conditions optimal for photoautotrophic growth to eleven pesticides. Low concentrations (0.01 to 5 ppm) of diuron, atrazine, and paraquat inhibited growth. With MCPA, MCPP, 2,4-D, milstem and ethrel, marked inhibitory effects were achieved only at concentrations above 100 ppm. Growth was inhibited by glyphosate, DDT, and thiram at intermediate concentrations. In some cases, the effective concentration of the pesticide varied considerably with the organism tested.


The relative roles of protein and energy deficiency in the pathogenesis of protein-energy malnutrition.

This paper discusses two hypotheses to explain why in some circumstances kwashiorkor develops and in others marasmus. Dietary endocrine and biochemical data from Uganda and The Gambia are compared and their roles in the aetiology of the two different forms of protein-energy malnutrition are discussed. It is concluded that there can be both a dietary and a metabolic differentiating factor, and which is predominant depends on individual environmental circumstances.


[Plasma testosterone, free testosterone fraction LH and FSH in males during the early stage of acute myocardial infarction (author's transl)].

In 18 males (age 49--79 yrs) without endocrine diseases, testosterone, free testosterone fraction, LH, FSH and cortisol (as indicator for stress) were determined in the early stage of an acute myocardia infarction. Blood was taken on admission as well as every 4 hours up to meanly 43 hours. The patients were separated in 2 groups for proving whether alterations of the parameters may depend on the severity of the myocardial infarction (group A=severe infarction; group B=not severe infarction). Testosterone showed a rapid decrease in the first 11 hours after admission, which continued less striking to the end of the investigation. Testosterone was significantly decreased in group A in comparison to group B. LH and FSH in both groups together were remarkably reduced during the whole time. Whereas group A demonstrated a tendency to decreased values in comparison to group B for LH, there were not any essential differences between the two groups for FSH. The free testosterone fraction was not altered. Cortisol in group A was twice as high as in group B during the entire investigation. The systolic pressure in group A was generally lower than in group B during the whole time. The results demonstrate an important reduction of the secretion of testosterone, LH and FSH during the early stage of the acute myocardial infarction. The testosterone suppression seems to be dependent on the severity of the myocardial infarction. These alterations may be caused by a general impaired perfusion as a consequence of myocardial infarction and a suppressive effect of increased cortisol values on testosterone levels.


The erythrocytic entry- and exit-mechanism of Aegyptianella pullorum Carpano, 1928.

The erythrocytic entry- and exit-mechanisms of Aegyptianella pullorum were investigated and characterized by scanning (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) using for TEM ruthenium red as a marker of the red cell plasmalemma. The scanned Aegyptianella preparations produced static evidence of an endocytosis followed by an erythrocytic vesiculation as the possible mode of entrance of initial bodies into erythrocytes. The presence of ruthenium red only coating the membrane around the parasitophorous vacuole during the whole invasive process and the complete absence of the stain inside the host cell indicate that the entry of aegyptianellas is accomplished by invagination of the host cell plasmalemma and is not preceded nor followed by its breakage, furthermore unequivocally proving the intracellular parasitism of A. pullorum during its reproductive cycle. One possible mode of exit of initial bodies from parasitized erythrocytes appeared to be the invasive mechanism in reverse order, an exocytosis. Generally, however, the affected erythrocytes are parasitogenically injured, resulting in release of the parasites into the plasma and, subsequently, in host cell lysis.


The effect of lampit on Trypanosoma cruzi in mice organs and in the bloodstream.

Mice infected with bloodstream forms of Trypanosoma cruzi were treated with an active Nitrofuran compound (Nifurtimox, Lampit). Determination of the number of intracellular forms of T. cruzi in the liver and the spleen of control and Lampit-treated mice showed that the drug induced a decrease in the number of parasites inside the cells. A decrease in the number of bloodstream forms was also observed. Ultrastructural observations showed that Lampit induces several alterations in T. cruzi, the most characteristic alteration being the appearance of dense masses localized in the mitochondrial matrix of the parasites.


A study of the rate of carbon dioxide output during mineralization of some organic materials in soil.

Soil respiration (CO2-evolution) was measured at different intervals during mineralization of organic materials in an Egyptian clay-loam soil. The rate of CO2 output was found to decline by time, and a linear negative correlation was found between the logarithm of time and the logarithm of the rate of CO2 output. Applying the linear regression equation it was possible to describe this relationship mathematically. A significant positive correlation was also found between the rate of CO2 output and the total plate count of bacteria and the ATP content of the soil.


[Aquatic myxobacteria as indicators in the evaluation of drinking water quality (author's transl))].

Aquatic myxobacteria were shown to be good indicators of surface contamination of drinking water, or water filtered by an inadequate soil profile, both in experiments with sterilized or biologically active soil profiles, resp., and in actual comparison data obtained in practical drinking water analyses. In experimental investigations with artificial profiles, aquatic myxobacteria were retained to a considerably greater degree than E. coli or P. fluorescens due to stronger forces of adhesion. In a number of bacteriological drinking water analyses, this property was confirmed insofar as aquatic myxobacteria could regularly be demonstrated when inspecting hygienically deficient wells or springs. The confirmed presence of E. coli, on the other hand, showed a considerably lesser correlation with the results of on the spot evaluations of hygienic conditions. It must be urgently advised to include the search for aquatic myxobacteria in bacteriological drinking water analyses, since, contrary to the demonstration of E. coli, not only the actual but, in addition, the potential hazard of contamination of drinking water with bacteria present in superficial soil strata is indicated.


[Aquatic myxobacteria (Sporocytophaga cauliformis) and the order "Myxobacterales" (author's transl)].

The indicator function of aquatic myxobacteria for the purpose of evaluating drinking water quality as well as their occurrence in sewage effluent make it desirable to describe these hitherto little known organisms in more detail. To this end, a comparative investigation of anaerobic myxobacteria of the genus Sphaerocytophaga, two typical representatives of the Order Myxobacterales (Myxococcus fulvus, Sporocytophage cauliformis), and a strain ov Vitrepscilla (Vitroescilla proteolytica) was undertaken. With respect to culture morphology, the migratory fringe surrounding colonies of Sphaerocytophaga similar to the other strains studies was a prominent characteristic. In particular, the similarity with colonies of Sporocytophaga cauliformis was apparent. The gliding motility typical of Sphaerocytophaga could be demonstrated in all of the strains investigated. Scanning electron micrographs revealed an amorphous layer of slime covering the cell surfaces in all strains compared in this study, thus excluding the existence of more rigid organelles of locomotion. Taxonomically, the anaerobec myxobacteria of the oral cavity (Sphaerocytophaga) belong to the Order "Myxobacterales" and not the "Eubacterales", i.e., to the genus Fusobacterium. This is clearly suggested by their motility lacking flagella and, above all, by their cell morphology which differs from the Eubacterales.


[Evaluation of the viral contamination of the sea water after the emission of an effluent into the sea (author's transl)].

Research of virus in the sea water has been made by the concentrated method of adsorption-elution on glass powder. --This method has enabled us to strike the balance on the concentration of virus in the sea water, from the emission to the bank. The frequency of isolation of virus in the bathing zone considered as healthy is very high. The concentration of virus is practically constant in the length of an axis, 200 m distant in comparison with the bank.--The increase of particles of virus in the sea, in the estuary of the emission, reflects in the same way in the bathing zone, 5 m away from the bank. The phenomenon of dilution of the effluent in the sea water doesn't seem to play a part.


[Studies to investigate the ecological importance of the mass development of Hydrodictyon reticulatum in infiltration basins for drinking water. III. Identification of the active components by the use of spectroscopic methods and gas chromatography (author's transl)].

Antibacterial substances from H. reticulatum, that was harvested from its natural habitat or grown under culture conditions, could be isolated by extraction with ethanol or by steam destillation from cells as well as from culture filtrate. The active substances were tested by gas chromatography, infrared spectroscopy and mass spectrometry and characterized as a fraction of saturated fatty acids. Its composition seems to depend on external circumstances or culture conditions, respectively, because it differed from experiment to experiment even in samples, harvested at the same day. The most effective acids, active, however, only against grampositive strains are the long chain unsaturated ones with 16 or 18 C-atoms, as shown by bioassay detection (Fig. 3). The C16 = 3-acid was only found in the strain LB236-1b.


[Examinations about the mutual influence of bacteria in aqueous medium with minimal nutritive substances (author's transl)].

Experiments were done about the behaviour of 5 different strains of St. aureus (= St), E. coli (= Ec), Se. marcescens (= Se) and P. aeruginosa (= Pa) in aqua bidest. at 30 degress C and 40 degrees C. In the first part the smallest quantities of Standard-I-broth (Merck) were evaluated where the diverse bacteria-species are able to grow; it was found at 30 degrees C (in parenthesis at 40 degrees C): St. aureus 1750 (3750) microgram/dl, E. coli 1000 (1750) microgram/dl, Se. marcescens 2.5 (125) microgram/dl and P. aeruginosa 1250 (2000) microgram/dl. In the second part mixed cultures were formed in the following groups: St/Ec, St/Se, St/Pa, Ec/Se, Ec/Pa, Se/Pa. In each case such quantities of broth were given into aqua bidest that the more fastidious bacteria was just able to grow. The initial colony count in both bacteria-species was log 3-4/ml. It was reduced to log 2-3/ml in one of these two species in a second part and in the other species in a third part of this experiment. Mixed cultures of St. aureus with gram negative bacteria resulted in reduced numbers of St. aureus; in case of reduced initial colony counts of E. coli, Se. marcescens or P. aeruginosa colony numbers of St. aureus were a little higher. In mixed cultures Ec/Se and Se/Pa at 30 degrees C colony numbers of E. coli and P. aeruginosa were reduced initial colony counts of Se. marcescens they were also a little higher. In a further part of this experiment such quantities of broth were given that the more fastidious bacterium was not able to grow. Here it died quickly; there were no differences to control groups with only one species.


[Examinations on the behaviour of grampositive and gramnegative bacteria in aqua bidest and tap-water at different initial colony counts and different temperatures (author's transl)].

Experiments were done about the behaviour of 5 different strains of Staph. aureus, Strept. faecalis, E. coli, Ser. marcescens and P. aeruginosa in aqua bidest and sterile tap water at 20 degrees C, 30 degrees C and 40 degrees C. The behaviour of 3 different initial colony counts in each case was examined. Colony forming units (CFU) were evaluated at the beginning and after 1, 2, 4, 6 and 24 h. CFU were reduced at Staph. aureus and E. coli in aqua bidest and tap water not earlier than after 4 h, but mostly after 24 h. In Strept. faecalis CFU were reduced in aqua bidest at 40 degrees C after 24 h, in tap water at 40 degrees C after 4 h, but there were no changes of CFU in both media at 20 degrees C or 30 degrees C. Ser. marcescens strains were growing in aqua bidest and tap water after 24 h at 20 degrees C. P. aeruginosa strains were reduced in aqua bidest at all temperatures but they were growing in tap water after 24 h. Reduction or growth of all strains did not depend on initial colony count during examination time, changing of CFU turned out to be quicker at 40 degrees C than at 20 degrees C. It is the conclusion that in humidifiers and nebulizers CFU will be different from initial colony count not earlier than after 6 h. Growth will be seen after 6 until 24 h if there are no particular nutritive organic compounds.


[Improvement of bodycapacity through inhalation of negative carriers and through electrostatic fields (author's transl)].

Ergometrical investigations with standard stress show that negatively charged air increases carbon dioxide exhalation. Thereby work-acidosis is decreased and the centers of the circulatory system are relieved.


Determination of IgG subgroups in cerebrospinal fluid of multiple sclerosis patients and others.

IgG subgroups (IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, IgG4) were determined by radioimmunoassay (RIA) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of controls, multiple sclerosis (MS), infectious diseases (ID) and other neurological diseases (OND). The proportion of IgG1 in the total IgG subgroup concentration was significantly higher in the MS group compared to the other groups while the IgG2 proportion was significantly lower; IgG3 and IgG4 did not show any consistent change. The inverse relationship between IgG1 and IgG2 was similar in all diagnostic groups: high concentration of IgG1 was associated with low concentrations of IgG2 and vice versa. Patients with a high relative concentration of IgG1 in their CSF have a seven to eight times higher statistical risk to be suffering from MS than ID or OND. In the MS group only the IgG1 concentration correlated with the total IgG concentration determined by radial immunodiffusion, while in controls, ID and OND each IgG subgroup correlated significantly with the IgG concentration. This demonstrates that in MS a selective increase of IgG1 subgroup is mainly responsible for the increase of total IgG, while all subgroups are involved in OND and ID showing an increased total IgG concentration.


Different measurements of thyroid function in hypothyroid infants diagnosed by screening.

Different measurements of thyroid function including I123 thyroid scanning were performed in 16 hypothyroid infants diagnosed by a TSH screening project. These results were then related to the clinical presentation and the bone age. Although T3 levels were preferentially maintained, it was the best single measure of the severity of hypothyroidism. Thyroglobulin may have a role in the diagnosis of athyrosis. Scanning showed that athyrosis was uncommon (12.5%) but an ectopic gland occurred in 40%, and accounts for many of the less severly affected cases found on screening. Some of these measurements may have prognostic significance.


Effect of cyproterone acetate (CA) on growth and endocrine function in precocious puberty.

16 girls with precocious puberty have been studied. Following low dosage cyproterone acetate (CA) therapy (mean daily dosage 65 mg/m2BSA) a beneficial effect on growth and skeletal maturation was observed. During high dosage therapy (150 mg/m2 per day) endocrinological studies were performed in 10 of these patients. There was no significant difference in HGH levels (insulin- and arginine-test), T3 and TSH values (TRH-test) between patients and controls, T4 concentration was significantly increased. Basal prolactin levels and prolactin response to TRH was definitely elevated. Oral glucose load and arginine infusion resulted in a significantly enhanced insulin release. There was a significant reduction in basal LH levels and an increase in FSH response to LH-RH. Basal and diurnal plasma cortisol values were markedly reduced and the cortisol release due to corticotrophin injection, lysinevasopressin (LVP) injection and insulin-hypoglycemia as well. A definite increase in basal ACTH levels was observed, during LVP- and insulin-hypoglycemia test ACTH concentrations were within or significantly above normal range. In our patients a primary adrenocortical insufficiency due to CA treatment was evident.


Experimental studies on the mechanism of the nitroglycerin effect.

The regional decrease of the speed and extent of the contraction and the relaxation of the canine myocardium induced by coronary ligation was enhanced by intravenously administered nitroglycerin (GTN), simultaneously with the decrease of the left ventricular pressure, while the increase of myocardial fiber length caused by that procedure was partly abolished. The above changes could be reproduced by GTN applied directly onto the ischaemic myocardial surface even before the decrease of the left ventricular pressure. These changes induced by GTN might play a role in the decrease or abolishment of regional asynergic wall motion.


Unit activity of the prefrontal cortex during delayed alternation performance in monkey.

Unit activity in the dorsolateral regions of the prefrontal cortex (s. principalis) of the monkey was analysed by multineuronal recording technique. The sequence during delayed-response alternation included anticipatory stimulus, non-specific expectancy, conditioned cue, delay, trigger stimulus and alternation performance. Food reward completed the sequence. Unit activity in s. principalis was found to be involved in such learning processes as integration of behavioural acts into an accomplished programme and storage of traces in short-term memory. The latter can be observed in successive involvement of neuronal populations during a 10 sec delay as well as in rearrangements of unit activity, the maximum of which shifts to the latest part of the delay period. Unit activity in s. principalis reflects the level of correct response, corresponding correlates of which depend on the level of attention. The dorsolateral prefrontal cortex has structural and functional characteristics for short-term storage of external signals in its neuronal nets according to the level of attention.


Inhibition of rosette formation of IgE-bearing rat mast cells by disodium chromoglycate.

The interaction of reaginic antibody with specific antigen was studied by the rosette formation of peritoneal rat mast cells. The mast cells were obtained from actively sensitized rats or were passively sensitized in vitro. Rosette formation was of a higher degree with mast cells of actively sensitized rats; in this case 58% of the cells showed a strong rosette-forming effect (blinding more than 5 SRBC). No rosette formation was detected in 18% of the cells. With passively sensitized rat mast cells, rosette formation was 45% and 22%, respectively. Rosette formation of both actively and passively sensitized mast cells could be inhibited by disodium chromoglycate (DSCG); the inhibitory effect of 20 micrograms and 200 micrograms of the drug was the same, and neither dose caused a full inhibition. It is suggested that the linkage of specific antigen to the surface of sensitized mast cells can be inhibited by DSCG in vivo.


Participation of adrenergic mechanisms in brain acetylcholine release produced by centrophenoxine.

The effect of phentolamine (alpha-adrenoceptor antagonist) and propranolol (beta-adrenoceptor antagonist) on the increased brain acetylcholine-releasing effect of centrophenoxine were studied in unanaesthetized cats in which perfusion of the anterior horn of a lateral cerebral ventricle was performed. Phentolamine alone decreased the amount of spontaneously released acetylcholine and did not change the effect of centrophenoxine. Propranolol alone did not change the amount of spontaneously released acetylcholine and reversed the centrophenoxine effect. The effects of centrophenoxine on acetylcholine release are attributed to its action on the presynaptic adrenoceptors (alpha and beta) situated in the cholinergic terminals of structures lying the anterior horn of a lateral cerebral ventricle.


Cancer chemotherapy in advanced malignant disease. A cost benefit analysis.

A cost benefit analysis of chemotherapy in unselected patients with advanced malignant disease originating in a defined population (250 000 inhabitants) demonstrated that the use of this therapy as the main treatment in hospitalised patients increased from a few per cent during 1973 to 60 per cent during 1977, corresponding to an increase in the cost of drugs from 10 000 to 200 000 dollars. At the same time the capacity for hospital care of patients with advanced malignancies increased from 317 to 488 patients without any enlargement of other resources. As more than 90 per cent of the medical budget consists of expenditures for salaries and localities, a cheaper medical care was obtained, but, above all, the survival rate and the quality of life for many patients was improved.


Streptomycin sensitivity of ribosomes isolated from a streptomycin-producing Streptomyces griseus.

The streptomycin sensitivity of ribosomes derived from a streptomycin-producing Streptomyces griseus was examined in a polyuridylic acid directed 14C-phenylalanine incorporating system. In order to get reproducible results it is essential to use cell-free extracts which do not inactivate streptomycin. This condition can be fulfilled by the combination of washed ribosomes of the streptomycin-producing strain and the 110 000 g supernatant of the streptomycin-nonproducing variant of S. griseus, because the streptomycin-phosphorylating activity can be washed out from ribosomes of younger streptomycin-producing cultures, and the streptomycin-nonproducing S. griseus does not have any streptomycin-inactivating capacity. In this amino acid polymerizing system the ribosomes of the streptomycin-producing strain were as sensitive to streptomycin as the ribosomes of the nonproducing variant or of Escherichia coli.


Experimental approaches to the treatment of CNS leukemia.

Some of the current experimental approaches to the treatment of CNS leukemia are reviewed. While small animal models have provided a basic understanding of the pathophysiology of meningeal leukemia, large animal models, particularly the subhuman primate, allow a more detailed examination of the complex dynamics of CNS pharmacokinetics. Principles derived from these models have provided a rational basis for the development of new approaches to the treatment of meningeal leukemia in man.


Activation of coagulation and disseminated intravascular coagulation in the newborn.

Human newborns have certain hemostatic "deficiencies" which seem to be peculiar to this period of life, such as reduced factors II, VII, IX, X, XI, and XII, reduced antithrombin III levels, and reduced plasminogen levels. However, they are capable of activating the coagulation mechanism to elicit either the entity of disseminated intravascular coagulation or the occurrence of localized and diffuse thrombotic events. The mechanisms involved have yet to be defined. Evidence has been presented to suggest that preterm infants may manifest a variant form of disseminated intravascular coagulation in which thrombocytopenia is not present.


Tattoo removal with the carbon dioxide laser.

Our preliminary experience with tattoo removal utilizing the carbon dioxide laser at the Vancouver General Hospital is reviewed. We developed the method by trial and error until we produced a system yielding an acceptable procedure time with good results.


Cationic composition of 22 species of bacteria grown in seawater medium.

Twenty-two species of bacteria of marine, estuarine, and terrestrial origin were analyzed for cationic content by atomic absorption spectrophotometry after growth in a basal seawater medium. Alcaligenes marinus was analyzed from eight separate but replicate determinations yielding the following cationic concentrations: Na, 5,600 +/- 2,260; Mg 1,580 +/- 740; K, 700 +/- 360; Ca, 790 +/- 390; Mn, 1.7 +/- 0.5; Fe, 256 +/- 57; Ni, 1.7 +/- 0.7; Cu, 14 +/- 4; Zn, 122 +/- 27; Cd, 2.8 +/- 0.7; and Pb, 10 +/- 3 ppm/(dry weight). Washing A. marinus cells before analyses was necessary due to interstitial medium within the cell pellets after centrifugation and loose cationic retention by the cells. The principal source of error in the procedure was ascribed to variability due to washing cells with 0.5 M ammonium formate. The mean cationic concentrations for trace elements in the 22 bacterial cultures grown in the basal seawater medium to constant optical density and washed three times with 0.5 M ammonium formate were: Mn, 2.4 +/- 3.8; Fe, 262 +/- 112; Ni, 2.3 +/- 1.8; Cu, 24 +/- 17; Zn, 146 +/- 72; Cd, 3.8 +/- 2.5; and Pb, 17 +/- 21 ppm (dry weight). Major ions were concentrated only occasionally by the cells after washing, whereas Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb were concentrated from the medium by the following factors on the average: 180, 1,600, 140, 1,200, 750, 1,900, and 900, respectively.


Role of bovine serum albumin in the nutrition of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Bovine serum albumin promotes the growth of small inocula of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in media containing unesterified fatty acids. Albumin binds fatty acids present in concentrations toxic for the organisms. In the present study, additional roles of albumin were investigated. When present in a basal medium, fatty acid-free albumin could be utilized by M. tuberculosis as a sole source of carbon. Since albumin could not substitute for the amino acids in basal medium as a nitrogen source, it was concluded that the protein component in albumin was not utilized as a nutrient by the organisms. An ether extract of fatty acid-free albumin supported a small but significant amount of growth. Analysis of the lipids in fatty acid-free albumin by gas chromatography revealed the presence of 686 microgram of fatty acid per g of albumin. Although a small amount of growth occurred when a lipid extract of albumin was present in the medium, growth stimulation was dependent in major part on the presence of undenatured albumin in the medium. Lipids, when bound to albumin, can serve as a nontoxic source of carbon and energy.


Biodegradation of 1,2,3- and 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene in soil and in liquid enrichment culture.

The biodegradation of radiochemically pure (99%) 1,2,3- and 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene (TCB) in soil was investigated. Experimental difficulties posed by the high volatility and slow biodegradation rate of the TCBs were partially overcome by using a specially designed incubation and trapping apparatus. Evolution of (14)CO(2) from active versus poisoned soil dosed with 50 mug of the individual TCBs per g gave conclusive proof that both isomers are biodegradable. At 20 degrees C, 1,2,4-TCB was mineralized at an approximate rate of 1 nmol/day per 20 g of soil sample, and 1,2,3-TCB was mineralized at one-half to one-third that rate. Mineral fertilizers or cosubstrates failed to increase TCB mineralization rates in soil. Anaerobic conditions had a negative effect on mineralization, and increased temperatures had a positive effect. With increasing 1,2,4-TCB concentrations, (14)CO(2) evolution exhibited saturation kinetics with an apparent K(m) of 55.5 nmol per g of soil. Recovery of total radioactivity was good from soil containing high organic matter concentrations. From low-organic-matter soil, some of the radioactivity was recovered only on combustion, and overall recovery was lower. In soil-inoculated liquid culture, the cosubstrates glucose and benzene caused a slight stimulation of 1,2,4-TCB mineralization. Cochromatography of known standards with the extracts of soil pretreated with [(14)C]TCBs indicated that 3,4,5-trichlorophenol, 2,6-dichlorophenol and, to a lesser degree, 2,3-dichlorophenol were present in soils incubated with 1,2,3-TCB. 2,4-, 2,5-, and 3,4-dichlorophenol were present in soils incubated with 1,2,4-TCB.


[Milk intolerance in Colombian children, its prevalence and relation to lactose malabsorption].

A total of 121 children from an orphange were studied. Their ages ranged from 2 to 10 years and represented different ethnic backgrounds. The prevalence of malnutrition was 45% and their gastrointestinal symptomatology in response to graded amounts of milk intake was evaluated. None of the children complained when milk intakes were of 200 cc; 10% complained of gastrointestinal discomfort and/or diarrhea when 300 cc of milk (equivalent to 12 g of lactose) were administered, and 54% presented lactose malabsorption unrelated to ethnic background, sex or malnutrition. It is concluded that the prevalence of milk intolerance is minimal when milk is given in the usual amounts.


[Chronic idiopathic binodal block. Occurrence, course and pathogenesis].

The incidence of binodal, sinoatrial (SA) and atrioventricular (AV), block was determined in a series of 362 patients, 90 of whom had chronic sinoatrial block (group I), 162 suprahisian, infrahisian or diffuse AV block (group II), 38 with paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (group III), and 70 with slow atrial fibrillation, 54 of whom were studied in sinus rhythm (group IV). Electrophysiological investigation revealed: overt or latent AV block in 71% of group I, 48% of group III, and 100% of group IV; overt or latent SA block in 40 to 61% of group II, 87% of group III and 78% of group IV; paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in 61% of group I, 25% of group II and 50% of group IV; intra-atrial block in 26% of group I, 20% of group II, 16% of group III and 31% group IV. An ECG syndrome associating binodal block and disturbances or atrial conduction and excitability is suggested. The pathogenesis and anatomical basis are discussed, the prime lesion of which may be fibrosis of the atrial tissues which may ultimately result in partial or total atrial standstill.


[Adult familial idiopathic binodal block].

Four brothers with a maximum age difference of 20 years, the eldest of whom has been re-examined after a 10 year interval, have sinoatrial block, a supra-hisian atrioventricular block and paroxysmal atrial arrhythmias which have led to partial atrial standstill in the eldest: left anterior hemiblock is also present in the two youngest brothers. The condition is very well tolerated. This family is compared to the other 12 reported cases of familial idiopathic binodal block in the adult, an autosomal dominant condition with variable penetration. The diagnosis is reserved and justifies endocavitary investigation of the sinus node function and atrioventricular conduction in the four brothers and the most exposed members of their family. The mechanism of the condition is unknown. It seems to arise from variable degrees of nonspecific of the nodal and atrial tissues.


[Acute posterior myocardial infarction involving the right ventricle. Anatomical study].

Thirty patients who died in the acute phase of an inaugural posterior myocardial infarction were classified in two groups: group A, 14 cases, and group B, 16 cases without extension to the right ventricle. The autopsy examination showed the following differences. In group A: 1. The right coronary artery (RCA) gave off the posterior descending artery in all cases; 2. The RCA had diffuse atheromatous change in 10 cases (p less than 0,05); 3. Total occlusion of the RCA by thrombosis was constant (p less than 0,01) and was always proximal to or near the origin of the right marginal artery (p less than 0,001); 4. Postero-septal extension was constant and nearly always transmural (p less than 0,001).


[Coronary lesions due to aortic valve disease. I -- Occurrence and clinical prognosis].

A multicentre retrospective study of 467 cases of operated aortic valve disease was undertaken to define the indications of coronary arteriography in the pre-operative work-up. Significant coronary artery disease was present in 15% of all cases or, more precisely, in 17% of cases with angina and in 8% when investigation was only routine. Coronary artery disease was more frequent in males, in patients with clinical or electrical evidence of previous myocardial infarction, in patients with ST-T wave changes, and when angina was severe (more than one attack per day). None of these factors was specific. It is therefore difficult to limit coronary arteriography to these patients or there would be a risk of missing significant lesions in a small number of cases. It is important to give the surgeon all the necessary information before aortic valve replacement and so coronary arteriography should be widely practiced in this context. However exceptions may be made for young patients and also those in congestive cardiac failure in whom coronary arteriography represents an unnecessary risk before surgery.


[Coronary lesions due to aortic valve disease. II -- Results and indications of aortocoronary bypass surgery].

454 cases of aortic valve replacement were studied: 217 had no significant coronary artery disease, 197 had associated aorto-coronary bypass surgery and 40 coronary artery disease without revascularization surgery:-- The early mortality in the three groups was 5.5%, 21% and 12.5% respectively, the only statistically significant difference being between the first two groups. -- The coronary artery disease was signigicantly more severe in the group which underwent associated aorto-coronary bypass surgery. The early mortality was significantly raised in the group without bypass surgery in cases with severe coronary artery disease (28%) and in the group with bypass surgery with unsuitable coronary artery lesions (35.5%). On the other hand, the long term survival and functional capacity of patients who underwent associated bypass surgery approached that of the non-coronary patients. Combined aortic valve replacement and coronary bypass surgery should therefore be continued in selected cases.


[Acute early mitral insufficiency following myocardial infarction].

Five cases of acute mitral incompetence complicating myocardial infarction at an early stage underwent early mitral valve replacement. The surgical indications were deterioration of the clinical and haemodynamic conditions or dependance on medical therapy and intra-aortic balloon pumping. The mitral lesion was haemorrhagic necrosis of the posterior papillary muscle in all cases, associated with rupture of the chordae or papillary muscle in 3 cases. The outcome was favourable in all cases and has been maintained after more than two years post operative follow-up. The problems of the surgical indications, the mitral valve replacement and coronary revascularisation are discussed.


[Variations in blood pressure measurement during systematic screening tests and their effects on public health].

The variability of blood pressure measurements is studied, in a standardized screening, by comparing the measures obtained during a medical examen and those made by technicians under different circumstances. This variability is important. A systematic bias is due to the digit preference for the zero value by the doctors. Besides, strong subject/obser interaction accounts partly for higher values measured in the medical exam. The mean blood pressures and the prevalence of hypertension are increased under some circumstances close to those of everyday life and labile hypertension is very frequent. The individual variability of the measure and the prevalence of hypertension are reduced by a standardized technique when applied under favorable circumstances by technicians. The reproductibility of this measure is good but the simultaneous taking into account of two successive measures still reduces much this prevalence. In these conditions it is very difficult to estimate the prevalence of hypertension in the population: an example is given where this frequency varies in the proportion of 1 to 6 according to the measures considered. The implications of this variability on the screening of hypertension are discussed.


[Comparison of hospitalized hypertensive patients and those consulting in a specialized unit. Initial clinical state and patient compliance].

This study is based on a series of 1919 hypertensive patients examined consecutively either in hospital or in the out patient clinic between 1969 and 1977 and reviewed in February 1977 by a postal questionnaire. The initial presentation of in-patients and out-patients differed very significantly in the same specialised department: the patients hospitalised were seen at a more advanced stage of their hypertensive illness. Neither group was truly representative of the general population of hypertensive patients. The percentage of patient compliance was only slightly lower in the out-patients. The mortality rate observed did not differ significantly from the expected mortality rate in out-patients; despite treatment it remained over 200% greater in the hospitalised group. It would seem desirable to develop out-patient rather than in-patient hospital facilities for the treatment of hypertension, despite the foreseeable practical difficulties.


[Health insurance and hypertension. Review of current data].

Medical insurance gives a very incomplete view of the spectrum of hypertensive disease, based only on the results of clinical examination of persons undergoing check-ups in the Medical Examination Centres: 39 850 in 1976, or on those examined by consulting physicians according to article L293: 23 308 in 1976, or being examined for invalidity allowance: 11 471 in 1976. The complications of hypertension do not appear in these statistics under the label of hypertension. They have been estimated and, when taken into account, increase the total number of hypertensive patients detected in 1976 by the Medical Insurance to 99 318, that is to say 0,25% of the covered population. An inquiry carried out on 130 male hypertensives in the Paris region tends to approach the medico-economic profile of the hypertensive patient with respect to age.


[Development of an antihypertensive agent. Methodology and cost].

This schematic analysis demonstrates the great increase in the cost and time required to develop a new molecule, factors which therefore limit the development of new therapeutic methods. The patent period is shorter so that the period of commercialisation of a product by a single drug company is more and more limited. Therefore the situation may occur where the costs of development will no longer be covered. (In addition, the costs of research not leading to a marketable product have not been taken into account).


[Congenital absence of the circumflex artery. Association with an infarction without coronary disease].

A 31 year old man had a congenitally absent circumflex coronary artery, one of the least described of all the congenital abnormalities of the coronary arteries. Before confirmation of the diagnosis, an ectopie circumflex artery was excluded by the two angiographical signs observed by Page and by non-selective coronary arteriography. This abnormality was thought to have played a role in myocardial infarction in this young patient without coronary risk factors and with no obvious coronary artery narrowing on coronary arteriography.


[False aneurysm associated with mitral insufficiency due to rupture of the heart at the point of insertion of the anterior papillary muscle. A successfully operated case].

Although rupture of a mitral papillary muscle during myocardial infarction is well known, and post-infarction transmural ruptures causing false aneurysms occasionally reported, the association of rupture of the anterior papillary muscle and a underlying transmural parietal rupture giving rise to a false aneurysm is quite exceptional, and, to the best of our knowledge, has not previously been reported. Despite the serious nature of the disease, surgical cure of the aneurysm with mitral valve replacement was successful, due to the limitation of the anatomical disruption by early pericardial symphysis.


Treponema succinifaciens sp. nov., an anaerobic spirochete from the swine intestine.

The morphology, the general physiological characteristics, and the energy-yielding metabolism of an obligately anaerobic spirochete isolated from the colon of a swine were studied. Electron microscopy showed that the helical spirochetal cells possessed an outer sheath, a protoplasmic cylinder, and 4 periplasmic fibrils in a 2-4-2 arrangement. The spirochete grew in an atmosphere of N2 in prereduced media containing a carbohydrate, NaHCO3, rumen fluid, yeast extract, peptone, L-cysteine, and inorganic salts. The spirochete fermented carbohydrates and required substrate amounts of CO2 (HCO3-) for growth. Amino acids were not fermented. Major fermentation products of cells growing with glucose as the substrate and in the presence of CO2 were acetate, formate, succinate, and lactate. Small amounts of 2,3-butanediol, pyruvate, and acetoin were also formed. Determinations of enzymatic activities in cell extracts, and of radioactivity in products formed by growing cells from [1-14C]glucose, indicated that this sugar was dissimilated to pyruvate via the Embden-Meyerhof pathway. The spirochetes used a coliform-type clastic reaction to metabolize pyruvate. Determinations of radioactivity in products formed from [14C]NaHCO3 indicated that CO2 was assimilated and used in succinate production. The guainine + cytosine content of the DNA was 36 mol %. This study indicates that this intestinal spirochete represents a new species of Treponema. It is proposed that the new species be named Treponema succinifaciens.


Isolation and analysis of mutants of Pseudomonas aeruginosa unable to assimilate nitrate.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa can reduce nitrate to nitrite and evenutally to nitrogen gas by the denitrification pathway, thereby providing the organism with a mode of respiration and ATP generation in the absence of oxygen. P. aeruginosa can also reduce nitrate to nitrite through an assimilatory pathway that provides the cell with reduced nitrogen for biosyntheses. In order to establish whether this organism synthesizes a single nitrate reductase protein that functions in both pathways, or produces one for each pathway, we isolated mutants blocked in the assimilation of nitrate. These mutants are unaffected in the reduction of nitrate be the denitrification pathway, although they produce low or undectable levels of assimilatory nitrate reductase. On the basis of transductional analysis, the mutations were found to be distributed among four genes designated nasA, nasB, nasC, and nasD. Shifting a nasA mutant from anaerobic to aerobic growth eliminated the culture's ability to reduce nitrate, i.e. the anaerobic nitrate reductase cannot function in the presence of oxygen. Thus P. aeruginosa can synthesize two distinct proteins which reduce nitrate to nitrite: an assimilatory nitrate reductase and a dissimilatory nitrate reductase. If conditions of growth are fully aerobic, the latter is not synthesized and does not function. The former, synthesized under the control of at least four genes, is repressed by readily available nitrogen sources.


Nickel, cobalt, and molybdenum requirement for growth of Methanobacterium thermoautotrophicum.

Growth of Methanobacterium thermoautotrophicum on H2 and CO2 as sole energy and carbon sources was found to be dependent on Ni, Co, and Mo. At low concentrations of Ni (less than 100 nM), Co (less than 10 nM) and Mo (less than 10 nM) the amount of cells formed was roughly proportional to the amount of transition metal added to the medium; for the formation of 1 g cells (dry weight) approximately 150 nmol NiCl2, 20 nmol CoCl2 and 20 nmol Na2MoO4 were required. A dependence of growth on Cu, Mn, Zn, Ca, Al, and B could not be demonstrated. Conditions are described under which the bacterium grew exponentially with a doubling time of 1.8 h up to a cell density of 2 g cells (dry weight)/l.


Changes in sporulation potential during the growth cycle of Bacillus subtilis.

The sporulation potential of Bacillus subtilis as a function of position in the cell cycle was determined by transferring cells from growth medium to sporulation medium at various times during growth. Growth was induced by incubating heat-activated spores in rich medium or by diluting stationary phase vegetative cultures with fresh growth medium. The results supported earlier observations that sporulation potential is cell cycle dependent. The rise in sporulation potential was studied by exposing cultures to the inhibitors of cell wall and protein synthesis, vancomycin and chloramphenicol. The delay in the appearance of the peak of sporulation potential caused by these inhibitors compared with the reported lack of effect of nalidixic acid, indicates that the appearance of sporulation potential requires synthesis of a macromolecular component other than deoxyribonucleic acid. The effect of nalidixic acid in preventing the decline of the sporulation potential was compared with the effect of high temperature on a mutant temperature sensitive for the initiation of DNA replication. It was found that prevention of chromosome completion with nalidixic acid maintained a high sporulation potential, whereas prevention of chromosome re-initiation in the temperature sensitive mutant did not affect the decline in sporulation potential as the cells enter stationary phase.