The influence of different ventilatory patterns on oxygenation and gas exchange after near-drowning.

After positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) valves for manually operated resuscitators became available it was of interest to find out whether PEEP should be applied at the scene of accident in nearly drowned patients. In 27 young pigs 25 ml of fresh water/kg body weight was instilled into the lungs via an endotracheal tube. After a period of apnoea (4 min) the pigs were ventilated artificially with 100% oxygen with either 5 cm PEEP or zero end-expiratory pressure (ZEEP). Within the PEEP group the AaDO2 returned to normal within the first 10 min after resuscitation, whereas the AaDO2 did not reach normal values for 2 h in the ZEEP group. The same observations were true for the PO2 values. Although the cardiac output decreased by almost 30% in the PEEP group, mean arterial pressures and heart rates remained unchanged. Lung weights and blood lactate concentrations confirmed that the same degree of water absorption and hypoxia had taken place in both groups. The conclusions from these experiments are that the application of 5 cm PEEP is part of the immediate measures of emergency treatment in nearly drowned victims.


[An additiinal systematic table of Cuban ground mollusca].

A list of Cuban ground mollusks is presented in a systematic order. The number of species and sub-specific types of each one is pointed out. An alphabetic index enabling the rapid determination of the taxonomic location of a given genus is also depicted.


Comparative blanching activities of locally manufactured proprietary fluocinolone acetonide topical preparations.

The blanching activities and hence the bio-availabilities of the cream and ointment formulations of Synalar and Cortoderm (fluocinolone acetonide 0,025%) were evaluated using an occluded and unoccluded blanching assay. Statistical analysis showed significant differences between similar formulations of fluocinolone acetonide.


The multiload copper intra-uterine contraceptive device in a mixed urban and rural population: A 3-year clinical evaluation.

A series of 1 270 Multiload Cu-250 intra-uterine contraceptive devices inserted in clinics of the Cape Divisional Council is described, spanning 1 024,6 woman-years. The continuation rate was 85,4% and the unplanned pregnancy rate was 1,17 per 100 woman-years of use. The implications are discussed.


Comparison of captopril with propranolol in the treatment of mild and moderate essential hypertension.

Captopril (SQ 14,225), an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, was used in combination with propranolol, a beta-adrenergic blocking agent, in the treatment of mild and moderate hypertension. A significant decrease in blood presure was obtained (P less than 0.05). The maximum oral dose of captopril was 450 mg daily and the maximum oral dosage of propranolol was 360 mg daily. Side-effects were negligible and transitory. They consisted of skin rashes and pain in the calves (1 patient) and palpitations (1 patient) on captopril and skin rashes (1 patient) on propranolol. Captopril is a promising new hypotensive agent and is efficacious in combination with beta-adrenergic blocking agents.


Juvenile fibromatosis and other diseases of connective tissue.

There are a number of features which are common to such variable conditions as juvenile fibromatosis on the one hand and torticollis and congenital dislocation of the hip, and possibly scoliosis, on the other. Various pathological syndromes are presented, all of them characterized by disturbance and contracture of connective tissue. Surgery is carried out in severe cases when it is a practicable proposition. The administration of an enzyme inhibitor at cellular level has introduced a new dimension in the management of localized fibromatosis.


The efficacy of sotalol in suppressing ventricular ectopic beats.

Sotalol (Sotacor) is a beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agent, which in addition possesses class III anti-arrhythmic properties. In this study we report on the clinical effectiveness of sotalol in the suppression of ventricular ectopic beats in 20 patients suffering from ischaemic heart disease. Sotalol was compared with placebo and efficacy was determined by Holter tape monitoring. Sotalol produced an 88,5% (P < 0,001) reduction in ectopic beat frequency at the optimal titrated dosage, with relatively few physical or biochemical side-effects. In situations where ventricular anti-arrhythmic therapy is deemed necessary, especially if long-term use is considered, sotalol seems to be the agent of choice.


[Nature and significance of osteopenia].

New realisations on the regulation of bone and calcium metabolism by hormones and vitamins, modern methods of the radiologic and morphologico-morphometric diagnostics considerably increased our knowledge about the deminerlising diseases of the skeletal system. The possibilities for diagnostics and therapy resulting from this are restricted in practice by a non-adequate nomenclature. The introduction of the disease group notion "osteopenia" for all demineralising processes and its definition as well as the representation of the differential diagnostics of osteolamacia, fibrosteoclasia and syndrome of osteoporosis as clinical main representatives of osteopenia shall help to prevent diagnostic and therapeutic errors.


[Intra-articular therapy with radionuclides].

The 12-year experiences of a working team with the intraarticular radiogold therapy in persisting synovialitides of chronic rheumatic diseases and resistant irritation phases of arthroses are supplementarily described and a critical valuation is performed. Finally practical conclusions for the local joint therapy are made, taking into consideration also the experiences of other investigators.


[Clinical aspects of myocarditis--symptomatology, diagnosis and pathogenesis].

On the basis of newer knowledge from literature in a survey aspects of symptomatology, diagnostics and course of the myocarditis important for practice are represented. According to the frequency of the virus myocarditis is referred to the importance of immunopathogenetic factors for prognosis and course. Own experiences confirm the transition from an acute myocarditis into a chronic cardiomyopathy which was observed by various investigators. In a 17-year-old female patient the development of a congestive cardiomyopathy after acute myocarditis could be pursued for several years. After-examination of 58 patients after acute myocarditis resulted after 3 years in 62% in cardiac residual symptoms, in which cases anamnestic data and objective findings of the examination well correlated. In 14  patients (24.1%) chronic recidivating courses were found. The importance of the biopsy of the endomyocardium for the diagnostics and differential diagnostics of cardiomyopathies is represented at the instance of a 20-year-old male with subacute rheumatic myocarditis who was hospitalised on account of symptoms of a left heart insufficiency, enlargement of the heart and a picture of a left hypertrophy in the ECG. Bioptically was found a hypertrophy with formation of a large nucleus. After 1 1/2 years clinical improvement and normalisation of size of the heart and ECG. The control biopsy now resulted in normal findings of the heart.


[Value and results of coloscopic polypectomy].

From August 1976 till the end of February 1979 158 polyp in 83 patients (48 male and 35 female) were removed by means of the rectocoloscopic polypectomy with the high frequency diathermy loop. 66% of the polypi had a diameter of less than 1 cm. Most the polypi were with about 70% in the sigma and in the rectum. With 60.7% the adenomas appeared most frequently, followed by the hyperplastic polypi in 20% and by the inflammatory ones in 13.3% of the cases. With the increase of size of the polypi the proportion of the adenomas clearly increased in comparison to the other kinds of polypi. Severe epithelial atypias (altogether 23.1%) were more frequently in adenomas larger than 2 cm than in smaller ones. An invasive carcinoma was found in no polypus. Thus the endoscopic polypectomy in every case meant a curative therapy with great economic use. In patients a haemorrhage appeared as a complication of the coloscopic polypectomy. Only the removal of the polypi in toto allows an exact histological classification and the answer of the decisive question, whether in one adenoma only severe epithelial atypias are present and thus the polypectomy is therapeutically sufficient or whether there exists an adenocarcinoma, for the removal of which an operation according to the principles of the carcinoma surgery must be carried out. The endoscopic ablation of the adenomas thus means a genuine prophylaxis of cancer.


[Treatment of tumor diseases in older people].

By the increase of the average age of man among others also the problems of tumour diseases in old persons increasingly gain importance. In the therapy of malignant diseases, therefore, the various age-conditioned changes concerning the immunological system must be taken into consideration. Even though the tumour therapy on principle does not deviate in old patients from the tumour therapy in younger patients, it must yet be carried out with particular precaution and the restricted load capacity must be taken into consideration. Under these conditions also by means of polychemotherapy results may be achieved as they are possible in younger patients.


[The current problem of euthanasia -- a discussion].

New conditions and possibilities of medical treatment demand a more intensive discussion of the problems of the patient with heavy illness and of the dying patient. After a short representation of the notion of euthanasia the individual forms of dying help with their ethical consequences are discussed. Propositions are made for a further elaboration of these problems.


[Late complications in breast construction with silicone implants].

Of 187 patients with silicone breast implants 14% developed a capsular formation as late complication needing surgical therapy. Apparently neither the volume and type of prosthesis nor the operative proceeding had any influence on the formation of a constrictive capsule. No significant difference between augmentation plasty by hypo- and aplasia respectively and breast reconstruction after subcutaneous or radical mastectomy could be noticed. There has been no explanation for unilateral hypertrophic capsule formation after simultaneously performed bilateral prosthesis implantation. Compared with other authors we had a smaller incidence of the IIIrd and IVth stage capsular formation. This is caused by: 1. The advantage of a two-stage proceeding over the simultaneous one after subcutaneous mastectomy or subsequently to reconstruction by a flap plasty after radical mastectomy. 2. Systematic drainage of the bed of the prosthesis to avoid any hematoma or big liquid accumulations. Diffusion of silicone in the tissues by spontaneous rupture of the prosthesis as further late complication is discussed in 2 cases.


[Microsurgical plastic reconstruction of the explosion-damaged hand].

During the last two years, 16 severe explosion injuries of the hand have been treated with plastic microsurgery in our hospital. The injury had arisen in seven cases from the mixture sugar + sodium chlorate (C12H22O11 + NaClO3). This substance mixture may already be caused to explode by slight vibrations and the warmth of the hands. In explosion injuries, there is mechanical, chemical and thermal tissue damage. The postoperative course is therefore complicated in almost all cases. However, by meticulous removal of the disseminated foreign particles, excision of necrotic tissue and extensive reconstruction of the interrupted vascular and nerve supply, it is possible in a few cases to preserve functionally important parts of the hand. Later plastic procedures are made more difficult by tissue fibrosis and foreign body granulomas.


A comparison of epithalamic, hypothalamic and spinal neurosecretory terminals.

Nerve endings of epithalamic, hypothalamic and spinal neurosecretory areas were studied by light and electron microscopy in various vertebrates (from fishes up to mammals) including the lancelet. Areas investigated were the pineal organ, the pulvinar corporis pinealis, the neurohypophysis, the median eminence, the urophysis, the terminal filum and the medullo-spinal neurosecretory zones. We found that in all these areas the neurosecretory endings have common structures, which we call synaptic hemidesmosomes or neurohormonal terminals. These are characterized by accumulation of vesicles, and dense projections in a terminal on the basal lamina of the surface of the nervous tissue. A critical review of the literature suggests that a considerble neuroendocrine activity is associated with synaptic hemidesmosomes as special neurohormonal effector structures of the nerve cells. The cell-to-cell synapses formed by neurosecretory cells are discussed in connection with the dual capacity of these cells to function as both endocrine and "ordinary# neuronal elements. The importance of the external cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) space for the transport of materials released in the so-called neurohemal areas, is stressed.


Reduction of mutagenic activity of aflatoxins after UV-irradiation.

Solutions of aflatoxins B1, B2, G1 and G2 and solid films of aflatoxin B1 were irradiated with UV light of wavelength corresponding to the absorption band of aflatoxins at approximately 365 nm (approximately 27 500 cm-1). The reaction was followed spectrophotometrically. Simultaneously the mutagenicity of samples of aflatoxins was determined using Salmonella typhimurium/mammalian microsome test. UV-irradiation caused a modification in all aflatoxins studied (in aqueous and nonaqueous solutions as well as in a solid film); the final photoproducts lost completely the mutagenic activity.


Sensitivity and repair of bacteria and phages after exposure to far and near UV light.

Inactivation of bacterial strains derived from E. coli B, which differ in the DNA-repair capacity  (exc-, pol- and rec-) was investigated after far and near UV irradiation. The same strains were also used as hosts for UV-irradiated phage T7. The injuries caused in bacteria and phages by radiation with longer wavelengths were reparable with greater difficulty and only to a lesser extent by the investigated repair mechanisms. We suppose that near UV affects cell proteins and that, as a result of this damage, the DNA-repair systems may be inhibited.


Lethal cellular changes induced by near ultraviolet radiation.

There is clear evidence that significant quantities of lesions are induced in DNA by near-UV radiation and that these lesions, although susceptible to repair, may lead to cell death because of the simultaneous disruption of DNA repair systems by the same wavelengths. No particular DNA lesion can be linked to cell death in wild type strains. However, there are good grounds for speculating that a type of near-UV lesion exists which is rapidly "fixed" as a lethal event in cells as a result of the oxygen-dependent disruption of repair. There is a strong indication that the relative ability of various near-UV wavelengths to sensitize cells to heat, chemicals or other radiations is directly related to their efficiency in disrupting DNA repair systems in general. Some important specific questions remain. For example, it is important to ask why breaks formed at 365 nm and 405 nm, although apparently requiring a pol dependent pathway for their repair, do not produce the predicted lethal biological action in the strains tested. In general terms it is hoped to provide more comprehensive physico-chemical data in support of, or contradicting, the proposed model.


Scanning electron microscopy of cerebral ventricles: optimum tissue preparation technique.

Different preparative techniques described in the literature were compared for the study of the ventricular surfaces. To develop a standard method applicable also under experimental conditions the following procedure is recommended for scanning electron microscopy. (1) Fixation. After perfusion with a heparin-containing mammalian Ringer-solution (37 degrees C) fixation by collidine-buffered OsO4 (2%). The rate of perfusion should vary between 60--90 drops per minute. Osmotic pressure of the fixative solutions is optimal between 800--1000 mOsm. (2) Drying, Distortion-free drying of the surfaces of the cerebral ventricles cannot be achieved in air. Use of critical point dryers only ensures preservation of the fine structure. (3) Evaporation. The method of metal evaporation is an important part in the development of the final quality of the picture. Distribution of the metal layer is ideal with an Au--Pd  alloy. If a rotating metal evaporator is not available, evaporation from different directions also gives satisfactory results.


Identification of early glial elements as the precursors of Bergmann-glia: a Golgi-analysis of the developing rat cerebellar cortex.

The developing rat cerebellar cortex was studied by the rapid Golgi procedure in 200 mu thick slices and in 1--2 mu thick semithin sections poststained with toluidine-blue. Glial cells having radial fibres directed towards the pial surface were found to be present continuously in the internal granular layer during cerebellar maturation. This cell type was identified as the developing Bergmann-glia.


The role of growth hormone in the glucose intolerance of uremia.

The fasting plasma growth hormone (GH) concentration and the plasma growth hormone response to sustained hyperglycemia was examined in 8 chronically uremic subjects before and after hemodialysis employing the hyperglycemia clamp technique. The plasma glucose concentration was acutely raised and maintained at +125 mg/100 ml above basal levels. Since the glucose concentration was held constant, the glucose infusion rate is an index of glucose metabolism (M) and M divided by the plasma insulin response (I) is a measure of tissue sensitivity to insulin. Predialysis, the fasting GH concentration, 4.0 +/- 1.0 ng/ml, was significantly greater than controls, 0.3 +/- 0.1 ng/ml (p less than 0.01), and failed to suppress normally following sustained hyperglycemia. Both M, 4.23 +/- 0.36 mg/kg x min, and M/I, 5.05 +/- 0.79 mg/kg x min per microU/ml, were significantly reduced compared to controls (p less than 0.001). There was no correlation between either the fasting GH concentration or the GH response to sustained hyperglycemia and either M or M/I. Following dialysis both M, 6.30 +/- 0.64 mg/kg x min, and M/I, 8.39 +/- 1.06 mg/kg x min per microU/ml, increased (p less than 0.01) without significant change in either the fasting GH level, 4.0 +/- 1.2 ng/ml, or the plasma GH response to hyperglycemia. It is concluded that while deranged GH physiology is a common accompaniment of the uremic state, it is not responsible for the glucose intolerance and tissue insensitivity to insulin observed in uremia.


Neuronal pathways to the margin of the hypothalamic median eminence and to the pituitary stalk of the rat. I. A golgi and degeneration study.

The course and termination of nerve fibres approaching the median eminence from lateral direction were studied in Golgi specimens and by the axon-degeneration technique. Varicose nerve fibres could be traced from an area corresponding to the medial and superficial portion of the medial forebrain bundle. They run immediately underneath the free ventral surface of the hypothalamus. Parasagittal knife-cuts placed at various distances (0.5 to 1.4 mm) from the midline resulted in a large number of degenerated axon fragments along the margin of the median eminence, on both sides of the tuberoinfundibular sulcus. Scattered degenerated fragments were found in the lateral part of the palisade zone as well as in the pituitary stalk. No degeneration could be seen in the abo9ve mentioned areas if the cut was as far as 1.8 mm from the midline. Degenerated axon fragments appeared as soon as 5 hours following the lesion indicating that the time course of ultrastructural degenerative alterations is remarkably fast in this fibre system.


Effect of maturation and senescence on carbohydrate utilization and insulin responsiveness of rat adipose tissue.

The aim of the present investigation was to study the effect of aging upon the metabolism and the responsiveness to insulin of epididymal adipose tissue from rats (6 weeks, 6 and 24 months). Basal glucose metabolism by these tissues and adipocytes was positively related to cell size, for each age group. But age per se plays an important role: for the same diameter, the U-14C-glucose oxidation to CO2 and its incorporation into triglycerides described markedly between 6 weeks and 6 months, as reported peviously, and decreased still further between 6 months and 24 months, for any diameter. In contrast, insulin responsiveness of adipose tissue fragments and fat cells was negatively correlated to adipose cell size, when we analyzed the role of cell diameter for a group of given age. When comparing the sensitivity to hormone for a given cell volume but at different ages, it appeared that insulin resistance increased considerably between 6 weeks and 6 months and was still more marked in old age. The mechanisms underlying these facts have been discussed.


Interneurons: an electron microscopic study of the cat's hippocampal formation, II.

The ultrastructure of interneurons was studied in the cat and it was found to differ from that of the pyramidal and granule cells. The size, shape and topographic situation of the cell body of interneurons were the criteria for approaching their identification with the cells found in Golgi material. Some interneuron dendrites are also described. The varicose and spindle-shaped dendritic profiles belonging to interneurons are different in size. In Golgi material the interneurons have beaded (varicose) or spindle-shaped dendrites. The arrangement of synaptic terminals on the interneuron dendritic surface seems to be their characteristic feature.


The production and characteristics of anti-insulin, anti-A-component and anti-proinsulin antibodies in patients treated with monocomponent or conventional insulin.

Highly purified pork monocomponent insulin produced less anti-insulin antibody than conventional insulins in diabetic patients. The smaller amount of anti-insulin antibody produced by MC insulin bound pork insulin more strongly than beef insulin in both displacement and direct binding studies of 125I-insulin. On the contrary, anti-insulin antibody which was produced by conventional insulins (beef insulin or mixture of pork and beef insulin) bound beef insulin more strongly. No significant anti-a-component and anti-proinsulin antibodies were detected in diabetics treated with highly purified monocomponent pork insulin about two years, compared to significant production of these antibodies in diabetics treated with conventional insulins. These results suggest that the species difference of the insulin molecule itself plays a significant role for the production of anti-insulin antibody, as the impurities do, in insulin-treated diabetic patients. The production of anti-insulin and anti-a-component antibodies decreased clearly after switching to highly purified monocomponent from conventional insulin. No effect of the switching on insulin requirement was found; however, better control of diabetes was accomplished in relation to the level of fasting blood sugar.


Influence of pregnancy on glucagon levels in insulin-dependent diabetic women.

Eight insulin-dependent non pregnant (IDD-NP), 10 insulin-dependent pregnant (IDD-P) and 9 pregnant control women were studied. During intravenous arginine challenge (ATT) there were lower glucose and higher glucagon plasma levels in the IDD-P when compared to the IDD-NP. IRG levels in response to ATT were also significantly higher in diabetic than in non diabetic control pregnant women. These results seem to indicate that pregnancy in diabetic women, in contrast to that observed in normal women, enhances glucagon secretion with impairment of the physiological mechanism of the facilitated anabolism present in normal pregnancy.


An infertile male with balanced Y;19 translocation. Review of Y;autosome translocations.

Cytogenetic studies on a phenotypically normal male, presenting with infertility, revealed a balanced Y;19 translocation - 46,XY,t (Y;19) (q11; p or q13). The patient had a normal hormone profile, but semen analysis showed immature cells in the fluid. The possible mechanisms causing the infertility are discussed. An extensive review of the literature of Y ; autosome translocations indicates that there are 2 types, those in which the broken segment of the Y is translocated to the short arm or centromeric region of an acrocentric chromosome, and those in which the Y material is translocated onto a long or short arm region of a non-acrocentric chromosome. The first type is less frequently associated with infertility and hypogonadism than the second type. There is presumptive evidence that the first type is non-random.


Partial trisomy 9 : clinical and cytogenetic correlations.

A study of three new cases with different trisomies involving chromosome 9 and a review of about 100 cases of partial trisomy 9 reported in the literature, suggested some cytogenetical and clinical correlations and lead us to propose the nomenclature of Rethore's syndrome type 1 and type 2.


[Determination of plasmatic C-peptide and its clinical uses].

Physiopathological basis and methodological implications of the radioimmunological estimation of plasma C-peptide, as a test of beta cell secretory activity, are reviewed. Personal results are reported concerning C-peptide assay, both in basal and stimulative conditions, in insulindependent long-and short-term diabetes. In 1 case of organic, and 2 cases of functional hyperinsulinism, the test gave useful clinical information. The method of L. Heding-Novo Research Institute, Bagsvaerd, Denmark-, with previous elimination of proinsulin and insulinantibody in patients with high values of IgG insulin binding, proved to be suitable to endocrinological routine.


[Serratia marcescens bacteremia in a neonatal intensive therapy center: epidemiological study].

The Authors have isolated Serratia marcescens in nine coltures of blood, effected during the period Genuary 1 - February 28, 1979, in a newborn nursery. They have carried an epidemiologic study in immature ward, in newborn children and sanitary personnel. Extensive cultures of objects, equipment and air were negative for Serratia marcaescens. The exact mode by which Serratia was introduced into the immature ward could not be determined. The Authors point out on importance of contamination in newborn children by @opportunist" Gram-negative bacilli.


[Calcitonin inhibition of insulin-stimulated gastric secretion. A possibility of selective evaluation of gastric secretory function].

There is both clinical and experimental evidence for the antigastric effect of calcitonin. A study was therefore made of gastric secretion after maximum insulin stimulation, and during its inhibition by calcitonin. Evaluation of basal acid flow and the maximum acidity peak in these two tests showed that the difference between the two peaks was related to the increase in gastrin. This was not the case during inhibition. The results show that selective evaluation of gastric secretion enables selective surgical techniques to be employed in the treatment of duodenal ulcer.


[Benign monoclonal gammopathies. General clinical considerations on 30 cases].

With reference to a previously published series, an electronic computer is used to analyse clinical data and some criteria for diagnosing benign monoclonal gammopathies are set out.


An Escherichia coli strain that causes diarrhea by invasion of the small intestinal mucosa and induces monosaccharide intolerance.

E. coli can induced diarrhea either by enterotoxin production or by invasion of the colonic mucosa. Here we report a 2/12 year old infant with caute diarrhea induced by E. coli strain, isolated from the jejunal fluid, that had no enterotoxigenic activity but invaded the small intestinal mucosa and induced severe morphological alterations. Total villous atrophy and monosaccharide intolerance occured. After 51 days of hospitalization there was a partial recovery of the small intestinal morphology and the patient could also tolerate disaccharides again.


[Frequency of Escherichia coli serotypes in urinary infections].

Among the large O-groups of E.coli isolated from urinary-tract infections, a few groups appear more frequent. The AA report about this frequency in the district of L'Aquilla. Of 147 stocks of E.coli, the most frequent O-groups are the O6 (28,5%), the O75 (20,4%), the O2 (10,2%), the O18 (6,1%), the O5 (4,1%), the O39 (2%).


[Behavior of C-peptide and immunoreactive insulin in essential obesity].

The levels of glucose, immunoreactive insulin and C-peptide were studied in 13 obese patients and 10 control subjects, in basal conditions and after an oral glucose load (OGTT). The IRI and C-peptide levels were higher in the obese patients than in the controls either during fasting or during the OGTT. The C-peptide/IRI ratio decreased after the oral glucose load in both groups studied. However in the obese subjects the values for the C-peptide/IRI ratio were lower than those found in the controls during the same observation period. These results suggest the hypothesis that in the obese patients the high IRI levels which reflect an increased insulin secretion, are, at least in part, due to an early saturation of the hepatic degradation of insulin and/or to a decrease in the specific receptor sites normally present in the cell membranes.


Insulin receptors in human mononuclear leucocytes. I. Binding and degradation of insulin in normal subjects.

The binding and degradation of 125I-Insulin were investigated in mononuclear leukocytes of normal subjects. The binding data analysis show that the insulin degradation is strictly correlated with the binding of the hormone to its receptors: these data suggest that the binding of insulin to specific receptor is the possible first step for its degradation.


Insulin receptors in human mononuclear leucocytes. II. Binding and degradation of insulin in obese subjects.

The binding of insulin to the receptors on circulating mononuclear cells of obese subjects is significantly decreased when compared to the binding in normal subjects. This fenomenon is due to the reduction of the number of insulin receptors rather than reduction in affinity. The insulin degradation is also reduced, but a very strong correlation, similar to that demonstrated in normal subjects exist between insulin binding to its receptors and insulin degradation.


On the perception of speech sounds as biologically significant signals.

This paper reviews some of the major evidence and arguments currently available to support the view that human speech perception may require the use of specialized neural mechanisms for perceptual analysis. Experiments using synthetically produced speech signals with adults are briefly summarized and extensions of these results to infants and ther organisms are reviewed with an emphasis towards detailing those aspects of speech perception that may require some need for specialized species-specific processors. Finally, some comments on the role of early experience in perceptual development are provided as an attempt to identify promising areas of new research in speech perception.


Study of the mutagenic action of cyclophosphane on bacteria in host-mediated assay.

The mutagenic actin of cyclophosphane (CP) on the bacterium S. typhimurium TA 1950 in host-mediated assay (mice) was investigated. The mutagenic effect of CP depended on the dose. Administration of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) to the animals modified the level of the mutagenic effect of CP. The direction of the modification depended on the time elapsed between the introduction of CCl4 and CP. The use of adrenalectomized animals as the mediator led to an increase in the frequency of mutations induced by CP in indicator bacteria.


Models and mechanisms in speech perception. Species comparisons provide further contributions.

Results of recent experiments on the perception of speech-sound categories by nonhuman listeners are reviewed in light of current models of speech perception, and are compared to data obtained in similar experiments on human infants. In general, the data on nonhuman animals parallel those obtained from human infants, suggesting the possibility that certain auditory perceptual predispositions shared by mammals played a role in the selection of sounds for a speech-sound repertoire. The findings are generally relevant to the origins and evolution of speech and language, to theories of speech perception, and to the notion of innate predispositions for the perception of auditory signals that are part of an organism's communicative repertoire.


Monkey vocalizations and human speech: parallels in perception?

Primate vocal repertoires may be classified along a continuum of discrete vs. graded signals, with the placement of a particular repertoire a result of the interplay between the species' social organization and adaptive specializations of individual signals engendered by the physical environment and their use. Discussion of the different types of graded signals reveals that they may possess either transitional, ontogenetic, or internal variability. Upon examination, the speech of humans is found to contain primarily internally graded signals, and it is suggested that the major phenomena of human speech perception are related to this internally graded quality. Based on this analysis of human speech, it is proposed that other species possessing internal gradings (e.g., Japanese macaques) are also likely to demonstrate similar perceptual phenomena for their own graded vocalizations.


An evaluation of the genetic danger of pesticides.

Literature and personal data are presented concerning the genetic effect of 160 pesticides. Methods and test objects used to detect genetically active pesticides are analyzed. A scheme is proposed for screening pesticides with mutagenic effect at all levels of the organization of life. In connection with the pervasive influence of pesticides on the biosphere, the necessity of detailed study of the genetic effects of pesticides on a series of test systems is stressed.


Perception of conspecific vocalizations by Japanese macaques. Evidence for selective attention and neural lateralization.

Japanese macaques (Macaca fuscata) and control species (vervet, pigtailed macaque, bonnet macaque) were trained for food to respond to one class of recorded fuscata vocalizations and do not respond to a second class. A measure of neural lateralization was obtained by presenting the stimuli randomly to the right or the left ear, and comparing performance in the two ears (ear advantage method). Vocalizations were from Steven Green's field tapes. In experiment I, the two classes were Green's 'smooth early high coos' (SE) and 'smooth late high coos' (SL). Experiment II utilized the same vocalizations, but sorted into a high-pitched and a low-pitched class, i.e., orthogonally to the communication-relevant dimension. We found that (a) Japanese macaques learned the SE-SL discrimination faster than the pitch discrimination; (b) the reverse was true for the controls; (c) Japanese macaques showed a right-ear advantage (presumed left hemisphere advantage) for the SE-SL distinction, but not for the pitch discrimination, and (d) controls (with one exception) showed no ear advantage for either discrimination. These demonstrations of selective attention to communication-relevant parameters of conspecific vocalizations, and neural lateralization in the perception of these vocalizations, parallel similar findings in human speech perception.


Lepromatous leprosy as a model of Schwann cell pathology and lysosomal activity.

A brief illustrated account is presented of the light microscopic pathology, histochemistry of lysosomal enzymes, and fine structural changes in the nerves of patients with untreated or treated lepromatous leprosy. Predominant bacillation of the Schwann cells of unmyelinated fibres, degeneration of their axons, prominence of phagolysosomes, and disappearance of these cells with endoneurial collagenosis were observed on electronmicroscopic examination of the index branch of the radial cutaneous nerve. Although there were changes in the blood vessels and proliferation of perineurium, bacillation of endothelial or perineurial cells was much less conspicuous. Intact and degenerating forms of M. leprae were found in both treated and untreated patients, fragmenting or crumpled forms being more frequent in the treated. Both groups of patients also showed increased lysosomal enzyme activity, evidenced by single or paired paranodal spots of acid phosphatase and beta-glucuronidase in Schwann cells in histochemical preparations of the nerve. There was lesser activity, and activity in fewer cells, in the case of beta-glucuronidase than of acid phosphatase. Diffuse beta-glucuronidase activity was found in the wall of empty-looking oval chambers in the Schwann cells, and acid-fast bacilli were seen in these chambers. In teased fibre preparations, both axonal degeneration and segmental demyelination were found. In semi-thin araldite sections, the myelinated fibre density was either preserved or reduced; large diameter fibres were more frequently depleted, with tall peaks of smaller fibres seen on plotting diameter spectra.


Microscopic cytochemistry as matrix chemistry.

Microscopic cytochemical procedures, unlike reactions in test tubes, have to be undertaken while the compounds to be localized and quantified are present in the structural matrix of cells or tissues. Cytochemical reactions therefore differ from analogous staining reactions in homogeneous media because the diffusion of reagents into and out of the matrix and the molecular state around the compounds in the matrix to be stained, as well as the presence of many potentially interfering substances in the matrix, produce additional complications in terms of both specificity and quantitation. These complications can be studied quantitatively and in detail in artificially prepared matrices of defined geometry into which pure compounds or mixtures (of known composition) with other biological compounds can be incorporated. Since the composition of the matrix models is known, and the amount or activity of the compound to be stained can be analysed biochemically too, matrices are well suited to studies of the specificity of cytochemical reactions. They can also be used to study quantitative aspects of the influence of fixation procedures on the state of the incorporated compound. In addition, matrices can--by further biochemical analysis--be used to calibrate the intensity of cytophotometrically measured staining in terms of amounts of stained substance or in biochemical enzymic activity units. Finally, films and beads containing known amounts of known compounds can be used for objective quality control of commercially available cytochemical reagents.


Appropriate technology for the quantitative assessment of the final reaction product of histochemical techniques.

This paper describes instruments for microfluorometry and microspectrophotometry, an interactive graphic tablet linked to a microprocessor for semi-automated morphometry, and systems using rapid scanning stages or television scanning techniques for automated analysis of biological material. Some applications of these techniques in clinical work are described.


Qualitative cytological criteria for the validation of enzyme histochemical techniques.

Qualitative cytological criteria are concerned with the 'precision' of a histochemical reaction and form part of the general criteria for the validation of enzyme histochemical techniques. Three major problem areas are considered: (a) the general artifacts which interfere with the 'clean' appearance of the tissue sections; (b) the exact intracellular localization of the final reaction product and its relationship to specific subcellular compartments; (c) the problem of diffusion of enzymes or reaction products, or both, from their primary subcellular sites. Each of these points is discussed and illustrated by a few examples and the conclusion is drawn that by careful consideration of various criteria the enzyme cytochemical techniques can provide 'quantitative' information comparable to biochemical measurements of enzyme activity in tissue homogenates. In the example of localization of catalase with 3,3'-diaminobenzidine it is demonstrated that biochemical enzyme assays corrrelate closely with quantitative morphometric data obtained from cytochemical preparations through an automatic image analyser system.


[Goethe's own testimony about his involvement with "organic Nature." III. Letters (1818-1832)].

This third and last extract from GOETHE's letters between 1818 and 1832 follows the Sophien-Ausgabe of Weimar with the exception of the last two remarks which were drawn from other sources. In 1818, GOETHE riched the 69th year of his life. In this late life-time, he corresponded with scientists, literati, musicians, his son, and his grand-duke CARL AUGUST. The subjects of his correspondence are problems of the scientific investigations' organization as well as of true science, predominantly of paleontology and general morphology including the comparative anatomy.


Independence of the central nervous and the peripheral renin-angiotensin systems in the dog.

What regulates the activity of the central nervous renin-angiotensin system is not known. To define whether control of this central system is linked to that in the periphery, simultaneous blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples for measurement of immunoreactive angiotensin II were drawn from anesthetized dogs during hemorrhage, furosemide-induced volume depletion, insulin-hypoglycemia, beta-adrenergic blockade and saline infusion. Despite vigorous increments or decrements in plasma innunoreactive angiotensin II, CSF levels remained stable. Since immunoreactive angiotensin II in dog CSF is claimed to be mainly the heptapeptide des-Asp1-angiotensin II (angiotensin III), the possibility that the level of this peptide within CSF simply reflects plasma concentrations was assessed by infusing angiotensin III (2.5 and 25 ng/kg/min intravenously, each for 60 minutes) and monitoring plasma and CSF peptide levels. Whereas plasma immunoreactive angiotensin II levels increased appropriately across the infusions, no change in CSF levels was observed. These studies indicate the angiotensin III does not cross the blood-CSF barrier, at least in the short term.


[Resistance of gram-negative bacteria against cefaclor and other antibiotics (author's transl)].

Five hundred and eighty-six strains of eight species of Enterobacteriaceae were tested for their resistance against cefaclor, cefamandole, cephalothin, ampicillin, mezocillin, tetracycline and co-trimoxazole. Cefaclor showed a low rate of resistance against Escherichia coli (1.2%), Klebsiella (2%) and Proteus mirabilis (3.1%), but a high rate of resistance against indole-positive Proteus species (60%) and Serratia (80%). Cefamandole was also effective against cefaclor and ampicillin resistant strains. Multiresistant strains were predominant especially amongst Enterobacter, Serratia and indole-positive Proteus species. Of 266 ampicillin resistant strains, 198 strains (74.4%) proved to be sensitive to cefaclor. Among the orally administered antibiotics cefaclor exhibited the best result with 12.1% resistant strains compared to 14.8% strains resistant to co-trimoxazole and 45.4% resistant to ampicillin.


Raised cerebrospinal fluid norepinephrine in some patients with primary hypertension.

To test whether central neurogenic factors participate in blood pressure elevation in primary hypertension, we studied the concentrations of: norepinephrine, epinephrine and dopamine-beta-hydroxylase (DBH) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF); and norepinephrine, epinephrine, DBH and plasma renin activity (PRA) in plasma of 22 subjects (seven with primary hypertension, 11 normotensive patients with non-systemic neurological disorders, and four with secondary hypertension). Plasma and CSF norepinephrine (NE) were increased in primary hypertensives compared to normotensives. Cerebrospinal fluid norepinephrine was related to diastolic blood pressure, and systolic blood pressure when normotensive and primary hypertensives were taken together. The CSF norepinephrine of primary hypertensive patients was correlated with natural log PRA. The CSF norepinephrine was correlated inversely with age in primary hypertensive patients but not in the normotensive subjects. The low CSF norepinephrine and epinephrine, despite markedly increased plasma NE and epinephrine, in two patients with pheochromocytoma, indicate a blood-brain barrier for these neurohormones. The observations support the view that the central sympathetic nervous system is involved in the pathogenesis of primary hypertension, particularly in younger patients.


[The antibacterial efficacy of cefaclor against bacteria resistant to ampicillin, tetracycline and co-trimoxazole (author's transl)].

The antibacterial activity of the new oral cephalosporin cefaclor was investigated using 623 freshly isolated bacterial strains. A high degree of efficacy of cefaclor was noticed against Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis and Klebsiella. Nearly all strains which were sensitive to ampicillin, tetracycline and co-trimoxazole were also inhibited by cefaclor. Some of the strains resistant to the three above-mentioned antibiotics were also sensitive to cefaclor as follows: all of ten P. mirabilis strains resistant to co-trimoxazole, 54% of the E. coli strains resistant to ampicillin, tetracycline and co-trimoxazole, and 18% of the Klebsiella strains resistant to tetracycline and co-trimoxazole.


[Bacteriological in vitro investigations with cefaclor. Correlation of inhibition zone diameter and minimal inhibitory concentration (author's transl)].

A comparison of the minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of cefaclor and cephalexin shows that cefaclor is noticeably superior against Citrobacter. Enterobacter and Proteus mirabilis. Only slight differences are seen against other enterobacteria and Staphylococcus aureus. Both cefaclor and cephalexin are completely ineffective against enterococci and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Regression analysis to correlate the inhibition zone diameter and MIC of cefaclor produced a very good correlation (r = -0.9741). Using 30 mcg discs on DST agar, inhibition zones of more than 20 mm are to be interpreted as "sensitivity" and zones of less than 13 mm as "resistance".


Relation between blood pressure and renin, renin substrate, angiotensin II, aldosterone and urinary sodium and potassium in 574 ambulatory subjects.

Five hundred and seventy-four ambulatory subjects with blood pressures ranging from 94/58 to 250/145 mm Hg were studied on their usual dietary and sodium intake. Renin, renin substrate, angiotensin II, aldosterone and urinary sodium and potassium were compared with blood pressure to access the contribution of these variables to the blood pressure variance. Our analyses revealed that renin substrate was highly and positively correlated with diastolic blood pressure (r = +0.39; p < 0.00001) but all other components of the renin-aldosterone system exhibited a significant negative correlation with blood pressure. A highly significant relationship between potassium, the renin-aldosterone system and blood pressure was found but no such relationship could be demonstrated for sodium. Subjects with higher blood pressures had lower urinary potassium concentrations and lower potassium/creatine ratios. These findings raised the possibility of a significant pathogenetic relationship between potassium and high blood pressure. Multiple linear regression reveals that influences of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system can only account for less than 20% of the variance exhibited by the blood pressure in these subjects.


[Subinhibitory activity of cefaclor and cephalexin (author's transl)].

The determination of the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC), which is usually performed after 18 to 24 hours of incubation, results in the case of cefaclor in a false picture of the actual activity. Cefaclor is chemically so unstable that after 24 hours only 2-5% of the substance is microbiologically active. In order to compare the activity of cefaclor and cephalexin, the effect of subinhibitory concentrations of both antibiotics against Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae strains was studied by means of turbidimetry. After eight hours the absolute inhibitory concentration of cefaclor was lower than that of cephalexin with both methods. At the same time the effect of subinhibitory concentrations of both antibiotics was equal. Automatic measurement over 20 hours showed at the end of the experiment a higher MIC, and also a higher subinhibitory range, for cefaclor than for cephalexin. In our opinion the absolute inhibitory concentration after eight hours should be the criterion used to evaluate the effectiveness of cefaclor and cephalexin, and not the MIC which is usually used. The eight-hour criterion should also be applied in clinical use.


[In vitro activity of oral cephalosporins (author's transl)].

The in vitro activity of cephradine, cephalexin, and cefaclor was studied in comparison with that of cephalothin. Cefaclor inhibits peptidoglycan synthesis somewhat more than cephalexin and cephradine. There is no marked difference in the stability of the three substances in the presence of beta-lactamases, and the outer membrane of Escherichia coli is no barrier to permeation of any of the three antibiotics.


[Thin layer and high pressure liquid chromatography investigations with cefaclor in urine and serum (author's transl)].

After oral administration of 500 mg cefaclor, antibacterially active metabolites could not be detected in human urine using thin layer chromatography followed by bioautography. Degradation products of cefaclor could also not be detected in the serum of human volunteers (n = 10) using high pressure liquid chromatography with a reversed phase system. Cefaclor was eluated as a single and homogenous peak with a retention period of 2.9 min. High pressure liquid chromatography for the measurement of cefaclor serum levels and a technique for preparation of serum samples are described. After administration of 500 mg cefaclor to volunteers (n = 10), the average peak serum concentration of 9.8 mg/l, determined by high pressure liquid chromatography, was observed after one hour. Four hours later the serum level was 0.3 mg/l. Using microbiological methods no statistically significant difference was obtained in comparison with the chromatography results. Some of the sera stored at -75 degrees C for four weeks showed a substantial loss of activity of cefaclor.


[Influence of cefaclor on experimental pyelonephritis (author's transl)].

A comparative study on the antibiotic activity of cefaclor and cephradine was performed in an infection and therapy model of acute pyelonephritis in the rat. Pathogens were Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae. The antibiotics, which were administered orally, both had a pronounced effect in comparison to the untreated control group. Cefaclor was superior to cephradine in infections caused by K. pneumoniae.


[Comparative study of cefaclor versus amoxicillin in urinary tract infections (author's transl)].

In a comparative, prospective, open randomised clinical study, the efficacy and tolerance of cefaclor (3 x 500 mg) and amoxicillin (3 x 750 mg) in the treatment of urinary tract infection (UTI) were investigated and compared. A total of 110 patients (51 males and 59 females) age 10 to 83 years were treated for a period of five to 14 days (average 10 days). Fifty-nine of the patients had complicated, and 51 uncomplicated UTI. In all patients , organisms were cultured from the urine which were sensitive to both antibiotics in vitro. In each group there were three cases of mixed infection and 35 cases of Escherichia coli monoinfection. The distribution of pathogens in the other patients was likewise very similar. Better results, i.e. a reduction in the cell count to < 10(4)/ml immediately after completion of therapy, were obtained in patients treated with cefaclor. This is largely due to a statistically significantly higher rate of elimination in E. coli infections. The long-term results at follow-up examinations 14 to 60 days after completion of therapy in both groups with uncomplicated infections were, however, equally as good in about half the cases. In complicated infections therapy was successful overall in only about a quarter of the cases, better results being obtained in the amoxicillin group. It must be taken into account that among the patients treated, the groups with complicated UTI are difficult to compare, relapses primarily being determined by underlying disease. Both antibiotics were tolerated well.


Immunological aspects of practolol toxicity.

It is unfortunate that there is conflicting immunological data relating to the practolol syndrome. It has not been established if "practolol patients" have some altered T cell function. The work of Behan et al. (1976) strongly supports this interpretation but other groups have not come to the same conclusion. The role of the antibody specific for a practolol metabolite needs to be determined. In practice this is going to be very difficult to do; the drug is no longer used and patients, for obvious reaons, are unwilling to take part in clinical experiments. It is likely that the nature of the metabolite will eventiually be defined and it would be a significant step forward if it could be shown that the antigenic determinant was not formed by other structurally related beta-blocking drugs. Meanwhile the stimulus to further research must be to produce an animal model system, but, for various political and economic reasons, support for such a research effort is difficult to justify.


Is gestational diabetes an acquired condition?

Intrvenous injection of 30 mg of streptozotocin per kg body weight induces a mild diabetes in pregnant rats (first generation); the non-fasting blood glucose is increased and the percentage of endocrine tissue and also the percentage of granulated beta cells do not increase. The fetuses of these mildly diabetic pregnant rats have an increased percentage of pancreatic endocrine tissue and there is beta-cell degranulation. The modifications in the endocrine pancreas during intrauterine life causes persistent changes in later adult life (second generation), which are not perceptible in basal conditions, but become apparent in situations stressing the beta-cell activity, such as an intravenous glucose load or pregnancy. During pregnancy in the second generation rats an increased non-fasting blood glucose and no adaptation of the beta cells is seen. This inadequate adaptation to pregnancy causes changes in the fetal endocrine pancreas of the fetuses of the third generation. From these experiments it may be concluded that gestational diabetes is an acquired condition.


The effect of short-term starvation on the lipoprotein lipase activity of adipose tissue and cardiac muscle during postnatal development of the rat.

When male rats of between 6 and 13 days of age were starved for 6 h the lipoprotein lipase activity of the epididymal and subcutaneous white adipose tissue did not decline as it did in adults and in animals aged 14-30 days. The lipoprotein lipase activity in the hearts of animals from 6 days of age increased in response to starvation as it did in adults. The relationship of these changes to changes in circulating hormone levels during development was considered.


Influence of culture medium of the fatty-acid profile in enteric bacteria.

Enteric bacteria having a high content of cyclopropane fatty acids steeply increase their synthesis when grown on insufficiently propitious culture media (meat-peptone agar or modified Drobot'ko synthetic medium) as compared with bacteria grown under more favourable conditions (meat-peptone broth). Simultaneously, a decrease in monounsaturated fatty acids and increase in palmitic acid are observed. One of the main factors underlying the change in the proportion of fatty acids in bacteria grown on synthetic medium is an increase in medium pH in the process of their growth. Enteric bacteria containing minute amounts/or not containing cyclopropane fatty acids at all (under the experimental conditions used) change their fatty-acid profile little if the culture medium is changed. When grown under insufficiently favourable conditions, these bacteria mainly display an enhanced content of palmitic acid and a lowered content of octadacenoic acid as compared with bacteria grown under more favourable conditions. Of the culture media used, meat-peptone broth, which affords the most favourable conditions for eneteric bacteria growth, is the most suitable medium for obtaining data of taxonomic value.


Diagnostic utilization of hemolytically active exosubstances of certain gram-positive bacteria. I. Detection of staphylococcal hemolysins with prepurified preparations of staphylococcal beta-toxin and CAMP-factor of Streptococcus agalactiae.

The authors have modified the one-plate method for the detection of staphylococcal hemolysins. They recommend to use in this method a prepurified form of staphylococcal beta-toxin and of streptococcal CAMP-factor instead of the exclusively beta-tonin-producing strain of Staphylococcus aureus and instead of the intensively CAMP-test positive Streptococcus agalactiae strain, respectively. The authors determined concurrently staphylococcal hemolysins, using a three-plate method in which alpha-antitoxin was employed, to ensure a better evidence of alpha-toxin. A total of 494 staphylococcal strains were examined by both methods. Of this number, 446 Staphylococcus aureus strains were of diverse host origin and 48 were coagulase-negative staphylococcal strains. On the basis of the various hemolytically active staphylococcal toxins, the authors recommend the suggested modification of the one-plate method for their routine detection.


Some transfusion-induced parasitic infections in Zambia.

The risk of acquiring a transfusion-induced infection in Zambia was studied for the first time. Blood slide examination of donors, despite the insensitivity of the method, established malaria as the most serious hazard. The species involved was Plasmodium falciparum, the cause of cerebral malaria, and which could be rapidly fatal in a non-immune host visiting an endemic area. Microfilariae of Dipetalonema perstans and Wuchereria bancrofti were also found in donor populations. While no disease may be induced, allergic reactions due to the breakdown products of dead microfilariae may manifest themselves. Several cases of transfusion-induced malaria, a case of relapsing fever and a case of rhodesian trypanosomiasis are reported. Toxoplasmosis and kalatazar, which may also be transfusion-induced, are both known to occur in the country but no cases were observed. It is emphasized that prophylactic measures should be mandatory in areas where no regular, screened, donor panel is available. The awareness and ackowledgement of the risk of transfusion-induced infections may be the best safeguard against the serious consequences in developing countries.


A simple purse string suture technique for treatment of colostomy prolapse and intussusception.

A simple purse string technique for treatment of colostomy prolapse and intussusception is described. It is suggested as an alternative to more complicated procedures.


Immunobiological consequence of immunization of female mice with homologous spermatozoa: induction of infertility.

Female Swiss Webster mice were immunized intraperitoneally with mouse epididymal spermatozoa or with phosphate buffered saline (PBS) and their fertility was compared by (1) incidence and size of litters, (2) number of uterine implantation sites, and (3) incidence and number of fertilized eggs in the oviducts. Statistically significant reduction in fertility was noted following two courses of injections of spermatozoa; 12% of mice injected with spermatozoa had litters compared with 80% of mice injected with PBS. The infertility did not seem to be related to a failure in fertilization since the two groups of mice had a similar incidence and number of fertilized eggs in the oviducts. All female mice were found to have a "natural' anti-acrosomal antibody. Following immunization with spermatozoa, antibodies to "postacrosomal' region, the main piece and the midpiece of the tail, as well as cytotoxic antisperm antibodies, appeared. Anti-LDH-X antibody was not detected. However, correlation was not found between infertility and antisperm antibodies or sperm granulomata that developed in the peritoneal cavities. It is concluded that female mice receiving repeated i.p, injections of mouse spermatozoa become infertile and that the infertility is related to interference with events after fertilization.


Evaluation of techniques for studying the arterial system of the brain of domestic ruminants.

The techniques used in investigations undertaken to study the arterial blood supply of the brain of domestic ruminants are described and evaluated. These include various coloured intravascular injections, corrosion preparations, injection of contrast media for angiography and clearing of tissues.


Monitoring of bacteriological contamination and assessment of carcase surface growth by using direct and indirect contact examination techniques and various colony counting procedures.

Two hundred and sixty nine beef, 230 sheep and 165 pig carcase surface were examined bacteriologically. Direct and indirect contact examination techniques were utilised. Colony counts per cm2 were expressed in geometric progression. Counting procedures, direct and indirect contact examinations, and effects of chilling were considered. Subsequently, results from an additional 489 beef, 520 sheep, and 408 pig carcases were employed to illustrate a count classification arrangement against which bacteriological monitoring assessments could be measured.