Response of oxidative phosphorylation in liver of protein-energy malnourished rats.

State 3, state 4 respiratory rates, respiratory control ratio (RCR = state 3/state 4), ADP/O ratio and swelling in salt medium were determined in liver mitochondria from three groups of rats: group 1--controls; group 2--energy-restricted, and group 3--protein-deficient. Experiments were carried out between 3 and 5 weeks and between 7 and 9 weeks after initiation of the experimental diets. State 3 respiration of mitochondria from  group 2 rats was reduced after 3-5 weeks on the experimental diet as compared to group 1 rats. However, state 4 respiration, RCR and ADP/O ratio were not different in groups 2 and 3 as compared to those in controls. Between 7 and 9 weeks it was found that state 3 respiration with both the substrates was higher in groups 2 and 3 as compared to group 1. State 4 respiration was increased in group 2 but was unaltered in group 3, compared to controls. Mitochondrial preparations from group 2 rats showed faster rates of swelling in KC1 medium, compared to group 1, at both periods. On the other hand, the rates of swelling were slower as compared to controls in the case of mitochondria isolated from group 3 rats. Results of these experiments indicate that the terminal effect of severe restriction of calories and protein on mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation is similar.


Patterns of pulmonary maturation in normal and abnormal pregnancy.

Fetal pulmonary maturation may be a variable event depending on various feto-maternal environmental and biochemical influences. The patterns of maturation were studied in 211 amniotic fluid samples from 123 patients (normal 55; diabetes 23; Rh sensitization 19; preeclampsia 26). The phenomenon of globule formation from the amniotic fluid lipid extract and is relation to pulmonary maturity was utilized for this analysis. Validation of this technique is presented. A normal curve was constructed from 22 to 42 weeks; gestation and compared to the abnormal pregnancies. Patients with class A, B, and C diabetes and Rh-sensitized pregnancies had delayed pulmonary maturation. Patients with class D diabetes and preclampsia paralleled the normal course of maturation. A discussion of these results and their possible cause is presented.


Multiple myeloma and chronic lymphatic leukemia in the same patient.

A patient with both chronic lymphatic leukemia and multiple myeloma is presented. Characterisation of the leukemic cells showed them to possess Fc receptors but to lack SmlG and C3 receptors. Intracellular immunoglobulin was not detected within the leukemic cells. The multiple myeloma presented as a soft tissue mass on the chest wall and produced an IgGK paraprotein. The possible relationship of the two disorders is discussed.


[Catheterisation of the internal jugular vein for parenteral nutrition (author's transl)].

The technique consists of surgical exposure of the vein, its isolation by two threads and the introduction of a soft prethoracic exit. This technique avoids the complications inherent in any blind puncture of a large vessel. By virtue of the type of catheter (soft silicone) and the long subcutaneous course. It may be left in place for more than a month.


Chromatin structure in the macronucleus of the ciliate Stylonychia mytilus.

Evidence is presented that macronuclear chromatin in the hypotrichous ciliate Stylonychia mytilus occurs in discrete fragments, each representing at least single genes. The size of these fragments varies between 3 and more than 70 nucleosomes with an average length of about 18 nucleosomes. This observation is discussed with respect to macronuclear structure of hypotrichous ciliates.


The role of the guanine insertion enzyme in O-biosynthesis in Drosophila melanogaster.

Drosophila tRNA can be guanylated by a crude enzyme from rabbit reticulocytes. Guanylating activity is also present in crude extracts of adult Drosophila. A major product of this reaction as well as several minor ones were resolved by RPC-5 chromatography. The main substrate of both the Drosophila and rabbit reticulocyte enzymes was the non-Q-containing aspartic acid tRNA, tRNA2gammaAsp. The QU-lacking (gamma) forms of asparagine, histidine and tyrosine tRNAs were also substrates and gave rise to the minor products of the reaction. In contrast, the Q- or Q*-containing (delta) forms of these tRNAs appear not to be substrates. The evidence strongly suggests that the guanyating enzyme is involved in Q biosynthesis and would be better termed a guanine replacement or pre-Q insertion enzyme.


Quantitation of the common components of deoxyribonucleic acids by mass spectrometry: application to the analysis of DNAs of unusual composition.

A mass spectral method for the quantitation of the percentages of deoxyadenosine, deoxyguanosine, deoxycytidine, and thymidine in intact DNAs has been devised. Standard curves for each nucleoside have been constructed which are based upon the observation that a direct correlation exists between the heights (% deflection) of diagnostic peaks from these nucleosides in a mass spectrum and the published percent composition of specific DNAs. Analyses of DNA from Clostridiumperfringens, Micrococcusluteus, Escherichiacoli, Bacillussubtilis, Pseudomonasfluorescens, Drosophilamelanogaster, salmon sperm, and bacteriophage lambda were used to determine standard curves. The validity of the method was demonstrated by comparison of the results from the mass spectral procedure with results from the chemical analyses of the DNAs from calf thymus and wheat germ. Analysis of ØX-174 DNA yielded values consistent with the published values obtained via sequence analysis and indicated that the method is applicable to both single and double-stranded DNAs. Results from T2 DNA, which contains no cytidine, exhibited artificially high values for adenosine, guanosine and thymidine with concomitant alteration in the A/T and G/C molar ratios. Such skewed results are useful in predicting the presence of modified nucleosides. The extreme sensitivity of the method has been exploited in the analysis of subnanogram quantities of restriction endonuclease fragments from DNA.


The primary transcript of the ribosomal repeating unit in yeast.

Endgroup analysis of 37S ribosomal precursor RNA from Saccharomyces carlsbergensis has revealed that the major 5' endgroup is ppA-Up, with a molar yield of 0.8. This shows that most, if not all, 37S RNA molecules have preserved a transcriptional initiation sequence. Analysis of the 3' terminus of 37S RNA has shown the presence of a uridine rich oligonucleotide, tentatively identified as U6-8-A-NOH. This long stretch of uridines at the 3' end of 37S RNA may represent a transcriptional termination site. The two sets of data on the terminal sequences suggest that 37S ribosomal precursor RNA, if not already spliced, is a primary transcription product. Since the 3' terminus of 26S rRNA, U-U-U-G-UOH., appears to be clearly different from the 3' end of 37S RNA, we conclude that 37S ribosomal precursor RNA contains additional nucleotides 3'-distal to the 26S rRNA sequence.


Approaches to sequence analysis of 125I-labeled RNA.

A method is described for the initial steps of sequence analysis of RNase T1-and pancreatic RN-ase-resistant oligonucleotides of RNA containing cytidylate residues labeled in vitro with 125I. In many cases an oligonucleotide sequence can be deduced from a consideration of (i) its relative position in the two-dimensional fingerprint (with DEAE thin layer homochromatographic second dimension), (ii) its electrophoretic mobility on DEAE paper at pH 1.9, and (iii) identification of its products of further enzymatic digestion by comparison with a set of marker oligonucleotides. Additional methods including analysis of oligonucleotides following chemical blocking of uridylate residues with CMCT and analysis of products of incomplete enzymatic digestion are also discussed.


The nucleotide sequence of the initiator tRNA from Drosophila melanogaster.

The nucleotide sequence of Drosophila melanogaster methionine tRNAi was determined to be: pA-G-C-A-G-A-G-U-m1G-m2G-C-G-C-A-G-U-G-G-A-A-G-C-G-U-m2G-C-U-G-G-G-C-C-C-A-U-t6A-A-C-C-C-A-G-A-G-m7G-D-m5C-C-C-G-A-G-G-A-U-C-G-m1A-A-A-C-C-U-U-G-C-U-C-U-G-C-U-A-C-C-A(OH). It differs from vertebrate initiator tRNAs in only 6 out of 75 positions.


The nucleotide sequence of lysine tRNA2 from Drosophila.

The nucleotide sequence of Drosophila melanogaster lysine tRNA2 was determined to be: pG-C-C-C-G-G-C-U-A-m2G-C-U-C-A-G-D-C-G-G-D-A-G-A-G-C-A-psi-G-A-G-A-C-U-C-U-U-t6A-A-psi-C-U-C-A-G-G-m7G-D-C-G-U-G-G-G-Xm-U-C-G-m1A-G-C-C-C-C-A-C-G-U-U-G-G-G-C-G-C-C-A(OH). With minor differences in the state of modification of some nucleotides, the sequence is the same as that of lysine tRNA2b from rabbit liver.


Activation of high levels of endogenous phospholipase A2 in cultured cells.

Activatable cellular phospholipase A2 (PLase; phosphatide 2-acyl-hydrolase, EC 3.1.1.4) has been proposed to constitute the first and rate-limiting step in prostaglandin synthesis and to regulate membrane function by altering the levels in the membrane of the detergent lipids lysolecithin and free fatty acids. We have observed that a wide variety of cells in culture contain high levels of endogenous PLase that can be activated by polypeptide toxins, such as melittin purified from bee venom and direct lytic factor purified from the venom of African Ringhals cobra (Hemachatus hemachatus). Activation of PLase by sublytic concentrations of these agents results in the synthesis and release of prostaglandins. Melittin concentrations greater than or equal to 10 microgram/ml activate sufficient PLase in 3T3-4a mouse fibroblasts to hydrolyze 10% of the cellular lecithin in less than 5 min and virtually all of it within 30 min, demonstrating the existence of sufficient activatable PLase to provide the basis for the proposed mechanism of regulation of membrane function by alteration of membrane lipid composition. Lipases, phospholipases B and C, and sphingomyelinases are not activated by melittin. The PLase activated in 3T3-4a cells exhibits little, if any, specificity for individual phosphoglycerides. The PLase activated by direct lytic factor exhibits a Ca2+ dependence characteristic of lysosomal PLase, wherease the Ca2+ dependence of PLase activated by melittin is consistent with the activation of a cell-surface enzyme. The extent of cell death correlates with percent of maximal PLase activation.


Single-step selection of clones of a mouse hepatoma line deficient in aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase.

The mouse hepatoma line Hepa-1 has high and inducible aryl hydrocarbon (benzo[a]pyrene) hydroxylase[benzo[a]pyrene, reduced-flavoprotein:oxygen oxidoreductase (3-hydroxylating), EC 1.14.14.2] activity. Fourteen subclones of a clonal derivative of Hepa-1 were isolated and shown not to display heterogeneity in aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase activity beyond what could be ascribed to experimental error. Hepa-1 was found to be very sensitive to benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) toxicity and a single-step selection procedure for isolating clones resistant to BaP at 4 microgram/ml was designed. Those BaP-resistant variants tested had much reduced aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase activities under both inducing and noninducing conditions and they retained their resistance to BaP and low aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase activities over considerable periods of time of culture in the absence of BaP. The spontaneous rate of origin of the BaP-resistant clones was estimated, by Luria-Delbrück fluctuation analysis, to be 2 X 10(-7) events per cell per generation. It is concluded that the properties of the variants are consistent with the notion that they are mutational in origin and that this system is a promising one for carrying out a somatic cell genetic analysis of aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase.


Human heavy chain disease protein WIS: implications for the organization of immunoglobulin genes.

Protein WIS is a human gamma3 heavy (H) chain disease immunoglobulin variant whose amino acid sequence is most readily interpreted by postulating that three residues of the amino terminus are followed by a deletion of most of the variable (VH) domain, which ends at the variable-constant (VC) joining region. Then there is a stretch of eight residues, three of which are unusual, while the other five have striking homology to the VC junction sequence. This is followed by a second deletion, which ends at the beginning of the quadruplicated hinge region. These findings are consistent with mutations resulting in deletions of most of the gene coding for the V region and CH1 domain followed by splicing at the VC joining region and at the hinge. These structural features fit well the notion of genetic discontinuity between V and C genes and also suggest similar mechanisms of excision and splicing in the interdomain regions of the C gene of the heavy chain.


Crystallographic and kinetic investigations of the covalent complex formed by a specific tetrapeptide aldehyde and the serine protease from Streptomyces griseus.

X-ray crystallographic data show that a specific tetrapeptide aldehyde inhibitor (N-acetylprolylalanylprolylphenylalaninal) forms a stable, covalent, tetrahedral addition complex with the serine protease, SGPA, from Streptomyces griseus. Earlier proposals, based on kinetic measurements, for the covalent nature of such linkages are confirmed, and the difference electron density map of this aldehyde inhibitor indicates that a major conformational change of the histidyl-57 side chain occurs on inhibitor binding.


A protein that preferentially binds Drosophila satellite DNA.

Using a nitrocellulose filter binding assay, we have detected and partially purified a protein from embryos of Drosophila melanogaster that preferentially binds to a highly repeated satellite DNA of the same species. Formation of the satellite DNA-protein complex requires physiological conditions of salt and temperature, but once formed, the complex is stable in high salt (1 M NaCl) or at low temperature. Optimal formation of the specific complex also requires the satellite DNA to be in a supertwisted conformation. The protein interacts with a limited region within the 359-base-pair repeated sequence of the satellite DNA.


Immunoglobulin heavy chain gene organization in mice: analysis of a myeloma genomic clone containing variable and alpha constant regions.

We have isolated a myeloma genomic DNA clone containing the variable and constant regions of a mouse alpha chain. Restriction enzyme analyses and electron microscopic R loop mapping have demonstrated that the variable region is separated from the constant region by 6.8 kilobases of intervening DNA. In addition, two intervening DNA sequences of 100--200 bases separate the constant region into three approximately equal units. These intervening sequences may separate each of the segments coding for the three constant region domains of the alpha heavy chain. Southern blot analysis of embryo and myeloma DNA suggests that DNA rearrangement of heavy chain variable and constant regions occurs during the differentiation of antibody-producing cells.


Identification of 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene metabolites that lead to mutagenesis in mammalian cells.

The mutagenicity of 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]-anthracene (DMBA) and 11 of its enzymatically derived metabolites was tested with Chinese hamster V79 cells for identification of mutagenic metabolites. The metabolites consisted of 7-hydroxymethyl-12-methylbenz[a]anthracene, 7-methyl-12-hydroxymethylbenz[a]anthracene, 7,12-dihydroxymethylbenz[a]anthracene, three trans-3,4-diols, two trans-5,6-diols, and three trans-8,9-diols, all of which derived from DMBA or from the hydroxymethyl derivatives. Mutations were characterized by resistance to ouabain and 6-thioguanine. None of the tested metabolites were mutagenic in V79 cells, which do not metabolize polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Therefore, mutagenesis in the V79 cells was tested in the presence of golden hamster cells capable of metabolizing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (cell-mediated assay). In this assay, DMBA, 7-hydroxymethyl-12-methylbenz[a]anthracene, 7-methyl-12-hydroxymethylbenz[a]anthracene, and their trans3,4-diols were mutagenic for both genetic markers, and the mutagenic response increased as a function of the hydrocarbon dose. All other metabolites were either inactive or showed up to a 4-fold higher mutation frequency than the untreated V79 cells for ouabain and 6-thioguanine resistance. The DMBA-trans-3,4-diol was the only metabolite that was more active than DMBA itself; at 0.05 muM it was 6-8 times more active than DMBA itself; at 0.05 muM it was 6-8 times more active than DMBA in inducing both ouabain and 6-thioguanine resistance. This diol was mutagenic at a dose as low as 0.01 muM. Mutagenesis by DMBA and the trans-3,4-diols was inhibited by 7,8-benzoflavone, an inhibitor of mixed-function oxidases. Analysis of DMBA metabolism in intact golden hamster cells indicated that DMBA-trans-3,4-diol is one of the major metabolites produced. Our results therefore suggest that DMBA-trans-3,4-diol may be metabolized to a diol-epoxide, presumably the trans-3,4-diol-1,2-epoxide, which may be a major reactive metabolite responsible for DMBA mutagenicity in mammalian cells.


Lack of experimental evidence for frequency-dependent selection at the alcohol dehydrogenase locus in Drosophila melanogaster.

Two experiments were conducted for testing frequency-dependent selection at the alcohol dehydrogenase locus (Adh; map position, 2--50.1), where two types of alleles, AdhF and AdhS, have been found to be polymorphic in natural populations. First, a competition experiment was carried out between inversion-free AdhF/AdhF and AdhS/AdhS genotypes at five gene frequency levels (those of AdhF = 0.83, 0.67, 0.5, 0.33, and 0.17). First-instar larvae of the two homozygous types in various ratios were placed in a vial, and the frequency of adult flies of each genotype was determined. However, the relative viabilities of these two types did not change with the change in the frequencies of genotypes or genes. The second test was performed by using the results of viability tests with the Cy method of Wallace, using the results of inversion-free crosses only. Although there was variation in the gene frequencies among the vials in testing the viability of individuals consistng of random combinations of two second chromosomes, no difference was found in average viabilities among the vials in which the gene frequencies were different. Thus, no evidence for frequency-dependent selection was obtained.


Isolation and analysis of chemosensory behavior mutants in Drosophila melanogaster.

A behavioral countercurrent paradigm has been developed for assaying the chemotactic responses of wild-type and mutant Drosophila melanogaster adults. Oregon R males avoid both quinine sulfate and NaCl, whereas Oregon R females reject the quinine salt but are attracted to NaCl when tested in this paradigm. Wild-type behavior is sufficiently reproducible to allow identification of mutants affecting chemotaxis, and 12 such mutants, in six complementation groups, have now been isolated. Three of the mutants respond abnormally to NaCl, two in one complementation group with atactic behavior (no chemotaxis) and the other, in a separate group, with a mistactic response (attraction to the stimulus). Four mutants in another group respond mistactically to quinine sulfate. Of the remaining mutants, two in one group behave atactically and three, in two groups, respond mistactically to either chemical stimulus. Several of the mutants also show abnormal behavior in a proboscis extension assay when tested individually with sucrose solutions.


Changes in quaternary structure of IgG upon reduction of the interheavy-chain disulfide bond.

Reduction of the single disulfide bond between heavy chains in the hinge region of rabbit IgG antibody causes destabilization of the CH2 region of the molecule. Our studies indicate that reduced antibody molecules undergo a large change in quaternary structure in the CH2 region upon aggregation with a small bivalent hapten. The conformational change was observed both in hydrodynamic studies and by electron microscopy. The sizes of native and reduced antibody complexes were measured from electron micrographs. These measurements show that reduction of the hinge disulfide allows the CH2 domains of the antibody to separate under the strain induced by complex formation. The Fab arms, which are clearly seen in the electron micrographs of the native complexes, are extended by a portion of the Fc region to effectively become Facb arms in the reduced complexes. The length of the arms is effectively increased by 23 A. This results in a massive alteration in the quaternary structure of the CH2 region of the molecule, and this may be the basis of many of the effects of mild reduction on the various effector functions of the antibody molecule. These findings also support the open structure of the CH2 region proposed on the basis of crystallographic analyses, and they demonstrate how the interheavy-chain hinge disulfide restricts segmental flexibility in the Fc fragment of the IgG molecule.


Regulation of immune response to tumor antigen: interference with syngeneic tumor immunity by anti-IA alloantisera.

We present evidence for a role of I-A subregion-encoded determinants in syngeneic tumor immunity. In animals rendered immune to the S1509a fibrosarcoma, daily treatment with microliter quantities of antisera directed against Kk and I-Ak determinants expressed on lymphoid cells of host origin decreased the capacity for immune tumor rejection. Absorption studies revealed that anti-I-Ak antibody activity alone was sufficient for the manifestation of this effect. Furthermore, experiments utilizing F1 hybrids showed that an antiserum that was genetically unable to interact with H-2 determinants expressed on the tumor was equally effective in inhibiting tumor immunity. Suggestive evidence that the activity of this antiserum is related to interference with the generation of effector T cell function was provided by the observation that hyperimmune animals pretreated with an anti-Kk,I-Ak antiserum were no longer capable of adoptively transferring tumor immunity to naive recipients. Thus, it is possible to regulate the secondary immune response to tumor antigens by using antisera with specificity for I-A determinants expressed on cells or possibly on factors of the host lymphoid system.


Cerebrospinal fluid-, blood-, and ascitis-catecholamines in hepatic cirrhosis.

The consideration of the extensive innervation of liver parenchyma, together with data relating to the degradation of catecholamines in the liver and the importance of hepatic vascular process in hepatic cirrhosis, prompted us to investigate the behaviour of catecholamines in this condition. The following parameters were measured in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), blood and ascitis fluid: total catecholamines, adrenaline and noradrenaline. During hepatic cirrhosis, total catecholamines level in blood, as well as in CSF was reduced. This reduction could be attributed primarily to a decrease in noradrenaline. Since adrenaline remained almost normal, the fraction of adrenaline contributing to total catecholamines increased close to 50%, which is higher than normal. Changes parallel to those found in the blood could be observed also in the ascitis fluid.


The metabolic and functional effects of thyroid hormone excess in rats.

Oral administration of thyroid powder for 21 days produces hyperglycemia, hypocholesterolemia, increase of the energetic metabolism ratio and diminishing of the anaerobic metabolism ratio. Prolonged oral administration (30--45 days) induces involution of the thyroid gland, symptoms of an aggravated thyrotoxic hepatosis, hypoglycemia, hypocholesterolemia, a significant increase of the energetic metabolism and of the anaerobic metabolism ratios.


Potentiation of ethanol withdrawal by prior dependence.

Thirty rats were randomly assigned to three groups. Group 1 was given a 21-day exposure to an ethanol (EtOH) liquid diet, while Groups 2 and 3 were given equivalent amounts of an isocaloric non-EtOH liquid diet. Group 1 rats had withdrawal syndromes following EtOH removal. After a two-week recovery period, Groups 1 and 2 were both exposed to an EtOH diet, while Group 3 again received an isocaloric non-EtOH liquid diet. Groups 1 and 2 were withdrawn after 12 days of EtOH exposure and were rated with a behavioral withdrawal rating scale, for which interobserver reliability estimates were determined. Previously dependent (Group 1) rats showed more severe withdrawal syndromes, including a higher incidence of seizures, than rats undergoing their initial withdrawal (Group 2). Studies that do not agree with this finding are discussed.


Heavy water effects on certain energetic processes in retina.

Heavy water effects on ATP concentration in frog retina were followed up. A substantial (more than 50%) decrease of ATP pools was found in the retina immersed in 2H2O-Ringer as compared to that in H2O-Ringer, which revealed that protons are strongly involved in the cellular energy processes.


Experimental dependence on barbiturates. II. Relationship between drug levels in serum and brain and the development of dependence in rats.

Feeding rats on food containing phenobarbital (PhB) (1 AND 2 mg/g) for 13 consecutive days resulted in the inhibition of motor coordination (by rotarod test) for 7 days, followed by a gradual decrease in the inhibition. PhB level in the serum reached a peak on the third day of feeding and then gradually decreased. PhB level in the brain, unlike that in the serum, gradually increased up to the seventh day and then decreased until the thirteenth day of feeding. Thus, alterations of the inhibited rotarod performance were depended on PhB level in the brain rather than on that in the serum. PhB level in the serum increased parallel to the graded increment in dosage from 0.5 and 1.0 mg/g to 4.0 mg/g, while that in the brain did not increase above the level on the seventh day of feeding on 1 and 2 mg/g food but remained relatively stable. PhB-dependent rats ate small amounts of drug-containing food incessantly day and night, and PhB levels in the serum and brain remained high and stable throughout the day. These phenomena suggest that the development of dependence on PhB is more intimately correlated with the length of application of the drug than with the magnitude of its dosage.


Age differences in the glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity of homogenates from the liver of rats. The effect of gerovital H3 on the glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity.

Studies on liver homogenates obtained from Wistar rats revealed that the ageing process produces the loss of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity and higher values in the thermolabile fraction of this enzyme. The biotrophic treatment with Gerovital H3 has a strong influence upon glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase with tendency to diminish the thermolabile fractions.


An analysis of some perceptual effects of morphine, chlorpromazine, and LSD.

Male albino rats were trained to detect either a pure tone or a weak footshock embedded in white noise by utilizing a discrete-trial two-choice, successive discrimination procedure. The effects of morphine, chlorpromazine (CPZ), and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) were then analyzed on several measures of performance. Morphine (2.5--10 mg/kg) produced a nonspecific decrease in accuracy of discrimination on trials when the stimulus was presented as well as on trials when no stimulus occurred. Morphine was also followed by dose-dependent decreased in speed to initiate trials and by increases in intersubject variability. CPZ (1.0--4.0 mg/kg) caused a decrease in accuracy only on no-stimulus trials and, like morphine decreased speed to initiate trials. LSD (0.04--0.16 mg/kg/ decreased overall accuracy in a nonspecific manner (i.e., when shock and tone discriminations were considered together) and decreased speed by producing periods of nonresponding.


Renal mechanisms in erythropoiesis regulation.

The kidneys, which a high content of renal erythropoietic profactor, represent an important organ in the formation of erythropoietin in hypoxia. There is, however, an extrarenal mechanism, too, for its formation. The mechanism of erythropoietin secretion could be a central nervous action of hypoxia and a direct cellular one. In the first situation, moderate hypoxia acts upon the nervous centers, whose connexions with the effector cells are made by the beta-adrenergic sympathetic nerves, determining the release in certain kidney cells and in structures outside this organ, of the proerythropoietic factor of lysosomal nature. In the second situation, long-term intense hypoxia would exert its action directly on the cells, releasing the profactor participating in the formation of erythropoietin from the kidney lysosomes or those of other organs.


The antinociceptive effect of intracerebroventricularly administered prostaglandin E1 in the rat.

It is generally accepted that prostaglandins (PGs) are nociceptive substances. However, earlier studies from this laboratory indicated that morphine analgesia, in the rat, was not only serotonin mediated, but involved PGs as well. Several PG synthesis inhibitors were shown to inhibit morphine analgesia and PGE1 was shown to potentiate the antinociceptive effect of morphine. Intraperitoneal administration of PGE1, but not PGE2 and PGF2alpha, elicited antinociceptive effect per se, by the radiant heat method. The present study was undertaken to confirm the antinociceptive action of PGE1, after intracerebroventricular administration, against nociceptive impulses induced by radiant heat, pressure, and high frequency electric current. PGE1 produced a dose-dependent antinociceptive effect by the radiant heat and pressure methods. It potentiated the antinociceptive action of morphine by the electrical stimulation method. The antinociceptive action of PGE1 was not evident in 5,6-dihydroxytryptamine-pretreated rats, suggesting that this effect is serotonin mediated. The present study thus confirms the antinociceptive action of PGE1 and suggests that, unlike its peripheral action, the central action of PGE1 results in suppression of nociceptive responses which may be serotonin mediated.


Swimming capacity of mice after prolonged treatment with psychostimulants. II. Effect of methamphetamine on swimming performance and availability of metabolic substrates.

Swimming endurance and availability of metabolic substrates (blood glucose and nonesterified fatty acids [NEFA], liver and muscle glycogen, body fat) were studied in mice treated with 10 microgram/g methamphetamine/day for 6 weeks. At the end of the 6-week treatment, motor coordination of the methamphetamine-treated animals was much better than that of controls, and swimming capacity tended to increase. While swimming, mice treated with methamphetamine mobilized more glycogen from the hepatic stores and utilized glucose more effectively. Their NEFA levels in blood were higher than those of controls. There was no difference in the muscular glycogen content.


Influence of ciclazindol on monoamine uptake and CNS function in normal subjects.

The potential antidepressant drug ciclazindol inhibited dopamine uptake into human platelets without affecting 5-hydroxytryptamine uptake as compared with a control. It inhibited the tyramine pressor response less than desipramine after single 50-mg oral doses in 6 healthy volunteers under double-blind conditions. Compared with tandamine in a double-blind placebo-controlled study in nine healthy subjects, ciclazindol 50 mg orally caused no significant anticholinergic effects but reduced appetite according to an analysis of variance. Nonparametric analysis did not confirm the anorectic effect. Previous studies had shown that ciclazindol increased glucose uptake into isolated human skeletal muscle independently of insulin. Overall, ciclazindol resembles the antiobesity drug mazindol in molecular structure and pharmacological effects in man. Interactions with sympathomimetic amines and adrenergic neurone-blocking drugs cannot be excluded on the basis of these studies.


Drugs and the discrimination of duration.

The effects of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), d-amphetamine (AMP), chlorpromazine (CPZ), and the most active isomer of marihuana (delta9 - THC) on timing behavior were analyzed with a two-choice, discrete trial procedure in which pigeons were trained to discriminate visual stimuli that differed with respect to duration ('long' vs. 'short'). LSD (0.01, 0.04, 0.16 mg/kg) decreased response speed (increased latency), but otherwise had no significant effects on performance of the discrimination. d-Amphetamine (1.0, 2.0, 4.0 mg/kg) increased perseveration of 'spatial bias' and, at a dose of 4.0 mg/kg, lowered response speed. This compound did not significantly alter accuracy (percentage correct). CPZ (7.5, 15.0, 30.0 mg/kg) significantly decreased accuracy and, at a dose of 30.0 mg/kg, significantly lowered speed; THC also decreased accuracy and lowered speed. Neither CPZ nor THC significantly altered perseveration.


Modification of ethanol intoxication by dopamine agonists and antagonists.

The effects of ethanol on locomotor activity and rotarod performance were measured in the rat. Apomorphine (4 mg/kg s.c.) antagonized and pimozide (0.75 - 1.50 mg/kg s.c.) enhanced the effects of a 2 g/kg dose of ethanol on rotarod performance. No such interaction was seen with pentobarbital, 25 mg/kg, a dose sufficiency to produce an equivalent motor performance deficit. Animals with 6-hydroxydopamine lesions of the substantia nigra were more sensitive to the ethanol-induced impairment of rotarod performance and suppression of locomotor activity than shamoperated controls. The pattern of dopamine depletion in lesioned animals indicated a degree of selectivity of the lesion for the nigrostriatal pathway. The results are compatible with the hypothesis that ethanol interferes with dopaminergic transmission, and that such an interference may be involved in the behavioral effects of ethanol.


Drug effects on the performance of pigeons under a negative automaintenance schedule.

Pigeons were exposed to a negative automaintenance schedule in which food was delivered following brief key illumination only if the illuminated key was not contacted; contact of the lighted key prevented food delivery. All subjects emitted some responses under this procedure when drugs were not given. However, the number of responses was less than that which occurred under an automaintenance procedure in which food followed key illumination regardless of the bird's behavior. Under the negative automaintenance procedure, acute administration of atropine (0.01--0.1 mg/kg), d-amphetamine (0.4--1.6 mg/kg), and morphine (3,8--15 mg/kg) reduced in a dose-dependent manner the percentage of key illuminations in which subjects contacted the lighted key. Diazepam (1.0--6.0 mg/kg) increased the percentage of key illuminations during contact responses occurred.


Effects of atenolol and propranolol on human performance and subjective feelings.

In a double-blind, double crossover experiment, 18 healthy young men received over 3-day periods either 100 mg atenolol, 80 mg propranolol, or placebo. The subjects underwent various motor and cognitive tests 18 h after each last dose had been taken. Propranolol significantly increased variability of a choice reaction-time task. Scores on various subjective rating scales showed that propranolol had a larger mood elevating effect than atenolol. Heart rate and blood pressure were significantly reduced 24h after atenolol medication; these effects were absent or reduced after propranolol had been given.


Prostaglandins in the brain of rats given, acutely, and chronically, a hyperthermic dose of met-enkephalin.

An enhanced prostaglandinlike activity is shown in homogenates of brain from rats treated intracerebroventricularly with 100 microgram of metenkephalin. The increase is significantly reduced by naloxone pretreatment. A relationship is proposed between generation of prostaglandins in the brain following met-enkephalin administration and hyperthermic effect of the opiatelike factor in the rat. Normalization of prostaglandinlike activity following chronic administration of met-enkephalin in the rat may also account for the development of tolerance to its thermic effect.


Nephromegaly in hyperalimentation.

Nephromegaly associated with hyperalimentation and its effect on renal function were studied. Renal size was determined in 44 patients receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN). Of 26 patients in whom kidney size could be determined before and during TPN, all but one had normal-size kidneys before TPN. Six had no increase in renal size, and kidneys increased in size in 20. One or both kidneys became abnormally large in 9 patients. There was no detectable change in renal function and kidneys decreased in size upon discontinuation of hyperalimentation. Abnormal renal size bore no relation with weight gain or liver function tests.


The effect of whole-body irradiation on skeletal growth in rhesus monkeys.

Late effects of single whole-body doses of 400--500 and 750--900 rads on skeletal growth in 32 rhesus monkeys were studied. Findings indicated growth inhibition strongly related to dose and age at irradiation. Doses of 750--900 rads before the age of 40 months resulted in significantly greater growth inhibition (11%) than doses given during or shortly after adolescence (p less than 0.005). Doses of less than 750 rads were not significant. In view of the close similarity between monkeys and man, irradiation of children at doses greater than 750 rads may carry a strong risk of subsequent growth retardation.


The vacuum cassette for improved linear accelerator portal films.

The use of a commercially available vacuum cassette with lead screens for linear accelerator portal films is described. The vacuum cassette technique provides improved quality with no increase in patient discomfort or cost and avoids gemoetric distortion, compared to other currently available methods.


Calyceal diverticula in children: unusual features and complications.

Calyceal diverticulum is a relatively rare lesion that is usually asymptomatic but can assume clinical significance if drainage is impaired. Three patients are presented with unusual complications directly referable to a calyceal diverticulum. One child had a mobile calculus. In 2 others, intrarenal inflammatory masses developed in the area previously occupied by a calyceal diverticulum. One of these children had proved xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis, and the other had an infected diverticulum.


Vertebral scalloping in neurofibromatosis.

The classical abnormalities of von Recklinghausen disease (VRD) or neurofibromatosis are well recognized. However, vertebral scalloping and gauge defects of the anterior and lateral aspects have not been reviewed, to the authors' knowledge. Case reports of 3 patients with vertebral scalloping are presented. The classical posterior scalloping from dural ectasia is also discussed. These concavities can occur either in isolation, or contiguous to a tumor. Recognition of them can aid in the diagnosis and evaluation of patients with suspected VRD.


[Laboratory methods used for the screening and the  control of sexually transmitted diseases (author's transl)].

The most currently used methods by laboratories for the screening of sexually transmitted diseases were reviewed by the authors and their comparative reliability and sensitiivity examined. The authors endeavoured to give guidance to physicians and bacteriologists in the choice of available techniques as regards collection sites, transport of specimens, choice of transport media, serological tests for syphilis screening and diagnostic methods for urethritis or non-gonococcal vaginitis.


[Role of epidemiological models in surveillance of communicable diseases (author's transl)].

The interpretation of basic information obtained through surveillance of communicable diseases requires knowledge of the expected trend of the epidemiological phenomena under observation. The more precise the epidemiological forecasts are, the more efficient the methods of surveillance will be. With a few examples the author describes briefly the role of epidemiological models to produce reliable previsions, the principles ruling their construction, their use on computer to simulate known epidemiological situations as well as the impact of interventions on the disease dynamics. Mention is also made of the model contribution to the cost-benefit and cost-effectiveness analyses of control programmes subjected to epidemiological surveillance.


Complications of total abdominal and spleen irradiation in patients with lymphomas.

Fifty patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma were treated with total abdominal irradiation to a dose of 3000 rad by anterior and posterior fields treated the same day. Fourteen patients developed complications, four with intestinal obstruction due to stenosis and three with total or partial intestinal irradiation damage. These bowel complications were only seen in patients who had previously had a laparotomy. The ways of preventing these complications are discussed. We have studied renal function by means of clinical examination, biologic and radiologic investigations, and scanning in 75 patients who have received splenic irradiation to a dose of 4000 rad. With a mean follow-up time of 36 months, this study has shown that there was no significant change in blood pressure or in biochemical measurements. However, at the 17th month, nephrotomograms demonstrated cortical atrophy of the upper role of the kidney; at the 8th month, low uptake in the irradiated area was seen on 197Hg neohydrine scanning and a decrease in renal plasma flow in the left kidney during dynamic studies with Hippuran.


Staging of myeloma. A preliminary study of staging factors and treatment in different stages.

Attempts were made to find prognostic factors in myeloma. In 16 deceased patients, urinary light chains, skeletal lesions, and the quantity of the monoclonal protein fraction in the serum were correlated to prognosis, in contrast to the electrophoretic mobility of the monoclonal fraction, the hemoglobin, the serum creatinine value, the serum calcium, or the intestinal calcium absorption. Skeletal calcium uptake was only numerically higher in mild myeloma than in advanced myeloma. Since these findings partially agreed with the staging procedure previously proposed by Salmon, a modification of this procedure was used to stage 50 myeloma patients. Survival was statistically significantly shorter in stage III than in stage I. A differentiated treatement with melphalan-prednisone in stage I, cytoxan infusions in stage II, and vincristine-cytoxan-prednisone in stage III is proposed. A preliminary comparison of nine patients in stage II-III given intensive treatment with 23 given melphalan-prednisone suggests a numerically, but not as yet a statistically significant increase in survival in the intensively treated group, which seems to have an 80% 2-year survival.


Thyrotropin and prolactin in patients with hypothalamus-pituitary diseases.

Seventy patients with hypothalamus-pituitary diseases were studied. 13 of them were studied before surgical treatment and then 15-20 days and 6 months later. A comparison was made with 59 controls. In all these subjects PRL and TSH were studied under basal conditions and after TRH stimulation. As for TSH the highest percentage of abnormal responses was found in the group of patients with chromophobe adenoma and parasellar dysplasias. This area of the pituitary appears relatively undamaged in acromegalic patients. In clinically hypothyroid patients, normal or high TSH responses to TRH were often found. As for PRL, a hyperprolactinaemia was mostly found in the group of patients with chromophobe adenoma, parasellar dysplasias and craniopharyngioma, although there was a different pattern in the TSH responses. No correlation was found between the basal PRL levels and the TSH responses to TRH. There was no significant difference in the TSH responses of the patients with PRL secreting and non-secreting chromophobe adenomas. The hypothesis of two autonomous systems is supported by the finding of differences in the functional recovery of the two pituitary areas studied at different times after surgical treatment.


Purification and characterization of lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase.

The purification of lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT] from human plasma is reported. Hydroxylapatite fractions were approximately 16,000 fold purified over the starting plasma and were free of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and albumin. The enzyme showed one band on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, SDS-urea polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, isoelectric focusing, and one arc in immunodiffusion against a goat antiserum preparation. It was determined to be a glycoprotein with a molecular weight of approximately 70,000 and a pI of 3.7--4.0.


Immunological evaluation of LCAT deficiency.

Antibody towards a highly purified LCAT preparation was tested against LCAT-deficient sera by using the technic of immunodiffusion and immunoinhibition. Reaction of identity among normal serum, deficient sera, and purified LCAT was observed in immunodiffusion with two different antibodies obtained from two different goats. When the antibodies were mixed with deficient sera and tested for immunoinhibition of LCAT activity, suggesting that deficient sera contained an enzymatically inactive LCAT. The other antibody preparation showed inhibition of enzyme activity even in antigen excess. It appears that the precipitin lines observed in immunodiffusion do not represent LCAT in serum. In view of the higher titre of antibody in immunoinhibition experiments with this antibody, it remains to be determined whether at lower ratios of antibody to deficient serum, immunoinhibition by the antibody will be abolished in this case too.


Demonstration of actin in oral epithelial cells.

Two human sera with antibodies against smooth muscle were used to investigate the distribution of actin in moving oral epithelial cells by immunocytochemical methods. Epithelial outgrowths from explants of rat and human oral mucosa  showed a constant positive staining in the peripheral parts of the marginal cells but not in the more central parts of the epithelial sheet. This is in agreement with theories of the importance of the marginal cells in the migratory behavior of the epithelial outgrowth. Subcultured epithelial cells from the human explants showed positive staining of fine fibers in the cytoplasm. During healing of experimental oral wounds from humans and monkeys actin fibers could be demonstrated in only one of 18 cases in the epithelial cells adjacent to the wound, though positive staining of various cells was seen in the underlying tissue. This is in contrast to the evidence presented in previous studies of cells taking part in the re-epithelialization process.


Actions of thyrotropin-releasing hormone on the gastrointestinal function in man. II. Inhibition of pentagastrin-stimulated acid secretion.

The pentagastrin-stimulated gastric volume and acid output were measured with and without an i.v. thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) infusion (666 microgram/h). TRH inhibited the pentagastrin (6 microgram/kg s.c.) stimulated volume to 67.5 +/- 8.4% (p less than 0.01) and the acid output to 65 +/- 8.4% of control infusion values (mean +/- S.E.M.). It is concluded that TRH inhibits the pentagastrin-stimulated gastric secretion in man.


Microbial composition of monkey dental plaque (Macaca arctoides and Macaca fascicularis).

The supragingival and subgingival dental plaque flora of Macaca arctoides and Macaca fascicularis monkeys were examined using mylar strip impressions, direct smears, and culture techniques. In smears, samples generally contained 40--50% cocci, 20--30% rods 8--20% fusiform bacteria, and 4--5% each of filaments, vibrios and spirochetes. Differences in the ratios of the various bacterial groups related to age and sex were found. Several monkey bacterial species were similar to those in human dental plaque. The present results indicate that the Macaca female monkey can be a suitable animal model for the experimental studies of dental diseases.


The VkVI subgroup of rabbit light chains: complete amino acid sequence of a third variable region (K29-213).

The amino acid sequence of the variable region of a rabbit anti-streptococcal A-variant antibody light chain was determined. By using a combination of different cleavage methods, the sequence was established. Large peptides were sequenced in an extensively modified Beckman sequentor. Light chain K29-213 belongs to a rare subgroup (kVI). Several of these light chains of antibodies with different specificities have been totally or partially sequenced. Comparison of these light chains reveals at least four germ-line-encoded variants within this subgroup.


Cross-reactions between mycobacteria. II. Crossed immunoelectrophoretic analysis of soluble antigens of BCG and comparison with other mycobacteria.

Cross-reactions between Mycobacterium bovis BCG and various other mycobacteria, Nocardia asteroides, Corynebacterium pyogenes and Listeria monocytogenes were studied by incorporating antibodies against these bacteria in the intermediate gel of a crossed immunoelectrophoretic system with BCG antigen and anti-BCG antibodies. In the BCG reference system forty-four distinct antigenic components were recorded, of which thiryt-three cross-reacted with Mycobacterium tuberculosis, twenty-five with M. avium, twenty-one with M. suvalii, eighteen with M. smegmatis, Fifteen with M. nonchromogenicum, twelve with M. phlei, eight with N. anteroides and two with C. pyogenes, whereas no cross-reaction was detected with L. monocytogenes. The value of the method for characterization of mycobacterial antigens is discussed. A taxonomic system based on this method appears particularly valuable for studies of non-cultivativable mycobacteria such as M. leprae. A majority of twenty-one patients with lepromatous leprosy had anti-BCG antibodies of restricted specificity, affecting only four or five BCG antigens, although one patient had twelve anti-BCG specificities. Most of these antibodies reacted with those BCG antigens that cross-react extensively with other mycobacteria.


[Conspicuous accumulation of membranous glomerulonephritis following gold therapy in chronic polyarthritis--a side effect of a new preparation?].

The development of severe proteinuria or nephrotic syndrome as an adverse reaction to gold therapy in rheumatoid arthritis is well known. Morphologic examination reveals membranous glomerulonephritis in almost all cases. Since the beginning of 1978 there has been a striking increase in the number of such cases seen at this institute. 5 patients aged from 17 to 65 years who had been treated with sodium aurothiomalate for rheumatoid arthritis developed severe proteinuria. In all cases only minimal glomerular changes were observable by light microscopy. Electron microscopy demonstrated multiple electrondense, subepithelial deposits which were confirmed by fluorescence microscopy. In all cases characteristic lysosomes ("aurosomes") were demonstrated in the cytoplasm, mainly of the epithelial glomerular cells. This unusual accumulation of almost identical cases coincides with the introduction of a new gold preparation, Na-aurothiomalate (Tauredon), containing 46% metallic gold.


beta-Galactosidase and selective neutrality.

Three hypotheses to explain the amino acid composition of proteins are inconsistent (P congruent to 10(-9) with the experimental data for beta-galactosidase from Escherichia coli. The exceptional length of this protein, 1021 residues, permits rigorous tests of these hypotheses without complication from statistical artifacts. Either this protein is not at compositional equilibrium, which is unlikely from knowledge about other proteins, or the evolution of this protein and its coding gene have not been selectively neutral. However, the composition of approximately 60 percent of the molecule is consistent with either a selectively neutral or nonneutral evolutionary process.


Low-dose versus high-dose insulin therapy for diabetic ketoacidosis.

The effects of low-dose continuous insulin therapy were compared to those of high-dose subcutaneous and intravenous insulin therapy in six episodes of diabetic ketoacidosis. Time for correction of acidosis, ketosis, and hyperglycemia were similar for both regimens. The high-dose method required more exogenous glucose and supplemental potassium to avoid hypoglycemia and/or hypokalemia during treatment. Levels of cortisol, human growth hormone, and glucagon, initially elevated in most patients, showed a progressive decline with both modes of therapy. Plasma insulin remained remarkably stable during both treatment regimens, but remained within the physiologic range only in patients receiving low-dose therapy. Our study suggest that either modality is effective in the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis.


Unusual amniotic fluid spectral analysis in Rh sensitization.

In our experience delta 450 millimicron OD measurements have shown a progressive decline during the latter half of gestation in pregnancies unaffected by fetal hemolytic disease. However, we have seen two Rh-negative patients in whom there was a rise in delta 450 millimicron OD between 24 and 27 weeks' gestation and who subsequently bore Rh-negative infants. In these two cases the increase between 24 and 27 weeks was from approximately 0.140 to about 0.200. Both infants were unaffected with fetal hemolytic disease. Therefore, we recommend caution in interpreting modest increases in delta 450 millimicron OD during this period of gestation.


Antibacterial activity of nitroxoline and sulphamethizole alone and in combination in urinary tract infections.

In vitro studies on the antibacterial activity of nitroxoline and sulphamethizole, alone and in combination, were undertaken and minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) determined on a range of urinary pathogens. Eighty per cent of the strains tested were sensitive to less than or equal to 16 mg/l of nitroxoline, and all strains, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Streptococcus faecalis, were sensitive to less than or equal to 64 mg/l of nitroxoline. No synergism could be demonstrated with sulphamethizole, but the combination was antagonistic when tested against strains of Ps. aeruginosa and Strep. faecalis. An in vivo study on 10 volunteers showed excellent urinary levels of nitroxoline and sulphamethizole after an oral dose of 160 mg of each agent, and 6-hour urinary nitroxoline levels were greater than or equal to 64 mg/l in 9 of the 10 subjects, and sulphamethizole levels were greater than or equal to 64 mg/l in all 10 subjects. Laboratory findings suggest that nitroxoline and sulphamethizole are both suitable agents for use in urinary tract infections caused by organisms sensitive to these agents, but there appears to be litte advantage in using them in combination.


Characterization and experimental use of a monospecific antiserum to factor IX.

Purified human factor IX was used to develop xenogeneic neutralizing and precipitating antibodies. The final antiserum (R2) neutralized only factor IX and was equivalent to 220 Bethesda-inhibitory units. It showed two precipitating lines, one of which disappeared after absorption with human albumin. On immunodiffusion and Laurell immunoelectrophoresis, the albumin-absorbed R2 antiserum showed one precipitin line of identity, or one rocket respectively, with normal plasma, a Red Cross factor IX preparation (rich in factors IX, II and X), the original antigen, and Hemophilia-B antigen-positive plasmas. No line or rocket developed with normal plasma absorbed with aluminum hydroxide or with antigen-negative contained only factor IX neutralizing and precipitating antibodies. Experiments with various factor IX concentrates revealed that the majority contained excess factor IX antigen compared to their coagulant activity. In addition, crossed antigen-antibody electrophoresis uncovered differences in the migration of the factor IX of Konyne preparations, when done in the presence of EDTA or calcium. This monospecific antiserum to human factor IX was subsequently used to investigate a large population of hemophilia B patients and carriers.


Activation of classical complement pathway by naturally occurring heteroantibodies in normal rabbit serum. Effect on subpopulations of human lymphoid cells.

Heteroantibodies present in normal rabbit serum (NRS) are toxic to human B lymphocytes, T lymphocytes, and monocytes. Even NRS, which exhibits little back ground cytotoxicity for human lymphoid cells in conventional HLA or B-cell lymphocytotoxic assays, can be shown to contain considerable activity by making two modifications in usual procedures: by washing cells in saline or balanced salt solutions devoid of protein or sugar substances, and by increasing incubation time for 1 h to 3--4 h. Using such modifications, the cytotoxic activity of NRS towards human lymphoid cells was investigated and was found to involve activation of the classical complement pathway rather than activation of the alternate complement pathway. Residual unwanted background cytotoxicity of NRS toward human lymphoid cells can be decreased without loss of desired complement activity either by heating NRS for 15 min at 50 degrees C or by mixing NRS with small amounts of normal human serum.


Carcinoma in diverticulum of female urethra.

A case of female urethral diverticulum is reported by the authors. It is a rare disease and about 31 cases have previously been described. An analysis is made in relation to the diverticulum of the urethra and to female urethral carcinoma. Emphasis is given on the semiology and the recently acquired diagnostic procedures, as these have led to an increased number of recognized cases. In the case presented, an extended resection and a definitive urinary derivation was performed, together with chemo- and radiotherapy. A follow-up of 2.5 years showed no signs of recurrence or metastases.


[Insertion and removal of intravaginal tampons during estrus synchronization in heifers].

In eight trials, 197 heifers were synchronized with gestagen chlorsuperlutin (CSL). The intravaginal tampons soaked with chlorsuperlutin were introduced in the vagina by means of an applier by a vaginal speculum. Silon threads were attached to the tampons, by which they were pulled out after treatment. The mentioned method of application removes the great physical exertion needed for manual application and increases labour productivity in tampon application by about 200%. The hazard of tampon contamination is reduced to the minimum. Of the two tampon types tested (ester and ether type) the ester type was found to be better for not needing sterilization if the disinfectant Aseptin is dropped upon it prior to application. The retention of the tampons was 94.9%. Eighty-four per cent of the retained tampons could be removed by pulling the silon threads. About 40 to 60% of CSL is excreted from the tampons during the treatment. If the initial content of CSL is increased, its excretion is raised as well.


[Cattle vaccination against Q fever in the rural district of Bratislava].

Cattle attendants on two farms in the Outer Bratislava district showed symptoms of Q-fever. The blood of the cows in these farms was found to contain antibodies to Coxiella burnetti and the causative agent of the disease was detected in milk samples of aborting cows by biological assays on hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus). The naturally invaded dairy cows with antibodies in the blood and heifers without antibodies were vaccinated with different doses of inactivated suspension of C. burnetii in stage I. A different antibody reaction to vaccination was obtained after the application of a four-fold amount of vaccine. It was proved that the animals did not excrete the causative agent of the infection even after administration of lower doses of the vaccine on the 120th day after vaccination.


[Role of metal ions in the catalytic activity of Aspergillus oryzae aminopeptidase].

The paper deals with the role of metals in the catalytic action of Asp. oryzae aminopeptidase. Cobalt ions are more specific activators than Mn2+ and Mn2+ and evoke its maximal activity. Sinergic activation of Co2+ in combination with Mn2+ and Mg2+ was not found in contrast to some aminopeptidases of animal origin. Activation of the enzyme with cobalt chloride depends on temperature. By the 10th minute of incubation the activation reaches its maximum: 650 and 900% at 20 and 40 degrees C, respectively. EDTA (10(-2) M) inactivates completely aminopeptidase for 3h; this process is intensified in the presence of leucine (10(-3) M). Aminopeptidase is also inactivated by chelating agents, such as o-phenantroline and 2,2'-dipyridyl. When the temperature rises from 20 to 40 degrees C the intensification of these reagents effect is insignificant. Cobalt ions reduce and activate to some extent the enzyme after inhibition with EDTA.


[Monitoring the helmintological situation in a large-scale reproduction of pigs].

In 1976 to 1978, the occurrence of helminths in a large reproduction herd of pigs was studied in different age categories of the animals kept. Six helminth species were found in 30.7% of the sows: Ascaris suum (6.6%), Oesophagostomum dentatum (24.0%), Hyostrongylus rubidus (3.3%), Trichocephalus suis (1.3%), Strongyloides ransomi (0.7%), Metastrongylus sp. (0.3%). Four- to seven-month-old auction gilts had only the eggs of A. suum (4% of all cases). No helminith eggs were found in fattened piglets. Breeding boars were invaded by the species O. dentatum, H. rubidus and Metastrongylus sp. In elite herds and in gilts introduced from these herds, a higher extensity of invasion by different helminth species was found during quarantine and the findings even included the eggs of the species Capillaria sp. The anthelmintic effectiveness of Helmirazin (SpOFA) was also tested: in A. suum its effectiveness was 77.1%, in O. dentatum 66.2%, in T. suis the  preparation remained ineffective. The technology of large-scale pig breeding under the conditions of reproduction herd of the PM-013-AGP type appears to be suitable from the helminthological points of view. In the planned introduction of animals from other breeding establishments it is necessary to subject the gilts to double treatment with an effective anthelmintic.


[A new method of therapy for branchiobdellosis in crayfish].

Crayfish (Astacus fluviatilis Fabricius, 1793) were treated three times with a bath of diluted ammonia water and proflavine for four and six minutes at a temperature of 18 degrees C to get rid of the ectoparasitic worms of Branchiobdella parasita Henle, 1835; the hatching ability of the Branchiobdella parasita eggs was stopped after the treatment. No lethal effect of the bath on the crayfish of 5 to 14 cm was observed, the lethal effect on the young crayfish borne on the uropods of the female crayfish cannot be eliminated: during the baths the young crayfish died (the death rate was approximately 6% of the average fertility of crayfish); the young crayfish may have been damaged during the treatment operations with the crayfish. The bath of diluted ammonia water and proflavine may be recommended for the treatment of branchiobdellosis in crayfish to be planted, or after several-hour storage of crayfish supplied to the market. One replication of the above cycle is sufficient according to the results obtained. The ammonia content in the ammonia water depends also on the duration of storage and on the storage temperature--it can drop during the storage. Therefore the ammonia water should be used as soon as possible after the despatchment from the place of production; the ammonia content should be determined by means of titration before preparing the bath, and according to this content the dilution ratio should be adjusted.


[Characteristics of protein-protease inhibitors, 17-beta estradiol and progesterone in the blood of heifers returning to estrus following LH/FSH-RH treatment].

Tests were performed to study the inhibitive capacity of protein-protease inhibitors, 17-beta estradiol, and progesterone in the blood serum of 21 heifers returning to oestrus which had been treated intramuscularly with 400 microgram LH/FSH-RH. Four selected heifers were examined as to the relationships between the concentrations of 17-beta estradiol, progesterone and the inhibitive capacity of the serum. Heifer no. 1 had low concentrations of 17-beta estradiol and higher concentrations of progesterone (average levels 7.8 and 657.4 pg ml-1 of serum). On the other hand, heifer no. 4 was found to have higher concentration of 17-beta estradiol and lower values of progesterone (average levels 28.3 and 325 pg ml-1 of serum). Having shown heat, the heifers were fertilized and remained in calf. Heifer no. 2 with a low concentration of progesterone (292 pg ml-1 of serum) and 17-beta estradiol (12.4 pg ml-1 of serum), as well as heifer no. 3 with a high concentration of both (830 pg ml-1 of serum and 22.7 pg ml-1 of serum, respectively) showed no heat and they were not mated. Heifers with significant differences in the concentrations of progesterone and 17-beta estradiol and with low values of protein-protease inhibitory capacities remained in-calf, whereas heifers with lower progesterone and 17-beta estradiol values, or adversely, with higher inhibition values, showed no heat. Synthetic LH/FSH-RH was found not to increase the amount of protein-protease inhibitors in heifer serum, as distinct from the cervical mucus of breeding cows treated with gestagens in heat synchronization.


[Seasonal dynamics in the occurrence of bovine trichophytosis and human dermatomycosis in Czechoslovakia].

The occurrence of the outbreaks of bovine trichophytosis and numbers of people affected by this disease in the Czech Socialist Republic were studied in 1966 to 1977. The effectiveness of the preventive and therapeutic measures against the causative agents of the disease is proved by a marked drop of the number of outbreaks in all months in the mentioned period. The greatest drop was in March (74.9) and April (70.1 annually) and lowest in June to August (24.6 to 27.8 annually). Despite the drop of the number of trichophytosis outbreaks, the number of ill animals slightly rose (+402 heads). The slow decrease of the number of trichophytosis outbreaks in summer requires more intensive therapeutic and preventive activity. Summer emptying of stables, supporting the devitalization of dermatophytes, should be used in the sanitation of the houses. The highest monthly seasonal indices of bovine trichophytosis were found in May and April (more than 13% above the annual average), and the lowest in December (23% below the average) and in November (12.5% below the average). The seasonal occurrence of dermatomycoses in man does not coincide with the seasonal occurrence of the disease in cattle. The seasonal index is at its maximum in winter (January-March), reaching 13-15% above the average. The lowest value of the seasonal index was found in August (20% below the long-term average).


[Age and season related dynamics of vitamin E levels in the serum of young cattle from birth to the age of 22 months].

The dynamics of serum vitamin E levels in heifers was followed for 22 months. We found that calves were born with a very low, almost nil, content of this vitamin (on an average 0.029 mg%) as a result of the limited diaplacental transfer from the mother to the fetus. In the following period of extrauterine life and growing up of the young cattle conspicuous age dynamics was recorded which is, however, linked or affected by the seasons. Colostral nutrition which is reflected in the increasing serum concentration of vitamin E has an important role. After the change from winter feeding rations to summer feed, consisting mainly of grazing, a marked increase in the serum concentration of vitamin E with an apex was observed, i.e. with the maximum mean value in November. In relation to the age of animals the highest concentration of vitamin E in the blood serum of heifers was recorded, expressed as mean values toward the end of our observations (0.736 mg%), i.e. in the period of sexual maturity; it equalled the concentration of vitamin E determined in cows.


[Selenium dynamics in the blood of lambs from birth to weaning using traditional rearing technics].

The dynamics of selenium in the blood serum of 20 lambs of the Merino breed, traditionally reared, was followed from birth to weaning at the age of 110 days. Results of the observations revealed that the highest concentration of serum selenium was determined in lambs just after delivery (0.25 ppm) and the level was maintained throughout the period of colostral nutrition. In the period between the 15th and 60th day low selenium values (0.06-0.13 ppm) were recorded, which implies a critical period in relation to the origin of muscular dystrophy. At the end of the observations there appeared a significant selenium content increase in the blood serum of lambs.


[Effect of bovine hypodermosis on various health indicators of milk in first-calvers].

The effect of the last developmental phase of the warble fly (Hypoderma bovis de Greer) larvas was studied as exerted on some health indices of milk in 20 experimental (treated) and 18 control (untreated) first-calvers of the Pinzgau breed at two localities of an area affected by bovine hypodermosis in the period from May to June, 1975. The preparation Hypocid, at a dose of 15 ml per 100 kg of body weight, was applied externally in the lumbosacral region to the experimental animals in November, 1974. Throughout the experimental period (61 days) the milk was repeatedly examined bacteriologically and cytologically, the content of chlorides and the milk electric conductivity were determined. In none of the followed health indices of milk were significant differences in the values obtained from experimental and control first-calvers proved statistically.


[Seasonal changes in spermatozoas and fertility of stallions in the tropics].

An attempt was made to express the relationship of spermiological characteristics with the fertility on the basis of seasonal variability of the fertility of stallions and of the ejaculate quality. A positive correlation between the activity of spermatozoa and the fertility ensues from the values of correlation coefficients. There is a negative correlation between the fertility and the concentration of citric acid. In the other characteristics, i.e. in the production of spermatozoa, volume of gel substance, pH, ergothioneine concentration, polarographic and hemolytic activity, the correlation coefficients were very low. It is assumed that these characteristics may influence the livability and preservation of the sperm, but they do not affect its fertilizing ability.


[Determination of aflatoxins in cheeses].

To investigate cheeses for the presence of aflatoxins we chose the very sensitive method of Tuinstra and Bronsgeest (1975) used for the determination of aflatoxin M1 in milk. The method was slightly modified and the presence of aflatoxins was determined in 54 samples of different cheeses. Aflatoxin M1 was found out in 24% of the investigated samples. Most of positive samples were found among the soft cheeses (53.8 3/4), then in processed cheeses (13.6%) and in hard cheeses (12.5%). Aflatoxin M1 was not found in the group of mouldy cheeses and Olomouc cake cheeses, which were investigated in a smaller range. Positive findings did not exceed concentrations of 10 ng per kg, i.e. they did not even reach the value of permissible concentration as proposed in the Czech Socialist Republic for foods (5 microgram per kg).


[Effect of noradrenaline and serotonin on glycogen metabolism in rat tissues].

Effects of biogenic amines--noradrenaline and serotonin--on phosphorylase, acid alpha-glucosidase (gamma-amilase), glycogen synthetase as well as on content of glycogen in rat liver tissue, heart and skeletal muscles were studied in vivo. Administration of noradrenaline and serotonin led to activation of phosphorylase in liver tissue, heart and skeletal muscles. Noradrenaline, administered into rats, caused a decrease in activity of acid alpha-glucosidase in heart and liver tissues and did not affect the enzymatic activity in skeletal muscles. Serotonin did not cause any effect on the activity of acid alpha-glucosidase in all the tissues studied. After administration of both amines inhibition of glycogen synthetase occurred in heart muscle, whereas the enzymatic activity was unaltered in skeletal muscles and liver tissue. Content of glycogen was decreased in heart muscle of the rats in which noradrenaline was administered. Content of glycogen was increased after serotonin administration in similar experiments. In liver tissue both amines caused a decrease in glycogen concentration and did not affect its content in skeletal muscles. Possible interrelationship is discussed between phosphorolysis and hydrolysis of glycogen under conditions of myocardial hypoxia, caused by noradrenaline administration.


[Neural regulation of the activity of energy metabolism enzymes in differently functioning rabbit skeletal muscles].

Activities of phosphorylase, hexokinase and pyruvate kinase were studied in soluble fraction of cells from dissimilarly acting sceletal muscles of intact rabbits and from those tissues with impaired neural impulsation (denervation, experimental allergic neuritis). Activity of phosphorylase was found to be 2.2-fold higher and of hexokinase--4-fold lower in soluble fraction of quick muscle as compared with that of slow muscle. Due to denervation these differences were smoothed off. The same alterations in hexokinase activity were observed in muscles of rabbits with experimental allergic neuritis both after impairment of sensitive innervation and after denervation.


Tk polyagglutination associated with reduced A and H activity.

Tk polyagglutinable erythrocytes are described in which A and H activities were reduced. It is suggested that Bacteroides fragilis isolated from cultures of the patient's blood was responsible for each of these membrane modifications.


A study of different rhesus phenotypes and their binding characteristics.

A method has been developed using the Auto Analyzer to study the binding characteristics of anti-D with cells of various rhesus phenotypes. A positive association has been demonstrated between site density and association constant. A hypothesis is proposed for the presence of two types of antigenic sites on the cell surface recognised only by affinity difference. The high affinity site binds both arms of an IgG anti-D molecule, whereas the low affinity site binds only one.


[Radioimmunologic method of determining 11 steroids in small samples of monkey blood plasma].

A radioimmunological method is described for simultaneous estimation of hestagenes, estrogenes, androgenes and their precursors in small samples of blood plasma obtained from peripheric blood of hamadryads (Papio hamadryas) and macaques (Macaca rhesus). Use of highly specific antisera and of chromatographic isolation of each steroid on columns with celite enabled to estimate the concentration of 11 steroids in 1.1 ml of blood plasma with high accuracy. Standard curve and analysis of its linearity were carried out in the coordinate system logit-log.


Production of plasma with high anti-D concentration in Rh-negative volunteers.

63 Rh-negative male volunteers were immunized with D-positive red cells. 28 (44%) produced anti-D. To provide sustained levels of high concentration of anti-D, 18 of the 28 male volunteers have received repeated antigenic stimuli at individual intervals of 2-9 months. In all but 1 case the level of anti-D rose to between 30 and 300 microgram/ml and persisted at this level for several years. There was no evidence of a decrease in antibody response with an increase in the number of stimuli. 24 Rh-negative women immunized by pregnancy were restimulated. 16 achieved anti-D concentrations over 21 microgram/ml. The levels achieved were not influenced by the different D-positive cells injected, nor were larger antigenic doses of any benefit. No untoward clinical reactions occurred as a result of the repeated injections of antigenic material or of long-term plasmapheresis. 2 volunteers developed unwanted antibodies outside the Rh-system. Beginning in 1968, the programme to obtain anti-D plasma has yielded more than 70,000 doses of 250 microgram each, permitting the treatment of all Rh-negative women at risk.


Efficacy of 100 microgram (250 IU) anti-D IgG in the prevention of Rh-haemolytic disease.

In the years 1975-1976, 6,766 unselected (ABO compatible and incompatible) primigravidae parturients with uncomplicated delivery were given 100 microgram (250 IU) anti-D IgG. A total of 4,473 presented for the 6-month control examination. IAGT was positive in 5 cases (0.11%). The 200 microgram (500 IU) dose was administered to 1,543 women. Of these, 962 presented for serological control. IAGT was positive in 1 case (0.10%). The difference is not significant. The findings support the results of previous studies suggesting that 100 microgram anti-D is a sufficient dose to prevent immunization in uncomplicated deliveries.


The challenge of nutritional maintenance in cancer patients.

Weight loss and cachexia frequently accompany malignant disease and its treatment. Semistarvation is common in patients in hospital and in patients with cancer as well. Adequate nutrition is essential in treatment of malignant conditions. Patients and families as well as the medical community should use a comprehensive approach to improving the caloric and protein intake of patients who are still able to benefit from oral intake and further therapy.


[Radiotherapy of cancer of the uterine cervix (author's transl)].

A general introduction is followed by a discussion of the results obtained with radiotherapy in cancer of the uterine cervix. Different radiotherapeutic procedures, treatment planning and dosimetric practices, reactions due to irradiation, results and complications are mentioned.


[Modern trends in vaccination policy: evaluation of benefits, risks and cost (author's transl)].

A number of newly-developed vaccines are available nowadays, whilst others, which are well-established, have been improved. The collection of epidemiological data, however, is equally important in assessing and providing insight into prophylactic measures. The beneficial effects and risks of vaccination may be calculated by special formulae. Changes in the effect of vaccines can be detected by constant reevaluation of the epidemiological situation by means of these formulae. Another possibility lies in the calculation of the borderline number of complications of a certain disease when the risks of the sequelae of the disease or of the vaccination are about equal. Examples of valuable and recommendable vaccinations are vaccination against measles, poliomyelitis, tetanus and tick-borne encephalitis. A follow-up of the case mortality of whooping-cough in Austria over the past 15 years and a consideration of the fatal complications of vacinnation, as quoted by Ehrengut, reveals that the risks of the disease balanced the risks of vaccination with usual vaccines, already in 1971 (1976 with WHO data). A beneficial effect of BCG vaccination is still present, but the influence on mortality figures is very slight only. However, the benefit of BCG may lie in the prevention of deaths from leukaemia observed by some authors. Paraspecific effects of some vaccinations are mentioned. Finally, cost-benefit calculations for Austria are presented in the case of vaccination against measles and mumps, which appear to be highly recommendable, not only from the medical, but also the economic point of view.


[Age dependent structural changes in non collagen proteins and their consequences in protein turnover degradative rate (author's transl)].

During the aging process the occurence of proteins with physico-chemical properties different from their juvenile counterparts are observed in many organisms. The probable molecular mechanisms of such variations are reviewed. Although no direct evidence could be found in the literature for an altered breakdown rate of such a single "old" protein, the possible influence of this kind of modifications in protein molecules on their over all degradative rate is discussed.


[The conservative treatment of acute pancreatitis in the Federal Republic of Germany in 1977 (author's transl)].

A questionnaire on the conservative treatment of acute pancreatitis was answered by 312 surgical [n = 139] and medical [n = 173] departments from all over Western Germany and from West-Berlin. Nearly total positive agreement was found about routine administration of parenteral fluids and on the prohibition of oral food and fluids. The application of glucocorticoids, glucagon, heparin in small doses and of a carboanhydrase inhibitor [Diamox] is rejected by most of the departments. Renal failure is treated in 63% by hemodialysis and in 37% by peritoneal dialysis. There is great disagreement between the answers about the administration of atropine, antacids and aprotinin [Trasylol]. Antibiotics are applied routinely by 63% of the surgical and 70% of the medical departments.


[Postcoital contraception in primates. II. Examination of STS 153 and STS 287 as interceptives in the baboon (Papio hamadryas)].

The interceptive activity of 2 new synthesized steroid compounds: STS 153 (17 beta-Phenylaminocarbonyloxy-estra-1,3,5(10)-triene-3-methyl ether and STS 287 (16 alpha-Bromo-17 beta-[N',N'-dimethylhydrazino]-carbonyloxy-estra-1,3,5(10)-triene-3-methyl ether) and of 17 alpha-Ethynylestradiol was investigated in baboons.--Postcoital oral administration of 1--3 mg/kg b. w. STS 153 for 5--7 days and of 1 mg/kg b. w. STS 287 for 5 days resulted in a fertility inhibition of about 90% and 95% respectively. A dose of 2 mg/kg b. w. of ethynylestradiol was necessary to attain complete fertility inhibition. Following administration of STS 153 and STS 287, side effects were not observed. Pharmacokinetic aspects are discussed.


[Ultrasonic symptoms of intrauterine metabolic disorders].

The authors compared the ultrasonic biometrical dates of 1457 normal fetuses with the values found in 49 cases of Rh-isoimmunisation, 37 cases of maternal diabetes mellitus and 48 cases of toxaemic pregnancies. They led to the conclusion that the disorders detected by the ultrasound examination present other sequence in developing according to the different diseases. The ultrasound examination can recognise first of all those disorders which caused by chronic diseases and conditions. In these cases the ultrasound examination can give essential support to determine the optimal time finishing the pregnancy.


[Antibody induced phase variation in Pseudomonas aeruginosa (author's transl)].

To extend the flagella specific H antigenic schema of P. aeruginosa (ANSORG, 1978), investigations are carried out to reveal phase variation in this species as in Salmonella or Arizona. With conventional methods, i.e. examination of single colonies after plating the cultures on standard nutrient agar or the phase reversal techniques of Craigie (1931) and Gard (1938) by adding homologous anti-OH-serum of different amounts in semisolid agar medium, no change of the flagellar antigens of various P. aeruginosa strains is observed using the indirect fluorescent antibody technique. When subcultivated in pure homologous anti-OH-serum, however, the cells express stepwise a second H phase, which is different from the original flagellar antigens. In control experiments with serum from non-immunized rabbits the original flagellar antigens remain constant. The phase variation affects only the H antigen, is reversible by cultivation on soft agar medium and is characterized by the nonspecific type-overlapping antigen u. After absorption of immunserum prepared with cells cultivated in homologous anti-OH-serum by cells cultivated on soft agar medium, an antiserum specific for factor u is obtained. Since fresh isolates do not react with anti-u-serum, the diphasic nature of P. aeruginosa is probably of minor significance for H typing in practice.


A simple micro agar diffusion method for the determination of antibiotic concentrations in blood and other body fluids.

A micro agar diffusion method to determine antibiotic levels in only 0.02 ml of serum is described. With this technique, standard curves for Ampicillin, Penicillin G, Gentamicin, Tetracycline HCl and Amphotericin B were calculated. The method displays a good reproducibility with an error of less than 10%. To compare this technique with a conventional macro agar diffusion method fixed antibiotic concentrations in rabbit serum were examined. Corresponding results were obtained indicating the equivalence of this method, which thus proved to be suitable to determine antibiotic levels in small volumes of body fluids.


[Localization of group A streptococcal nontype-specific antigens and their occurrence among streptococci of different groups].

It was shown by immunodiffusion methods that nontypespecific antigens revealed in the HCl extracts of streptococcus, group A, were localized in the cell wall. In B, E, H, K, L, M, P, S, T streptococci groups there was revealed only one, and in C and G streptococci groups--two antigens identical to the HTC antigens of streptococci, group A. Besides, an antigen, which was apparently specific specific for group A streptococcus only, was detected. The data obtained should be taken into consideration in the elaboration of improved method of grouping and typing group A streptococcus.


[Further study of the nature and characteristics of the rosette formation phenomenon by a modified Jerne's method].

Experiments were conducted on 105 mongrel female albino mice weighing 18--22 g (intact, irradiated in a dose of 700 r with gamma-rays 60Co or immunized with SRBC) and on intact hybrids F1, CBAxC57BL. Phase contract microscopy showed autoimmune hemolysis plaques to be large or irregular and to posses a girdle made up of deformed and lysed erythrocytes and to contain stroma "ghosts" of the latter around the central cell. Plaques obtained in hypertensive medium were always round and the bordering girdle consisted of intact erythrocytes, whereas the plaque filed was homogeneous or contained granules. The concentration of sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium atoms in the suspension fluid of the preparations failed to exceed their content in the cells (as demonstrated by Jerne's method modified by the authors on a mixture of spleen cells with autologous blood). Addition of antiglobulin serum into the preparation on a slide in a 1:5 dilution suppressed the formation of autoimmune plaques, and in a dilution of 1:50--increased it considerably.


[Role of heterogenized cellular antigens in cross immunity reactions in paramyxovirus infections].

Heterogenized antigens similar to the antigens of sheep and guinea pig red blood cells were revealed by indirect immunofluorescence in tissue cultures infected with parotitis virus. Participation of these antigens in cross immunofluorescence reactions observed in tissue cultures infected with various paramyxoviruses and in a suspension of erythrocytes loaded with these viruses was established. It was shown that immunization of children with parotitis virus was accompanied by a specific anamnestic reaction for heterogenized antigens. It is supposed that the corresponding antibodies can take part in cross serological tests with parainfluenza viruses.


[New indications for the participation of group P plasmids R in the transfer of chromosomal genes in intergenera crosses].

Use of E. coli strains with phenotypes Rec+ and Rec- asrecipients in intergenera crosses confirmed the supposition put forward by the authors formerly that new chromosomal markers in transconjugantes originated due to Psuedomonas aeruginosa. These chromosomal markers were transferred together with plasmid R conditioning the conjugation, and maintained without being built-into E. coli chromosome. Between the arg+ marker and the plasmid R18 there existed labile physical connection demonstrable only under definite conditions of recombinant selection.


[Heteromorphism of corynebacteria. I. Macrocells].

A possibility of formation of macrocells (MaC) of diphtheria bacilli was expressed to a different degree; the extreme expression are giant and supergiant forms. Giant forms with section dimension of 3--5micron retained their capacity to disorderly septation with the resultant formation of microcells (MiC). Apparently some of the septa were not realized. Supergiant forms were revealed as a layer and its transverse section. The length of the latter reached 30micron with the transverse section of 2--3micron. The layer has festooned contours with shallow invaginations, but marked day-like cuttings into the body (in case of transverse layer section). Septation of supergiant form was abortive in character. Both forms had homogeneous cytoplasm surrounded by a cell wall. In the supergiant form the latter was morphologically defective in the deepest part of the invaginates. The ultrastructure of both bacterial forms pointed to their rapid growth; however, the supergiant form was likely to be doomed to degeneration and chaotic disintegration.


[Epidemiological evaluation of the serological grouping of meningococci].

Use of the precipitation and hemagglutination inhibition tests to determine the serological group of 114 meningococcus strains which cannot be grouped by agglutination slide permitted to establish the serological group of 56% of the strains, this pointing to the greater diagnostic value of these tests. Nevertheless, 70% of 307 strains isolated from carriers could not be referred to any of the determinable groups (A, C, X, Y, and Z). Strains (417) isolated from the cerebrospinal fluid of patients with meningitis were grouped depending on the epidemic curve: only half of the cultures could be classified in sporadic cases, but from 80 to 100% of the strains were classified at the "peak" of the meningitis incidence rise. This rise was connected with increase of the incidence of cases caused by meningococcus, group A; at the decline these strains were eliminated, and cases due to the rarely encountered serological groups and nongrouping strains occurred. Marking meningococc by serological groups proved to be of no use for detection of epidemiological relations between the infected persons.


[Determinaton of intracellular immunoglobulins by means of immunofluorescence. 1. The standardization of monospecific luminescent antisera against human G-, A- and M-class immunoglobulins in bone marrow preparations from patients with paraproteinemic hemoblastosis].

To assess the specificity and the activity of fluorescent antisera against human G-, A-, M-classes the authors used in the capacity of a substrate, containing specific antigen preparations, bone marrow cells of patients with paraproteinemic hemoblastosis. The method of making the preparations used permitted sufficiently objective assessment of the activity and specificity of the mentioned monospecific fluorescent conjugates. As revealed, the bone marrow preparations could be stored at -70 degrees C for over one year.


[Reactogenicity and immunological effectiveness study of a complex paratyphoid B antigen].

Reactogenic property and immunological efficacy of the paratyphoid preparation containing a complex of O-, K- and H-antigens obtained by single-stage antigens extraction were studied in a limited group of volunteers (22 persons). The antigen gave no untoward reactions and proved to be safe when given orally in doses of 25 to 150 mg. Paratyphoid B antigen was characterized by a marked immunization activity and stimulated formation of specific paratyphoid O-, K- and H-agglutinins and antibodies of the IgA,- IgG,- and IgM-classes.


[Standardization of the seeding material in producing live anthrax vaccine].

Technology of obtaining dry concentrated seeding material of the anthrax bacillus STI-1 vaccine strain was worked out. The use of dry seeding material for making dry anthrax vaccine rendered the preparations obtained more standard, reduced the time required for their production, led to increase of AKM-SH productivity, and to greater profitability of the vaccine production. The vaccine preparations obtained with the use of dry seeding material did not differ from control by immunogenicity.


[Use of the indirect hemagglutination reaction for detecting antibodies to Pseudomonas pyocyanea in acute suppurative destructive pneumonia].

No less than 4-fold increase in the antibody titres to Pseudomonas aeruginosa during the infectious process served as laboratory confirmation of its participation in the infectious process. In 49 of 91 patients hemagglutining titre exceeded the diagnostic one (1:640). In 9 patients (chiefly in infants) hemagglutinin titre remained low, but there was a rise of antibody level to Pseudomonas aeruginosa during the disease. High hemagglutinin titres were noted in 12 patients on admission to the clinic, with reduction of the antibody titres at the late periods of the disease. Antibody titres remained unchanged during the disease in 15 patients. In 3 cases the indirect hemagglutination test was assesed as negative. In the rest of the patients hemagglutinin titres varied within the range of the diagnostic titre. Thus, the indirect hemagglutination test with erythrocytic diagnostic agent permitting to determine antibodies to Pseudomonas aeruginosa could be used at the clinic in combination with bacteriological and other investigations for establishing etiology of the destructive process.


[Polymorphonuclear rosettes in the peripheral blood of multiple sclerosis patients].

The study is related to the distribution of rossette-forming cells--lymphocytic and polymorphonuclear leukocytic--lymphocytes and polymorphonuclear leukocytes (neutrophils) in the peripheral blood of patients with disseminated sclerosis. An increase of the polymorphonuclear leukocytes and polymorphonuclear leukocytic content was found in the exacerbation period. Similar data were obtained in the process of reproduction of chronic experimental allergic encephalitis in maccaca rhesus. Moreover, in a rapid development of the disease polymorphonuclear leukocytic cells in the patients did not differ from the control group. The established distribution of lymphocytes and polymorphonuclear leukocytes and polymorphonuclear leukocytic cells correlated with the accelerated maturation of leukocytes in the neutrophil range in the bone marrow. The possible role of polymorphonuclear leukocytes in the pathogenesis of disseminated sclerosis is discussed.


[Effect of schizophrenic patients' serum immunoglobulins on nerve cell potentials].

With the aid of the microelectrode method, the influence of different protein fractions isolated from the blood serum of schizophrenic patients and normals on an edible snail was studied. The fractions were isolated by means of ion exchange chromatography and contained immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA, IgM). It was established that the fraction of the blood serum in schizophrenic patients, containing IgM is significantly stronger than the respective fraction in normals, depolarizing and inactivating the neuron membrane. It is suggested that there is an increased content of tropic to the nervous tissue antibodies of this class in the blood serum of schizophrenic patients.


[Action of polychlorinated biphenyls (Kanechlor 500 and Delor 106) and 3-methylcholanthrene on the activity of some rat liver microsomal enzymes].

The influence of 3-methylcholanthrene and two commercially available mixtures of polychlorinated biphenyls (Kanechlor 500 and Delor 106) on the activity of some microsomal rat liver enzymes has been investigated. The studies included the demethylation of ethylmorphine, dimethylnitrosamine, and 4-dimethylaminoazobenzene as well as the investigation of the activity of aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase and of azoreductase using benzo(a)pyrene and 4-dimethylaminoazobenzene as substrates, respectively. 3-methylcholanthrene induced the aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase and azoreductase and led to an increase in the demethylation of 4-dimethylaminoazobenzene but not in the ethylmorphine demethylation. The relatively low increase in the dimethylnitrosamine demethylation was not statistically significant. These polychlorinated biphenyls caused a significant increase in all the enzyme activities studied. In most cases Delor 106 was more active than Kanechlor 500. The results are discussed and compared with those of other authors.


Rheumatism--parenteral nutrition. Report of a case.

A 26-year-old man with progressive rheumatic disease in spite of conventional therapy with antirheumatic drugs and physiotherapeutic exercises. The only therapy that gave temporary relief was, according to the patient, "fasting periods". He was treated experimentally with a period of complete intravenous nutrition ("total bowel rest") with certain subjective and objective improvement.