Dynamic cooperativity of molecular processes in active streaming, muscle contraction, and subcellular dynamics: the molecular mechanism of self-organization at the subcellular level.

Life phenomena are a kind of ordered dynamics appearing in macroscopic systems, living systems. Schrödinger has proposed a molecular mechanism for the organization of life phenomena, i.e., 'order-from-order' mechanism where ordered dynamics are composed of molecular dynamics having order as the ordered dynamics of a watch is caused by orderly movements of its mechanical elements. However, neither evidence supporting the 'order-from-order' mechanism has been found in living systems nor the reason why molecular dynamics acquire order instead of disorder has been elucidated for more than 30 years. The latter is quite anomalous from the point of views of thermodynamics, which is based on disordered behaviors of molecules. In this paper, we verify from studies of a streaming system reconstituted from rabbit skeletal F-actin and HMM that one life phenomenon, active streaming, is caused by the 'order-from-order' mechanism. This is also the case for muscle contraction. Moreover, it is probable that this mechanism generally works at the subcellular level, not only in biological motilities but also in life phenomena at biomembranes. We also clarify that dynamic cooperativity among molecule gives rise to order in molecular dynamics. Hence, dynamic cooperativity is the key mechanism for life phenomena caused by the 'order-from-order' principle at the subcellular level. To produce dynamic cooperativity it is necessary for component molecules or elements to have three states, i.e., inactive (stable) state 0, energized or energy storing (quasi-stable) state 1, and active (unstable) state 2. Each molecule performs elementary cycle 0 yields 1 yields 2 yields 0 repeatedly by using free energy at the molecular level. In a state far from thermodynamic equilibrium dynamic cooperativity is yielded in 2 yields 0 due to a kind of triggering action of neighboring elements and breaks thermodynamic detailed balance. In addition, dynamic cooperativity gives component molecules long-range interactions which depend on the structure of organelles or molecular assemblies. Dynamic cooperativity is able to decrease entropy production and will give a high efficiency in chemo-mechanical conversions. Great progress would be achieved in the understanding of the molecular mechanisms and thermodynamic principles of energy transformations in biological systems, if molecular dynamics during transformation could be directly observed. This is not only because physical changes accompanied by specific movements of macromolecules are essentially involved but also because such molecular movements play a substantial role in energy transformation. Entirely new ideas will be needed for this purpose although high voltage electron microscopy or X-ray diffraction, for instance, is now expected as to be one of the possible tools in the future. Fortunately even at present it is possible to obtain important information on molecular dynamics from biochemical and physiological data, if analyses are properly performed...


Treatment of low back pain with acupuncture.

Twenty patients with low back pain were selected for treatment with acupuncture. Four standard acupuncture loci and a standard regime were used. The results were analyzed after a follow-up of 12 months. Initially, 16 patients responded favorably to the treatment while 4 did not respond at all. The degree of cure was not uniform. Instead they varied from complete cure in 4 to varying degrees of alleviation of pain in the rest. Recurrence or acute exacerbation of symptoms occurred in 13 of the 20 patients. Acupuncture was given to 11 of these patients and the results of treatment similated the initial course of acupuncture.


Disc vascularity in Down's syndrome.

Ocular fundus photographs of 100 eyes were obtained from an institutionalized population of patients with Down's Syndrome (66 males, 34 females). The vascularity of the optic nerve head was assessed in each photograph by counting the number of arterioles, venules, and fine vessels crossing the disc margin. The results of this analysis were compared to similar data obtained from 100 ocular fundus photographs of normal patients and show that there are more large vessels crossing the disc margin in those with Down's Syndrome.


The fibrinolysin system and its relationship to disease in the newborn.

The fibrinolysin system is incomplete in newborn infants. Lack of serum plasminogen in premature newborn has an important role in the pathophysiology of the respiratory distress syndrome since alveolar fibrin deposits cannot be eliminated. Urokinase activated human plasmin has increased the survival rate of infants with respiratory distress syndrome. Plasminogen given I.V. at birth has reduced the incidence and the severity of respiratory distress syndrome, in a randomized double-blind study of 500 premature infants. Death in the plasminogen recipient group occurred only among infants born to mothers with bleeding complications of pregnancy. Plasmin inhibitors measured with a functional assay were the highest in this group of infants, serum plasminogen was the lowest; when activator and purified human plasminogen were added to the serum, fibrinolytic activity was elicited in excess of the plasminogen added. It is suggested that plasminogen and/or plasmin inhibitors may be abnormal fetal variants in infants born to mothers with bleeding complications.


Comparison of the effects of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent, an immunosuppressive, a corticosteroid and an immunomodulator on various immunological and non-immunological inflammatory experimental models.

The effects of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent, phenylbutazone, a corticosteroid, desonide, an immunosuppressive, cyclophosphamide and an immunomodulator, levamisole on a number of experimental inflammatory models were compared. Compounds were first tested in carrageenin-induced pleurisy as a non-immune acute inflammation, then in passive skin anaphylaxis and reversed passive Arthus oedema in the rat as models of humoral immunity. Finally the compounds were investigated in various delayed hypersensitivity tests: reaction to sheep red cells and to oxazolone in the mouse, skin reaction to purified protein derivative (P.P.D.) in the rat and guinea-pig, P.P.D. induced pleurisy in the guinea-pig.


Sterilization: a comparative review.

Publications relating to surgical procedures for sterilization have been reviewed, and the incidences of complications and subsequent pregnancies compared. Laparoscopic sterilization has the lowest incidence of complication, the morbidity rate being lower than that of laparotomy sterilization or hysterectomy, and the mortality rate lower than that of a single pregnancy or taking oral contraceptives for 1 year.


Prenatal diagnosis of placental sulphatase deficiency.

A gas chromatographic procedure for the quantitation of neutral steroid sulphates in maternal urine and its application to a suspected case of placental sulphatase deficiency is described. Low levels of oestriol coincident with elevated 16-hydroxylated metabolites of dehydroepiandrosterone in the maternal urine are shown to occur in this particular condition, and thus provide a convenient differentiation from fetal adrenal hypoplasia before birth.


A case of cornual pregnancy.

A case of cornual pregnancy was uncertain at laparoscopy, made by ultrasound, and confirmed at laparotomy.


[Production of urea during mixed leukocyte culture (MLC). Effect of presensitization by a skin allograft].

An increased production of urea has been demonstrated during mixed cultures between allograft donor and recipient leukocytes. This phenomenon may also be observed during primary MLC (i.e, without previous allograft) but to a lesser degree. This increased production of urea during MLC results from an increase of arginase activity in spleen cell population(s) resulting in an increased arginine transformation into urea and ornithine, as demonstrated by the release of an amount of ornithine equivalent to that of urea in the culture supernatant.


Report of a working group for the European Pharmacopoeia. Collaborative assay on human albumin of different origin.

A collaborative assay was conducted by 9 laboratories on 31 samples of human albumin which were in clinical use. It was the object of the study to establish test systems which would differentiate between albumins of venous or placental origin. The properties examined for this purpose were: appearance, total protein, haem, polymers, alkaline phosphatase and blood group substances. Additional tests such as for beta-thromboglobulin and citrate were included; pyrogenicity, however, was excluded because this was under study for all plasma proteins at that time. Results obtained were in satisfactory agreement both between laboratories and between samples. They, therefore, enabled the verification of a number of correlations in the test systems. The evaluation did not allow, however, the differentiation of the samples in relation to their origin. The results were, therefore, regarded as a tool to define the upper limits of acceptance for human albumins corresponding to the quality prescribed by the European Pharmacopoeia.


Isolation and characterization of temperature-sensitive respiratory mutants of Neurospora crassa.

Filtration-enrichment and inositol-less death methods of mutant isolation, coupled with a screen for cyanide-insensitive respiration, proved to be highly efficient methods for isolating temperature-sensitive (ts) nuclear Neurospora mutants having defective respiration. Eighteen different ts respiratory mutants have been isolated. Most of them are pleiotropic and defective in one or more of the following phenotypes: cytochrome aa3, b, and c (individual or multiple defects); oligomycin inhibition of ATPase activity; respiration and its inhibition by KCN and salicyl hydroxamic acid; and growth rates in liquid and solid media at 25 degrees and 38 degrees. Among these mutants are the first cytochrome c mutant of Neurospora and an extranuclear ts ATPase mutant. An added bonus was the fact that over half of the mutants were affected either in ribosome assembly or in protein synthesis in the mitochondrion. We have yet to find any mutants completely lacking activities associated with the respiratory chain. However, the wide spectrum of mutants isolated here, along with those currently available, constitutes a considerable resource for investigating respiration in obligate aerobes.


Genetics of arginine biosynthesis in Neurospora crassa.

A large number of arginine-requiring mutants of Neurospora was isolated, using a strain already partially impaired in an enzyme of the pathway. Among the mutants, all previously described loci, except one, were represented, and several new loci were defined and mapped. Four groups of mutants were of particular interest. First, the large group of arg-6 mutants, when tested for intragenic complementation, suggested a bifunctional gene, possibly controlling two steps in ornithine synthesis. This is consistent with the limited enzymic information about this locus. Second, the arg-13 locus was represented by 14 new mutants. All five tested were quite leaky, suggesting that the function controlled by this gene can be carried out to a limited extent spontaneously or by another gene product. Third, a new locus, arg-14, was defined. It controls a step in ornithine syntheses. It lies in a 1 to 2 map-unit interval between arg-2 and pyr-3 on LG IVR, as shown by mapping in relation to translocation breakpoints. Fourth, a second new locus whose mutants render the partial mutation in starting material auxotrophic was defined and mapped near the centromere of LG VIL. These new mutants are unable to derepress enzymes of the pathway and may qualify as regulatory mutants.


Genetic control of phosphorus assimilation in Neurospora crassa: dose-dependent dominance and recessiveness in constitutive mutants.

Mutants called nuc-1c, constitutive for alkaline phosphatase synthesis, were isolated and mapped very close to nuc-1 mutants in which this enzyme is not expressed. nuc-1 is epistatic to nuc-1c. nuc-1c acts only if it is cis to normal nuc-1 function. The preparation of partial diploids heterozygous for various nuc-1 alleles is described; nuc-1c is dominant to nuc-1+, which in turn is dominant to nuc-1. In heterocaryons with nuc-1+, nuc-1c is dominant when it is present in high proportion, but essentially recessive if it is present in low proportions. In heterocaryons with nuc-1, nuc-1c is again dominant when present in high proportions, but in low proportions it "complements" to give essentially normal repressibility. A model of regulation consistent with these findings is presented.


Elicitation of anti-leukemia cytotoxic responses.

We have presented the rationale for the in vitro approaches that we have taken for generating cytotoxic lymphocytes capable of lysing autologous leukemia cells or leukemia cells from HLA identical siblings. Two different approaches have been used, both of which are based on earlier findings concerning the antigenic and cellular interactions involved in the generation of strong cytotoxic responses to alloantigens in mixed leukocyte culture.


Impact of specific immunotherapy in acute myelocytic leukemia.

Our studies clearly show that significantly longer remission duration was attained in groups of AML patients immunized with neuraminidase treated allogeneic myeloblasts as compared to patients who received chemotherapy alone or neuraminidase treated myeloblasts plus MER. IT is clear that MER, albeit apparently active alone in certain other clinical studies impairs the immunotherapeutic value of neuraminidase treated allogeneic myeloblasts in AML patients. The in vivo and in vitro immunological tests results reflect the host's immunological status in each arm of the protocol and correlate well with the duration of remission achieved with specific vs. combination of specific plus adjuvant immunotherapy.


[Study on mucopolysaccharides in human lung carcinoma tissue--characteristics in histological types (author's transl)].

The mucopolysaccharides were prepared from human lung carcinomas of three histologically different types and the control tissue by exhaustive proteolytic digestion, quaternary ammonium chloride fractionation and column chromatography on Dowex 1 (Cl-). They were identified by chemical, enzymic and electrophoretic methods, as hyaluronic acid (HA), chondroitin sulfate (ChS), dermatan sulfate (DS), heparan sulfate (HS) and over-sulfated ChS and/or DS. Qualitatively they were not differed in tumor and normal tissues. However, the amounts of whole mucopolysaccharide were much increased in carcinomas than those of normal control in order of squamous cell carcinoma greater than small cell undifferentiated carcinoma greater than or equal to adenocarcinoma. The increment of mucopolysaccharide contents in carcinoma are largely due to increased amounts of HA and ChS. Carcinoma-type characteristic pattern was also demonstrated in terms of relative amounts of non-sulfated (HA) and sulfated (ChS, DS, HS) mucopolysaccharides: In squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma sulfated mucopolysaccharides were predominant (73 to 78% of total mucopolysaccharides), whereas in small cell undifferentiated carcinoma sulfated ones were diminished (25% of total mucopolysaccharides). In normal lung tissue sulfated mucopolysaccharide comprised 64% of total mucopolysaccharides. The presence of over-sulfated ChS and/or DS, which have not until now been found in lung tissue, was higher in carcinoma tissue as compared to the normal control. Total glycopeptides which were derived from tissue glycoproteins and not in detail characterized in this study were decreased in carcinomas of any histological types as compared to those of normal lung tissue, when expressed by hexosamine content. Biological and clinical significance of mucopolysaccharides in carcinoma state was discussed.


Quantitation of zearalenone by gas-liquid chromatography on capillary glass columns.

A procedure is described for the quantitation of zearalenone from corn by gas-liquid chromatography. An internal standard, zearalanone, is first mixed with the finely ground corn, followed by extraction with ethyl acetate, purification by thin-layer chromatography and formation of trimethyl silyl ether (TMS) and methyl oxime (MOX) derivatives. Positive identification of zearalenone is based upon the retention times of the TMS and MOX-TMS derivatives being identical with those of the standards, comparison of chromatograms from both derivatives and characteristic twin peaks of zearalenone MOX-TMS. The detection limit of 100 parts per 10(9) zearalenone in corn could only be improved by modification of the described procedure.


[The evolution of the indications for laparoscopy between 1973 and 1977. 1,758 cases (author's transl)].

In order to avoid the misuse of laparoscopy by an unnecessary increase in the indications for the procedure the authors have reviewed the evolution of these indications in the five years between 1973 and 1977. Certain indications have stayed stable, such as chronic pain in the pelvis, masses found in the pelvis, symptoms suggestive of upper genital tract infection or of ectopic pregnancy and tubal or unexplained sterility. Stability in these indications is correct because laparoscopy and laparoscopy alone can give a precise diagnosis of the lesion and complete the clinical findings and the other methods of investigation. There are two indications which have become less frequent and these are: ovarian sterility and amenorrhoea. This is logical since more reliance has come to be placed on biological methods. Laparoscopy should be reserved in these conditions for cases where are contradictions between biological findings or where there are therapeutic failures. An increase in the indications which is very justified is in those laparoscopies which are carried out as a control of the results of tubal surgery, because there a prognosis can be given and therapy can be carried out (such as division of adhesions) and in cases of malignant tumours of the ovary which, although the procedure will give less precise information than laparotomy, has the advantage that it can be repeated from time to time.


Five trypanosomatid species of insects distinguished by isoenzymes.

Blastocrithidia culicis, Crithidia deanei, Crithidia fasciculata, Herpetomonas samuelpessoai, Leptomonas seymouri and Leishmania tarentolae grown in cultures were compared by electrophoretic mobility for isoenzymes in 6 enzymes. All species were found distinct in these characteristics. Endosymbiotic C. deanei, which was identical to the aposymbiotic C. deanei in 5 enzymes, had an extra band in aspartate aminotransferase. No differences in isoenzymes were found between members of one species maintained in 2 different culture media.


Polypeptide subunits of dynein 1 from sea urchin sperm flagella.

A high-resolution sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis system has been used to show the presence, in both whole sperm and isolated flagellar axonemes, of eight polypeptides migrating in the 300,000--350,000 molecular weight range characteristic of the heavy chains of dynein ATPase. Previously, only five such chains have been discernible. Extraction of isolated axonemes for 10 min at 4 degrees C with a solution containing 0.6 M NaCl, ph 7, releases a mixture of particles that separate, in sucrose density gradient centrifugation, into a major peak, dynein 1 ATPase, sedimenting at 21S and a minor peak at 12--14S. The polypeptide compositions of these two peaks are different. The dynein 1 peak, which contains most of the protein on the gradient, contains approximately equal quantities of two closely migrating heavy chains, with a small amount of a third, more slowly migrating chain; no other heavy chains appear in this peak. Two groups of smaller polypeptides (three intermediate chains, within the apparent molecular weight range 76,000--122,000 and four newly discovered light chains, within the apparent molecular weight range 14,000--24,000) cosediment with the 21S peak. The heavy chain composition of the 12--14S peak is more complex, all eight heavy chains occurring approximately the same ratios as occur in intact axonemes.


Effect of thiourea and substituted thioureas on dynein ATPase and on the turbidity response of Tetrahymena cilia.

The effects of thiourea and of several substituted thioureas -- phenylthiourea, alpha-naphtylthiourea, metiamide, and burimamide -- on dynein ATPase have been studied. The substituted thioureas are over 30 times more potent than thiourea in causing enhancement of 30S dynein ATPase activity and inhibition of 14S dynein ATPase activity. The effects of thiourea and phenylthiourea can be prevented by very low concentrations of beta-mercaptoethanol or dithiothreitol. Axonemal ATPase is also enhanced by the thioureas, but the reaction proceeds more slowly than for solubilized 30S dynein. Enhancement of 30S dynein ATPase by metiamide is prevented by low (approximately 1 microM) concentrations of ATP and, less effectively, by AMP-PNP, but not by AMP-PCP even though the latter is a stronger inhibitor of 30S dynein ATPase than is AMP-PNP. The thioureas inhibit the ATP-induced decrease in turbidity (measured as delta A350) of axonemal suspensions. Inhibition of the turbidity response is also prevented by low concentrations of beta-mercaptoethanol, but, in contrast to the irreversible enhancement of ATPase activity, inhibition of the turbidity response is largely reversible. The ability of 30S dynein to rebind onto twice-extracted axonemes is not changed by treatment with phenylthiourea or metiamide. These observations indicate that the thioureas react with at least two sets of SH or S--S groups on axonemes. Reaction with the group(s) on the 30S dynein causes an apparently irreversible enhancement of ATPase activity. Reaction with another group(s) causes a reversible inhibition of the turbidity response.


[Usefulness of questionnaires in detection of early symptoms of sciatica and related pain syndromes of the lumbosacral region and determination of their incidence among workers of textile industry].

The study was aimed at the determination of sciatica case rate among cotton industry workers based on inquiry. Two questionnaires for detecting complaints typical of sciatica were developed. 2463 weavers and 3083 spinners were examined. A comparative group involved 978 shop attendants and 593 office workers. It was found out that pains characteristic of sciatica were experienced by 45% weavers, 43% shop attendants, 29.2% spinners, and 16% office workers. Results of physical examinations in randomly selected cases corresponded in 97% with the questionnaire data. In most cases pains resulted from overloading of the lower section of the vertebral column.


Membrane changes during germination of Bacillus megaterium KM spores.

Bacillus megaterium KM dormant spore inner membrane ATPase exhibits a ten-fold increase in specific activity during the first 10 min of germination in the absence of protein synthesis. During this time period both in the presence and absence of chloramphenicol extensive proteolysis of spore inner membrane takes place, which results in degradation of approximately half of the membrane protein. Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis reveals the extent and selectivity of this degradation of inner membrane protein.


Permeability of muscle spindle capillaries and capsule.

The permeability of capillaries in rabbit muscle spindles, intramuscular nerves, and extrafusal muscle to intraaortically infused horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was studied. The permeability of the capsule cells of the muscle spindles was also examined. Immediately following the infusion of HRP, most extrafusal capillaries contained a dense accumulation of HRP reaction product, which began to escape into the surrounding extracellular space within 2-3 min. In contrast, the concentration of HRP in the intrafusal and endoneurial capillaries was much lower than that in extrafusal capillaries, and HRP was never found outside the former vessels. In addition, HRP never completely penetrated through the spindle capsule from the extracellular into the periaxial space, although it was regularly found between the outer two or three layers of capsule cells. The results indicate that the permeability characteristics of the muscle spindle capillaries and capsule to the tracer protein HRP are very similar to those of capillaries in peripheral nerve.


Type III glycogenosis with multicore structures.

A case of an infantile type III glycogenosis (Forbes disease), confirmed by morphologic and biochemical studies, had light-microscopic, histochemical, and electron-microscopic evidence of multicore structures and type 1 fiber predominance with hypotrophy. This association is discussed with relation to the unusual clinical findings. The authors conclude that two distinct disease entities--Forbes disease and multicore myopathy--may coexist.


Blepharoconjunctivitis: a side effect of 13-cis-retinoic acid therapy for dermatologic diseases.

Blepharoconjunctivitis developed as a side-effect of treatment of patients with basal cell carcinomas, keratinizing dermatoses, and cystic acne with oral 13-cis-retinoic acid. Forty-two of the 97 dermatologic patients had signs and symptoms of blepharoconjunctivitis that were dose related and abated one week after discontinuation of the medication. About half of the patients had a history of similar symptoms prior to treatment. Staphylococcus aureus was present in eye cultures of 73% to 79% of the patients, whether symptomatic or not. Patients whose clinical appearance was that of staphylococcal blepharoconjunctivitis and whose cultures grew S aureus were successfully treated with topical erythromycin ointment to the lids even while being treated with the 13-cis-retinoic acid.


[Synthetic inhibitors of serine proteinases. Part 21: Studies on the structure-activity relationships in bisamidines (author's transl)].

The antitrypsin, antiplasmin and antithrombin activities of bis(amidinobenzylidene)- and bis(amidinobenzyl)cycloalkanones are not markedly affected if the amidino group is substituted by an uncharged residue (H, OCH3, Cl, Br, NO2). In contrast, mono(amidinobenzylidene)cycloalkanones exhibit considerably lower inhibitory activities than the compounds of the abovementioned classes of substances. From the results obtained it is concluded that the second aromatic residue and not the second basic amidino group is decisive of the potent inhibitory action of the bisamidino derivatives.


Rat mixed lymphocyte culture: optimization of culture conditions.

We have systematically analysed the various parameters of rat mixed lymphocyte culture (MLC), aiming at defining optimal conditions in analytical (micro) MLC and at the production of maximal numbers of blast cells in preparative (maxi) MLC. Treatment of both responder and stimulator cells, or at least the responder cells, with N-acyl-neuraminidase allowed a good and reproducible analytical MLC response. Responses with a maximal resolution between the stimulated versus nonstimulated control cultures were obtained in the presence of rat sera, BN serum being superior to Lewis and AO serum in supporting the response. Rat sera derived from DA and HO strains, fetal calf serum, and human serum were not good. Spleen cells, lymph node cells, and density-separated blood leucocytes were good responders, and spleen cells were good stimulators, provided the spleen cells were prepurified from most of the phagocytic cells with iron powder plus magnet. Similar culture conditions were applicable also for the maxi-MLC assay. The number of blast cells generated from a single spleen could, however, be increased by a factor of 10, if the responder cell donor was primed intravenously with 10 x 10(6) stimulator-strain spleen cells 72 h before being killed. The responses both in the non-primed and in the primed cultures were specific, since the background stimulation was negligible and the cytotoxic effect by the primed cells in the cell-mediated lysis assay was immunologically specific.


Rheumatoid synovial lymphocytes lack concanavalin-A-activated suppressor cell activity.

Synovial lymphocytes eluted by enzyme treatment from eleven patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) were investigated for the presence of concanavalin A (Con A)-activated suppressor cell activity as compared with that of peripheral blood lymphocytes of twenty normal donors. In addition, two patients with psoriatic arthritis and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) were also investigated. Synovial lymphocytes from the eleven RA patients showed a mean augmentation of 28 +/- 13.30, and thus clearly lacked suppressor activity, whereas the mean suppression in the lymphocytes from the twenty normal donors was 13 +/- 14.40. Synovial lymphocytes from one patient with JRA and one with psoriatic arthritis showed a normal suppressor activity.


Polyclonal antibody secretion induced in human mixed lymphocyte cultures.

In mixed leucocyte culture (MLC), using human spleen cells or thoracic duct lymphocytes, antibody secretion was induced, measured as plaque-forming cells (PFC) in a haemolysis-in-gel assay with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-coupled sheep erythrocytes (SRBC) as targets. Peak antibody secretion was seen on day 5. Using protein-A-coupled SRBC as targets and developing antisera, antibody secretion in MLC was found to be of IgM, IgG and IgA type. There was no correlation between the number of PFC against FITC-SRBC in MLC and DNA synthesis. Supernatants from MLC failed to induce antibody secretion.


Oligomycin-resistant mitochondrial ATPase from mouse fibroblasts.

Fourteen oligomycin-resistant LM(TK-) clones were isolated following the mutagenesis of minicells. In the absence of oligomycin, the mutants grew with population doubling times similar to that of the wild type (1 day). In 3 or 5 microgram oligomycin/ml the doubling times of the mutants were 1.2-2.5 days. Both stable and unstable classes were represented among the oligomycin-resistant mutants. Mitochondrial ATPase activities of the mutants were 1.3-1130 times more resistant to oligomycin than the wild type. The mitochondrial ATPase of OLI 14 was found to be bound firmly to the mitochondrial membrane, showed no alteration in the pH optimum compared to wild-type, and exhibited increased resistance to DCCD and venturicidin. These results are consistent with the conclusion that oligomycin resistance in these mutants results from altered mitochondrial ATPase.


Progress in fibrinolysis.

This review deals with aspects of fibrinolysis in which significant developments have taken place in the last few years. The structural changes of plasminogen during its activation are now identified precisely; the recent description of a thrombotic tendency in a kindred characterized by a defect of this protein emphasizes its important role in the homeostatic balance. Several activators of plasminogen are now identified; some of them, such as tissue and vascular activators, appear to have an important role in physiology and pathology. The recent characterizations of the alpha 2-antiplasmin and of antiactivators have widened our understanding of the inhibitors of fibrinolysis: a defect of the plasmin inhibitor seems to be associated with an haemorrhagic tendency, whereas high antiactivator levels were encountered in thrombotic conditions. The clinical use of fibrinolytic agents appears to be promising in conditions such as recurrent deep vein thrombosis and in the post-phlebitic syndrome. Thrombolytic therapy with urokinase or streptokinase appears to have elective indications in patients with acute deep vein thrombosis and massive life-threatening pulmonary embolism.


Effects of urinary organic macromolecules on crystallization of calcium oxalate: enhancement of nucleation.

The urine of normal persons, as well as that of stone formers, contains inhibitors to crystallization of calcium oxalate. To ascertain differences, if any, between these 2 groups we measured nucleation rate, growth rate and total mass produced in an analytic system with 5% urine added to 95% synthetic urine that did not contain large organic molecules. We also observed the effects of addition of uromucoid to the synthetic solution. Normal urine and stone-forming urine contained significant inhibitors to total mass of calcium oxalate dihydrate crystals precipitated but total crystal mass was not significantly different between the 2 groups. Growth rate was significantly less in experiments with the urine of stone formers. The other major difference found in stone-forming urine was significant enhancement of nucleation rate when compared to normal urine. Since addition of uromucoid produced these same growth inhibition and nucleation enhancement effects but did not affect total crystal mass, we hypothesize that uromucoid has an important part in producing the differences noted between normal and stone-forming urine.


[Total serum protein and the protein spectrum of sheep and lambs after experimental percutaneous invasion by Bunostomum trigonosephalum].

Serum proteins and their fractions in sheep and lambs following experimental B. trigonocephalum percutaneous invasion were investigated. It was established that total serum protein and albumen reduction as well as beta- and gamma-globulin enhancement occur following the invasion. These changes were observed on the 50th day post invasion, but they were most pronounced after clinical symptoms of Bunostomosis appeared. The albumen-globulin coefficient was considerably reduced post invasion. All changes described were more pronounced in lambs as compared to sheep.


Acne.

The cause of acne is still obscure, but genetic predisposition, sebaceous overactivity, overgrowth of bacterial flora and exposure to comedogenic substances are all significant factors. Acne lesions occur mainly in sebaceous follicles, which are characterized by deep follicular canals and large sebaceous glands. The associated seborrhea is not due to a circulatory excess of androgens but may be caused by a local amplification of androgenic activity. This, in turn, may be due to large numbers of androgen receptors and a high concentration of enzymes such as 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, within the sebaceous gland itself. Hyperkeratosis of the retention type in the pilary infrainfundibulum obstructs the outflow of sebum and keratin flakes. This favors the proliferation of Propionibacterium acnes which may initiate inflammation in microcomedos and lead to formation of pustules, papules or nodules. Topical therapy with tretinoin, benzoyl peroxide and antibiotics such as clindamycin is widely used today. Oral tetracyclines and other chemotherapeutic agents remain necessary in severe cases.


Microbiological production of radioisotopically labelled 16 alpha-hydroxylated steroids in trace quantities.

[14-14C]16 alpha-Hydroxy-C-18- and C-19-steroid hormones were obtained in good yields by microbiological hydroxylation of correspondingly labelled steroids by Streptomyces roseochromogenes NRRL B-1233. Trace quantities of the labelled substrates were incubated on a rotary shaker (220 rpm) at 27 degrees C. The radioactive products were chromatographically separated, identified and the radiochemical purity was established by isotopic dilution analysis. The specific activities of 16 alpha-hydroxy-steroids obtained were assumed to be the same as those of the substrates, namely, 57.5 mCi/mmole for 16 alpha-hydroxy-4-androstene-3,17-dione, 57.5 mCi/mmole for 5-androstene-3 beta,16 alpha,17 beta-triol, 57.5 mCi/mmole for 16 alpha-hydroxy-dehydroepiandrosterone, 55.7 mCi/mmole for 16 alpha-hydroxy-estrone, and 57.5 mCi/mmole for 16 alpha-hydroxy-testosterone.


Microbial introduction of a 16 alpha-hydroxyl function into the steroid nucleus.

The introduction of a 16 alpha-hydroxyl function into the steroid nucleus was studied in resting cells of Streptomyces roseochromogenes NRRL B-1233. The oxidation product of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) was identified as 16 alpha-hydroxy DHEA by using thin-layer and gas-liquid chromatography. A linear relation between cell concentration and 16 alpha-OH-DHEA formation was observed. 16 alpha-Hydroxylase showed good activity at pH 8.0 for 16 alpha-OH-DHEA formation. The enzyme showed good activity at 3.1 x 10(-4) M DHEA. The oxidation products of pregnenolone, 4-androstene-3,17-dione, estrone, and 5-androstene-3 beta,17 beta-diol as well as of other substrates were identified as the 16 alpha-hydroxy steroid, respectively. The rates of microbial 16 alpha-hydroxylation were as follows: 76.9% for DHEA, 50.4% for pregnenolone, 43.9% for 4-androstene-3,17-dione, 34.3% for estrone, and 19.6% for 5-androstene-3 beta,17 beta-diol. The organism tested catalyzes 16 alpha-hydroxylation of a wide variety of steroids.


Structure of cerebrosides. II. Small angle X-ray diffraction study of cerasine.

Cerasine having a molecular weight of 800 differs chemically from phrenosine only in the hydroxyl group attached to the fatty acid tail which is replaced by a hydrogen atom. Nevertheless, remarkable differences between both cerebrosides are detected in the lamellae periodicities. In the range of 23--66 degrees C just one single (instead of two) structure with a similar subcell to the triclinic one component of phrenosine detected. Between 66 and 87 degrees C three new components (instead of one in phrenosine) appear. Two of the structures are similar to the two phrenosine-components at low temperature and the tilt angles of their chains with respect to the basal planes can explain the stabilizing capacity of the 201 and 301 netplanes of the paraffin-like subcells respectively. These lattice planes are parallely aligned to the surfaces of the lamellae. The long period of 58 A of component II cannot be explained in such a way. This period persists up to 105 degrees C and coexists from 87 degrees C with a new component showing a 40 A-periodicity, which cannot either be explained in the above manner. Paracrystalline distortions of the arrangement of the bilayers can be justified by orientational disorder of the galactose heads.


Determination of alpha-, beta-, and gamma-amanitin by high performance thin-layer chromatography in Amanita phalloides (Vaill. ex Fr.) secr. from various origin.

A fast, sensitive high performance thin-layer chromatographic method for the determination of alpha-, beta-, and gamma-amanitin in crude, methanolic extracts of Amanita phalloides is described. The limit of detection is 50 ng of each amanitin. With this method amanitin was determined in 24 pooled samples of Amanita phalloides, collected between 1970 and 1977 in Germany and Switzerland. The total amanitin  content varied between 2010 and 7300 mg/kg dry weight and the average value was 4430 mg/kg of which 43% was alpha-amanitin, 49% beta-amanitin and 8% gamma-amanitin. The origin of the fungi hardly influenced their amanitin content: in samples collected during the same year at different sites it fluctuated within a factor of 1.7. The amanitin content of samples from the same site, but collected in different years, maximally varied within a factor of 3.7. The partial decomposition of amanitins during prolonged storage of the lyophilized samples undoubtedly contributed to this variation. Phalloidin, which was determined by conventional thin-layer-chromatography, could not be detected in a sample from 1970, whereas its concentration in material collected during 1977 amounted to 2400 mg/kg dry weight. The toxicity of the samples (LD50 of lyophilized defatted methanolic extracts intravenously for mice) varied within a factor of 2.5.


Radiation aggregates of insulin.

During the irradiation of aqueous solution of insulin (pH 1.8) the decrease of original insulin molecules and the formation of radiation aggregates of insulin was studied in dependence on the concentration of irradiation solution, on the doses and conditions of irradiation (oxygenated and oxygen-free atmosphere, the presence of t-butanol, addition of [14C]amino acids). From the results obtained and results published earlier it may be assumed that in irradiated solution on insulin new covalent bonds between insulin molecules are formed at tyrosyl, phenylalanyl and cystyl radicals; these radicals are formed by the action of both direct and indirect effect (at present pH 1.8 mainly of H atoms).


Protamine and polyarginine bacteriolysis. Similarities in its mechanism with chromatin DNA picnosis.

Protamine and polyarginine had bacteriolytic effects indicating their primary sites of action as being wall components and showing bacterial diversity genetically determined. Shake-incubation was required in producing cell-lysis. Studies on Bacillus subtilis revealed a high polycation multiplicity per cell in lytic event displaying multihit lysing kinetics; bacteriolysis was inhibited by trypsin, pronase, purified polyanionic wall polysaccharide, and by dissociative actions of salt hypermolarities used in isolation of nucleic acids. The inactivation of polycation lytic abilities during bacteriolysis was accompanied by modifications in electrophoretic running of protamine and polyarginine. It is suggested as mechanism of cell-lysis, the multiple zonal surface condensations of polyanionic wall components by basic polypeptides, likely similar with chromatin DNA picnosis. This analogy is discussed.


Interference of L-alpha-aminooxy-beta-phenylpropionic acid with phenylalanine metabolism in buckwheat.

L-alpha-Aminooxy-beta-phenylpropionic acid (AOPP), a potent competitive inhibitor of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), blocked light-induced phenylpropanoid synthesis in excised buckwheat hypocotyls and produced an up to 40-fold increase in the endogenous phenylalanine concentration, while the level of all other amino acids was hardly affected. After a 24 h incubation in the light in the presence of 0.3 or 1 mM AOPP phenylalanine alone constituted about 25% of the total soluble amino acids, compared to appr. 1% in the controls. In the presence of AOPP illuminated hypocotyls accumulated nearly 3 times more phenylalanine than hypocotyls kept in the dark, indicating an enhancing effect of light on the flow of carbon through the shikimate pathway. Exogenously added [14C]phenylalanine was extensively metabolized by control tissue, but accumulated in AOPP treated tissue. In the presence of AOPP radioactivity from [14C]shikimate accumulated predominantly in phenylalanine, and the flow of shikimate into tyrosine and phenylalanine was not affected by the inhibitor. Therefore, under these conditions no feedback control of phenylalanine and tyrosine synthesis from shikimate is apparent in buckwheat hypocotyls.


[Molybdocene dichloride as an antitumor agent (author's transl)].

The antitumor activity of molybdocene dichloride is tested against Ehrlich ascites tumor in CF1 mice. The application of 75 of 100 mg/kg 24 h after transplantation achieves 100% tumor inhibition until day 30. Following the d0 and d1 metallocene dichlorides of titanium and vanadium, molybdocene dichloride is the first analogous d2 system revealing similar antineoplastic properties.


Inhibition of protein synthesis in chloroplasts from plant cells by virginiamycin.

The light-driven incorporation of amino acids by isolated spinach chloroplasts is inhibited by the M component (VM) and not by the S component (VS) of virginiamycin. This inhibitory effect is partially reversible. In chloroplast extracts, poly(U)-directed polyphenylalanine formation is strongly inhibited by VM and not by VS. The in vivo synergistic effect of VM and VS observed in bacteria and algae, does not occur in isolated chloroplasts and chloroplast extracts.


Serine transport and membrane depolarization in the liverwort Riccia fluitans.

The plasmalemma of thallus cells of the aquatic liverwort, Riccia fluitans, is reversibly depolarized by L- and D-serine. At 0.1 mM K+ in the medium, the depolarization saturates at 50 mV; half-maximal depolarization occurs at 13 microM L-serine and 30 microM D-serine, respectively. Uptake of 14C-labelled L-serine depends upon the K+ concentration and is sensitive to the membrane potential as indicated by its reduction through 1 mM sodium cyanide. We propose that serine binds to and is transported by an electrogenic carrier. However, an interaction of serine with K+ channels of the membrane seems also possible.


Rates of de novo synthesis of malate synthase and albumins during the very early phase of germination.

Malate synthase is synthesized de novo in the very phase of germination. Its molecular and immunological properties do not differ from those of malate synthase from fully developed cotyledons. Radioactive leucine was administered to dry seeds of cucumber, and its incorporation into proteins of cotyledons was examined after 2 days of germination. The specific radioactivity of malate synthase, purified by immunoprecipitation and electrophoresis on polyacrylamide gel, was only 1/20 the average value of the total albumin fraction. The minimal incorporation documented by the comparatively low specific activity of isolated malate synthase is discussed in relation to the large pool of malate synthase already present in dry seeds.


Distribution of thioredoxins in Cyanobacteria.

The presence of thioredoxin was demonstrated in 20 strains of cyanobacteria as well as in one phototrophic bacterium Rhodopseudomonas sulfidophila and in Thiobacillus denitrificans. Thioredoxin activity was not found in Cyanophora paradoxa and in Porphyridium cruentum using the thioredoxin-dependent PAPS-sulfotransferase activity from Synechococcus 6301 as assay system.


Down syndrome with XO/XX mosaicism.

A 2-month-old girl with Down syndrome was found to have 47, XX, +21/46, X, +21 mosaicism. No symptoms indicative of infantile Turner syndrome were observed.


Estradiol and estetrol plasma levels before and after intravenous administration of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate in normal and pathologic pregnancies.

Intravenous injections of 50 mg dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) were given to 7 women with normal pregnancies and 5 with pathologic pregnancies and the serum levels of 17 beta-estradiol and estetrol were assayed before and at 15 or 30-minute intervals for three hours after the injection. All tests were carried out during the 25th to 36th week of amenorrhea. Serum estradiol rose rapidly in normal subjects and remained high to the end of the test. In patients with gestational pathology the estradiol pattern was not significantly different from that of the controls. Esterol plasma levels showed a biphasic pattern with an initial rise at 30 min. and a second rise at 90 min. in normal pregnancies, whereas in pathologic pregnancies this response was either lacking completely or was markedly reduced compared to the controls.


The effect of xenoantisera on T-lymphocyte functions in the absence of complement.

An attempt was made to determine whether xenoantisera can detect functional receptors on mouse T lymphocytes. Antisera were raised by immunizing rabbits with BALB/c thymus cells, boiled thymus homogenate, brain homogenate or bone marrow cells. Following heat inactivation these antisera were absorbed with mouse kidney and liver homogenates, and studied for their effect, in the absence of C', on the activity of murine T lymphocytes. Rabbit anti-bone marrow serum (RAB) had no effect on the mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) nor on cell-mediated lysis (CML). In contrast, rabbit anti-thymus serum (RAT) and anti-boiled thymus serum (RABT) inhibited strikingly, the MLR, CML, and the response to concanavalin A and phytohemagglutinin. Rabbit anti-brain serum (RABR) caused a marked increase of the proliferation of lymphocytes both in the presence or absence of various stimuli and had no effect on the CML. Absorption experiments indicated that a number of antigens are involved in the inhibitory activity of RAT. Antibodies to a T cell specific antigen interfere with the response of T lymphocytes to mitogenic stimuli, while the activity of cytotoxic T cells is inhibited by antibodies to a determinant shared by B and T lymphocytes.


Suppressor monocytes in human disease: a review.

Suppressor monocytes have been found in a number of human diseases most of which are associated with lymphopenia and deficiences in cell mediated immunity. In our studies both quantitative and qualitative differences in monocytes were detected in certain patients with advanced Hodgkin's disease or tuberculosis. In certain patients lymphocyte activating factor production by monocytes was severely depressed in part secondary to decreased activation by suppressed T cells, although at times primary impairment of macrophage function was also probably contributory. Mononuclear cell cultures from patients with advanced Hodgkin's disease also manifested excessive prostaglandin secretion; however, the association of this with monocyte suppression and deficient LAF production was inconstant. Furthermore, reversibility of monocyte suppression could not regularly be achieved by inhibition of prostaglandin synthetase with indomethacin suggesting that excessive production of prostaglandins is unlikely to be the sole mechanism of monocyte inhibition of lymphoproliferation. It also remains to be established whether the inhibition of lymphoproliferation in vitro is important to in vivo delayed hypersensitivity or whether the mechanism is related to other macrophage effects such as tumor cytostasis and cytolysis.


Inhibition of histamine methylation in vivo by the dimaprit analog, SKF Compound 91488.

The Dimaprit analog, S-[4-(N,N-dimethylamino)-butyl]isothiurea (SKF Compound 91488), which is a noncompetitive inhibitor (Ki, 0.9 microM) of histamine-N-methyltransferase in vitro, inhibited the methylation of labeled histamine in mice. When administered in combination with the diamine oxidase inhibitor, aminoguanidine, an almost complete block of histamine metabolism was observed. The inhibition was dependent on dose of drug and was apparent with doses of 50 mg/kg and greater. Since Compound 91488 is reported to have no agonist activity of its own, the drug may help to identify the actions of histamine released from endogenous stores in response to physiological and pathological stimuli.


A comparative study with impromidine (SKF 92676), a potent agonist for histamine H2-receptors.

Histamine, dimaprit and impromidine caused a relaxation on the isolated cat tracheal muscle contracted by acetylcholine or serotonin. Mepyramine partially inhibited the relaxing effect of histamine without altering that of impromidine and dimaprit. Both impromidine and dimaprit produced a dose-dependent fall in perfusion pressure of the isolated perfused guinea-pig lung while histamine has a pressor effect in this preparation which reversed into a depressor one in the presence of mepyramine. Both dimaprit and impromidine also produced a fall in perfusion pressure and urine flow of the isolated perfused rabbit kidney. A rapid tachyphylaxis developed to the effect of impromidine in the kidney but not to dimaprit. A cross-tachyphylaxis was also observed between impromidine and dimaprit. The agonistic potency of impromidine was found to be very much higher than histamine and dimaprit. Metiamide has a competitive inhibitory effect against impromidine and dimaprit on the isolated perfused lung, kidney and tracheal muscle. It was concluded that impromidine is a very potent pure histamine H2-receptor agonist when compared with histamine and dimaprit on the investigated tissues.


Therapeutic effect of beta-[1-phenyl-5-bis(beta-chloroethyl)-amino-benzimidazolyl-(2)-DL-alanin (ZIMET 3164) on immune complex nephritis of NZB hybrid mice.

Beta-[1-Phenyl-5-bis(beta-chloroethyl)-amino-benzimidazolyl-(2)]-DL-alanin (ZIMET 3164), a highly immunosuppressive but moderately cytostatic agent, was found to be able to prevent the progression of spontaneous murine immune complex nephritis in a dose-dependent fashion. For experiments, BCG-stimulated conventional female (NMRI X NZB)F1 mice suffering from rapidly progressive nephritis, BCG-stimulated and unilaterally nephrectomized (NMRI X NZB)F1 females, and (AB/Jena X NZB)F1 females characterized by a prolonged course of the disease were used. The beneficial effect was quantified by fluorescence photometry and histometry, and semiquantitatively detected by estimation of the extent of damage of individual glomerular structures when histometric methods were unsuited. Treatment of young adult animals characterized by slight to moderate glomerular lesions was more effective than of older ones with advanced nephritis. At equi-immunosuppressive dose levels ZIMET 3164 was about twice as effective as the reference substance cyclophosphamide.


(Ca2++Mg2+)-ATPase activity of sickle cell membranes: decreased activation by red blood cell cytoplasmic activator.

Human red blood cells (RBCs) contain a cytoplasmic protein that activates membrane-bound (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-ATPase and the transport of Ca2+. The (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-ATPase of sickle cells showed a less than normal response to this activator. This was true whether the activator was obtained from normal or sickle cells. Activator present in sickle cell hemolysates fully activated the (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-ATPase of normal RBC membranes. These results demonstrate that membranes of sickle cells are defective in their response to the activator. Neither the apparent affinity for calcium nor the apparent affinity for activator was different comparing the (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-ATPase of sickle and normal membranes. Young, mature, and irreversibly sickled cells were separated by density gradient centrifugation, and membranes were prepared from each of these cell populations. No significant differences in ATPase activities were found based on cell age (density). The (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-ATPase of all populations of sickle cells showed a decreased response to the activator. Thus, it appears unlikely that the decreased response of the (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-ATPase of sickle cells is due to membrane damage caused by repeated sickling during the life-span of the cell. Reduced activation of (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-ATPase by the cytoplasmic activator may account for calcium accumulation in sickle cells.


Effect of oral contraceptive containing a new progestin (ORG 2969) on plasma renin activity, growth hormone and immunoreactive insulin.

Plasma renin activity (PRA), Growth hormone (GH) and immunoreactive insulin (IRI) were studied in seven healthy subjects during the ovulatory menstrual cycle and during the first and third cycles of oral contraception with 0.05 mg of ethinylestradiol and 0.100 mg or 0.125 mg of a new progestogen, 17 alpha-ethinyl-18-methylene-4-estren-17 beta-ol. The PRA level in the second half of the control cycle was significantly higher than in the beginning of the cycle. At the end of the treated cycles it was significantly higher than at the end of the control cycle. Neither GH nor IRI showed significant changes during the control cycle. GH was significantly higher at the end of the first and third treated cycles than at the end of the control cycle. IRI was significantly higher both in the beginning and at the end of the first treated cycle than the corresponding IRI levels in the control cycle. IRI at the end of the third treatment cycle was not significantly different from corresponding means at the end of the control cycle or the first treated cycle.


The spontaneous rate of tumours in the laboratory rat: strain Chbb: THOM (SPF).

The aim of this investigation was to examine the time relationship of the rate of development of spontaneous tumours in the rat, strain CHBB: THOM (SPF). The rats were divided into 6 groups, each of which consisted of 100 male and 100 female animals. The first group was killed at the age of 15 months, and the last group when aged 2 1/2 years. Thus the time interval between sacrificing the individual groups was 3 months. Spontaneous tumours seldom appear in animals up to 15 months of age except in the testes, pituitary and mammary glands. Apart from these organs tumours develop mainly in the lung, lymph nodes, thymus, adrenal cortex, thyroid, ovary, uterus, skin and in the brain. Benign tumours predominate. Malignant tumours with metastases are rare. The incidence of tumour formation increases after the age 21 months. Statistically significant increases can only be shown in a few organs.


[Interaction of phosphatidyl serine with fibrin monomer].

Phosphatidyl serine induces a concentration-dependent inhibition of polymerization of fibrin monomer and forms a complex with it, which is stable to gel-filtration and chloroform treatment. During plasmin proteolysis phosphatidyl serine remains tightly bound to the fragments of the fibrin monomer molecule formed. A correlation between the amount of amino acids responsible for phospholipid binding and that of phosphatidyl serine bound to the fragment of the fibrin monomer molecule was observed. The introduction of phosphatidyl serine into the blood flow causes a decrease of the thrombin-precipitated fibrinogen and fibrin monomer obtained from animal plasma. At the same time phosphatidyl serine is present in fibrinogen and in high amounts in the fibrin monomer. It is assumed that phosphatidyl serine which controls thrombinogenesis and enzymatic and non-enzymatic steps of fibrin production can thus be regarded as a natural stabilizer of the blood.


[Nil nocere: perforation of the gastric wall on occasion of peritoneoscopy (author's transl)].

On occasion of peritoneoscopy of a 76-years old man with gastrectasia by cancer of the pylorus, the gastric wall became perforated. He was cured by followed urgent surgical intervention. Causes and conclusions to prevent this complication are discussed.


The influence of experimental diabetes on the serum and urinary glycopeptide compounds in rats.

In alloxan-diabetic rats the protein level in the secomucoid and the levels of neutral sugars and peptides in the serum and urinary non-diffusible sugar-peptide (serum and urinary NSP) fractions increased. The proportion of neutral sugars in seromucoid and serum NSP fraction decreased, while in the urinary NSP fraction this ratio increased. In streptozotocin-diabetic rats the ratio of neutral sugars to the peptides did not change in either fraction, while the ratio of these sugars to the total nitrogen in the serum and urinary NSP fractions increased. The total level of seromucoid as well as the levels of neutral sugars in the serum and urinary NSP fraction were raised in these rats. The comparison of the results with those obtained previously by Sarnecka-Keller et al. (1968, 1972, 1972 a) in natural diabetes showed that the alloxan-diabetic model is more suitable for the study of glycopeptide compound metabolism in this disease.


[Autoradiographic studies on protein metabolism and histochemical demonstration of the brain zinc content in diabetes mellitus. 1. Comparison in experimental streptozotocin-induced diabetes].

By application of streptozotocin diabetes mellitus is induced in rats: 40 mg/kg body weight streptozotocin produce a fairly serious diabetes with minimal ketosis, 125 mg/kg body weight streptozotocin cause a severe diabetic keto-acidosis. After 72 hours these animals and also a group of control animals receive 8.33 mCi/animal 3H-leucine intraperitoneally. By means of stripping film autoradiograms the rates of uptake of 3H-leucine in different areas of the rat brain are measured. The values of the control animals are compared with those of a fairly serious diabetes and those of a severe diabetic keto-acidosis. In the regions of the neocortex parietalis and of the thalamus the 3H-leucine values of the diabetic animals are considerably lower in comparison with the controls, and that irrespective of the degree of severity of the diabetic disease. Compared with the control animals the 3H-leucine values of diabetic animals decrease according to the degree of severity of the disease within the Ammon's horn and the dentate fascia. Within the Ammon's horn and dentate fascia also the zinc contents change very specifically in different areas with the degree of severity of diabetes mellitus. The zinc is identified on H2S-alcohol fixed brains by means of a photographic development. The particular significance of the Ammon's horn and the dentate fascia concerning diabetic metabolic conditions is discussed.


Medical geography of Moldavia: historical contribution.

The role of Hungarian surgeons and physicians in the medical care of Moldavia was discussed in its historical development. Two medico-geographical works about Moldavia in the first half of the 19th century were discussed: Andreas Wolff and the Moldavian Constantin Vernav wrote the related books.


[Transluminal angioplasty of renal artery stenosis for the treatment of renal hypertension (author's transl)].

Three patients with hypertension due to renal artery stenoses were treated by percutaneous transluminal angioplasty with the coaxial-balloon-catheter system as it is used for the dilatation of coronary arteries. The pressure gradients before and after dilatation are recorded. Pressure of the three patients came directly after treatment down significantly. Reduction of antihypertensive drug therapy was possible in two patients, one patient is without therapy 4 weeks after the procedure.


[Delayed healing of colonic anastomoses after tumour resection (author's transl)].

Local tumour recurrences at colonic anastomoses in an early, curable stage are rarely missed by double contrast enema. On the other hand, the variable appearances caused by inflammatory lesions, which delay healing of the anastomosis, are often misinterpreted as recurrences. Early post-operative investigation with a water-soluble contrast medium is therefore important. Small and transient leaks at the suture line may cause intramural inflammatory lesions with a variety of symptoms and may be confused with local recurrences. They are due to delayed healing at the anastomosis and will only be interpreted correctly if there is regular radiological follow-up.


[Method and value of the opacified intestine in the computed tomography of abdomen (author's transl)].

In the examination of the intestine CT can deliver further information about diseases transgressing the intestinal wall or bordering on it. Sometimes, however, bowel loops filled with liquid can scarcely be distinguished from abdominal abnormalities. In these cases contrast material given orally or as an enema can facilitate the distinction and the identification of pathological patterns. The method of opacifying bowel loops is presented and demonstrated by several examples. Its value as well as its limits are discussed.


[Critical considerations on the "innominate grooves" of the colon (author's transl)].

The authors discuss the meaning of the "innominate grooves" of the colon after having determined their anatomic substratum with a microradiographic study. In the iconographic and methodological critical evaluation of the double contrast technique the "innominate grooves" must be considered as an important sign of today's radiologic semeiotics and as elementary mucous structures which are first affected by pathologic situations.


[99mTc marking of gel foam for catheter embolisation (author's transl)].

A simple method is described for marking gel foam particles with 99mTc after reduction of the pertechnetate. This is carried out in the Luer lock syringe to be used for the injection. After embolisation and control angiography, the patient is placed under a scintillation camera. The position of the embolising material can then be demonstrated scintigraphically. In six patients marked emboli were found to be correctly placed. In another patient undergoing a second embolisation for a renal tumour, particles were found in the peripheral circulation.


[The value of renal phlebography in the differential diagnosis of arteriographically hypo- or avascular lesions in the kidney (author's transl)].

The present paper is an investigation into the diagnostic value of renal phlebography for differentiating between arteriographically hypo- and avascular malignant lesions in the kidney and benign renal masses. In three examinations carried out on eight patients with renal masses, phlebography was of crucial diagnostic importance. In ten renal cysts a presumptive diagnosis made by arteriography was confirmed by phlebography. In another eight renal cysts, a case of haemorrhagic pyelitis and in two cases of unilateral pseudotumerous pyelonephritis, phlebography was of no value.


[Transhepatic biliary drainage for obstructive jaundice (author's transl)].

Sixty-five patients with obstructive jaundice out of a total of 71 patients, were treated successfully by PTCD. The markedly elevated total bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase in the serum were reduced significantly and the general condition of the patient improved rapidly. On the other hand, severe obstructive jaundice which had persisted for several weeks was not amenable to treatment in this way. Occlusion of the extrahepatic bile ducts by tumour was treated by internal PTCD; this provided satisfactory flow of bile into the duodenum for at least six months. PTCD is simpler for the patient than surgery and is therefore the method of choice in obstructive jaundice. Finally, PTCD can be used for the introduction of antibiotics for the treatment of suppurative cholangitis or liver abscesses. This rapidly leads to reduction in fever and absorption of the abscesses.


[The Mirizzi syndrome as a cause of obstructive jaundice--its demonstration by sonography and PTC (author's transl)].

Two patients with the Mirizzi syndrome are described and the findings on sonography and PTC care discussed. The difficulties of differentiating this from biliary obstruction due to tumour are stressed and treatment and prognosis are set out.


[Suggestibility as a factor in diagnostic decision-making, illustrated by lymphographic diagnosis (author's transl)].

Sixteen diagnosticians were repeatedly shown a series of lymphograms. On repeated viewing, the participants were informed of their diagnostic decisions at the first reading (accuracy, sensitivity, specificity). The results show that it was possible to influence the participants in their judgement and attitude. Changes in individual attitudes are demonstrated diagnostically and the individual diagnostic parameters were subjected to a quantitative analysis. The accuracy of the results are related to the method and to the diagnostician with reference to the composition of the clinical material.


[Long-term follow-up of stress injuries to the metaphyses and apophyses of the spinous processes of juvenile thoracic spines (Schmitt's disease) (author's transl)].

Unlike the clay-shoveller's fracture in adults, stress injuries in juveniles trend to be localised at the tip of the spinous process, i.e. in the metaphysis, the apophyseal line and the apophysis. Characteristic changes are found only between 14 1/2 and 16 1/2 years, at, or immediately before, ossification of the tip of the apophysis. These fractures share with the corresponding fractures in adults similar occupational history, a similar clinical picture with a benign course of the disease. Healing is by the formation of a pseudo-arthrosis which may, however, consolidate after several months or years. Synonyms which have been used for the stress injury to the spinous process in the growing skeleton are: clay-shoveller's fractures in juveniles, apophysitis of the spinous process, aseptic necrosis of the spinous process, gross disturbance of the spinous process after chronic trauma or Schmitt's disease.


[Marginal osteophytes as a radiological and clinical indicator of patellofemoral arthrosis (author's transl)].

Radiological and pathological comparisons carried out on patellae at autopsy have shown a statistical relationship between the size of marginal patellar osteophytes and radiologically invisible ulceration of the joint cartilage. Patellar osteophytes greater than 2 mm. show a 100% association with cartilage ulcers. The detritus originating from the ulcerated cartilage is a potent irritant of the synovial membrane. The radiological demonstration of marginal patellar osteophytes therefore provides evidence concerning the severity of the arthrosis; the larger the patellar marginal osteophytes, the greater is the need for treatment of the painful arthrosis. The lateral and upper margins of the patella are the sites of predelection for the osteophytes. The medial patellar facet is the site of predelection for the cartilagenous ulcers.


[The appearances of chondropathia patellae on plain films (author's transl)].

The ability to diagnose chondropathia patellae on plain radiographs was studied in 64 patients in whom the disease had been confirmed either by operation or arthroscopy. All cases of stage III chondropathia were diagnosable by radiological examination; in stage I, 67%, and in stage II, 73% could be diagnosed. The diagnosis depends on the co-existence of marginal irregularities, irregularities of the subchondral bone lamellae, spotty diffuse demineralisation, marginal osteophytes, irregularities at the insertion of the quadriceps tendon and soft tissue changes such as joint effusions. These changes are best identified on the so-called "defilée" view. Disalignment of the axis of the patella and post-traumatic defects are of particular importance for the development of chondropathia, but in the present clinical material, the existence of dysplasia of the patella or of the femoral condyle was not associated with a demonstrable increase of chondromalacia.


[Simplified multiscreen millimeter-layer ear-tomography-makeshift solution or more? (author's transl)].

The experiences of a simplified multiscreen millimeterlayer ear-tomography technique are reported. The number of patients examined 1969-1978 was 2000 and of these 730 were subjected to microsurgery. The accuracy of the tomographic method was evaluated by a correlation between the preoperative radiographic diagnoses and the peroperative findings. The diagnostic accuracy of multiscreen tomography was much better than expected. The advantages of the method are discussed. It is concluded that multiscreen millimeterlayer eartomography may profitably be used not only in larger departments but also in smaller units.


[CT findings in brain abscesses (author's transl)].

Seventeen patients with brain abscesses are reported, some with multiple lesions. The computer tomographic criteria for the diagnosis with and without enhancement are described. The advantages of computer tomography compared with other neuroradiological methods for the diagnosis and follow-up of abscesses is stressed. Good therapeutic results have been obtained from simple puncture of the lesion.


[Radiological documentation of the occurrence of occlusion of an internal carotid artery branch in a patient with hyperlipoproteinaemia (author's transl)].

The clinical and angiographic findings in a 23-year-old patient with hyperlipoproteinaemia type IV are described. The patient had suffered repeated, transitory attacks of focal cerebral ischaemia. During angiography, occlusion of a branch of the left middle cerebral artery occurred. This was followed by severe neurological deficit, which, however, recovered completely after three days. The pathogenesis of the angiographic findings and of this complication are discussed.


[The effect of changes in the bones of the skull due to Mediterranean anaemia on the shape of the skull and the formation of the cranial cavity (author's transl)].

The head and skull in patients with Mediterraneen anaemia show often a marked change of the external shape due mainly to the considerable enlargement of the cranial bones. From the abnormal external appearance the suspicion may arise that the form and space of the internal cranial cavity are likewise affected and even the basic structure of the skull is altered. However, a detailed investigation of the principal angles, distances and characteristic structures of the skull made on lateral roentgenograms of these patients, a comparison of the results between cases with different intensity of the osseous changes and a confrontation with the findings in normal individuals proved that there were no major discrepancies. The essential features of the human skull were always preserved. Only in some cases with severe alterations of the cranial bones a few small deviations from the normal values could be noticed and in a little number of them signs of a slight narrowing of the cranial cavity werde to be observed. This way was probably caused by a very early, rapid and extreme enlargement of the cranial bones resulting in a kind of "premature panzer-skull."


[The effect of selective autoperfusion through an extracorporeal circulation on the formation of arterial collaterals. Animal experimental results (author's transl)].

In 11 mongrel dogs (10-15 kg) with ligated superficial femoral arteries the formation of collaterals induced by increased arterial pressure with an extracorporal circulation was studied. In general anesthesia a teflon tube was inserted into one deep femoral artery. The other end of this tube war introduced through the right carotid artery into the thoracic aorta and arterial blood was drawn by a peristaltic tube pump from the aorta to the femoral artery. Different arterial pressures created by the pump were used to perfuse this hind limb. After 40 minutes perfusion time with 200 mmHG pressure, there was marked increase of collateralization by the deep femoral artery. At the contralateral non treated side, only minimal development of collaterals was visualized. These angiograms demonstrate that collaterals are opened by increased pressure within a short time interval  The experimental model might have clinical implisations and accelerate collateral formation in non-surgical treatment of arterial occlusive disease.


Reinterpretation of the Dick test: role of group A streptococcal pyrogenic exotoxin.

Because of the association of the group A streptococcal pyrogenic exotoxins (SPEs) with erythrogenic toxin used in the classical Dick test, the involvement of the SPEs in production of erythematous skin reactions was assessed. Unless they had been presensitized, young adult rabbits failed to show skin reactions after intracutaneous challenged with SPEs. Rabbits presensitized to purified protein derivative exhibited enhanced skin reactivity when given purified protein derivative plus SPE C; the enhancement was neutralized by antiserum to SPE C. Rabbits sensitized to bovine serum albumin showed extensive red rash development resembling scarlet fever  rashes when given bovine serum albumin containing SPE C. Desquamation occurred 5 to 10 days after injection. Animals sensitized to one SPE type showed enhanced skin reactivity to challenge with homologous or heterologous SPE types, indicating the presence of a cross-reactive determinant within the SPE molecules. Repeated challenge of SPE-sensitized animals with homologous toxin resulted in concomitant antitoxin production with reduction of the enhanced skin reactivities, until typical delayed-hypersensitivity skin reactions remained. The data indicate that, in addition to the toxic reaction previously described, SPEs enhance Arthus and delayed-hypersensitivity skin reactions. It follows that erythrogenic toxin represents the enhancement of acquired skin reactivity to streptococcal antigens by one or more SPE types. Therefore, the Dick test measures SPE-enhanced hypersensitivity to streptococcal products.


Biological activity of the slime and endotoxin of the periodontopathic organism Eikenella corrodens.

A partially purified water-soluble slime extract was obtained from two strains of the oral pathogen Eikenella corrodens, designated CS10 A and CS10 B. Endotoxin was also isolated from this organism by the phenol-water extraction procedure. Assays including the local Shwartzman skin reactivity, chicken embryo lethality, Limulus lysate clotting, spleen cell mitogenicity, and immune adjuvancy were used to test the biological properties of these two bacterial extracts. In each of these assay systems the endotoxins of the Eikenella corrodens strains demonstrated the classical endotoxic responses. In contrast, the effect of slime extract in the corresponding assays was either extremely low or absent with the exception of a very strong immunosuppressive effect. Mice treated with slime extract showed a severely reduced immune response to sheep erythrocytes as measured by the hemolytic plaque-forming cell assay.


[Plastic replacement of the abdominal wall by uncoated carbon cloth. An animal experiment on the rabbit (author's transl)].

Carbon cloth is a new biomaterial which is suitable for the replacement of ligaments and connective tissues, because of its biological and physical properties. In 30 rabbits a defect was cut into the abdominal wall. In 20 the defect was covered by an implanted carbon cloth. The other 10 animals were used as controls. After implantation wound healing was excellent. No herniation could be observed in the group with the implants. After 3 months histological examinations revealed the ingrowth of collagen fibres into the carbon cloth. It had become a strong and resilient abdominal wall replacement. A physical-strength test showed stability of the newly formed abdominal wall with good anchorage to normal tissue.


[Evidence for receptors of the specific T-suppressor cells immune to the H-2 antigens, and enrichment of these cells by fractionation on target cell monolayer].

Specific T-suppressor cells induced by an intravenous injection of mice with a large number of gamma-irradiated allogeneic spleen cells are shown to inhibit the DNA synthesis activation and the killer generation in mixed lymphocyte culture (MLC). These suppressors can be removed from the population as a result of their adherence to the macrophage monolayer of the corresponding donor strain, whereas only a small part of specific suppresors gets adherent to the syngeneic macrophage monolayer. Subsequent elution of the lymphocytes adherent to the specific monolayer gives rise to the enrichment of the cell population in specific T-suppressors by a factor of 30 and 2.6, judging by the reduction of lymphocyte number required for 50% inhibition of the DNA synthesis and the killer generation, respectively. The gain in suppressor activity appears to be specific, as it is not observed when either the elution is performed from the syngeneic monolayer, or the third-party stimulator cells are used in the test-MLC. The faint non-specific suppression of the reactions to thirdparty stimulator cells in the test-MCL which intact immune lymphocytes are responsible for, does not decrease after their absorption but almost disappears after their elution from the specific monolayer. The findings are indicative of the existence of antigen-binding receptors on T-suppressors which allow to remove and concentrate specific T-suppressor cells.


Sex-related differences in the response of fast and slow muscle fibres to early undernutrition.

Early undernutrition of male and female rats was effected by limiting the mothers' food supply by 40% during pregnancy and lactation. The rats were killed at the age of 20 weeks and physiologically fast and slow skeletal muscles were prepared for histochemical demonstration of muscle fibre types. In the fast extensor digitorum longus (EDL) and the slow soleus (SOL) significant decreases in muscle weight were seen only in male experimental animals. Decreases in muscle fibre type cross-sectional area were found in the EDL in both males and females. In SOL, both fibre types showed evidence of fibre hypertrophy, and this was statistically significant in male animals. No changes were seen in the proportions present of the fibre types in either of the muscles.


Toxicity of oxythioquinox in relation to the fat content of the diet: study of the metabolic activity of rat intestinal epithelium.

The relationship between the level of lipid calories in the diet and the effects of oxythioquinox, administered for 30 days at 200 mg/kg fresh food, was studied on the metabolism of enterocytes. The results show that the QO2, the QG and the QL of the enterocytes drop both, with the level of lipid intake and with the presence of oxythioquinox. The (Na+ + K+) ATPase, Mg+ +ATPase and arylamidase activities of a homogenate of enterocytes all increase both with the level of alimentary lipids and with the presence of oxythioquinox, the effect of oxythioquinox being potentialized by the lipids. Alkaline phosphatase was found to be the only enzyme to be inhibited in the treated animals and the lipid-oxythioquinox interaction moves in the direction of a decrease in this inhibition. For most of the investigated parameters, because of the interaction, as the level of lipid calories increases, the toxicity of oxythioquinox becomes noticeably modified.


[Prenatal diagnosis by ultrasound of a very large heart (author's transl)].

Ultrasound diagnosis enabled identification of a congenitally very large heart. Due to this finding, no obstetric intervention was performed despite a foetal emergency situation. Hence, unnecessary surgery was avoided. The principal signs enabling clarification of the case by ultrasound were a vena umbilicalis of 2 cm thickness and the highly dilated heart which occupied 75% of the cross-sectional area of the thorax, besides the clinical clues, hydramnion and hydrops fetus.


[Hemodynamic guidelines in the treatment of acute myocardial infarction by means of vasodilators].

Two types of vasodilators are used for treatment of acute myocardial infarction: Nitrates on the one hand with predominant venodilation and agents like Phentolamie and Nitroprusside on the other hand with venodilation as well as arteriolar vasodilation. Different opinions exist with respect to indication of these vasodilators. They are used for reduction of arterial blood pressure, for reduction of left ventricular filling pressure and for increase of cardiac output. A marked decrease in ejection fraction is the hemodynamic basis of application of vasodilators in the latter indication. By reduction of peripheral vascular resistance emptying of the left ventricle in these patients is enhanced.) As a working hypothesis in clinical situation elevated filling pressure indicates a decreased ejection fraction. The first part of this investigation deals with relation of left ventricular and diastolic pressure to ejection fraction. A good correlation between these two parameters was found in 717 patients with coronary artery disease. However variability was so wide that regression from enddiastolic pressure to ejection fraction in the individual seemed impossible. In 26.6% of patients with ejection fraction over 0.6%, filling pressure was 20 mm Hg or more. On the other hand, in 34.7% of patients with ejection fraction below 0.3% filling pressure was 20 mm Hg or less. As a consequence of practical value, reduced ejection fraction has to be assumed, if a patient presents elevated filling pressure and reduced cardiac output. In the second part, the hemodynamic effects of Phentolamine in 12 patients with acute myocardial infarction and elevated filling pressure (PCV resp. PADP greater than 18 mm Hg) are described. Maximal effects on hemodynamic variables were: reduction of peripheral vascular resistance by 31.4%, of left ventricular filling pressure by 16.2%, and of mean arterial pressure by 17.0%. Cardiac output increased by 25.8% and heart rate rose by 14.8%. At optimal efficacy, stroke volume increased by 23.7%. Further increase of infusion rate with concomitant fall of peripheral vascular resistance resulted in decrease of stroke volume and tachycardia. Most serious side effects consisted in sudden fall of blood pressure. Therefore intraarterial monitoring of blood pressure is demanded. The third part deals with hemodynamic effects of nitrates (Isosorbiddinitrate 10 mg p.o.) in patients with acute myocardial infarction and elevated filling pressure. One hour after application peripheral vascular resistance decrease by 16.5%, filling pressure by 20.8%, and mean arterial pressure by 9.0%. Cardiac output  stroke volume and heart rate did not change significantly. No side effects were observed with Isosorbiddinitrate although two cases of nitrate syncope occurred with Nitroglycerin, resulting in bradycardia and hypotension. Indications for vasodilator therapy therefore has to be handled as follows: Nitrates should be given to patients with elevated filling pressure and normal cardiac output...


Suppressor cell induction and reticuloendothelial cells activation produced in the mouse by beta 1-3 glucan.

We made a sequential study of the proliferative and functional changes occurring in RE cells after beta 1-3 glucan administration in BDF1, and C57BL mouse. beta 1-3 glucan was administered by single i.v. 50 mg/kg or i.p. 15 mg/kg injection. This successively induced changes in RE cells as follows: on day 3 a rise of acid phosphatase activity in peritoneal macrophages; on day 6 an increase of 3H-TdR incorporation in spleen and peritoneal lymphocytes together with an intense suppression of PHA and LPS responses by spleen cells; on day 10 a 5-fold increase of the percentage of peroxidase rich monocytes in the peritoneum. Thereafter all the values went back to or below control. Our results indicate that beta 1-3 glucan is an in vivo mitogen and a macrophage activator.


[Investigation of house-dust allergy in children (author's transl)].

Authors were studying the relationship between the history data, the diagnostic difficulties, the skin tests and ventilatory functions after provocative inhalation and specific IgE positivity in connection with 40 cases of bronchial asthma. The most important feature of the treatment is the specific hyposensibilisation, which was performed by a depot house-dust preparation, manufactured by the Vaccine Producing Institute "Human", Budapest. Full success was given in 61,1% of the treated asthmatics.


[Intracutaneous tests with phytohemagglutinin for detection of cell-mediated immunity (author's transl)].

Patients with various forms of dermatosis and healthy control subjects were simultaneously tested intracutaneously with specific antigens (candidin, trichophytin, kabikinase, tuberculin and the mumps skin test antigen) and the non-specificmitogen PHA-P. A positive delayed reaction was observed in 98% of the healthy subjects and 76,6% of the dermatosis patients following intracutaneous application of 2 microgram PHA-P.--The results of these studies suggest that the PHA-P intracutaneous test might be suitable as a screening method for diagnozing cellular immun-defects.


[On the suitability of migration inhibition techniques in the in-vitro-diagnostics of chromium allergy (author's transl)].

1. Under the conditions of cell culture potassium dichromate is reduced to trivalent chromium (diphenylcarbacid/fotometry). Trivalent chromium reacts with proteins more strongly than the hexavalent chromium (gelchromatography/atom absorption spectrophotometry) and presumably represents the actual hapten. 2. Because of this in-vitro-conjugation chromium salts are suitable in their unconjugated form for applying in migration inhibition tests (capillary/Clausen technique). 3. In migration inhibition tests potassium dichromate showed a better antigenicity than chromium chloride. The capillary method was more sensitive than the Clausen technique when using the same test concentration. 4. Correlations between the degree of the patch test and the value of the migration inhibition did not exist.


[Acute keratoconus in mongolism (author s transl)].

Ten cases of mongolism are reported in which acute keratoconus developed. The results according to age and sex distribution, onset of the disease, status of the fellow eye, and histology of the cornea are compared with former reports. Our theory of the etiopathogenesis of acute keratoconus in patients with trisomy 21 and other diseases with generalized weakness of the connective tissue is presented and discussed.


An investigation of seven enzymes as possible genetic markers in horse leucocytes.

In this paper we describe seven enzymes, NP, GOTM, PGM2, alpha FUC, PEP A, ADA and MPI which are found in the white cells of horses, including 39 British crossbred ponies and 16 crossbred horses, 30 Mongolian ponies and 10 Icelandic ponies. Two of these enzymes--alpha FUC and MPI--were polymorphic in all the populations of horses studied and could prove useful as additional markers in the paternity testing of horses. PEP A and GOTM were also polymorphic in two of the populations studied and could be used as further markers in these populations.


Geographical variation of lactate dehydrogenase and phosphoglucomutase in the loach Misgurnus anguillicaudatus.

One of the two loci controlling muscle lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) was shown to be polymorphic in the loach Misgurnus anguillicaudatus. The result of the survey on four populations suggests that the differences in the LDH gene frequencies are correlated with the geographical distribution of the loach. A fourth phosphoglucomutase allele (PGMD) was found in one of the loach populations examined.


[Pachydermatoglyphy. A sign of malignancy for acanthosis nigricans (author's transl)].

The pachydermatoglyphy corresponds from the clinical point of view to a diffuse palmo-plantar keratodermia, of a yellowish color, characterised by a rough thickening of the finger prints. The presence of the pachydermatoglyphy has been pointed out in six cases of malignant acanthosis nigricans. This was already found in previous descriptions. Pachydermatoglyphy is specially found in malignant acanthosis nigricans, but we have also observed such cases in erythrokeratodermia with pilar keratosis and deafness.


[Fusarium graminearum in silages. Zearalenone production (author's transl)].

Zearalenone natural contamination of transverse sections of recently opened silages has been observed. In our in vitro experiments, there is no zearalenone production on corn by Fusarium graminearum in anaerobic jar during 3 months. However, on confined atmosphere, zearalenone production is 1.5 to 3 ppm. Contamination of silage is not possible if there are anaerobic conditions in silages.


[In vitro studies of testicular biosynthesis in 4 cases of male pseudohermaphrodism (MPH) due to testicular 17 ketoreductase defect (author's transl)].

In 3 cases of MPH due to 17-ketosteroid reductase defect, the pattern of testicular biosynthesis studied after incubating homogenates of testicular tissue with 14C-Progesterone and 3H-Pregnenolone was very similar. The most striking finding was the excessive production of delta 4-Androstenedione contrasting with the small amount of testosterone formed. Conversion of DHA to delta 5-Androstenediol was also limited. In addition, 3 pairs of substrates, namely 14C-testosterone and 3H-delta 4-androstenedione; 14C-estradiol and 3H-estrone; 14C-delta 5-androstenediol and 3H-DHA, were incubated for various length of time. Homogenates of testicular tissue from 2 cases presenting with the biosynthetic defect were studied as to compare to testicular tissues from 2 subjects with normal testicular biosynthesis. Different degrees in the impairment of the reduction or the oxydation were observed for the different pairs of substrates in pathological as well as in normal tissues. This suggests that the extent of the enzyme defect would differ for the 3 pairs of substrates.


Cytotoxic and proliferative lymphocyte responses to allogeneic and xenogeneic antigens in vitro.

In vitro lymphoproliferative responses to foreign histocompatibility antigens are phylogenetically restricted. Responses occur most readily to allogeneic or closely related xenogeneic leucocytes, but not to unrelated xenogeneic cells. Specific cytotoxic T cell responses to foreign histocompatibility antigens show the same phylogenetic restriction. This lack of xenoreactivity is not due to a lack of precursor cells for the xenoantigens; guinea-pig lymphocytes, although normally unresponsive to mouse antigens, have a similar precursor frequency for these antigens as do lymphocytes of allogeneic mouse strains. Specific cytotoxic responses of guinea-pig lymphocytes to mouse antigens can be generated if a factor released from con A stimulated guinea-pig spleen cells is added to the culture medium. The factor produced by con A-activated spleen cells (CS) is also phylogenetically restricted in its action; CS must be obtained from animals homologous with the donor of the responding lymphocytes.


[DNA sequence encoding the signal peptide of the lambda receptor in E. coli K 12].

A 181 base pairs DNA fragment from E. coli K 12 has been sequenced. This allows determination of the sequence of the signal peptide of the precursor for the lambda receptor, an outer membrane protein.


[Reconstruction of abdominal wall defects using corium. Surgical procedure, clinical results and manometric examination of postoperative abdominal wall function].

Extensive resection of the abdominal wall was performed on six patients to reconstruct defects caused by tumors or necroses. Autologous dermis covered by a flap plasty produced good clinical and functional results, documented by the measurement of intraabdominal pressures in response to coughing, pressing, and lifting of the legs. The autologous dermis graft represents a valuable tool for the closure of large defects of the abdominal wall.


Nonelectrophoretic genetic variability in mosquitoes: polymorphism for temperature-resistant and temperature-sensitive phosphoglucomutase alleles in Culex pipiens.

Homogenates of single individuals of two natural populations and five laboratory populations of Culex pipiens were examined by combining electrophoresis and heat denaturation studies on phosphoglucomutase (PGM). All populations showed a high degree of polymorphism for isoelectrophoretic temperature-resistant (tr) and temperature-sensitive (ts) alleles. Formal genetic data on the heat stability differences of the PGM are given. If both electrophoretic and isoelectrophoretic alleles are taken into account, the mean increase in the degree of heterozygosity is quite remarkable, i.e., about 65%.--The data are considered in relation to the biological significance that this new type of variability of structural genes could have in natural populations.


[The indications for laparoscopy in malignant tumours of the ovary (author's transl)].

The diagnosis of a malignant ovarian tumour can be made laparoscopically. It is particularly indicated in cases of ascites occurring by itself due to a neoplasm or of undiagnosed origin, and in cases of infiltration of the pelvic nodes or when a small abdominal mass, whether it is isolated or associated with ascites, is found. This particularly of value when a cytological examination of the ascitic fluid does not indicate the diagnosis. Laparoscopy is a means by which the degree of spread of abdomino-pelvic lesions can be discerned in cases where the malignant nature of the ovary is known, but where the prognoses for its removal, either immediately or after several cures with chemotherapy, are doubtful and where the degree of spread has not been correctly and precisely determined at the first surgical intervention. Therefore laparoscopy can complete the information obtained from pelvic examinations and avoid the need for carrying out an exploratory laparotomy, but is gives less information than this latter does about the degree of spread in the pelvis and in the abdomen. So, laparoscopy is a means by which repeated control of the results of therapy which is more thorough than clinical examination can be assured, particularly because it acts as a check on peritoneal cytology. Although its interpretation can be very difficult and its reliability is a relative one, the latter is a good criterion of follow-up.


[Prevention of recurring adhesions after tuboplasty. II. Importance of grafts with free pezitoneum (author's transl)].

We have greatly improved in prevention of adhesions after tuboplasty, using peritoneal grafts on crude surfaces (28 cases off 92 tuboplasties). First results seem to confirm the interest of this method.


A review of work on artificial tendons.

Work done to date on artificial tendons by many authors is described in chronological order. A brief description of the techniques and materials is given in each case, with a summary of the results. The overall implications of the work are discussed in terms of prosthesis durability, the attachment to bone and tendon, mechanical properties and the volume of scar tissue generated. It is concluded that construction of a permanent artificial tendon is a realistic and worthwhile aim; further experimental work ought to include long term in vivo testing with means provided for monitoring any drift of the attachment points.


A comparison of palantype and stenograph for use in a speech transcription aid for the deaf.

In spite of considerable reasearch over many years in the field of automatic speech recognition (Underwood, 1977), practical devices capable of recognising unrestricted speech remain as science fiction rather than fact. Simultaneous display of speech as an aid for the deaf has however, been accomplished using manual data input devices (Newell and King, 1977; Newell, 1978; Downton and Newell; Fox et al, 1975; Hayward, 1978). In this application shorthand typing machines have been used, because only they can keep pace with speech (Seibel, 1964). Two possible machines are currently available for English Transcriptions; the Palantype (a British device) and the Stenograph (an American device). They are both based on the same fundamental principles, but differ mechanically and in the typing conventions they use. These differences suggest that one machine may be superior to the other as an input device for an aid for the deaf. This paper compares the two shorthand systems with a view to their potential use in a system providing a simultaneous transcript of speech for the deaf.


A high-affinity ATP-binding site on 30S dynein.

The enhancing effect of low concentrations (eg, 8 microM) of bis(4-fluoro-3-nitrophenyl)sulfone (FNS) on 30S dynein ATPase activity is increased when 1 mM dithiothreitol (DTT) is present. The effect of FNS + DTT is optimal at pH 7.5. Activation of the latent ATPase activity of 30S dynein by FNS + DTT is partially prevented by 1--3 microM ATP. Adenylylimidodiphosphate (AMP-PNP) is less effective than ATP, while beta, gamma-methylene-adenosine triphosphase (AMP-PCP), though a much stronger inhibitor of ATPase activity than AMP-PNP, does not protect against enhancement. These results demonstrate the presence of high-affinity ATP-binding site on 30S dynein.