Cytogenetic findings in pernicious anaemia. Comparison between results obtained with chromosome studies and the micronucleus test.

To elucidate whether the micronucleus test may be a sensitive test for the demonstration of the occurrence of spontaneous structural chromosomal aberrations in human disease, bone-marrow smears and chromosome preparations were studied from ten patients with pernicious anaemia. An increased incidence of metaphases with structural chromosomal aberrations was seen in three of the patients, whereas an increased number of bone-marrow cells containing micro-nuclei was present in eight of the ten patients. The micronucleus test may thus be a rapid and sensitive test to demonstrate whether spontaneous structural aberrations of the chromosomes are present in a group of patients suffering from various diseases.


Carcinogen activation by human liver enzymes in the Ames mutagenicity test.

Liver post-mitochondrial supernatants derived from 10 individuals were used as the source of metabolic activation for carcinogens in the Ames quantitative mutagenicity test using Salmonella typhimurium TA 100. The liver samples were obtained from brain-dead donors and autopsy cases. The ability of human enzymes to activate aromatic amines ranged from the undetectable to highly active for 2-acetylaminofluorene. None of the samples exhibited any ability to activate benzidine. A generally low activity was observed in the capability of human enzymes to activate the polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons, 3-methylcholanthrene and benzo(a)pyrene. Most samples were positive for activating 4-nitrobiphenyl. However, the highest mutagenic activity in the presence of human enzymes was consistently observed for aflatoxin B1 and sterigmatocystin. These results indicated that (a) human enzyme systems, like rodent systems, are more effective in inducing mutagenic activity from mycotoxins than aromatic amines and polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons, and (b) samples derived from different individuals exhibited considerable variation in the ability to activate carcinogens belonging to a same class of compound.


Mutagenicity screening of five methyl carbamate insecticides and their nitroso derivatives using mutants of Salmonella typhimurium LT2.

The mutagenic activity of five methyl carbamate insecticides-carbaryl, baygon, BUX-Ten, landrin and methomyl-and their nitroso derivatives were investigated using histidine auxotrophs-his TA98, his TA100, his TA1535, his TA1537 and his TA1538--of Salmonella typhimurium LT2 derived by Ames. The methyl carbamate insecticides did not cause a signficant increase in the number of revertant colonies in any of the strains used. In contrast, the nitroso derivatives of the carbamate insecticides greatly increased the number of colonies on plates inoculated with strains his TA100 and his TA1535. We conclude that the nitroso derivatives of the tested methyl carbamate insecticides are potent mutagens; whereas, the parent insecticides are non-mutagenic.


Induction of respiratory deficient mutants in Saccharomyces cerevisiae by mono- and diazido analogs of ethidium.

Mono- and diazido analogs of ethidium when photolyzed with yeast cells were highly effective in inducing respiratory deficient (RD) mutants. The monoazide was more mutagenic, though slightly less photosensitive, and under the concentrations and conditions used, both required photolysis to be significantly mutagenic. Ethidium bromide (EB) competed with either its mono- or diazide analog for RD induction when applied before, but not after, the photolysis step. This suggested that the initial mutagenic binding sites for azides were identical with those of EB. There was no self-rescue or recovery in azide mutagenesis in contrast to EB. Furthermore, recovery from azide mutagenesis could not be provoked by EB. This confirmed a simple competition between binding of EB and its azide analogs to account for the prevention by EB of the azide induced mutations.


Mutagenicity of hydroxamic acids for Salmonella typhimurium.

P-Butoxyphenylacethydroxamic acid, benzohydroxamic acid, salicylhydroxamic acid, 2-naphthohydroxamic acid, indole-2-carbohydroxamic acid and benzoylaminoacethydroxamic acid were synthesized, and their mutagenicity for Salmonella typhimurium strains TA98 and TA100 were determined. Except for p-butoxyphenylacethydroxamic acid, all the hydroxamic acids were mutagenic for both strains. The mutagenicity progressed in the following order: 2-naphthohydroxamic acid greater than benzohydroxamic acid and salicylhydroxamic acid greater than benzoylaminoacethydroxamic acid and indole-2-carbohydroxamic acid. The starting materials for the synthesis of these acids including hydroxylamine were not in themselves mutagenic for TA98 and TA100. Thus, while the mutagenicity may require the hydroxamic acid as a whole, the acyl group may determine the mutagenic potency.


Effects of caffeine on plasma renin activity, catecholamines and blood pressure.

Using a double-blind, randomized, cross-over protocol, we studied the effect of a single dose of oral caffeine on plasma renin activity, catecholamines and cardiovascular control in nine healthy, young, non-coffee drinkers maintained in sodium balance throughout the study period. Caffeine (250 mg) or placebo was administered in a methylxanthine-free beverage to overnight-fasted supine subjects who had had no coffee, tea or cola in the previous three weeks. Caffeine increased plasma renin activity by 57 per cent, plasma norepinephrine by 75 per cent and plasma epinephrine by 207 per cent. Urinary normetanephrine and metanephrine were increased 52 per cent and 100 per cent respectively. Mean blood pressure rose 14/10 mm Hg one hour after caffeine ingestion. There was a slight fall and then a rise in heart rate. Plasma caffeine levels were usually maximal one hour after ingestion but there was considerable individual variation. A 20 per cent increase in respiratory rate correlated well with plasma caffeine levels. Under the conditions of study caffeine was a potent stimulator of plasma renin activity and adrenomedullary secretion. Whether habitual ingestion has similar effects remains to be determined.


Aflatoxin production by Aspergillus parasiticus in a competitive environment.

Aspergillus parasiticus NRRL 2999 was grown in the presence of Rhizopus nigricans, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Acetobacter aceti, or Brevibacterium linens and aflatoxin concentration was determined after 3,5,7, and 10 days of incubation at 28C. R. nigricans and S. cerevisiae inhibited growth and aflatoxin production by A. parasiticus. B. linens caused slight inhibition and A. aceti stimulated growth and aflatoxin production by A. parasiticus.


Transposable genetic elements as agents of gene instability and chromosomal rearrangements.

Transposable genetic elements in prokaryotes and eukaryotes, when inserted at a given locus, can control expression of the locus and cause large scale rearrangements of adjacent DNA sequences. Striking similarities in genetic behaviour between the two groups of elements have led to the proposal of a molecular model of eukaryotic controlling elements, and to suggestions about the part such elements may play in evolution and differentiation.


Amino-terminal fragments of Escherichia coli lac repressor bind to DNA.

The N-terminal fragments (residues 1-51 and 1-59) obtained by selective tryptic cleavage of native lac repressor retain the ability to bind DNA. These fragments (headpieces) are monomeric and form complexes which resemble those of tetrameric repressor with non-operator DNA. But, they do not show the high specificity of repressor for operator sequences. The DNA binding has been demonstrated by filter-binding assay as well as in solution using absorption, circular dichroism, and fluorescence measurements.


Study of membrane permeability changes by fluctuation analysis.

The molecular basis of the changes in membrane permeability that underlie the nerve impulse can be studied by statistical analysis of the random fluctuations in current through the nerve membrane. Such "noise analysis" has already begun to clarify the nature of the gating mechanisms that control the flow of ions across the membrane at the neuromuscular junction.


Nucleotide sequence and amplification in bacteria of structural gene for rat growth hormone.

The primary structure of DNA containing the sequence for rat pituitary growth hormone mRNA has been determined. DNA was obtained by reverse transcription of polyadenylated RNA from cultured pituitary cells and from recombinant bacterial plasmids. The amino acid sequences for rat growth hormone and its precursor form have been deduced from the determined nucleotide sequences.


Three centuries of alcohol in the British diet.

Alcoholic drinks were consumed in larger quantities in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries than in the twentieth century, although there has been a recent increase from the historical low of 1930-60. Beer, spirits and wines once provided at least 2 MJ (nearly 500 kcal) per person per day compared with 0.67 MJ (160 kcal) in 1975, towards an average energy requirement of the total population little different from that needed now. Beer has always contributed most to the alcohol, energy and nutrient content of the diet, although its importance relative to spirits and wine has declined.


Conjugation proteins encoded by the F sex factor.

Chimaeric plasmids carrying EcoRI fragments of the F sex factor have been used to identify proteins involved in conjugation and to assign them to tra cistrons. Most of these proteins are incorporated into the cell envelope and are individually regulated at the post-transcriptional level.


Kinetics of thymus- and bone marrow-derived lymphocytes in rats during tumor growth.

The kinetics of T and B lymphocytes were studied in the spleen, the lymph nodes, peripheral blood and the thymus of tumor-bearing rats in a time dependence following tumor transplantation with varying doses of allogeneic tumor cells. The dose of the transplanted tumor cells proved to be a limiting factor in the altered proportions of T and B cells in the various phases of immunological response of the tumorous host. A lower dose of tumor cells induced but a nonsignificant decline in the numbers of T lymphocytes in correlation with tumor growth and the tumor rejected within 19 days. A high dose of tumor cells caused an evident exhaustion of T cells in all the lymphoid organs followed (excepting the thymus), and the tumor was not rejected even by the end of the experiment. Evidently, the presence of tumor cells did not affect the B cell pool. The results are interpreted in the sense of a functional heterogeneity of the various subpopulations of T lymphocytes. The reactivity and responsibility of these subpopulations in the phase of tumor growth and its rejection is discussed.


[Indications and results of interstitial hypophyseal stereo-gammatherapy in the treatment of diabetic retinopathy].

New interest for pituitary neurosurgery in diabetic retinopathy is based on several data: long-term efficacy of various medical therapeutic agents is still unproved, ocular treatment by photocoagulation remains symptomatic, growth-hormone (HGH) has a permissive or supportive role in the development of diabetic retinopathy. Stereo-GIHF performs the pituitary interstitial irradiation by stereotaxic implantation of a gamma point emitter (198Au) and results in the selective blockade of HGH secretion peaks. Different from all other procedures achieving a more or less complete hypophysectomy, Stereo-GIHF introduces a new trend for the functional neurosurgical treatment of diabetic retinopathy.


Inhibition by prolactin of post-castration rise in LH.

Castration of male and female rats resulted in a marked rise in serum LH. The rise in serum LH was partially or completely prevented by injection of prolactin (Prl), by implantation of a small amount of Prl in the median eminence (ME), by grafting 2 anterior pituitaries (APs) underneath the kidney capsule, or by transplantation of a Prl-secreting pituitary tumor underneath the skin. The larger pituitary tumor transplants secreted more Prl and were more effective in reducing LH release than the smaller tumors which secreted less Prl. Suppression of LH release generally was greater during the earlier than in the later phases of the different treatments. The pituitary LH response to synthetic LH-RH was the same in ovariectomized rats with or without pituitary grafts, and the decrease in hypothalamic LH-RH after orchidectomy was prevented by pituitary grafts. These results indicate that Prl can depress LH release after castration and that these effects are mediated via the hypothalamus.


[Personal experience with high doses of 6-methylprednisolone in human renal transplantation].

Forty rejection episodes were noted in a series of 35 renal transplants. 72.5% were reversible with i.v. 1 g "boluses" of 6-methylprednisolone. Four subjects died during the post-operative period, 10 were subjected to explantation and 21 were discharged with a functioning kidney; of these, mean blood creatinine was 1.02 +/- 0.31 mg in 19. Factors other than rejection influence the results of transplantation. Gastrointestinal, metabolic and bone complications typical of protracted steroid management are examined.


[Complication of spontaneous internal biliary fistulae (experiences in 46 cases)].

Spontaneous internal biliary fistulas are complications of biliary disease and may themselves be the source of further complications. Instances of the latter observed in a series of 28 bilio-digestive and 18 bilio-biliary forms are described: angiocolitis, biliary peritonitis, cholangitic cirrhosis, diarrhoea and malabsorption syndrome, haemorrhage, biliary ileus and Bouveret syndrome. Stress is laid on the need for early diagnosis and early surgery. It is pointed out that there is no such thing as an innocuous biliary calculus.


[Experimental studies on the role of suture materials in the healing of anastomoses of the colon. Mechanical and histological study].

The relation between suture material and consolidation and healing in operations on the colon was investigated by using silk and catgut in one group of disinfected stray dogs subjected to right or left hemicolectomy and resection of the transverse portion, and a synthetic reabsorbable material (polyglycolic acid) in another. The following parameters were assessed following removal of the segment containing the anastomosis after various periods of time: resistance to biomechanical tests, stenosis of the lumen, extent and duration of inflammation and regeneration at the edge. Reabsorbable material was associated with less overall inflammation and healing was more rapid. Consolidation of the suture was not significantly different in the two groups.


[Echography in the diagnosis of kidney diseases].

Nephrosonography has become a useful diagnostic tool in assessing renal disease. Parenchymal structure can be viewed by stable B-scan or A-scan and, even better, on the grey scale. The principles of applying ultrasounds and for examining results are described together with percutaneous renal punction and nephrostomy guided by ultrasounds. Current applications of echography in congenital and adult diseases are outlined and it is pointed out that the method is simple, non-invasive and precise in differentiating solid from cystic lesions, for appraising solid structures and establishing whether a mass is renal or extrarenal. Experience obtained in evaluating renal lesions and the most typical pictures of these lesions are presented. It is concluded that nephrosonography, independently of renal function, is an excellent method for investigating the kidney, has numerous advantages and is free from danger.


[Controlled multicentric trial of the antihypertensive agent indapamide].

Two-months' administration of 2.5 mg/day indapamide, preceded and followed by 2 weeks of a placebo, led to a significant fall in pressure values and normalisation of diastolic pressure in a high percentage of 47 subjects, mostly with essential hypertension, in a controlled multi-centre trial. Absence of toxic effects, tolerance and therapeutic activity at low doses recommend the drug for most cases of arterial hypertension.


Wound infections and systemic antibiotic prophylaxis in gynecologic surgery. A review.

The gynecologic literature was reviewed and yielded 11 well-designed and well-conducted studies since 1960 involving the use of systemic prophylactic antibiotics. Five had significant results that support using prophylactic antibiotics in vaginal hysterectomy while three supported prophylaxis in cesarean sections. A cephalosporin agent is effective as a prophylactic agent and should be administered 2 hours before surgery by the intravenous route and discontinued 24-72 hours after surgery. A change in the bacteriologic flora of the cervical cuff occurs after surgery with an increase in E. coli and enterococci and a decrease in coagulose negative staphylococci and steptococci. Future studies should be randomized, prospective, and performed in a double-blind manner with antibiotics begun preoperatively. Special attention should be given to bacteriologic techniques, especially the search for anaerobic pathogens.


Pituitary LH response to LHRH during puerperium.

Forty puerperal women and 15 normally menstruating women used as controls were given 100 microgram of synthetic luteinizing hormone releasing hormone (LHRH) in a single intravenous injection. Serum concentrations of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) were measured by a specific radioimmunoassay (RIA). The LH-beta RIA method, which is unaffected by hCG at sample levels as high as 500 IU/ml, was used to determine serum LH levels. Basal serum FSH and LH levels determined immediately after delivery were lower than those in the follicular and luteal phases during the normal menstrual cycle. These levels rose gradually after delivery, and finally returned to normal levels during the 16th to 25th days of the puerperal period. Small, but significant, LH response to LHRH was observed 6-10 days after delivery, and gradually returned to normal thereafter, though the response was poor during the first 35 days of the puerperal period when compared with that of the controls. On the other hand, no FSH response to LHRH was observed until 16-25 days after delivery, when the response was greater than that of the controls.


The use of water-soluble bioflavonoid-ascorbic acid complex in the treatment of recurrent herpes labialis.

The efficacy of a water-soluble  bioflavonoid-ascorbic acid complex was evaluated in the treatment of fifty episodes of recurrent herpes labialis. Twenty episodes were treated with a complex of 600 mg. of water-soluble bioflavonoids and 600 mg. of ascorbic acid, administered in equal increments three times daily. Twenty episodes were treated with a complex of 1,000 mg. of water-soluble bioflavonoids and 1,000 mg. of ascorbic acid, administered in equal increments five times daily. Ten episodes were treated with a lactose placebo. The therapeutic regimen was maintained for 3 days after the recognition of the initial symptoms associated with recurrent herpes labialis. The water-soluble bioflavonoid-ascorbic acid complex was observed to reduce vesiculation and to prevent the disruption of the vesicular membrane. The therapeutic measure was found to be most effective when initiated during the prodomal stage of the disease process. Optimum remission of symptoms was observed in 4.2 +/- 1.7 days with the 600 mg. dosage of the water-soluble bioflavonoid-ascorbic acid complex. No adverse reactions were reported by any of the patients who participated in this investigation.


Is high blood pressure an aetiological factor in epistaxis?

In the present investigation, 391 men born in 1913 were examined. The blood pressure was registered in a standardized way and the subjects were questioned about epistaxis. The aim of the investigation was to analyze whether habitual nose-bleeders or subjects with recent bleedings had higher blood pressure than the other subjects in the population study. All attempts to find a correlation between epistaxis and elevated (or high) blood pressure were unsuccessful. When high blood pressure is found in a patient with nose-bleeds it is probably an incidental finding and not an aetiological factor.


[Induction of autoallergic pulpitis in rabbit (author's transl)].

Six male rabbits were injected on days 0, 6 and 12, subcutaneously, intraperitoneally and subcutaneously with 0.5 ml/kg of a 20% suspension of homologous dental pulp, in complete Freund's adjuvant. Six controls received complete Freund's adjuvant only. Leukocytes were counted regularly. A skin test was performed on day 18. On day 22, a dental test was performed to study the macrophage migration inhibition "in vivo". On day 23, the animals were killed, the teeth and skin were analysed histologically. The following results were observed in the experimental group: 1) inhibition of growth, 2) leukocytosis and eosinophilia, 3) a positive skin test with a strong lymphocytic infiltration, 4) an inhibition of "macrophage migration", 5) pulpal lesions, numbering 1 to 6 per rabbit, with lymphocytic plasmocytic and eosinophilic perivascular infiltration. These results indicate an experimental auto-allergic pulpitis. The mechanisms of human pulpitis ought to be reexamined in the light of these observations.


Red cell and white cell counts in adult female guinea-pigs.

We made red cell and white cell counts in an homogeneous sample of more than 250 healthy, non gravid, adult, female guinea-pigs. Up to the present it is the highest number of guinea-pigs on which systematic blood counts have been taken. Each category of cells was studied statistically. Our mean of the red cells (5.03 X 106/mm3) is close to most of the means reported in the literature for both sexes; the distribution apparently follows the Gauss normal distribution. The mean of the white cells that we obtained (11.800/mm3) is greater than those of many authors in both sexes. The total number of lymphocytes and monocytes (6.180/mm3) is larger than that of the granulocytes (4.970/mm3). The mean Kurloff cells is 422/mm3. The distribution curves of the aggregate of white cells and those of the granulocytes, the lymphocytes and monocytes, the Kurloff cells are asymmetrical and spread towards the right; the normality hypothesis is rejected for each of them.


[Spontaneous bacteriological course of prolonged rupture of the fetal membranes (author's transl)].

Bacteriologic study of amniotic fluid was undertaken in 300 cases of prolonged rupture of the membranes to evaluate the risk of infection without systematic administration of prophylactic antibiotics to the mother. The rate of amniotic contamination was 8.3 per cent within the first 12 hours following rupture of the membranes, it increased with time to reach 52 per cent, after 48 hours. In 90 per cent of the cases, contamination was caused by streptococci and anaerobes, Streptococcus B alone being responsible for 50% of the contaminations. Antibiotics administered to the mother were effective, but they needed a 6 hour-minimum delay to sterilize a contaminated amniotic fluid. Although the overall percentage of contamination was 23 per cent, infection occurred in only 4 per cent of the infants. The outcome was satisfactory in every case. Those results do not seem to discredit the suppression of prophylactic cover antibiotic therapy following the premature rupture of the membranes.


[Chronic lathyrism. Protective effect of pyridinol carbamate on connective tissue lesions in the rat (author's transl)].

The use of lathyric toxins (BAPN) in low dosage (1 g/kg/day) for a period of 8 weeks caused in the rat simultaneous changes in the skin and aortic connective tissues. In the skin. collagen tissue was dislocated and broken in fragments, the elastic tissue disappeared, the fibroblasts were vacuolized and presented evidence of injury. These lesions were comparable to those observed in human skin during ageing. The addition of pyridinol carbamate (PDC) to BAPN prevents the formation of lesions of the elastic tissue and of fibroblasts. When given after the cessation of the lathyrogen treatment PDC arrested the formation of the lesions and accelerated their regression.


[The myofibroblast. Recent advances (author's transl)].

The myofibroblast morphology is analyzed from the literature. The absence of the specific structural characters previously used for identification is emphasized and the physiological properties are analyzed. The different conditions which influence the appearance of this cell under normal and pathological conditions are reviewed and shown to be associated specially with inflammatory processes. As a conclusion, the evolution of the cell is described to the perspective of mesenchymal dynamics.


[Analysis of immune reactions of the CSF. A neuro-immunologic classification (author's transl)].

CSF immunological reactions are classified in 5 patterns, considering the level of CSF albumin and the percentage of CSF-IgG. The 5 patterns are: 1) normal, 2) inflammatory (pure local synthesis of IgG), 3) two types of trasudates (inflammatory or not) when blood-CSF exchanges increase, 4) meningitis if a transudate is associated with local IgG synthesis. The distinction between transudate and meningitis needs the determination of serum IgG. This classification better than the classical ratios, defines the immunological status of a neurological patient in the different phases of his disease. It determines the frequency of the 5 immunological patterns for each nervous disease and the signification of any antibody detected in the CSF. It proposes a common language between the different laboratories and overall, between biologists and clinicians.


[Demonstration of specific serum IgG with an "in vitro" radioimmunoassay (RAST IgG) (author's transl)].

By using discs coated with allergens (RAST, Pharmacia) anti-human gammaglobulin goat antibodies, we could demonstrate specific IgG on sera whose IgE had been destroyed by heating at 56 degrees C for 4 hours. A detailed protocol is given. Preliminary results demonstrate absence of specific IgG in untreated patients with pollen allergy, and conversely presence of these IgG in patients treated with immunotherapy against pollens; most patients with epithelia, food and/or mould allergies had specific IgG prior to immunotherapy.


[Pulmonary ultrastructural changes following experimental fat embolism in the rabbit (author's transl)].

The intravenous injection of triolein in the rabbit, besides general consequences in some viscera (functional ischemic necrosis of the right ventricle, systemic cerebral and kidney embolisms), induces in the lung non specific reactions similar to those observed after other pulmonary agressions. Yet, some peculiarities are observed only in this experimental model: severe and persistent septal oedema due to early endothelial changes; intensive inflammatory response with numerous macrophages. On the other hand, except in zones with epithelio-conjonctive repair process of necrotic foci, the epithelial reaction reduced to a temporary predominance of type 2-pneumonocytes, remains of low intensity.


[Influence of metals and non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs on the activity of human red cell ALA dehydratase "in vitro" (author's transl)].

The effect of metals and drugs on the activity of human erythrocyte ALA dehydratase has been studied in vitro. The most inhibitory metals are with decreasing effect silver, copper, gold and selenium. Zinc, cadmium, mercury are inhibitory at high concentrations and activator at low concentrations. Arsenic, calcium, magnesium, manganese, potassium, cobalt have no effect. Within the drugs studied the non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (aspirin, keptoprofen, indometacin, phenylbutazone, sodium salicylate and niflumic acid) are the only group which inhibits the enzyme ALA dehydratase. This inhibition is suppressed by zinc. The non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can inhibit the activity of enzymes which need zinc for optimal activity.


[Study of antibiotic sensitivity in 34 strains of large colony mycoplasma (author's transl)].

The application of Steer's technic to large colony mycoplasma for the study of antibiotic sensitivities, permitted us to compare the activity of various molecules inhibiting protein synthesis. Among large colony mycoplasmas, only mycoplasma pneumoniae is sensitive to erythromycin but we have already isolated a strain resistant at 400 microgram/ml. This should be remembered during treatment of mycoplasma pneumoniae infections. This species always remains sensitive to tetracycline. Among the latter, doxycyclin and minocyclin are preferred, firstly for their greater efficacy in vitro and secondly their better pharmacodynamic criteria. Gentamicin, tobramycin and chloramphenicol are also active in vitro. No trial in vivo has been carried out.


Complement studies in severe viral hepatitis of childhood.

Complement (C) and C components were studied in 18 children with severe viral hepatitis. Results were compared to similar determinations performed in 8 patients with toxic hepatitis related to the ingestion of Amanita Phalloïdes. Hemolytic activities and serum concentrations of C and C components were markedly decreased (less than 2 SD) in both groups of patients. Sequential determinations of C components showed different patterns according to the outcome: either a rapid return to normal in patients who healed or persistence of low levels in patients who died. Such a pattern was similar to that of the prothrombin time. In patients with viral hepatitis a rapid disappearance of C4 and C3 was observed following fresh plasma or fresh blood transfusion. In addition, C4 cleavage was shown in plasma of 8/8 patients. These data suggest that the complement depression observed in fulminant viral hepatitis is related to both consumption and deficient synthesis.


[Plasma bile acids fractionnation by gas-liquid chromatography : application to hepatocellular deficiency investigation (author's transl)].

The level of the four major bile acids was measured in the plasma using gas liquid chromatography. The enhancement of the level of the primary bile acids was well known during bile duct obstruction. In the case of hepatic diseases, the chenodesoxycholiccholic acid concentration ratio (CDC/C) was equal or lower than unity when cholestasis occurred rather than hepatic deficiency. When hepatic deficiency developed, the ratio CDC/C was higher than unity. Plasma bile acid fractionnation exhibits also a prognostic value. When the ratio CDC/C is very high, it is significant of progressive hepatic deficiency. A high level of lithocholic acid is also a sign of unfavourable prognosis.


[Psychopharmacology of tryptophan (author's transl)].

L-tryptophan is a widely distributed aminoacid, the metabolic pathways of which include serotonin synthesis. Many authors have studied the effects of tryptophan upon the central nervous system in man and animals since serotonin is considered as a neurotransmitter. The most promising results are related to the treatment of depressive disorders. It could be assumed that a better understanding of the role of serotonin and other tryptophan metabolites would presumably lead to further clinical applications.


[Comparison of two methods of rapid separation of serum trancobalamins (author's transl)].

We have compared different methods for the assay of unsaturated B12 binding capacity of the whole serum and of each of the three transcobalamins (TC I - TC II - TC III). This comparison was important to check the conditions of reproducibility of each method; moreover it has led us to arrive at some modifications to resolve the larger fraction (TC I + TC III) into two distinct components.


Maturation of the rabbit alveolar macrophage during animal development. III. Phagocytic and bactericidal functions.

Phagocytic and bactericidal function of rabbit alveolar macrophages (AMs) lavaged from animals during the course of postnatal maturation was studied. Staphylococcus aureus and a temperature-sensitive mutant of Escherichia coli, which could not replicate at 37 degrees during the functional assays, were employed as test bacteria. Assays of the phagocytic capacity of AMs from rabbits of various age groups revealed no significant differences either in the percentage of AMs which took up bacteria (79-90%) or in the number of bacteria taken up per AM (Table 1). In contrast, bactericidal activity of AMs was found to increase with increasing animal age. No bactericidal activity was detected in AMs from newborn animals (Figs. 1 and 2), whereas AMs from 7-day-old animals exhibited at least a bacteristatic activity against S. aureus (Fig. 1) and AMs from 28-day-old rabbits showed marked bactericidal activity, essentially the same as that of AMs from adult rabbits. Adult AMs killed 75% of the S. aureus and 60% of the E. coli within 120 min (Figs. 1 and 2).


Activation of gastro-intestinal smooth muscle induced by the calcium ionophore A23187.

Tension development was recorded in isolated smooth muscle preparations from the guinea-pig, namely circular strips from the fundus and antrum region of the stomach, and taenia coli. The calcium ionophore A23187 (2-10(-6)-2-10(-5) mol/1) induced maximum activity in fundus and taenia coli, and in antrum an activity slightly smaller than that obtained with acetylcholine (ACh) (5-10(-6) mol/1). The ionophore-induced activity could be suppressed by so-called calcium antagonists: D600 (3-10(-6) mol/1) suppressed the ionophore-induced activity of taenia coli completely; phasic and tonic components in the stomach preparations were selectively suppressed by D600 and sodium nitroprusside (10(-6) mol/1), respectively.


The role of brush border enzymes in tubular reabsorption of disaccharides: a microperfusion study in rat kidney.

Renal tubular reabsorption of maltose, sucrose and lactose were studied in vivo et situ by continuous microperfusion of single proximal convolutions of rat kidney. The 14C-label of maltose (2.5 mmol/l) was removed from the lumen of the proximal tubule at about the same rate as found for glucose. Maltose reabsorption was completely inhibited in presence of 30 mmol/l glucose or of 0.1 mmol/l phlorizin. Chemical analysis of the samples showed a complete conversion of maltose into glucose within a perfusion distance of 2 mm. It is concluded from these results that within the tubular lumen maltose is split very rapidly by a brush border glucosidase. The short half time of this process permits the breakdown product glucose to be almost completely reabsorbed subsequently within the proximal tubule. In contrast, sucrose and lactose were neither split nor reabsorbed by the tubule brush border.


Corpus alienum in the abomasum of cattle.

In a field study consisting of about 7000 adult cattle 36 cases of corpora aliena (CAA) in the abomasum were found. After recording the clinical symptoms such as recurrent slight ruminal tympany and abdominal pain after eating, the metal specimens were found by a detector, with which the sound of the moving metal could be followed behind the xiphoid cartilage region. The diagnoses were confirmed by operation in 10 cases, when the specimens were found in the abomasum and removed. Four of these operations were performed directly near the linea alba and in six cases the specimens were removed by hand and magnet through the reticulo-abomasal opening after attempting the routine hard ware operation. In an additional 16 cases the foreign body could not be caught hold of and removed by a ruminal operation due to passage difficulties through the reticulo-abomasal opening. The results of the direct or indirect operations when the CAA was removed, were good. It is concluded that CAA can occur in some 5 per mille of the patient population and in some 50 per cent of these cases a traumatic reticulitis is also found. In most cases the clinical symptoms are vague. Only if the symptoms are painful and recurrent is the operation indicated.


[Malignant lymphopathy in a patient suffering from acute disseminated lupus erythematosus (author's transl)].

The authors report a case of acute disseminated lupus erythematosus in a 55 years old patient, receiving small doses of corticosteroids, progressing over three years. During an acute exacerbation of the disease, the development of a cervical adenopathy led to a biopsy. Histological examination revealed a lymphocytic type malignant proliferation (centro-follicular lymphoma). This case is compared with findings reported in the literature and leads to a discussion of the relationship between ADLE and malignant disorders due to a disturbance of immune control mechanisms and the possible role of immune-depressant therapy in their onset.


[Topographic diagnosis of urinary infection by determination of fraction 5 of lactate dehydrogenase].

Amongst the various methods suggested for the topographical diagnosis of urinary tract infection, the study of various fractions of lactico-dehydrogenase in the urine would appear to be particularly valuable. Study of 44 subjects with a significant urinary infection, compared with an identical group of subjects free of urinary infection, showed that in those with pyelonephritis fraction 5 was significantly (p less than 0.001) higher than in those with a lower urinary tract infection. However this was valid only in the absence of renal insufficiency. Combined study of immunological techniques (urinary antibodies revealed by immunofluorescence and serum antibodies) shows that these techniques are complementary and make it possible to exactly localise the site of a urinary tract infection. In relation to immunology, enzymology has the advantage of being suitable for use during periods at which bacteriological examination of the urine is negative, and hence is useful in following the influence of treatment.


[B-lymphocyte origin of the Reed-Sternberg cell. Immunoelectronmicroscopical arguments (author's transl)].

Some direct and indirect arguments are at present in favour of the B-lymphocyte origin of the Reed-Sternberg (R.S.) cell. Immunoperoxidase methods applied to paraffin sections permit to identify immunoglobulin components in their cytoplasm, but these results are not suffisant to prove that the R.S. cell synthesizes immunoglobulins. We have applied immunoelectronmicroscopic methods to a lymph node in a case of Hodgkin's disease. The results permit us to found intracellular immunoglobulins in the R.S. cell and to evoke a probable synthesis of immunoglobulin by free ribosomes, thus agreing the B-lymphocyte nature hypothesis of the R.S. cell.


Demonstration of a tertiary interaction in solution between the extra arm and the D-stem in two different transfer RNA's by NMR.

According to the X-ray structure of yeast tRNAPhe at 2.5 A resolution, a hydrogen bond is formed between m7G46 and G22. By removal of this m7G46-residue we demonstrate that this interaction is present in solution as well. Comparison of the 1H 360 MHz NMR spectra of intact yeast tRNAPhe and its m7G-excised derivative locates the position of this tertiary H-bond at 12.5 ppm downfield from DSS. Additional evidence for the presence of this interaction in solution comes from a comparison of 1H NMR spectra of E. coli tRNAf1Met and E. coli tRNAf3Met, which differ only in a single position in the extra arm. In tRNAf3Met residue 47 is a m7G-residue, whereas in tRNAf3Met it is A, resulting in the absence of the m7G47 - G23 - C13 triple interaction, characteristic of tRNAf1Met. The resonance position of this tertiary interaction in tRNAf1Met is located around -13.6 ppm, a chemical shift difference of 1.1 ppm with respect to the position observed for tRNAPhe. The origin of this chemical shift difference is discussed in relation to the structure of their respective augmented D-helices.


In vitro transcription of E. coli tRNA genes.

Transcription of tRNA genes carried by transducing bacteriophages phi80psu3+ (tRNA1Tyr) and lambdah80T (tRNA2Tyr, tRNA2Glysu36+, tRNA3Thr) was studied in vitro in a system consisting of whole bacteriophage DNA and purified RNA polymerase. In contrast to unusual requirements for tRNA1Tyr gene transcription from DNA fragments, the transcription on whole bacteriophage DNA was found to be relatively not salt sensitive, did not require glycerol and rifampicin-resistant complexes with RNA polymerase were formed in the absence of nucleoside triphosphates. Termination factor rho stimulated the transcription of the tRNA genes as well as that of 4S RNA on lambdah80T DNA template. The stimulatory effect of rho was abolished by rifampicin and seems to be due to the release of RNA polymerase and reinitiation of transcription.


The binding of berenil to Escherichia coli ribosome.

The binding of the nonintercalating dye berenil to the 70S ribosome of Escherichia coli has been demonstrated by spectrophotometric measurements and gel filtration through Biogel P100 column. The berenil spectrum is gradually shifted towards the red region with the increasing amount of ribosome added, the isosbestic point being at 375 nm. There is positive cooperativity in the binding of berenil to the ribosome as demonstrated by the equilibrium dialysis. On binding with berenil, the ribosome is degraded faster by RNase I especially at low Mg++ concentration and its capacity to inhibit RNase I catalysed hydrolysis of ribopolymers is decreased. These indicate the unfolding of the structure of the ribosome.


A novel representation of the conformational structure of transfer RNAs. Correlation of the folding patterns of the polynucleotide chain with the base sequence and the nucleotide backbone torsions.

A novel description of the conformational characteristics of all the individual nucleotides and the phosphodiesters in tRNAs is presented in the form of a circular plot. This representation furnishes information of the base sequence with the folding patterns of the polynucleotide chain as one traverses along the circumference and with the individual nucleotide and phosphodiester linkage torsions along the radii. The circular plot obtained for yeast tRNAPhe strikingly distinguishes the helical and the loop regions. The variation of the different nucleotide torsions along the entire chain length and their effect on the secondary helical and tertiary loop regions become readily apparent.


A RNA-dependent RNA polymerase activity: implications for chromatin transcription experiments.

Mercurated nucleoside triphosphates have been used for transcription of chicken oviduct chromatin with E. coli RNA polymerase. The newly synthesized RNA was purified from preexisting RNA by SH-agarose chromatography and analyzed for the content of specific mRNA sequences. The apparent preferential production of ovalbumin mRNA sequences was not inhibited by actinomycin D, although total RNA synthesis was reduced by more than 90%. Furthermore, when globin mRNA alone, or added to oviduct chromatin, was incubated in the transcription assay, a significant fraction of this mRNA was retained on SH-agarose. The copurification of chromatin associated RNA with in vitro synthesized mercurated RNA was mainly due to a RNA-dependent synthesis of complementary sequences by the bacterial enzyme. Although denaturation of the transcripts prior to SH-agarose chromatography leads to a reduced contamination with endogenous ovalbumin specific RNA, we are unable to show that the messenger-specific RNA sequences purified with the newly mercurated RNA results from a DNA-dependent reaction.


[Nuclear medicine examination procedures in the supervision of renal transplant patients].

Typical radioactivity uptake curves in patients with functional disorders of kidney transplants are described; they allow the detection of early functional changes. By follow-up controls, together with clinical and chemical data, a correct diagnosis can be established in the majority of patients. Because of low radiation exposure, the examination may be repeated frequently.


Neonatal streptococcal infections.

Most serious neonatal streptococcal infections are caused by group-B streptococci. The pattern of serious group-B neonatal disease in Britain resembles that described in other countries; both "early-onset" and "late-onset" forms are seen, but reliable incidence rates have not yet been determined. Serological-type III strains predominate in neonatal meningitis in Britain, but not so markedly as in some parts of the U.S.A. A deficiency of group-II strains in meningitis is, however, apparent in both countries. Present information about the carriage of group-B streptococci suggests that antibiotic prophylaxis administered to mothers or infants is unlikely to reduce greatly the frequency of "early-onset" disease. The continuous presence of a suitable chemical disinfectant in the vagina during labour might be more effective. Insufficient is known about the epidemiology of "late-onset" neonatal disease for rational preventive measures to be designed. More information is required about the postnatal acquisition of group-B streptococci by neonates and its sources, and about passive transfer of type-specific antibody from the mother to her child.


The outcome of hepatitis B virus infection in pregnancy.

The literature concerning hepatitis B in pregnancy is reviewed and problems of management of both the acute and chronic infections are discussed.


A comparison of once and twice daily atenolol in hypertension.

The hypertensive action of atenolol has been studied in a randomized double-blind crossover comparison. Twelve patients showed a highly significant reduction in average supine systolic and diastolic blood pressures from pre-treatment values of 196.3/115.9 to 159.1/89.2 mmHg (26.1/15.4 kPa to 22.2/11.9 kPa) after 2 weeks on once daily atenolol. No dose-related reduction in blood pressure was seen and the single 100 mg daily dose was as effective as 100 mg twice daily or 50 mg twice daily. Blood pressures recorded after 2 weeks' atenolol were lower than those obtained at 7 days irrespective of dose.


[Recovery from apparently hopeless fresh-water drowning (author's transl)].

Report of 3 cases of drowning (children). 2 patients survived without severe injury, 1 patient died after 13 days. The protective action of hypothermia to the brain and heart in hypothermic drowning is emphasized. Even in apparently hopeless cases resuscitation should be started immediately and should not be discontinued too early. Especially in hypothermic drowning efforts can be successful after more than 60 min. of resuscitation. In cases of drowning an emergency physician should be called immediately (emergency-ambulance, rescue-helicopter). A short survey of pathologic physiology, emergency therapy and intensive care of drowning is given.


[The veriflo CV 2000: a polyvalent, pneumatically powered and controlled ventilator (author's transl)].

The utilization of integrated pneumatic circuits in respiratory care has led to the development of compact and sophisticated ventilators for the treatment of acute respiratory failure. We examined a new apparatus of this type, the Veriflo CV 2000, in the technical laboratory and the practical application in a surgical intensive care unit. The results of this evaluation can be summarized as follows: the technical performance of the Veriflo CV 2000 is good. There is a loss of 10% of tidal volume when the endexpiratory pressure is increased from 0 to 20 cm H2O, and of 20% with an increase of the opposing resistance to 45 cm H2O/l/sec. During one year, the Veriflo CV 2000 was used for the treatment of over 50 patients requiring mechanical ventilation for mild or severe forms of acute respiratory failure. This ventilator was very helpful in the treatment of patients presenting with difficulties during weaning for ventilatory support. The possibility to use controlled, assisted and synchronized intermittent mandatory ventilation as well as CPAP without additional valves or tubing makes the veriflo CV 2000 a very useful instrument in respiratory care.


Further studies on the restoration of estrogen-induced sexual receptivity in ovariectomized mice treated with dihydrotestosterone: effects of progesterone, dihydroprogesterone and LH-RH.

Sexual receptivity in ovariectomized CD-1 mice induced by chronic daily injections of estradiol benzoate (E2B) was inhibited in a dose related fashion by daily injections of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) given concurrently with the E2B. Administration of the progestins, progesterone and dihydroprogesterone (DHP), and of the hypothalamic decapeptide, LH-RH, 6 hr prior to testing restored receptivity to varying degrees in these E2B + DHT treated mice. Of these treatments progesterone was clearly the most effective, followed by LH-RH and finally DHP in restoring estrogen-induced receptivity. Results were discussed in terms of a proposed essential role for LH-RH in the induction of sexual receptivity in mice.


l-bunolol metabolites in human urine.

Nine radiolabeled compounds were identified in human urine after administering a single oral dose of 3H-l-bunolol (3 mg) to 5 male volunteers. These compounds represented 54.7% of the dose and 71.4% of the isotope excreted in 3 days. Intact bunolol accounted for 14.7% of the dose and its conjugates totaled an additional 5.0%. The major drug metabolite (28.2% of dose) was dihydrobunolol, a reduction product known to have the same pharmacological activity and potency as bunolol. Dihydrobunolol conjugates amounted to 3.9% of the dose. Two minor acidic metabolites were produced by oxidative cleavage of the bunolol side chain, and another minor metabolite (hydroxydihydrobunolol) resulted from both reductive and oxidative biotransformation. Bunolol metabolism in man showed qualitative and quantitative differences from patterns observed in the rat and dog.


Tissue reactions to breast implants coated with polyurethane.

The histological features noted in the capsules from 7 polyurethane coated silicone breast prostheses are described. The polyurethane provoked a definite foreign body reaction and was slowly degraded, with some particles ejected from the capsule into the surrounding tissues. Separation of the polyurethane coating from the silicone prosthesis and the degradation of the polyurethane took about two years. Another much more resistant foreign material was found to occur in conjunction with the polyurethane in the capsules. It may be an adhesive or flakes off the silicone shell. Vacuolated spaces were noted in the inner layers of 3 capsules; it was assumed that they contained liquid silicone.


Adriamycin extravasation.

Adriamycin extravasation creates a severe tissue necrosis which is unusual, because it may not appear until several weeks later, and may continue to worsen for several months. As soon as the progressive nature of the tissue necrosis is established, we recommend that an early wide excision be performed in an attempt to remove the necrotic area and the surrounding tissues containing the extravasated drugs--before it has had an opportunity to diffuse even further. Adequate debridement requires removal of any adjacent tissue that is indurated, reddened, edematous, or pale. Skin grafts take poorly if there are small amounts of Adriamycin left in the tissue of the recipient site. Synergistic effects with radiotherapy, and continued systemic Adriamycin therapy, can aggravate or recall necrosis. The administration of more dilute solutions of Adriamycin may decrease the hazard of extravasation necrosis.


The effect of various adjuncts on the surgical treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome secondary to chronic tenosynovitis.

A series of 22 patients with carpal tunnel syndrome secondary to chronic tenosynovitis was divided into two groups. The first group was treated by transverse carpal ligament release alone. The second group was treated by transverse carpal ligament release, external neurolysis of the median nerve, flexor  synovectomy, and intraoperative corticosteroid instillation. Both groups were comparable preoperatively as to symptoms, signs, and electrophysiological data. At two years postoperatively there were no statistically significant differences in the symptoms, signs, and electrophysiological data in the two groups. The only difference was that patients undergoing release alone were able to return to work earlier than those patients who had the adjunctive procedures.


The inner side of wisdom: suicide in early modern England.

This essay traces the shifting perception of the nature and prevalence of suicide in early England. Suicide is presented as one form of deviance contemporaries recognized and is used to illuminate the history of mental disorder in its social and intellectual context.


The effect of maternal narcotic addiction on the newborn infant.

This paper presents a review of the literature on the effects of maternal narcotic addictions upon the foetus and newborn infant. Six children born to 'registered' narcotic addicts were studied, and particular attention was paid to any signs of narcotic withdrawal that might occur after birth. Although all the mothers took heroin or methadone regularly up to the time of delivery, minor physical signs which might have been considered part of the withdrawal syndrome occurred in only one baby. The absence of major withdrawal signs found in this study contrasts with previous findings. The reasons for these differences are discussed, and the implications of these observations for the management of the pregnant narcotic addict and her newborn infant are considered.


Anomalous pulmonary venous drainage of right lung to inferior vena cava ("scimitar syndrome"): clinical spectrum in older patients and role of surgery.

Six new cases of the "scimitar syndrome" are described. The anatomical and haemodynamic features of these and other reported cases are reviewed. Within the spectrum of the disorder there is a group of patients in whom the bronchopulmonary manifestations are relatively unimportant. In five of our patients there was a left-to-right shunt exceeding 2:1 and the anomalous pulmonary venous connection was corrected surgically. The presence or absence of an associated atrial septal defect may be difficult to establish but influences the choice of surgical technique. When the atrial septum is intact, the anomalous vein should be reimplanted if possible into the back of the left atrium; otherwise a pericardial or teflon patch can be used to redirect the anomalous venous return through an existing or created atrial septal defect to the left atrium.


Chemical and biological consequences of beta-decay. Part 2.

In Part 1 of this article physical and chemical effects of beta-decay in labelled molecules were reviewed and their potential importance for breaking predetermined and specific bonds were pointed out. After incorporation of labelled biomolecules in living systems, such as viruses, phages or cells, the radioactive decay of the label alters the biological behaviour of the system, in the extreme case causing loss of the ability to reproduce, the extent of these consequences depending strongly on the type of radioisotope. Now Part 2 includes a brief discussion of biological effects associated with beta-decay emphasizing the relative importance of local transmutation and internal radiation effects from the decay of 3H, 14C, 32P, 33P, 35S and 125I. Attempt is also made, whenever possible at the present stage of understanding, to correlate biological effects with chemical processes on a molecular level.


Pulmonary complications of renal transplantation: a survey of patients treated by low-dose immunosuppression.

Sixty-eight episodes of pulmonary complication developed in 52 of 416 renal transplant recipients treated with low-dose immunosuppression. Twenty-four complications were noninfectious (20 were pulmonary edema due to transplant rejection). Forty-four complications were infectious (75% of were wholly bacterial). Nine patients died from their pulmonary complications; 7 had bacterial pneumonia, but other infections were also present in 5. Several patterns were seen radiographically. Cardiomegaly, vascular congestion, and patchy consolidation indicated pulmonary edema. Segmental and labor consolidations were usually bacterial in origin. Large cavitary nodules, small nodules, and generalized consolidation were often due to diseases requiring biopsy for diagnosis.


Intravertebral disk herniations: cartilaginous (Schmorl's) nodes.

Cartilaginous (Schmorl's) nodes are related to prolapses of intervertebral disk material into the vertebral body. These nodes can be produced by any process which weakens either the cartilaginous plate covering the superior and inferior surfaces of the vertebral body or the subchondral trabeculae of the vertebra. Such processes include juvenile kyphosis, trauma, metabolic and neoplastic disorders, and degenerative disk disease. Radiographic abnormalities include indentations of vertebral outline and radiolucencies within the vertebral body with varying degrees of sclerosis. These can be readily differentiated from other vertebral alterations such as "butterfly", "fish", and "H" vertebrae.


The effects of prostacyclin (PGI2) on tissues which detect prostaglandins (PG'S).

The effects of prostacyclin (PGI2) and its stable metabolite 6-oxo-PGF1alpha on various bioassay tissues are compared with those of PGE2 and PGF2alpha, using the cascade superfusion method. On vascular smooth muscle, PGI2 caused relaxation of all tissues tested except the rabbit aorta. PGE2 relaxed rabbit coeliac and mesenteric artery but contracted bovine coronary artery and had no effect on rabbit aorta. 6-oxo-PGF1alpha was ineffective at the concentrations tested. On gastro-intestinal smooth muscle, PGI2 contracted strips of rat and hamster stomach and the chick rectum. It was less potent than PGE2 or PGF2alpha. None of these substances contracted the cat terminal ileum. 6-oxo-PGF1alpha was inactive on these tissues at the doses tested. PGI2 was less active than PGE2 or PGF2alpha in contracting guinea-pig trachea and rat uterus; 6-oxo-PGF1alpha was active only on the rat uterus. Thus, PGI2 can be distinguished from the other stable prostaglandins using the cascade method of superfusion.


Microsomal preparations of normal bovine iris-ciliary body generate prostacyclin-like but not thromboxane-A2-activity.

Indomethacin-treated bovine iris-ciliary body microsomes (IBIM) have been studied for their ability to convert PG endoperoxides into either thromboxane-A2 (TxA2)-like or prostacyclin (PGI2)-like activity. The biological activity of the ocular tissue microsomes were compared with either indomethacin-treated human platelet microsomes (for TxA2-like activity) or rabbit aorta microsomes (for PGI2-like activity) under appropriate incubation conditions. No evidence could be found for the formation of TxA2-like activity from PG endoperoxides by the IBIM. In contrast, when the IBIM were incubated with PGH2 for 1 min at 22 degrees C without cofactors, PGI2-like activity was produced, causing profound relaxation of the isolated dog coronary artery preparation without contracting the rabbit aorta and inhibiting arachidonic acid-induced platelet aggregation. Equivalent quantities of boiled IBIM failed to alter the biological activity of PGH2 under identical conditions. Tranylcypromine (500 microgram/ml) completely abolished the appearance of PGI2-like activity. Furthermore, the PGI2-like activity found was stable for 10 min at 22 degrees C at pH 8.5 but completely lost under similar conditions at pH 5.5. It is concluded that microsomal preparations of normal bovine iris-ciliary body can synthesize PGI2-like activity in substantial amounts but not TxA2-like activity.


Preoperative dilatation of the cervix by single vaginal administration of 15-methyl-PGF2alpha-methyl ester.

Two different vaginal suppositories have been developed suitable for one single treatment for preoperative dilatation of the cervix prior to vacuum aspiration in late first trimester abortion. The study included 60 patients equally distributed in one control group (Group I) where vacuum aspiration was performed without pretreatment; one group (Group II) where the patients obtained 2.0 mg 15-methyl-PGF2alpha-methyl ester in a rapid releasing base six hours prior to operation and one group (Group III) where the prostaglandin dose was increased to 2.5 mg 15-methyl-PGF2alpha-methyl ester and a more slow releasing base was used and the operation performed after 12 hours. The mean cervical dilatation at operation was in Group II 9 mm and in Group III 11 mm in comparison with 4.8 mm in the control group. The bleeding at the operation was also significantly reduced.


15(S)15-methyl prostaglandin F2alpha for termination of very early human pregnancy. A comparative study of a single intramuscular injection and vaginal suppositories.

The results of a comparative study of the efficacy and acceptability of 15(S)15-methyl prostaglandin F2alpha (15-Me-PGF2alpha) administered as a single i.m. injection or vaginal suppositories (15-Me-PGF2alpha methyl ester) every 3rd hr for termination of very early human pregnancy is reported. The amenorrhoic period varied from 37 to 60 days. Group I (30 cases) received 0.6 mg as a single i.m. injection without any pretreatment. Retrospectively 24 of the 30 women were in fact pregnant and 22 of them aborted. Group II received suppositories (1.0 or 1.5 mg per suppository). In this group all women were pregnant and they all aborted. Symptoms such as pain, bleeding, vomiting and diarrhea started in general earlier in the i.m. group and they were more marked. In the present series the efficacy and acceptability were highest for the vaginal route of administration.


Human platelet aggregation induced by prostaglandin endodisulfide.

The effect on human platelet functions of 9,11-dithio analogues of prostaglandin endoperoxide was investigated. Methyl (5Z, 9alpha, 11alpha, 13E, 15S)-9,11-epidithio-15-hydroxyprosta-5,13-dienoate induced platelet aggregation, while the 9beta,11beta-epimer was inactive. The platelet aggregation caused by the 9alpha,11alpha-dithio analogue was associated with serotonin release from platelets, and was inhibited by methyl ester of prostaglandin I2 (prostacyclin) but not by indomethacin.


[Cytochemical data on histones of the heterochromatins and euchromatins of Triatoma infestans Klug (author's transl)].

In cells of the Malpighian tubes of Triatoma infestans Klug, the histone content reactive to the alkaline fast green method does not remarkably differ when nuclei with various heterochromatic patterns (T1 and T8) are compared to each other. The fast green-histone values for the euchromatins (and heterochromatins) of both nucleus types also appear not differing. However, the possibility that these histones are differently linked to DNA in euchromatin or heterochromatin variants is not to be ruled out. Cytochemical evidence is suggestive of a lysine-richness in the histones of the mentioned hetero- and euchromatins.


[Effect of beta and alpha-lapachone on the production of H202 and on the growth of Trypanosoma cruzi].

Addition of beta-lapachone to the epimastigote (culture) form of Trypanosoma cruzi, suspended in saline, buffered-isotonic medium (pH 7.2), determined the appearance of large amounts of H2O2 in the suspension medium, as measured spectrophotometrically by formation of the H2O2 horse radish peroxidase complex. Under similar conditions, alpha-lapachone did not induce H2O2 formmation.  Using NADH as electron donor, beta-lapachone (not alpha-lapachone) increased significantly the rate of H2O2 generation by epimastigote homogenates and the same occurred with NADPH, although in a reduced extent. Similar results were obtained with the isolated mitochondrial and microsomal fractions although with the latter NADPH was more effective than NADH as electron donor for beta-lapachone reduction and peroxide generation. The distribution of peroxide generation in epimastigote fractions would indicate that about 92% of the beta-lapachone dependent formation of peroxide occurred in the mitochondria, and 8% in the endoplasmic reticulum. The growth of epimastigotes was inhibited 95% by 1 microgram/ml beta-lapachone, a concentration that determined maximal rate of H2O2 production. Since H2O2 and other intermediates of oxygen reduction such as O2- (superoxide anion) and OH (hydroxyl radical) are lethal to cells and tissues, it is possible that the effect of beta-lapachone on T. cruzi proliferation in vitro was mediated by H2O2 and related free radicals.


[Effect of hypothalamic extracts and synthetic LH-RH on proteic synthesis by rat hypothalamus in vitro (author's transl)].

The incorporation of 14C-Leucine in pituitary proteins in rats, in vitro, has been studied. In absence of stimulation, the pituitaries of adult female rats have shown approximately twice the capacity of protein biosynthesis in vitro than the pituitaries of prepuberal female rats (21 days old). For the stimulation in vitro of the pituitaries, synthetic LH-RH or hypothalamic extracts from adult or prepuberal female rats were used. The pituitaries of adult female rats did not respond to any of the  stimulation tests employed. The pituitaries of prepuberal female rats increased their biosynthetic activity significantly, when synthetic LH-RH or adult female rat hypothalamic extract was added to the culture medium. The addition of prepuberal female rat hypothalamic extract did not alter the basic response. The female prepuberal rats injected during 5 consecutive days with FSH and LH, have shown a greater sensibility to LH-RH in vitro than the ones injected with estradiol and progesterone, or with synthetic LH-RH.


Rat gastric secretion and mucosal blood flow during restraint stress--effect of a low dose metiamide.

In rats under either mild stress (= controls) or severe stress (= restraint) gastric secretion (acid; pepsin, volume), mucosal blood flow, serum gastrin and ulcer formation were evaluated without and with additional infusion of a low dose (0.25 mg/kg.h) metiamide over an 8 h experimental period. Calculated constants of dose-response characteristics for acid output in this species are: Km = 1.41 +/- 0.36 mg/kg.h; Vmax = 94.4 +/- 11.0 per cent. Restraint depresses markedly secretion and microcirculation, but stimulates ulcer formation and raises serum gastrin. In controls, metiamide inhibits secretion and ulcer index significantly, but leaves mucosal blood flow and gastrin unaltered. In contrast, with restraint and metiamide, ulcer index was not improved, whereas mucosal blood flow was restored to almost control levels. Therefore, H2-receptor blockers, in addition to inhibition of secretion, may interfere with microcirculation either directly or by secondary release of yet unknown mediator substance(s), depending on the prevailing tissue environment.


Methods for the calculation of weight loss by water evaporation from small biopsy specimens.

The rate of loss of weight by water evaporation was obtained for biopsies taken from lamprey muscle, and this was related to the original weight of each sample. Hence, two alternative methods are proposed for the correction of small biopsy weights to allow for this evaporation in air. It is suggested that these methods may permit good approximations for corrections in similar conditions to those used, and that the methods for evaluating empirical coefficients may be applied elsewhere to allow for other situations.


Deposits of immunoglobulin G and complement C3 in recurrent aphthous ulcerations.

Deposits of immunoglobulin G (IgG) were demonstrated at the basement membrane zone in lesions from 14 out of 16 patients with recurrent aphthous ulcerations (RAU) by means of an immunofluorescent (IF) staining technique. Deposits of complement C3 were demonstrated at the same localization in lesions from 16 out of 16 patients with RAU. Similar deposits of C3 were demonstrated in 11 out of 12 experimentally produced oral wounds (EOW). Immunoglobulin deposits were not detected in the EOW. No deposits of immunoglobulin or C3 were revealed in 12 biopsies from normal oral mucosa (NOM). Further, the IF investigation demonstrated circulating autoantibodies against the cytoplasm of autologous oral epithelial cells in patients with RAU. The specificity of the present immunologic reactions and their possible role in the pathogenesis of RAU are discussed.


Working time and strength in relation to consistency of composite resins.

Composite resin pastes can be made more fluid for injection purposes by adding small amounts of enamel bond resin before mixing. The aim of this work was to study the influence of the added resin on the working time and on the early and final strength of the composite. The pastes of two different brands diluted with their respective resins and the working time of the mix was determined by measuring the time during which it was possible to squeeze the material from a Centrix syringe. The results revealed that adding universal resin reduced the working time of both brands. The catalyst resin increased the working time of Adaptic but with Concise the amount of the catalyst paste had also to be increased to gain more working time. Adding catalyst resin did not affect the early strength or the strength after 24 h. Furthermore, it was observed that adding resin reduced the amount of porosities in the composite.


Immunochemical quanitation of pancreatic endopeptidases in the intestinal contents of germfree and conventional rats.

Two electrophoretically distinct trypsins and chymotrypsins and an elastolytic enzyme were isolated from rat pancreatic juice. Rabbit antisera against these enzymes were produced, and with an immunochemical technique the trypsins, chymotrypsins, and elastase were studied in the intestinal contents of conventional and germfree rats. In both types of rat the anionic trypsin and chymotrypsin were the most abundant and found in higher concentrations in the distal than in the proximal small intestine. The cecal and fecal concentrations of anionic trypsin were markedly higher in the germfree rat when compared to the conventional rat. Cymotrypsin was undetectable in the large intestine of either the conventional or germfree rat when this technique was used. Immunoreactive elastase was found in greater amounts in the distal small intestine, and high concentrations were demonstrated in the cecal contents and feces of the germfree rat. In contrast, no immunoreactive elastase was detected in the large intestine of the conventional rat. Gel filtration indicated that the immunoreactive anionic trypsin and elastase found in fecal extracts were of about the same molecular size as the native enzymes. The findings suggest that the intestinal microflora is instrumental in the inactivation and degradation of pancreatic trypsin and elastase but not chymotrypsin.


The effect of somatostatin on pentagastrin-stimulated gastric secretion and on plasma gastrin in man.

Three experiments were carried out in each of 6 healthy students on separate days, in a randomized order. Intravenous saline infusions were given for one hour basally in each experiment. During the second hour either pentagastrin, pentagastrin and somatostatin, or somatostatin alone were given. Gastric juice was collected continuously during all experiments. Somatostatin decreased the volume of gastric secretion and the concentrations of acid and pepsin, and output of acid, pepsin, and intrinsic factor (IF). The plasma gastrin concentration was not changed by somatostatin. A rebound effect was seen on pepsin and IF outputs after cessation of somatostatin, and on blood sugar concentration. The present study suggests that somatostatin acts on gastric secretion either directly or by mechanisms other than by inhibition of gastrin. The rebound of pepsin and IF indicates a release-inhibiting action on these substances similar to the effect of somatostatin on the release of some hormones.


Plasma gastrin and gastric secretory response to duodenal perfusion with liver extract in healthy human subjects.

The stomachs of 8 healthy volunteers were intubated with a Levine tube under radiological control. In addition, a thin polyethylene tube was placed in the proximal duodenum. After a 1-hour period with no perfusion, the duodenum was perfused for two hours with 15% liver extract (LE) (pH 4.5--5.5; 1027 mosm/kg water) at a rate of 100 ml/hour either alone or in combination with intravenous infusion of different doses of exogenous pentagastrin. All subjects were also tested with the tubes in place for 3 hours, but with no perfusion or pentagastrin. Reflux to the stomach was monitored by addition of radioactive B12 to the perfusates. Plasma gastrin, gastric acid, and pepsin were measured in 15-minute periods. During perfusion of the proximal duodenum, where reflux of the perfusates was less than 4%, only a slight and inconstant change in plasma gastrin was seen. Gastric acid and pepsin outputs were increased to approx. 18% and 25% of the maximal pentagastrin stimulation respectively. Whereas 15% LE was shown to release gastrin by antral perfusion however, such release was not found by duodenal perfusion, except where reflux to the antrum was seen. The results suggest that intestinal stimulation of gastric secretion exists, but has not been found to be gastrin dependent in the present investigation.


Gastrin in the human fetus. Distribution and molecular forms of gastrin in the antro-pyloric gland area, duodenum and pancreas.

The ontogeny of human fetal gastrin has been investigated by immunocytochemistry and radioimmunochemistry. Gastrin and gastrin cells are shown to appear later in the antral than in the duodenal mucosa. At the ages studied (11--22 weeks of gestation) pancreatic gastrin could not be detected. Gastrin component III was found to predominate in the antrum, whereas component II was quantitatively very important in the duodenum. Circumstantial evidence suggests that fetal gastrin is delivered to the blood, and that it may exert trophic functions in the fetus.


Activation of human lymphocyte subpopulations by Mycoplasma pneumoniae.

B- and T-cell-enriched preparations of lymphocytes from human blood (5 cases), adenoids (10 cases), and tonsils (4 cases) were examined for the in vitro stimulation response to Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP). B lymphocytes did not respond to MP by DNA synthesis except for the B cells from one adenoid. T lymphocytes and nonfractionated lymphocytes from blood, from three of the adenoids and two of the tonsils showed a stimulation response to MP. Nonfractionated adenoid lymphocytes from altogether 22 children were examined, and a stimulation response to MP was demonstrated in 8 cases. Lymphocyte cultures from 11 adenoids and 2 tonsils were examined for MP-induced non-antigen-specific antibody production by a hemolytic plaque assay. In all these cultures MP activated production of antibody-secreting cells to sheep erythrocytes. It is concluded that MP can induce non-antigen-specific angibody production in human B lymphocytes without stimulating DNA synthesis in these cells. The proliferative response of adenoid, tonsil, and blood lymphocytes to MP is interpreted as an antigen-specific T-cell response.


Are atherosclerotic lesions reversible or not?

A review is presented on the recent data which try to answer whether or not atherosclerotic lesions are reversible. Several examples are given on the regression induced by return to cholesterol-free diets and by certain hypolipidemic agents. Emphasis is also placed on the intimate mechanisms leading to lipid depletion from atherosclerotic lesions.


Polyclonal antibody secretion in human lymphocytes induced by killed staphylococcal bacteria and by lipopolysaccharide.

Preparations of Staphylococcus aureus strains Cowan 1 and Wood 46 and of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were found to act as polyclonal B-cell-activating substances for human splenic and blood lymphocytes. All three substances induced polyclonal antibody secretion in blood and spleen cell cultures, as tested against fluorescein isothiocyanate-coupled sheep erythrocytes by a modification of the local hemolysis-in-gel assay. Antibodies were of IgM class, as shown by inhibition of plaque formation by anti-IgM but not by anti-IgG or anti-IgA antisera. All these substances also consistently induced the formation of intracellular immunoglobulin and increased DNA synthesis in stimulated spleen cells. In blood lymphocytes Staph. aureus Cowan 1 induced a consistent increase in DNA synthesis, whereas Staph, aureus Wood and LPS often gave low or no increase in DNA synthesis. Peak antibody formation was observed on day 3 in spleen cells and on day 6 in blood lymphocyte cultures. Stimulation into high-rate immunoglobulin secretion occurred with all PBAs also in B-cell-enriched cell suspensions but not in T-cell-enriched cells. Optimal responses were, however, always noted in unseparated cell suspensions. It is concluded that preparations of killed bacteria can be useful tools for the clinical evaluation of both specific and nonspecific antibody-forming ability in cells from different groups of patients.


Treatment of advanced prostatic carcinoma with estramustine phosphate (Estracyt).

Estramustine phosphate (Estracyt) was used in the treatment of 154 patients with carcinoma of the prostate in stage IV. Sixty-three patients were given Estracyt from the outset (primary treatment group) and 91 had previously received some other endocrine therapy (secondary treatment group). All of the patients were observed for more than one year. The drug was given intravenously and/or orally. Objective remissions occurred in 46 (73.0%) of the 63 patients in the primary treatment group and subjective remissions in all the objective responders and in 12 additional patients (92.0%). The corresponding figures for the secondary treatment group were 28 (30.7%) and 52 (57.1%) of 91. The side-effects were negligible, and the drug was well tolerated. No cumulative toxic effect was observed in patients who had been receiving the treatment for more than five years. In our opinion the compound is valuable in the treatment of advanced prostatic carcinoma (stage IV).


Blood flow in renal carcinomas evaluated by a dye dilution technique and angiography.

In 31 patients with renal carcinoma referred for angiography, rapid sequence angiography was performed in 25. In 18 of the patients determination of renal blood flow and related parameters was made in conjunction with the angiography. Carcinomas with high and medium-high differentiation comprised Group I, while those with medium and poor differentiation constituted Group II. In both groups a positive correlation was demonstrated between the renal blood flow and the tumour area. In group I, positive correlation (t greater than 2) was demonstrated between the vascular volume and the tumour area, between the vascular resistance and the emptying time of the tumour arteries and the normal renal arteries. There was some degree of shunting of blood in all tumours. Comparison of the arterial emptying time of the tumour arteries with the parenchymal arteries does not allow of staging of renal carcinomas. The degree of shunting may be an indication of the degree of malignancy and poor differentiation.


An experimental study on the pathogenesis of sporadic bacteriuria in the rat.

An experimental model is used in which one ureter of a rat is ligated with the object of forming a hydronephrosis from which urine specimens can subsequently be collected. Ascending urinary infection from the bladder is excluded by the ligation. The investigations with this experimental model showed that growth of intestinal bacteria occasionally occurred in culture of urine obtained from the occluded renal pelvis. Ascending infection being excluded, these bacteria had in all probability entered the renal pelvis via the hydronephrotic kidney. The frequency of infection seemed to increase with age. Whedronephrotic kidney. The frequency of infection seemed to increase with age. When intravenous injection of E. coli was added to the standard experiment, substantial growth of these bacteria was found in the left upper urinary tract in 16 out of 17 animals thus treated.


Biomedical and psychosocial aspects of shift work. A review.

A survey of the different types of shift-work systems in use, and the incidence of shift work in different industries and countries, is followed by a discussion of (a) the effects of shift work on health and (b) the physiological problems raised by the phase-shifting of the circadian cycle in night workers. Summaries of the existing knowledge of the effects of shift work on performance efficiency, accidents, and family and social life are then given, and a set of criteria for designing optimal shift systems is proposed. Next, the questions of selection for shift work and the provision of health services for shiftworkers are discussed. Finally, the need for further research on the problems of shift work is explained, and suggestions are offered on the lines such research should follow.


Mutagenicity of fume particles from stainless steel welding.

Welding fume particles collected from different welding procedures were tested for mutagenicity in Escherichia coli, with the inhibition zone in pol A- as compared to pol A+, and in Salmonella typhimurium, TA 100 strain. While no mutagenicity was found with mild steel welding, a mutagenic effect was established with samples from stainless steel welding. This mutagenicity was particularly associated with manual metal arc (MMA) welding, and less so with metal inert-gas welding. A decrease in or an elimination of the effect occurred with a liver microsomal metabolizing system (S-9 mix). The MMA samples produced the strongest mutagenic effect. More-detailed investigations on these samples showed that the mutagenic agent(s) is water soluble. An increased mutagenicity, which also revealed the induction of frame shift mutations, was found with TA 98. The same welding fume sample was used for a mutagenicity test (resistance to 6-thioguanine) with V 79 hamster cells. Because of the high toxicity of these welding fume particles on the cells, only very low concentrations could be tested, but the increase of mutations, when compared to the negative control, was significant. It is suggested that hexavalent chromium may be involved in the mutagenic effect of the welding fumes.


Acute and repetitive human exposure to isobutane.

Eight adult volunteers of both sexes were exposed to isobutane in a controlled-environment chamber for the purpose of monitoring their physiological responses to a series of gas concentrations ranging from 250 to 1,000 ppm. First, the response to exposure periods of 1 min, 2 min, 1 h, 2 h, and 8 h were studied. There being no untoward responses to these acute exposures, the eight volunteers were exposed repetitively to isobutane at concentrations of 500 ppm, 1, 2 or 8 h per day, five days per week for two weeks. Then exposures to two mixtures of isobutane and propane for 1, 2 or 8 h per day for two days were studied. During the investigation all subjects were kept under comprehensive medical surveillance. No untoward subjective responses or abnormal physiological responses occurred during or following these exposures. Special emphasis was placed on evaluating the cardiac and pulmonary response to these exposures through the use of continuous ECG telemetry and serial computerized spirometric measurements. The following serial laboratory studies were unaltered by the exposures: complete blood count, urinalysis, serum alkaline phosphatase, SGOT, LDH, serum bilirubin, blood sugar, serum calcium, serum phosphorus, BUN, spontaneous electroencephalogram, visual evoked response, a battery of cognitive tests, and an ACTH stimulation test.


[10 years survival of kidney grafts].

Prior to the end of June 1967, a total of 22 kidney allotransplantations had been performed at the Kantonsspital Zurich, Switzerland, with the exclusive use of cadaver kidneys. Ten years later, 10 patients are still alive, 8 of them with functioning primary transplant. In none of these patients is the serum creatinine higher than 1.6 mg%. 6 of the 8 patients are at work full-time and 2 half-time.


[Concepts and findings in dentistry in medical dissertations from the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries].

This historical paper deals with medical dissertations from the second half of the 18th century which deal with stomatology. 30 of the 100 consulted dissertations were translated from latin with great differences in scientific content and style, because they dated from the 16th to the 18th century. The views of normal anatomy and physiology of that time are described. Strange views were held on the embryological development. Apart from toothache, dentitio difficilis in children, aphtous stomatitis, cleft palates and the respective therapies were described. The scientific content of those dissertations was way backward when compared to contemporary text book literature.


[Caries prevention by the use of a Na2FPO3 containing toothpaste, after 7 years].

After 7 years of use of a Na2FPO3 paste, the reduction of DMF surfaces was reduced by 36-38%, relating to the control group. The caries inhibiting effect is statistically ensured. Separate consideration of the first molar shows a caries reduction of 40-42%.


[Incisions in oral surgery].

Oral mucosa incision can allow several interventions: cellulitis or periodontal abscess opening, gingival tissue excision or repositioning or at least exposure of alveolar bone for tooth extraction or infrabony pockets' treatment. The different incisions are described with special considerations: --on the anatomic environment of the oral cavity (palatal arteries, mandibular nerve...)--on the healing patterns of the different periodontal tissues (rapid cellular turnover of the epithelial attachment for instance)--at last on the suturing for each intervention. The instrumentation needed for the different incisions is described and clinical cases are presented before, during and after oral surgery. The use of an electrical knife is noted with the contraindications of this operative procedure.


Brain endolases as specific markers of neuronal and glial cells.

There are three distinct enolase isoenzymes in brain; neuron-specific enolase (NSE), formerly referred to as neuron-specific protein, which is specifically localized in neurons, a nonneuronal enolase (NNE), and a third hybrid form. Light microscopy with immunocytochemical techniques has permitted localization of non-neuronal enolase. The NNE is located in glial cells with no staining of endothelial cells or neurons. Thus, NSE and NNE can be used as specific metabolic markers for neurons and glial cells, respectively.


A nonpeptide morphine-like compound: immunocytochemical localization in the mouse brain.

A nonpeptide morphine-like compound (MLC) which cross reacts with morphine-specific antibodies has been localized with the use of immunocytochemistry. This morphine-like compound is found in neuronal perikarya or processes (or both) in nuclei related to vestibular, cerebellar, and raphe systems.


Preliminary study on the age of Yuanmou man by palaeomagnetic technique.

Since the discovery of the fossil teeth of Yuanmou man (Homo erectus yuanmouensis) on May 1, 1965 from Yuanmou county, Yunnan Province, the Institute of Geomechanics, relying on the local poor and lower-middle peasants and co-operating with other units concerned, has been conducting intensive researches on the fossil man-bearing strata as well as Quaternary glaciation. Palaeomagnetic technique lately used in the study has for the first time shown that the Yuanmou man appeared around 1.7 million years ago, earlier than both Peking man and Lantien man. Hence the age formerly assigned to the earliest fossil man in China has to be increased by more than a million years. Furthermore, as the age of Yuanmou formation is fixed at 1.5--3.1 million years, the length of Quaternary has to be extended by more than two million years. Of special interest is that under the Yuanmou formation there occur glacial traces which prove beyond doubt the existence of glaciation over 3 million years ago. This is a new discovery in the Quaternary history of China, and provides a new approach to the future study of this period.


Palaeocene vertebrate horizons and mammalian faunas of South China.

In the past ten years or so a large amount of Palaeocene mammals (more than one hundred species belonging to 11 orders, 17 families and 52 genera) were known from five "redbed" basins of South China. These new finds are very important to a correct understanding of the evolution and distribution of mammals at the beginning of Tertiary in Asia. This paper includes three parts: (1) mammal-bearing Palaeocene of South China, (2) ages and correlation of the Palaecocene faunas of South China, (3) characteristics of the Palaeocene faunas of South China. The known Palaeocene mammals of South China can be grouped into two assemblages: the Lower Assemblage of the Early-Middle Palaeocene age, and the Upper Assemblage of the Late Palaeocene age. The endemic Asian genus, Bemalambda, is a form characteristic of the Lower Assemblage, and another endemic Asian form, Archaeolambda, is diagnostic of the upper. Some inferences on the origin, distribution and dispersal routes of certain Palaeocene mammalian groups are also discussed briefly in the third part.


Immunofluorescent staining technics in the diagnosis of alopecia.

A retrospective clinicopathologic and immunopathologic review of 50 cases of scalp alopecia was done to assess the diagnostic value of the immunofluorescent staining technic. Discoid lupus erythematosus and lichen planus almost always produce different patterns of immunoglobulin and complement deposition. However, in occasional cases of discoid lupus erythematosus the characteristic LE immunofluorescent band may be absent and the direct immunofluorescent findings may be indistinguishable from those seen in lichen planus. Negative results were found in all other conditions except four cases of benign mucous membrane or cicatricial pemphigoid presenting with scalp lesions. Three of these cases were clinically unsuspected.


Canine kidney preservation: comparison of "intracellular", "extracellular," and high molecular weight dextran flushing solutions.

The effects of modified Collins-2 solution, adjusted lactated Ringer's solution, and a solution containing dextran 70 on kidney preservation and red blood cell (RBC) washout in dogs were evaluated. Excised kidneys were stored on ice for 24 hours and then reimplanted, at which time the contralateral kidney was removed. RBC washout from the preserved kidneys was measured at the time of initial cold flush. For 20 days after transplantation, serial measurements were made of serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine clearance, serum and urine osmolality, blood pH, and dog weight. No one solution cleared RBCs from the kidneys better than the other solutions. Renal function was significantly better in transplanted kidneys flushed and preserved with the Collins-2 solution than that in kidneys flushed and preserved with the other two solutions. There was generally no significant difference in function between kidneys preserved with dextran and those preserved with lactated Ringer's solution. Our findings suggest that the electrolyte composition of the flush solution may be more important than maintaining a high osmolality in the flush solution in the preservation of renal function during 24 hours' cold storage.


Home dialysis program of the Nashville VA Hospital.

Since 1965, 330 patients have received chronic dialysis treatment at the Nashville VA Hospital. Home hemodialysis training was established in 1968, and a unique class format has been used since 1970. Despite the national trend of fewer patients beginning home dialysis each year, more than 50 percent of our patients have chosen this form of therapy yearly since 1969. A total of 182 patients (55 percent) from 15 states have completed home training with an attrition rate of only 8 percent. Mean distance of patients' homes from the training center is 185 miles. Five-year survival for home hemodialysis patients is 91 percent, compared to 59 percent and 55 percent for patients receiving renal transplant and center dialysis, respectively. Seventeen deaths have occurred in home dialysis patients, half of which were due to cardiovascular disease. Home dialysis offers an excellent mode of therapy for patients with chronic renal failure and probably is particularly suitable for patients over 50 years of age.


Chromium depletion in the pathogenesis of diabetes and atherosclerosis.

Dietary Cr deficiency may cause the aging-related Cr depletion observed in humans. Such depletion, when it occurs with excessive consumption of sugar and other carbohydrates, may result in glucose intolerance, glycosuria, hyperinsulinemia, and hyperlipidemia. These metabolic disorders could explain why athero-sclerotic diseases are endemic to most Western industrial societies. This review detailed significant current research and findings on the manifestations of Cr deficiency in humans and animal models.


Prazosin in the therapy of uncontrolled hypertension.

Prazosin (Minipress; Pfizer), a new antihypertensive agent, was investigated in 24 outpatients with uncontrolled hypertension. In 12 patients a single-blind placebo-controlled trial was conducted and in 12 patients an open trial with treatment for a minimum of 16 weeks. Three patients developed postural hypotension and were withdrawn from the trial. Fifteen patients responded to treatment with prazosin and normotensive levels were reached in 9. Ten patients had renal impairment at the start of the study; renal function remained static in 9 and serum urea and creatinine values increased in 1. Prazosin maintains renal function well in severely hypertensive patients and has a relatively low incidence of side-effects, related mainly to postural hypotension which develops unpredictably in some patients. In addition to its extensively documented beneficial effect in mild and moderate forms of hypertension, prazosin is of use in the therapy of patients with severe and uncontrolled hypertension.


Aspergillus pneumonia--a cluster of four cases in an intensive care unit.

Four cases of Aspergillus pneumonia occurred in an intensive care unit within a short period. Clusters of cases of invasive aspergillosis are rare and have usually been attributed to excessive contamination of the environment. Extensive environmental studies were, however, negative. Three of the cases were diagnosed ante mortem. One patient survived after early initiation of treatment with amphotericin B.


Breast surgery.

Initial diagnostic errors are related to the presumption that symptoms or findings are due to benign causes. Physical examination augmented by mammographic study will disclose those benign-appearing lesions which may harbor a carcinoma. All palpable lesions and mammographically suspicious areas require that their identity be determined. The final resolution depends upon biopsy. Missing the tumor also causes diagnostic error. An accurate biopsy or "sample" must be obtained for study. Negative results of sampling techniques should be followed by formal biopsy. Failure to eliminate the primary disease by leaving tumor or breast tissue behind increases the incidence of recurrence. Total mastectomy reduces this risk. It is our view that removal of the axillary nodes also aids in obtaining cure, as well as providing prognostic information. Well intentioned attempts to obtain a better cosmetic appearance or to reconstruct the breast are secondary to the patient's chief need which is to achieve cure. Complications of the surgical procedures are due to improper flap dissection, desiccation and trauma to tissues, incomplete hemostasis, and inadequate drainage. Attention to operative details and adherence to well established surgical principles will minimize complications.


Reinfection primary and secondary syphilis: the post treatment serologic response.

It has long been observed that patients with reinfection primary and secondary syphilis have a slower serologic response to treatment than those with an initial infection. The case records of three patients with reinfection primary and seven patients with reinfection secondary syphilis were examined and confirmed the clinical observation.


Hepatic complications.

Hepatic dysfunction is one of the most common complications following major surgical intervention, and it presents a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations as discussed. Recent progress in hepatology has provided better knowledge in etiology and pathophysiology of hepatic dysfunction and its sequelae. In addition, modern medical technology has made the diagnosis of liver disease easier and more precise. Underlying liver disease should be disclosed precisely prior to surgery and surgical complication minimized for patients with hepatic impairment. If hepatic complications occur following surgical intervention, the most logical etiology and pathophysiologic explanation should be found, utilizing all the clinical and laboratory data and diagnostic procedures in order to institute proper treatment. Specific complications in hepatic surgery are also discussed. A good understanding of pathophysiologic alterations following hepatic surgery is mandatory together with detailed anatomic knowledge and surgical skill in order to prevent and to treat serious complications.