Gray scale ultrasound and the genitourinary tract. A review of clinical applications.

Diagnostic ultrasound has many well established indications in the evaluation of genitourinary tract disease. Musch of this information complements or corroborates findings derived from other investigations. The role of ultrasound as a primary diagnostic modality is still evolving, but it appears to be useful in a variety of clinical situations, especially in azotemia, suspected hydronephrosis, and renal transplantation. Ultrasound also has a place in the evaluation of the retroperitoneum, the perirenal space, and the adrenal glands, and preliminary work suggests a role in prostatic and testicular abnormalities as well. State of the art prospective comparisons with computed tomography need to be made in many of these areas before the precise role of ultrasound can be defined.


Acute focal bacterial nephritis (acute lobar nephronia).

Acute lobar nephronia (ALN) refers to a renal mass caused by acute focal infection without liquefaction. The radiological findings in 12 patients with 13 episodes of ALN are described. A characteristic combination of uroradiological findings is (a) a relatively sonolucent mass which disrupts corticomedullary definition on ultrasonography; (b) a solid-appearing mass on other uroradiological studies; and (c) a positive gallium image in the region of the mass, which may be associated with increased activity elsewhere in the same or opposite kidney. The angiographic finding of significant venous narrowing within the mass associated with only minor arteriographic abnormalities is characteristic of ALN as well.


Non-Hodgkin lymphoma of the lungs.

Twenty-seven consecutive cases of pulmonary involvement by non-Hodgkin in lymphoma, including 2 cases of primary pulmonary disease, were anlyzed. The radiological manifestations of illness were divided into (a) nodular (subpleural, deep parenchymal, or perihilar), (b) pneumonic-alveolar (segmental or lobar), (c) bronchovascular-lymphangitic (central bronchovascular or diffuse lymphangitic), and (d) miliary-hematogenous. Histiocytic lymphoma was associated with infiltration of rapid onset in 6, cavitating nodules in 2, and diffuse lymphangitic dissemination in 9. Of 16 patients with lymphocytic lymphoma, 7 had lobar or segmental alveolar involvement.


Acute pulmonary edema after the intravenous administration of contrast media.

Acute pulmonary edema developed in two young, previously healthy women immediately after the intravenous administration of contrast media. The pulmonary edema, rare in young persons, could not be explained by classical anaphylaxis, contrast media overdose, sodium and fluid overload, or acute myocardial infarction. A nonimmunologic osmotic mechanism causing reversible pulmonary capillary leak might explain the clinical events observed in both patients. Both responded to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), indicating the possible utility of CPAP in treating pulmonary capillary-leak contrast reactions.


The role of ultrasound in the diagnosis of kidney allograft rejection.

Seventeen nephrectomized dogs underwent kidney transplantation from unrelated donors. Routine immunosuppressive therapy was administered. Serial ultrasound studies and biopsies and complete pathological examinations were performed and compared. A number of sonographic changes were observed within the renal parenchyma during rejection, some of which were present before a significant rise in serum creatinine levels. The medulla became enlarged due to edema, followed by growth of the rest of the kidney and thickening of the cortex. The cortical echoes became more sparsely distributed and either increased or decreased in amplitude; distribution was generalized or localized. During rejection, the corticomedullary boundary became indistinct. Later, a decrease in the renal sinus echoes was also noted. In 2 cases, perirenal fluid collections occurred as the result of renal rupture.


Correlation of echographic and histologic findings in suspected renal allograft rejection.

Immunologic renal allograft rejection is the most common cause of diminished renal function in the transplant patient, yet it is difficult to distinguish from other etiologies, frequently requiring biopsy before therapy can be instituted. To determine the utility of ultrasound in the diagnosis of this type of rejection, the authors correlated histologic and echographic findings of 30 coded biopsies and sonograms in 25 patients. The results were encouraging, with a 71% rate of accuracy in indicating steroid therapy for acute rejection and an accuracy rate of 81% in contraindicating it. There was exact agreement of echographic and histologic evaluations as to extent of chronic rejection in 70% of cases.


Did Röntgen discover the X ray by himself?

The historical background of the discovery of the x ray and some of Lenard's claims to priority are discussed. There is no doubt that the x ray is the sole discovery of Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen.


Continuing education: evolution or revolution: II. What about the future?

Having previously written something about the 'roots' of the radiologic technology profession, the author now concentrates on where it goes from here. What are the implications of the demand for accountability on the educational process? How does it adjust to changing technology? What are the future career prospects? How does the profession meet manpower challenges? Who pays the bills? Because the future cannot be completely defined in the present, this article necessarily asks more questions than it answers, but seeks input into the decision-making process from those who are most affected by it--radiologic technologists.


Fate of the false lumen following surgical repair of aortic dissections: an angiographic study.

Postoperative angiography was performed in 27 patients who had surgical repair for aortic dissections. The ascending aorta was involved in 22 dissections (Type A), while in five dissections it was uninvolved (Type B). Findings were assessed between two weeks and 13 years postoperatively. Despite the primary surgical objective to abolish flow in the false lumen, the majority of patients, whether symptomatic or not, continued to harbor patent distal false channels. In certain cases, one or more vital aortic branches were perfused solely by the false lumen. Initial postoperative angiography is indicated for determined surgical results as well as the functional significance of late angiographic findings, should symptoms recur. Further extension of the initial dissection, redissection, or enlargement of localized saccular aneurysms may mandate late reoperation. These conditions manifest themselves by pain, aortic regurgitation, neurological sequelae, or compromise of blood flow to a vital organ or extremity.


Stereotactic localization of breast lesions.

The author describes a method of localizing nonpalpable breast lesions by transferring measurements from craniocaudal- and lateral-view radiographs to the breast itself in order to determine needle placement. In the more than 100 attempted cases, the lesion has been specifically localized, usually within 1 cm of the needle tip. Percutaneous biopsy can be carried out with the first needle used as a guide wire for the biopsy needle.


Results and significance of angiography in potential kidney donors.

Multiple renal arteries originating from the aortoiliac vessels were identified angiographically in 44% of 444 prospective renal donors. Bilateral multiple renal arteries were identified in 12%. With good immunological donor-recipient matching, 17 kidneys with multiple renal arteries were transplanted with excellent results; therefore, presence of multiple renal arteries should not be considered a contraindication to kidney transplantation. A high proportion (17%) of the prospective donors, acceptable by all other means of evaluation, had abnormmal angiographic findings that led to reconsideration of their acceptance. In addition to multiple renal arteries, neither renovascular atherosclerosis nor fibromuscular dysplasia proved to be an absolute contraindication to transplantation.


Effects of prostacyclin on coronary circulation, heart rate and myocardial contractile force in isolated hearts of guinea pig and rabbit - comparison with prostaglandin E2.

Infusions of prostacyclin (PGI2) (3 x 10(-10) - 3 x 10(-7)M) into the coronary circulation of isolated hearts from ginea pigs or rabbits resulted in a concentration-dependent decrease in the coronary perfusion pressure (CPP). There was a slight decrease in left ventricular systolic pressure in the heart of the rabbit, whereas the heart rate remained unchanged. PGE2 was without effect on the heart of the rabbit but was as potent as PGI2 in decreasing the CPP in the guinea pig heart. 6-oxo-PGF1 alpha (up to 3 x 10(-6) M) did not affect any of the parameters measured.


[Biological evaluation of Cuban plants. II].

The study of the antimicrobial activity of aqueous, alcoholic and ketonic extracts from different parts of five superior, dried, grinded and defatted plants of the families Myrtaceae, Polypodiaceae and Zingiberaceae is pursued. Good results were obtained from Psidium guajaba leave and stem ketonic extracts as well as from Costus spicatus leave and root alcoholic extracts.


[Biological evaluation of Cuban plants. III].

Aqueous, alcoholic and ketonic extracts were prepared from different parts of species of the families Martiniaceae, Caricaceae, Umbeliferae, Nictaginaceae and Fitolacaceae in order to prove their antimicrobial action on bacteria which have a clinical interest in humans and live in our environment. The gel double-layer diffusion method was applied. The best results were obtained from Carica papaya leave extracts.


[Biological evaluation of Cuban plants. IV].

Aqueous, alcoholic and ketonic extracts from leaves and stems of plants of the families Malvaceae, Anonaceae, Punicaceae, Verbenaceae and Urticaceae were analyzed in order to prove their antibacterial proprieties. The best results were obtained from Punica granatum extracts which inhibited over a 50% of bacteria.


[Biological evaluation of Cuban plants. V].

The study of the antimicrobial activity of aqueuos, alcoholic and ketonic extracts from plants growing in Cuba is pursued. Six species of the families Rutaceae, Portulacaceae, Borraglinaceae and Jasminaceae were analyzed, and their activity on bacteria with a human clinical interest was assessed. The best results were obtained from Heliotropium campechianum, Jazminum sambac and Portulaca oleracea.


[Biological evaluation of Cuban plants VI].

The study of the antibacterial activity of plants growing in Cuba is pursued. Aqueous, alcoholic and ketonic extracts were prepared from five species, and it was found that the best inhibitions corresponded to the species Hamelia patens, Nephrolepis acuminata, Calocarpum sapota and Colocasia antiquorum.


[Biological evaluation of Cuban plants. I].

Aqueous, alcoholic and ketonic extracts from five species of superior plants of the families Papilonaceae, Euforbiaceae, Moraceae, Piperaceae and Solanaceae were assessed from an antibacterial viewpoint using the gel double-layer diffusion method with cylindric sections. Values of inhibition areas are depicted in diameter millimeters. The best results were obtained from Desmodium barbatum extracts.


[Presence of Trichostrongylus axei (Cobbold, 1879) Raillet et Henry, 1909, in cattle in Cuba].

The first finding of Trichostrongylus axei (Cobbold, 1879) Railliet et Henry, 1909 in the Cuban bovine cattle is reported. Its characteristics are described and measurements obtained by authors are compared to those from others. Fifty animals were examined and a 94% invasion was found.


[Results of intradermal tests with toxoplasmin in a survey performed among mental patients admitted to the clinical surgical teaching hospital "10 de Octubre" in Havana].

Intradermal tests using toxoplasmin were performed among three hundred mentally handicapped patients admitted to the "10 de Octubre" Clinical-Surgical Teaching Hospital in Havana between 1976--1977 and 100 healthy subjects. A statistically significant difference between reactors among patients (54,7%) and reactors among healthy subjects (30,0%) was found. Results are compared to those from a similar paper performed in the Psychiatric Hospital of Havana in 1967. It is concluded that the higher the severity of affections the higher the percentage of reactors in the surveyed series.


[Quantitative sypnosis of the Cuban ground mollusc fauna].

A systematically organized synopsis involving a numerical estimate of different taxons (a quantitative analysis per Prosobranchia and Pulmonata subclass families) is presented. Major groups regarding the number of species and/or subspecific types were determined. Among ground prosobranchiates a marked predominance of the Pomatiasidae family (about 360 species), Helicinidae family (about 80 species) and Cyclophoridae family (about 32 species) was found. Among pulmonates, Urocoptidae family and Ceriidae, family were the highest diverse ones; the latter involved a single markedly polymorphic genus with almost 150 types. The Helicacoae superfamily as well as the Tructicicolidae and Camaenidae families were highly satisfactorily represented.


[Immunsuppression by vitamin B6-antagonists. Prolonged survival of inbred rats with renal transplants (author's transl)].

The combined effect of Vitamin B6 free diet and 4-Desoxipyridoxin (a potent Vitamin B6-Antagonist) on the rejection reaction of inbred rats after renal transplantation was investigated. More than 90% of the control animals without Vitamin B6-deficiency died between 7 and 13 days with uremia due to an acute transplant rejection, where as the Vitamin deficient and successfully transplanted animals (n=38) showed a significantly prolonged survival time. In 17/38 rats survival was longer than 35 days. Vitamin B6-deficiency, induced by Desoxipyridoxin and Vitamin B6-deficient diet offers the possibility of an effective and reversible immunosuppression in renal transplantation.


Leucocyte adherence inhibition: a microassay demonstrating antigen recognition in cattle.

Calves, sensitised by cutaneous application of dinitrochlorobenzene, developed lesions of delayed hypersensitivity at the sites of application nine to 14 days later. Leucocytes from sensitised calves, collected 10 to 16 days after sensitisation, reacted in an in vitro leucocyte adherence inhibition test with the same hapten in water soluble form, dinitrobenzenesulphonate. The leucocyte adherence inhibition microtest which was simple, rapid, reproducible and amenable to rigorous statistical analysis, should find use in many areas of bovine immunology.


The effect of in vitro antibacterial properties of bovine milk diets on the natural colonisation of newborn piglets with coliform bacteria.

The diets suitable for the hand rearing of piglets in incubators were examined. Diet A was based on cows' milk heated to 56 degrees C and had bacteriostatic and antiadhesive properties against Escherichia coli. Diet B was based on evaporated cows' milk and did not have these properties. The numbers of coliform bacteria naturally colonising the small intestines of newborn piglets fed entirely on these diets for one week did not differ significantly, however both were significantly higher than in control piglets suckled from birth. Faecal counts of coliforms were similar in all three groups. Examination of the bacteriostatic sensitivity of the isolated strains to sows' milk indicated a predominance of milk-sensitive strains colonising the suckled piglets and a predominance of milk-resistant strains in the piglets fed diet B. This diet-dependent colonisation could not be explained by the in vitro bacteriostatic properties of the diets alone.


The survival of serum resistant Escherichia coli in the bovine mammary gland following experimental infection.

Serum resistant strains of Escherichia coli were injected into one or two quarters of the udders of eight healthy dairy cows. Animals receiving infection into two quarters showed variation in their ability to eliminate the bacteria. This variation extended from elimination from both glands to complete failure to remove the organisms from either gland. In most cases, the organisms were removed from one gland before the clinical signs of infection were observed, but persisted in the other gland for three to four days. Following a single infection most animals eliminated the organisms before the appearance of clinical signs, but one retained the bacteria for four days. The retention of bacteria within the gland for a period longer than the initial inflammatory response resulted in their survival within neutrophils; and in some of these glands spasmodic clinical signs of mastitis reappeared for up to at least 40 days after the initial infection. These signs were associated with the reappearance of the same serological strain of E coli. Bovine serum albumin levels in the milk were found not to constitute the most effective marker of the serum components involved in the bactericidal activity.


Location of immunoglobulins in the skin of cattle and sheep.

The pattern of distribution of immunoglobulins (Ig) found within the skin of cattle and sheep was the same in both species. IgA was detected mainly in the sweat gland duct and in the intercellular spaces of the living epidermis. IgG was also located at the latter site but was found in greater amounts throughout the dermis and in the endothelium of the blood vessels. IgM was primarily located at the basement membrane of the epithelial structures, in the hair papilla and in the walls of the blood vessels. Lower concentrations of IgM were also detected in the upper dermis.


The pathogenesis of experimental Escherichia coli mastitis in newly calved dairy cows.

Experimental infections of the mammary gland of newly calved cows with 500 serum resistant Escherichia coli produced a very severe form of mastitis when compared with animals in mid-lactation. Ten hours after infection the bacteria had multiplied in the milk to very high numbers (10(6)--10(7)/ml) and the animals showed signs of pyrexia, anorexia and diarrhoea. Initially the gland and milk showed little or no clinical signs of mastitis, but later the secretion became a viscous, serous fluid with little or no casein or fat. A delay in diapedesis of neutrophils into the gland appears to be the reason for the peracute state and lack of clinical signs. This form of pathogenesis may produce a paradoxical situation where the most severe cases of E coli mastitis cannot be diagnosed at a stage early enough for the animal to respond to therapy.


[Epidemiology of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease in the Paris area].

The area studied includes the city of Paris and the neighboring departments of Val-d'Oise, Seine-Saint-Denis, Hauts-de-Seine, Yvelines, Essonne, Val-de-Marne, and Seine-et-Marne. Case finding methods and diagnostic criteria are defined. The temporal and spatial distribution of cases is described, and the absence of case clustering is noted. Incidence per million people (per year) was found to be 1,09 in the city, 0,55 in the adjacent departments, and 0,25 in the peripheral departments. These results are discussed.


[The history of parodontal surgery (author's transl)].

The classical history of parodontal surgery is certainly of some interest. The author, however, was convinced that it was just as important to review the history of the pseudo-treatment of parodontal affections, about which a great deal has been written, but which needs to be demystified in order that true parodontology be accepted by the largest number of persons.


Oral hypoglycemic drugs and cardiovascular pathology.

The classification, the mechanisms of action and the main side effects of sulfonylureic derivatives and biguanides are discussed. Emphasis is laid on the present controversy concerning the assumed adverse effect of these drugs on the cardiovascular system. The authors' opinion in this problem and their practical conclusions are based on their experience at the Center of Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, Bucharest.


B-prolymphocytic leukaemia--a mantle zone lymphoma?

A case of prolymphocytic lymphoma/leukaemia (PL) sensu Galton in a 32-year-old man is presented. The leucocyte count was 19.0 x 10(9)/1 at presentation and tartrate resistent acid phosphatase was present in most prolymphocytes. Immunological investigation of prolymphocytes from lymph nodes, spleen and peripheral blood revealed the surface marker phenotype: SmIg + (mu, (delta), lambda), IgG-Fc-receptor +, C3-receptor +. The prolymphocytes from lymph nodes and spleen were C3-receptor + in a high percentage, while only a few were IgG-Fc-receptor +. This proportion was reversed in the blood prolymphocytes. The histology of lymph nodes was unique and strongly suggested a preferential involvement (homing phenomenon) of the mantle zone of the lymphatic follicle. These results may indicate that emission of prolymphocytes from lymph nodes to circulation involves a change of surface receptors. It is finally suggested to consider the diagnosis of not only hairy-cell leukaemia but also PL in the case of tartrate resistent acid phosphatase-positive lymphoma/leukaemia.


Examination of human and animal leukemic cells by high contrast scanning electron microscopy.

Investigation of human or animal (sheep and ox) leukemic cells by scanning electron microscopy enabled the identification and study of some ultrastructural details of the cell surface. A more detailed visualization by the high contrast technique of the same cell surface was obtained, in this work, for the first time in the biological field. This technique allows a better interpretation of any zone of the preparation examined, irrespective of the species from which the cells are collected.


Incidence of 'dry tap' on bone marrow aspirations in lymphomas and carcinomas. Diagnostic value of the small material in the needle.

Of 2907 bone marrow aspirations in patients with various malignancies, 192 or 6.6% exhibited 'dry tap'. In about 80% of the 'dry tap' there was material present inside the bone marrow needle which gave smears useful for evaluation of the bone marrow cytology. About 23% displayed normal cytology. Bone marrow involvement could be diagnosed in 13 out of 55 'dry tap' in Hodgkin's disease, 41 out of 46 in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia and lymphosarcoma, 6 out of 20 in reticulum cell sarcoma, 6 out of 9 in myelomatosis and 20 out of 45 in carcinoma. In a material of 174 aspirations with tumour cells in the bone marrow aspirate, the highest incidence of 'dry tap' was found in patients with Hodgkin's disease and patients with carcinoma, the lowest incidence in patients with multiple myeloma.


Ureteral obstruction by aorto-iliac aneurysms--a common complication?

During a 4-year-period, 5 cases of ureteral obstruction by aorto-iliac aneurysm were detected. Over the same period 50 aorto-iliac aneurysms were resected. One of the 5 patients was not operated on. In the remaining 4, the aneurysm was resected and replaced by a Dacron bifurcation graft. Nephrectomy was performed in the first 2 patients. Autotransplantation of the remaining kidney was carried out in one case following enucleation of a hypernephroma ex vivo. In the other 2 patients, ureterolysis and intraperitoneal transposition of the ureter was performed in conjunction with resection of the aneurysm. One of the latter patients suffered from uraemia due to a non-functioning kidney on the other side. Ureteral obstruction appears to be a relatively common complication of aorto-iliac aneurysm. Elective evaluation of patients with aortic aneurysms should include late aortograms visualizing the ureters.


[Correlations between the secular trend in sugar consumption in England and the secular increase of brain weight in adults in London between 1860 and 1940].

Significant positive correlations exist between the secular increase in brain weight of adults in London born between 1860 and 1940, and the secular trend in sugar consumption in the United Kingdom. These results of statistical analysis confirm once again the important bearing of excessive sugar consumption on the development of pre- and postnatal growth acceleration. The pathophysiological interactions of this development are discussed in the light of the experimentum naturae of the IDM (infant of the diabetic mother) and an attempt is made to explain the difference in brain weight increase between males and females.


[Retrospective study of 50 cases of idiopathic fibrosing alveolitis with catamnesis].

44 out of 50 patients with idiopathic fibrosing alveolitis were followed up from 1 month to 11 years (mean 2 years 9 months). One patient out of 13 (8%) with 4 symptoms or fewer (mean follow-up 55 months) died. 23 out of 31 (74%) with 5 symptoms or more (mean follow-up 24.3 months) died, and 68% of fatalities occurred within 2 years. Lung function tests were performed in 47 cases and histological diagnosis in 38. Correlations between symptoms, lung function, and roentgenological and histological patterns are discussed. Two circumstances dramatically increased lethality: occurrence of 5 symptoms or more in a period of less than 2 years.


[Benign symmetric lipomatosis: a symptom of alcoholic liver disease?].

Benign symmetric lipomatosis (BSL) leads to characteristic multiple lipomas of the neck and submandibular region. BSL is easily diagnosed by its typical feature, "Madelung's neck". However, the early stages are often missed or lead to futile diagnostic endeavours. A report is presented on 7 men with BSL aged 36--65 years who were investigated with regard to alcohol consumption, clinical findings and liver histology. This is the first time that liver histology has been systematically worked up in patients with BSL. All admitted long standing ethanol intake (x = 111 ml/day) prior to the development of BSL. The growth of the lipomas was irregular and occurred over a period of months. There was no correlation with overweight or hyperlipidemia. However, liver biopsy revealed features consistent with alcoholic liver disease in all subjects. It is suggested that BSL is a symptom of alcoholic liver disease mainly affecting middle-aged men.


Polarography and voltammetry in studies of toxic metals in man and his environment.

A brief introduction on sources, occurrence and fate of some toxic trace metals found in the natural environment is followed by a discussion of general methodological aspects from the trace chemical viewpoint. The versatile, significant and specific potentialities of advanced polarographic and voltammetric methods are compared with relevant non-electrochemical alternatives. They are subsequently demonstrated by a survey on representative applications, results and findings on problems from all types of environmental compartments and food chains to man, with emphasis on the toxic trace metals Cu, Cd, Hg, Pb, and also in certain matrices for Zn, As, Se, Tl and Bi. A final section is devoted to the particular potentialities of the electrochemical approach for speciation studies in natural waters at realistic trace levels of the dissolved toxic metals, e.g. Zn, Cd and Pb.


Carcinogenicity of endrin.

Endrin is carcinogenic for rats, and most likely also for mice and dogs. Endrin caused significant incidences of malignant neoplasms at all sites. In one study, female rats were susceptible to the development of neoplasms of the endocrine organs, particularly carcinomas of the adrenal and pituitary glands as well as neoplasms of the reproductive system. In other studies, female rats tended to have carcinomas of the endocrine system, the mammary gland and reproductive system, and male and female rats lymphomas. Rats developed unusual malignant neoplasms, such as Kupffer cell sarcomas of the liver and sarcomas of the mammary gland, uterus, and stomach. There also were toxic changes, particularly in male rats, ingesting endrin. These lesions included interstitial fibrosis of the kidney; polyarteritis of the mesenteric, pancreatic and other arteries; and atrophy of the testes. Such lesions generally interfere with the health of the rats and with the development of neoplasms. Dog receiving endrin for two years had bone marrow hyperplasia, lesions of the thyroid gland and lesions of the skeletal muscle, and hyperplasias or neoplasms of other organs. One female dog had an early carcinoma of the thyroid gland. Mice ingesting endrin developed increased incidences of carcinomas of the liver and sarcomas of the uterus.


Cytotaxins after the sedimentation behavior of human granulocytes.

Human granulocytes from the peripheral blood of healthy donors were subjected to transient gravity sedimentation analysis in Ficoll density gradient columns (37 degrees C) containing different concentrations of Escherichia coli endotoxin-activated serum and medium 199. A dramatic serum concentration-dependent dispersion of the cells based on changes in sedimentation velocity was observed as a function of time, using a new optical scanning instrument. The phenomenon was virtually abolished in the presence of cytochalasin B, a known inhibitor of cellular chemotaxis. The width (second statistical moment) of the sedimenting cell distribution increased in a sigmoid fashion as a function of time regardless of cytotaxin concentration. This indicates that a slow and nonlinear response of the granulocytes to the cytotaxins occurs. This new kinetic method should be useful in examining an alternate manifestation of the chemoresponsiveness of phagocytic cells and of cell interactions in general.


Genetic effects of impure and pure saccharin in yeast.

Yeast cells were grown in media containing impure or purified saccharin preparations. Dose-dependent increases in frequencies of cells possessing aberrant cell morphologies were revealed by light microscopy. At each test dose, cells grown in impure saccharin exhibited up to sevenfold higher frequencies of mitotic crossing-over or gene conversion in three of four assays for genetic recombination than cells grown in purified saccharin from the same lot. With one exception, the sweetener produced by the Maumee process caused larger increases in recombination and gene reversion than the sweetener produced by the Remsen-Fahlberg process. The several test markers did not respond equally to any test saccharin. Cells grown in liquid media containing no saccharin or two of three test concentrations of saccharin produced cell titers that were approximately equivalent.


Comparative biochemistry and drug design for infectious disease.

In the past two decades, biochemistry and molecular biology have demonstrated the existence of potentially exploitable biochemical differences between etiologic agents of disease and their hosts. Known differences between organism and host with respect to metabolism and polymer structure point to the detailed characterization of key proteins as the focus for the development of potential inhibitors. In the last decade, the methodology of the isolation, characterization, and inactivation of proteins and enzymes has been advanced. The present scientific and technological base suggests that new efforts toward the development of selective chemotherapeutic agents for infections caused by bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and higher eukaryotes should exploit the known differences in proteins or other specific biopolymers serving crucial structural or metabolic roles in the economy of the parasite.


Sporozoite-induced malaria: therapeutic effects of glycolipids in liposomes.

Liposomes containing neutral glycolipids with a terminal glucose or galactose, when injected intravenously, prevented the appearance of erythrocytic forms of malaria (Plasmodium berghei) in mice previously injected with sporozoites. Inhibitory glycolipids included glucosyl, galactosyl, or lactosyl ceramide. Inhibition was not observed with liposomes containing ceramide, phosphocholine ceramide, sulfogalactosyl ceramide (sulfatide), or ganglioside GM1. Liposomes containing glycolipids did not inhibit infection transmitted by injecting blood containing erythrocytic stages of malaria. These results may have therapeutic implications in the treatment of malaria. Analysis of the mechanism of interference with the life cycle of malaria by liposomal glycolipids may yield information about the interactions of parasites with cellular membranes.


Pharmacologic effects in man of a potent, long-acting dopamine receptor agonist.

Single-dose administration of pergolide mesylate (100 to 400 micrograms) results in a dose-related inhibition of prolactin secretion which persists for more than 24 hours. During multiple-dose administration of pergolide, plasma prolactin concentrations remain markedly reduced (greater than 80 percnet) and gradually return to control levels several days after drug administration is discontinued.


Somatostatin cell processes as pathways for paracrine secretion.

Somatostatin is produced by gastrointestinal endocrine cells that have long, nonluminal, cytoplasmic processes. Such processes terminate on other cell types, including gastrin-producing and hydrochloric acid-producing cells, whose functions are profoundly affected by somatostatin. The findings suggest that somatostatin cells control the functions of other cells through local release of the peptide by way of cytoplasmic processes. Also, certain other types of gastrointestinal endocrine cells have similar cytoplasmic prolongations, which may have analogous local (paracrine) regulatory functions.


Parotid fistula: current management.

The most common cause of parotid fistula is trauma. Other causes include operative complications, infection, and malignancy. In the acute phase of ductal injury, primary reconstruction, if possible, is the treatment of choice. Acute parenchymal injury is treated by tight closure and expectancy. When diverting or flow-blocking measures fail to correct chronic ductal fistula, the treatment of choice for this situation as well as for chronic parenchymal fistula may be tympanic neurectomy, which can be done under local anesthesia, is associated with low morbidity, is relatively uncomplicated and has given excellent results to date in our hands.


Parenthood after renal transplantation.

Parenthood in renal allograft recipients is no longer rare. Rational guidelines are needed since there are no absolute medical contraindications to parenthood in recipients of either sex. This report by the patient and her physician describes the clinical course of the recipient of a cadaveric renal allograft, including a normal pregnancy and delivery. Urine protein excretion increased during pregnancy, but later returned to normal. There were no complications to mother or fetus, despite continued immunosuppressive therapy. The problems of parenthood in allograft recipients are discussed from the patient viewpoint, rational guidelines for patient counseling are offered, and the world's literature is reviewed. The possible complications to parent and fetus are discussed, including the complications of pregnancy and immunosuppressive drug therapy. We conclude that parenthood should be the choice of the allograft recipient.


Antihistamines and alpha-adrenergic agents in treatment of otitis media.

Studies are not available to support the common use of alpha-adrenergic agents and/or antihistamines in the treatment of acute otitis media. A total of 378 patients with acute otitis were entered in a double-blind study comparing treatment results with antibiotics and either placebo, pseudoephedrine, triprolidine, or a combination of these; 196 patients returned. Age and return rate did not differ among groups. Cure rates and duration of fever were the same for each group. The cost and possible side effects of these agents, added to their lack of beneficial effect in otitis, should interdict their use.


Hemodialysis and renal transplantation in patients with hypernephroma.

Of five patients with hypernephroma who were maintained on hemodialysis after nephrectomy, four died with metastic disease after having been on hemodialysis for an average of 13.7 months (range 8 to 19). The fifth patient had no evidence of malignancy after 21 months of dialysis; he then received a renal allograft from his sister, and did well for 24 months before he developed liver metastasis. We believe hemodialysis is an appropriate mode of treating the renal failure of patients with hypernephroma after therapeutic nephrectomy. These patients may be considered for renal transplantation after a period of hemodialysis, and we suggest the currently recommended 12-month waiting period before transplantation be extended to 18 to 24 months. Use of living related donor renal allograft in these patients is questionable.


Corticosteroids as adjunctive therapy for acute bacterial meningitis.

Although anecdotal reports and the results of clinical trials suggest that corticosteroids may be efficacious in the treatment of acute bacterial meningitis, controlled and double-blind studies fail to support this view with the exception that corticosteroids may be of benefit for patients with pneumococcal meningitis. Corticosteroids may also be of benefit to patients with acute bacterial meningitis in the presence of life-threatening complications of increased intracranial pressure, such as coma, seizures, fluctuating blood pressure, or rapidly deteriorating mental status, but results of controlled or double-blind studies to substantiate this have not been reported. The possible advantages gained from the use of corticosteroids must be considered with regard to a significant detrimental effect in patients over 16 years of age.


Primary lymphomas of the gastrointestinal tract.

An institutional experience with primary gastrointestinal lymphoma (PGL) is reviewed. Included are 46 cases involving the stomach, 11 involving the small bowel, and two, the large bowel. The clinical, pathologic, and therapeutic aspects of PGL are discussed.


A comparison between meptazinol and omnopon in the relief of postoperative pain.

In a random double-blind trial, meptazinol 100 mg, a new hexahydro-azepine derivative, was found to be comparable to Omnopon (papaveretum) 20 mg when given intramuscularly for the control of pain in 50 cases after hysterectomy. The onset of analgesia was rapid and the effect lasted for about 3 hours. Cardiovascular and respiratory systems remained stable. No significant difference as regards sedation and nausea was noticed between the two groups.


[The first ten years].

On 6 June 1979, the Medical Faculty of the University of the Orange Free State, Bloemfontein, will be 10 years old. The completed Faculty buildings, situated between the Universitas teaching hospital and the University campus, were officially opened on 20 March 1978 by the Minister of National Education, Dr P. Koornhof. The first 46 medical students graduated in Novemer 1976, and with a present annual intake of 120 students the final-year class will grow to approximately 100 students. In addition to medicine, undergraduate training is offered in physiotherapy, occupational therapy, radiography, hospital dietetics and basic medical sciences. More than 50 M.Med. candidates have completed their specialist training, 10 doctorates were conferred and 32 students obtained Honours or Master's degree in the basic medical sciences. The undergraduate course with electives in non-medical fields, fully integrated clinical medicine teaching and interdisciplinary co-ordination of final clinical examinations, were novel endeavours for South Africa.


[Septic shock].

It has become necessary to review septic shock in the light of recent experimental work, as well as the clinical implementation of this knowledge. Emphasis is laid on the surgical aspects of management of patients with this condition.


The anti-trust suit against the AMA, 1939-1943: background for today's health planning.

Today, prepaid group medical schemes form a significant component of many legislative health care proposals. Although the concept is over 60 years old, its legality was not established until 1943 by a United States Supreme Court decision that convicted the American Medical Association and the District of Columbia Medical Society for restraint of trade. The history of that suit highlights the antagonisms that exist between prepaid group medical care and the more traditional fee-for-service system.


Conflict in teamwork: understanding roles and relationships.

Out of the recognition that chronic renal failure has psychological and social as well as medical ramifications, the renal treatment team is composed of different professionals. As these disciplines respond to the psychosocial and medical dimensions, potential for role conflict arises. The paper focuses on this problem as it relates to the responsibilities of the social worker and the nurse clinician. The process is studied from the theoretical framework of role conflict, ambiguity, crisis, and resolution. A model of team development evolved from the study. Findings illustrate ways in which these conflicts can be minimized and clarified to enhance team functioning and improve services delivered to patients and their families.


Surgery of the aortic arch branches and vertebral arteries.

Experience with 192 operations of vascular reconstruction for atherosclerosis in the proximal brachiocephalic and vertebral arteries is reported. These procedures constitute only 10 per cent of operations for extracranial arterial occlusive cerebrovascular disease at the University of California, San Francisco, in the past 20 years. All patients were asymptomatic. Except for six patients with cerebral embolization from ulcerating lesions, symptoms resulted from cerebral hypoperfusion. Prevention of ultimate stroke was the primary objective of operation in patients with embolization and in patients with stenosis or occlusion of the common carotid arteries. Purely obstructive lesions in the subclavian and vertebral arteries were symptomatic only when there was bilateral involvement and the objective of operation was the relief of disabling symptoms of hypoperfusion for these otherwise essentially benign lesions. Prior correction of associated stenosis of the carotid artery often removed the need for a proximal operation. The majority of the operations were endarterectomy or transposition, or combinations of the two. Cervical bypass grafts, because of their less certain durability, were used only when a more direct operation was neither feasible nor safe.


Carcinoma of the breast.

In the present stage of our knowledge, it is evident that radiation therapy as a primry form of potentially curable treatment is a valid alternative to radical surgical extirpation. It offers women with early carcinoma of the breast the opportunity to avoid a serious cosmetic, functional and psychologic problem with no increased risk in terms of survival or local control of the neoplasm. The physician faced with such a patient need no longer believe that the woman who refuses mastectomy is automatically electing some inferior course. It is hoped that the demands of the modern American woman will force an appropriate clinical trial to define and evaluate fully the role of radiation therapy as definitive treatment in carcinoma of the breast. Until that occurs, we can do no less than knowledgeably assist patients un making their therapeutic decisions.


Current status of surgery of the omentum.

The greater omentum is a unique organ with multipotential properties. A simple procedure converts it into a vascularized pedicle that may be utilized throughout the body. Knowledge of the possible applications of free or pedicled omental grafts will significantly add to the armamentarium of a clinical and experimental surgeon.


The effect of prophylaxis with low dose heparin on blood coagulation parameters. A double blind study in connection with transvesical prostatectomy.

Heparin was administered subcutaneously 5.000 IU twice daily using a double blind method to ten of twenty-one patients undergoing transvesical prostatectomy. Platelet count, APTT, throbin time, Reptilase time, Normotest, fibrinogen, Factor-VIII, ethanol gelation test, antithrombin III, fibrinolytic degradation products, alpha1-antitrypsin and alpha2-macroglobulin were studied pre- and postoperatively up to the 10th postoperative day. Statistical analysis of parameters of blood coagulation and fibrinolysis showed no significant difference between the two groups. The mechanism by which low dose heparin exerts its thromboprophylactic effect could not be elucidated from the study of the investigated parameters. The laboratory data gave no indication to a possible increased risk of postoperative hemorrhage.


The effect of prostacyclin (PGT2) on platelet behaviour. Thrombus formation in vivo and bleeding time.

Prostacyclin (PGI2) infused intravenously into anaesthetized rabbits inhibited electrically-induced thrombus formation in the carotid artery, increased bleeding time and inhibited ex vivo platelet aggregation induced by ADP or arachidonic acid. The increase in bleeding time and the inhibition of ex vivo platelet aggregation lasted for as long as the infusion of PGI2 was maintained but rapidly disappeared after infusion was stopped. Prostacyclin is a more potent inhibitor of platelet function, in vivo than prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) or prostaglandin D2 (PGD2). The effects of prostacyclin on all parameters studied except blood pressure were potentiated by the concomitant administration of theophylline, a phosphodiesterase inhibitor.


Regional blood flow determinations in the rat during paraoxon-poisoning and treatment with atropine and obidoxime.

Perfusion rates of various organs were determined for 4 different rat populations subjected, respectively, to: (a) 15 min infusion of paraoxon (150 micrograms/kg i.v.); (b) 15 min infusion of paraoxon and the injection of 1.0 mg/kg atropine; (c) 15 min paraoxon infusion and the injection of 10.0 mg/kg obidoxime; and (d) none of these substances. Atropine and obidoxime were both injected 10 min after the beginning of the paraoxon infusion. The perfusion rates were determined by means of the microspheres technique, which allows the simultaneous measurement of different perfusion rates. The paraoxon-treated animals revealed a significantly lower perfusion rate of the kidney, skeletal muscle, skin and spleen in comparison to the unpoisoned control group. The flow rates in heart, stomach, small intestine, liver (arterial) and brain changed only slightly. The injection of atropine caused the perfusion rates of heart, kidney, intestine and spleen to be greater than under paraoxon alone, Obidoxime, furthermore, induced significant increases in the perfusion rates of all 9 organs studied. Indeed, for several organs, the flow rates under atropine and obidoxime were greater than those of the controls. It is suggested that the effects of paraoxon, atropine and obidoxime on the organ flow rates are due to different influences on peripheral and central muscarinic and nicotinic receptors and to changes in the depth of respiration.


[Prognostic factors in epipharyngeal tumors: a retrospective analysis of 151 patients treated at Freiburg (Breisgau) between 1948 and 1977 (author's transl)].

From 1948 through 1977, 151 patients with an epipharyngeal tumor underwent radiation therapy at our department. A retrospective analysis was made reviewing treatment results and prognostic features. The 5-year survival rate of the total group amounted to 39%, the 10-year survival to 27%. Tumor stage and histology were confirmed as the preponderant factors in prognostication. Stage T1--2 cases had a 5-year survival rate of 57%, which decreased to 46% if unilateral lymph node metastases had occurred, and down to 17% in case of bilateral metastasition to the lymph nodes. Of stage T3--4 patients, 45% survived during 5 years. Lymphoepithelial carcinoma, with a 5-year survival rate of 54%, had a better prognosis than squamous cell carcinoma (47%), transitional cell carcinoma (30%) and reticulum cell sarcoma (30%). A review of the results other authors have obtained since 1956 with combinations of surgical and irradiation methods gives evidence that the efficiency of techniques confined to local or regional treatment has reached its limits. At present, further improvement may be achieved mainly by means of systematically applied adjuvant chemotherapy complementary to the general thérapeutic concept.


Radiation effects on the parotid gland of mammals. Part 3: Behaviour of enzyme activity after irradiation.

Modifications of some enzyme activities in parotid tissue homogenates have been studied in animals which were also examined for morphological changes and for plasma and parotid amylase activity. Results from irradiated animals show a certain increase in maltase activity. Alkaline phosphatase and LAP show no significant variations; a similar behaviour is shown by lysosomal enzymes and protein content. A different pattern was seen by comparing the curves of these enzymes with those of the same activity in the small intestine. This result appears to be due to the different radiosensitivity of these tissues.


What is Mooren's ulcer?

It is probable that the traditional definition of Mooren's ulcer involving relentless progression should be modified. Many eyes have been seen with corneal ulcers which have the clinical diagnosis of Mooren's ulcer but respond to varying medications and to conjunctival excision. The ulcers can progress, however, in spite of all therapy, and in these cases, we recommend removal of the remaining corneal stroma, followed by penetrating corneal transplantation. Patients with Mooren's ulcer exhibit both cell-mediated and humoral immunological phenomena but, in a small series, did not respond to immunotherapy.


Use of anti-inflammatory agents in destructive corneal disease.

The use of anti-inflammatory agents is important in the treatment of destructive corneal disease. The basic principles of the action of corticosteroids and prostaglandin inhibitors, and the application of these agents to various experimental and clinical situations, are presented. The corticosteroids are the most effective of all the anti-inflammatory agents but have many unfortunate side-effects. The prostaglandin inhibitors and other agents have fewer side-effects, but are less effective.


Role of corneal surgery in destructive corneal disease.

Surgery plays an integral role in the management of destructive corneal disease. There are many techniques for structural reinforcement of marginal corneal destruction. Therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty for severe cases of central corneal destruction can be an effective method of removing the bulk of diseased tissue, and securing histopathological confirmation of the diagnosis.


Partial characterization of a malaria mitogen.

Supernatants from 24-hour cultures of Plasmodium falciparum-infected human red blood cells stimulated lymphocytes from both malaria immune and malaria non-immune donors. Both T and B lymphocytes responded. Amalaria parasite-derived mitogen may play some part in the pathogenesis of the hypergammaglobulinaemia characteristic of malaria.


Serum from infected mice suppresses macrophage-mediated immunity in Mycobacterium lepraemurium infection: a model for imparied macrophage immunity in human leprosy.

Differing patterns of Mycobacterium lepraemurium infection in inbred strains of mice are of interest as a model system for studying mycobacterial infections of man, e.g. M. leprae, which present with a spectrum of clinical disease. In vitro, macrophages from both resistant (C57B1) and susceptible (BALB/c) inbred strains of mice can be shown to be equally effective in controlling multiplication of M. lepraemurium. Experiments presented here show that in vivo, the potential mechanisms of macrophage-mediated immunity are suppressed in the susceptible (BALB/c) strain of mouse by a soluble factor(s) present in the serum and the peritoneal fluid of infected mice.


Frequency of blood group antigens in Nigerian children with falciparum malaria.

The frequencies of the following blood group antigens: A, B, O, M, N, S, s, U, Fya, FyB, Lea, Jsa and K have been determined in Nigerian children with severe falciparum malaria. The frequency distribution of M, N, S, s, U, Fya and Fyb were not significantly different in children with life-threatening falciparum malaria and controls. The frequencies of A, B, O, Lea, Jsa and K found in the children with severe malaria were similar to those previously reported for healthy adults in this population. The Duffy blood group antigens Fya and Fyb were virtually absent from both infected and control children. This finding is in variance with a Fya frequency of 23% reported by Worlledge et al. (1974) for healthy adults in this population.


Lassa virus antibodies in hospital personnel in western Liberia.

The sera of 844 Liberian hospital staff memebers were positive for Lassa Virus (LV) antibodies in a survey using the indirect fluorescent antibody technique (IFAT). In two hospitals in Lofa County near the Sierra Leone border, the prevalence, 15.4%, was significantly higher than the 8.4% in seven others. There were near differences between the prevalence among laboratory workers, 15.3%, and other workers, 7.7%, and between midwifery students, 21.2%, and midwives, 4.2%, suggesting their infection from patients or their blood products. However, the over-all prevalence among those with patient contacts was the same as that among those without direct patient contact; most LV infections were apparently acquired from sources other than patients in hospital. This finding, the lack of evidence of hospital outbreaks and the presence of comparable prevalences in all age groups suggest that LV infections occur on a continuing basis in this population. In one hospital the comparison of the results of IFAT and complement fixation tests revealed some who reacted by one technique and not by the other. In one person the titre by IFAT had dropped from 1:32 to undetectable levels in two years. This finding prompts caution in the interpretation of results.


Chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium falciparum malaria in Kenya.

A case of chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium falciparum malaria in a non-immune male is reported. Primary attack came 19 days after return to a non-malarious country from a visit to Kenya. Recrudescences occurred three times with intervals of 30 to 33 days after standard chloroquine treatment. The WHO extended field test for sensitivity of falciparum malaria to chloroquine was followed by recrudescence 31 days later. Treatment with Fansidar terminated the infection. If continuous treatment of the patient with lithium does not interfere with the schizontocidal action of chloroquine, this strain shows a resistance pattern of R I delayed recrudescence.


A comparison of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and indirect fluorescent antibody test in the sero-diagnosis of cutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis in Iran.

ELISA AND IFAT have been applied to the sero-diagnosis of cutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis and the levels of leishmanial antibody detected by Leishmania donovani antigens in both tests have been compared. From the results it appears that ELISA is a little more sensitive than IFAT, but IFAT seems to be more specific in detecting leishmanial antibodies. In both tests reactions between leishmanial antigen and some other infections, such as malaria and typhoid, were observed. These non-specific reactions reduce the validity of both tests, especially ELISA, in the sero-diagnosis of cutaneous leishmaniasis but, in visceral leishmaniasis, the leishmanial antibody levels were high enough to be unaffected by non-specific reactions. In general, ELISA is as good as IFAT and more practical in the sero-diagnosis and mass screening surveys for kala-azar.


The prevalence and distribution of Mansonella ozzardi in coastal north Trinidad, W.I.

A day blood smear survey for Mansonella ozzardi in the north coast communities of Trinidad recorded a prevalence of 4.8% in 4,488 persons examined. Prevalence rates were highest in the four western-most communities, where the vector, Culicoides phlebotomus, is a severe nuisance problem. Prevalence rates increased with age and were higher in males than in females. Mean microfilaria densities were low in both sexes up to 50 years of age but in older males the density increased with age. Wuchereria bancrofti infections were detected in five of the ten communities surveyed.


The evaluation of hemorrhage in cardiac patients who have undergone extracorporeal circulation.

The present study defines excessive bleeding in patients who undergo cardiopulmonary bypass, and evaluates the use of coagulation testing to predict those patients that bleed excessively. Evaluation of 774 consecutive patients undergoing aortocoronary bypass surgery was carried out. Cardiopulmonary bypass consisted of a bloodless prime and a Harvey bubble oxygenator. In the postoperative period, excessive hemorrhage was defined as that exceeding 600 ml chest tube drainage in the first eight hours. One hundred and sixty-three patients (21%) were noted to be in this category. Excessive bleeding postoperatively was best predicted by a PTT greater than 45 seconds, a PT greater than 19 seconds, a fibrinogen level less than 225 mg/dl and a TFT equal to or less than 1:32. These laboratory findings occur singly or in combination. The assessment of platelet, numbers or function and fibrin(ogen) split products were of no prognostic value. Using these criteria, the re-exploration rate for excessive hemorrhage and/or tamponade was 0.6 per cent (5 out of 774 patients). No preoperative laboratory test of hemostatic function was useful in predicting coagulopathies resulting from cardiopulmonary bypass.


Attempt at enzyme replacement by organ transplantation: renal transplantation in Gaucher disease.

Following renal transplantation, hepatic glucocerebroside deposits in a child with Gaucher disease were reduced. This suggests that enzyme replacement had been achieved.


Serial subculture of BCG on solid and liquid media.

To follow an earlier study of the effects on BCG of deep subculture in liquid media, transfers on the surface of Löwenstein-Jensen and Sauton's media have been made. When a vaccine preparation that yields on culture 99+% of spreading-type colonies, with a small minority of non-spreading forms, is transferred on Löwenstein-Jensen medium, the minority population can be readily selected out. Growth of BCG on this medium is not homogeneous, and the selection of either the minority or majority populations appears fortuitous, whereas it was previously demonstrated that deep subculture in Dubos medium tends to favour selection of a minority yielding non-spreading colonies. When such a minority population has been favoured during transfer on Löwenstein-Jensen medium, subsequent subculture in Dubos medium usually accentuates the effect. Subculture as a surface pellicle on Sauton's medium has a powerful effect in reducing the relative size of a minority population yielding non-spreading colonies, and thereafter maintaining 99+% of spreading forms. The relationship between transfers on Löwenstein-Jensen and Sauton's media and those on potato-Sauton medium is briefly discussed.


Feasibility of controlled micturition through electric stimulation.

Historically, man has been aware of bioelectric phenomena for some 4,000 years. Yet it has only been during the last 20 years that technology has advanced to the stage where controlled bladder emptying has become feasible. A great deal of interest followed the introduction of transistor and bladder stimulation via the principle of radio frequency induction. Spinal cord, sacral, and pelvic nerve and direct bladder stimulation have all been attempted. Only direct bladder stimulation in lower motor neuron situations has shown any promise. The many difficulties associated with bladder stimulation include simultaneous sphincter contraction, pain, electrode and insulation difficulties, and fibroplasia due to movement of electrodes placed in pliable tissues. In addition, the role of the prostate, increased urethral length, and erection responses in the male have received little investigation. These problems are outlined and experimental observations of attempts to achieve controlled micturition in canines areresented. These studies were carried out over a 3-year period, and emphasize responses to stimulation of the spinal cord and sacral roots. It was concluded that the most efficient manner by which to effect simulated micturition is via stimulation of the ventral sacral root dominant for bladder responsiveness, and combine this with selective division of somatic fibers of only the root being stimulated.


[Hyperacute rejection of renal xenografts after presensitization of the recipients induced by treatment with donor species-specific spleen antigen (author's transl)].

This paper reports about experimental xenografting of kidneys in closely related species (fox/dog) modifying primary graft rejection by pretreatment of the recipients with semisoluble donor species-specific spleen antigen. This kind of pretreatment does not induce immunological enhancement which protects the graft from damage, but causes presensitization of the recipients and subsequently the hyperacute rejection of the transplants. Arteriovenous gradients of platelets and leukocytes as well as those of fibrinogen and clotting factors II, V, VIII, and IX suggest a greater degree of intravascular coagulation within the first minutes after revascularization. Hemagglutinating antibodies induced by pretreatment of the recipients with donor species-specific spleen extract seem to be responsible for the rapidity of rejection and for the reduction of survival time.


Flow cytometric investigations of human bladder carcinoma compared to histological classification.

The DNA distribution has been investigated in biopsies from human bladder carcinomas by means of flow cytometry (FCM). The FCM analysis was based on a preparation method yielding a suspension of single cell nuclei. Biopsies from 45 patients were analysed. The results demonstrate a correlation between the degree of cellular anaplasia and the occurrence of cell populations with increased DNA content in the tumours. Cells with diploid DNA content constituted more than 90% of well-differentiated tumours and normal bladder mucosa. Cell populations with aneuploid DNA content occurred in almost all biopsies with cellular anaplasia estimated as grades II and III by microscopic examination. The results indicate that FCM analysis may be a valuable adjunct to histology. The possible prognostic significance of altered DNA distribution in bladder tumours is discussed.


Histophotometry: a new method for automated histological examination of solid tissue samples demonstrated on bladder cancer.

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the ability of a new method to discriminate between benign and malignant tissue. Tissue samples from three patients with bladder tumours and one patient with bladder diverticula have been examined by histophotometry. This method, based on the correlation of nuclear volume and nucleic acid contents per cell uses thick formalin fixed samples. The results are obtained by measurements averaging more than one hundred thousand cells per sample. By this histophotometric examination a clear differentiation between malignant and to differentiate between infiltrating and noninfiltrating tumour, as well as inflamed bladder tissue. The results obtained histophotometrically were compared with the histological findings.


The mutagenic activity of anti-cancer drugs and the urine of rats given these drugs.

Twenty-one anti-cancer drugs have been tested for their ability to cause mutations in Salmonella typhimurium test strains in the Salmonella/microsome mutagenicity test. Nine of the 21 anticancer drugs showed this ability: cyclophosphmide, nitromin, thio-tepa, busulfan, 6-mercaptopurine, neocarzinostatin, daunomycin, adriamycin and estramustine phosphate. Seven of these 9 mutagenic drugs were injected continuously into the jugular veins of rats. Urine was collected through a cystostomy tube and tested for mutagenicity. The urine from rats treated with 6 of these 7 drugs was mutagenic. These were cyclophosphamide, nitromin, thio-tepa, neocarzinostatin, adriamycin and daunomycin.


Refractive keratoplasty: keratophakia and keratomileusis.

We have presented our early experience with the refractive keratoplasty techniques of Doctor Jose Barraquer--keratophakia and hypermetropic keratomileusis. In contradistinction to the alloplastic lens substitutes currently being employed for the integral correction of aphakia, his techniques would seem to offer a more permanent, more physiologic, full-time optical correction of the aphakic state. Their use is limited only by the condition of the patient's corneaa and, in fact, may be applied not only in aphakia but also in phakic eyes with higher degrees of hyperopia or myopia. In the opinion of the authors, the refractive keratoplasty techniques of Barraquer can be perfored by any well-instructed ophthalmic surgeon. These techniques offer to many patients a satisfactory and potentially a physiologically superior alternative to alloplastic lens substitute for aphakic correction.


Surgical treatment of osteomyelitis in the metacarpal and metatarsal bones of the horse.

The case histories of four horses with osteomyelitis involving the metacarpal and metatarsal bones are reviewed and the surgical treatments discussed. The horses recovered after curettage of all infected tissue and post operative drainage. The role of antibiotics in treatment is considered and reference is made to the acute treatment of deep wounds to avoid osteomyelitis.


Aspects of genital infection and swabbing techniques in the mare.

The three groups of bacteria that cause endometritis in the mare are reviewed. The different methods of swabbing are assessed and the criteria which should be observed when developing a swabbing technique listed. The choice of speculum and swabs available are described.


Tubule length and Leydig cell volume in the normal bull testis.

Data are presented on the size, Leydig cell content and seminiferous tubule dimensions of the normal bull testis. A method of estimating total tubule length, requiring only the measurement of testis volume and the number of tubule cross-sections in a unit area is described, and its applicability to the bull established. The average bull testis contains about 5.2 km of tubules.


Isolation and identification of mycobacteria from cattle slaughtered in Pakistan.

Specimens of lung, liver and mesenteric lymph node from cows and buffaloes slaughtered in the Lahore area were cultured to investigate the type of mycobacteria involved in bovine tuberculosis. Employing the concentration method, 56 out of 530 cattle were found to be culture positive for acid-fast bacteria, 48 being Mycobacterium bovis and eight atypical mycobacteria. No M tuberculosis or M avium was isolated. Most of the isolated M bovis strains were found to be highly virulent for rabbits.


[Disordered glucose-6-phosphate transport as a possible cause of glycogenosis type Ib].

More than ten patients with glycogen-storage disease, which were classified as patients with glycogenosis of the I type--deficiency in glucose-6-phosphatase) on the basis of clinical data and biochemical analyses in vivo, were detected within the last few years. But activity of glucose-6-phosphatase was found to be normal in biopsy of samples of the liver tissue obtained from these patients. This disease was termed as glycogenosis of the Ib type. A hypothesis is advanced, according to which the discrepancy in data on biochemical study of the patients in vivo and in vitro is due to absence of a specific permease in liver tissue, which transfers glucose-6-phosphate from cytosol onto the innesurface of membranes of cytoplasmic network, where glucose-6-phosphatase is located.


[Detection of plasmids in the cells of E. coli CK].

Superspiralized coiled plasmide DNA were found in cells E. coli CK. One of plasmides pEco CK-1 had a size 21.2 micron that corresponded to molecular mass 43.7 megadaltons, another plasmide pEco CK-2 with the size 14.2 micron had a molecular weight 29.2 megadaltons. Effective restriction was observed in cross titration using phage PBV-I.CK for E. coli strains carrying R II plasmide and phage PBV-I.R II for E. coli CK cells. The data obtained suggest that the Eco CK type with DNA of host specificity is distinct from hsp II type due to presence of R II and N-15 plasmides.


[Characteristics of glycogen metabolic regulation in rats with experimental autoimmune cardiomyopathy].

Alterations in glycogen metabolism and in its regulation were found in heart muscle and liver tissue, but not in sceletal muscle, of rats with experimental autoimmune cardiomyopathy. In development of the pathological process content of glycogen was unaltered in heart muscle as compared with the normal state; at the same time, activities of glycogen synthetase, phosphorylase and acid alpha-glucosidase were increased. After administration of adrenaline, noradrenaline and serotonin into animals with the cardiomyopathy, the phosphorylase from heart muscle was not activated, contrary to the respone of the enzyme under normal conditions. Content of glycogen was drastically increased in liver tissue of rats with experimental cardiomyopathy, as compared with the normal state. Aministration of biogenic amines into the animals led to a decrease in concentration of glycogen in liver tissue and to increase in activity of acid alpha-glucosidase, but did not affect the activities of phosphorylase A and glycogen synthetase. A possibility is considered for a decrease of the abnormally high content of glycogen in liver tissue of the impaired rats using treatment with biogenic amines.


[Determination of antiepileptic drug levels in the blood: day-to-day experience in an out-patient clinic for epilepic children (author's transl)].

The possibility of determining the blood levels of antiepileptic drugs represents a considerable advance, under certain circumstances, objective supervision of anticonvulsant therapy. In particular in the case of an unsatisfactory therapeutic result, this procedure helps to reveal the causes of failure (e.g. incorrect administration, poor absorption, interaction with other drugs). Like many new diagnostic methods this method is rather costly; hence, its use within the daily routine work should be limited to definite indications. Apart from its use in cases of inadequate control of epilepsy and the appearance of side effects, other indications for implementation of the method are the establishement of correct dosation of antiepileptic drugs in new patients and drug intercurrent illness, which frequently necessitates the use of additional drugs.


[Mixed infection after renal transplantation (author's transl)].

Severe mixed infection was observed in 9 out of 101 renal transplant recipients over a period of 6 years and was characterized by the simultaneous incidence of bacterial, fungal and viral infections. Severe septicaemia was clinically evident in all cases. The critical clinical situation called for a rapid assessment of the differential diagnosis and relevant bacterial, fungal and viral investigations. Antibacterial and antimycotic therapy must be instituted as soon as possible on account of the high mortality from mixed infection in renal transplant recipients. The reduction or discontinuation of immunosuppressive therapy during infection did not impair renal transplant function.


[The role of lipoproteinlipase and hepatic triglyceride lipase in the metabolism of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins (author's transl)].

After intravenous injection of heparin two triglyceride lipases are secreted into the plasma: Lipoproteinlipase and a "hepatic" triglyceride lipase. The properties of these two enzymes are extensively discussed in this review. The different methods of measurement of the two lipases are described in detail. The physiological role of lipoproteinlipase in the catabolism of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins is quite well understood. The function of the hepatic triglyceride lipase is not clear until now. The speculations about the possible role of the so-called "remnants" as a substrate of hepatic triglyceride lipase are discussed. The results of own investigations concerning the possible role of these two enzymes in the triglyceride metabolism under different pathophysiological conditions are presented.


[Development, structure and tasks of the department of physiology in Graz/Austria (author's transl)].

Physiology is concerned with the problems related to the optimal function of biological systems. The field therfore reaches from molecular biology to socio-economic questions. Three basic features have to be considered in science: 1) It is important that the work is being done with enthusiasm, simply because science is interesting and even fun. 2) It is always necessary to consider that the work is a necessary condition of daily life; this is also true for scientific work. 3) Especially in scientific work we have to serve mankind. Science in this sense has to include the idea of serving.--When-ever one of these features or conditions is omitted, the essence of scientific work will suffer, either because the scientist is selfish or because he doesn't take science serious enough. The research in the department of physiology in Graz is concerned with the problem of optimal control in hemodynamics and with research in topics related to biomechanics, exercise physiology and instrumentation. The teaching tasks include teaching of more than thousand second year students and performing laboratory courses and examinations.


[Christian Wolff (1679-1754) and the medical concept of his time].

The 300th anniversary of the birthday of Christian Wolff gave the occasion to set his multilateral work in relation to the medical currents of his time and to analyse it from the standpoint of modern medicine. Especially in his early period at Halle University Christian Wolff develops a new research programme with essential accents for the future physician. His philosophical literature with the postulates containing in this are conformable to the aim of the predecessors of the French revolution and on the sector of the art of therapeutic forms the basis decisive improvements in organised public health.


[Mass screening for bacteriuria in students].

From 1973 to 1978 in 2.6% out of 244 female students and in none out of 160 male students a significant persisting bacteriuria was proved. By the slight rate of falsely positive findings could be demonstrated that the midstream technique gives evident results when persons able to cooperate are sufficiently instructed.


[The clinical value of unspecific humoral immune parameters. Attempt at an immunogram. II. Quantitative determination of CH50E, CB50E, C3, C4 and lysozyme and measurement of indirect phagocytosis rate in the serum of patients with chronic pyelonephritis].

In 183 patients with chronic pyelonephritis as unspecific humoral immune parameters CH50E, CB50E, C3, C4 and lysozyme as well as the indirect phagocytosis against Staphylococcus aureus SG 511 and E. coli were tested. Clinically a differentiation according to 3 degrees of the renal function and 3 degrees of the activity of the disease was performed. The statistical analysis took into consideration mean and limit values. With the help of contingency tables tendency pictures were developed. C3, C4 and lysozyme proved as suitable for a humoral immunogramme in chronic pyelonephritis. C3 was increased in clear activity, C4 and lysozyme in restricted renal function and expressed activity. In view of the high biologic variation of humoral test parameters advantages and disadvantages of an immunogramme are discussed. But for patients with chronic pyelonephritis finally the estimations of IgM, IgG, IgD, C3, C4 and lysozyme are regarded as clinically useful. A feasable immunologic test set should be controlled, precised and completed.


[Discussion of acupuncture as a therapeutic method].

Only relatively few objective critical controls of the acupuncture with the help of double-blind studies face the numerous publications on the successes of this form of treatment. These examinations led to the results that the successes of acupuncture in the same way may be reproduced by means of sham acupuncture. Since a (specific) effect transgressing the placebo or suggestive effect could not be proved on any part for the application of acupuncture the medico-juridicial demands must be put as in experiments on man.


[Morphologic studies on in experimental lung transplantations. II. Light microscopic and histochemical findings in the transplanted homologous dog lung].

Morphologic Studies (light-microscopy, enzyme histochemistry, semi thin-layer preparation) on homografted canine lungs with and without immuno-suppressive therapy (Azathioprin, resp. anti-thymocyte serum) reveal different findings from untreated control animals and those after immuno-suppressive treatment. Under Azathioprin as well as anti-thymocyte serum the signs of rejection are attenuated, and regular pulmonary tissue is maintained in larger areas. Damages of certain cellular elements are better ascertained by means of determination of specific enzymes activities than by help of light-microscopic methods.


[Experimental allo-paratopic heart transplantation in dogs as a biological bypass of the left ventricle].

1. The authors' model of paratopic cardiac replacement by means of a branched Dacron prosthesis is considered a simple method for left-heart replacement. 2. This experimental model is a suitable temporary left-heart substitute in acute cardiac failure. Removal after rejection is easy. 3. The modified model can also be used in experimental acute right-heart failure.


Hypothalamic-pituitary function (LH, FSH and prolactin) in males with chronic liver diseases.

Because of the central importance of the liver for the metabolism of estrogens and androgens the chronically ill liver per se represents an essential disturbing factor within the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis caused by the altered hepatic metabolism of the steroid hormones as well as the abnormal synthesis of steroid-hormone-binding proteins with changed free fractions of sex hormones. The question has been differently answered whether a chronic hepatic disease can also be the reason for disturbance on hypothalamic-pituitary and/or testicular level. Recent plasma determination of LH/FSH before and after LHRH and clomiphene, of sex hormones before and after HCG as well as unbound sex hormones in males with chronic hepatic diseases lead to the following conclusion. 1. Chronic liver disease (without idopathic hemochromatosis). Even sever chronic hepatic diseases are not accompanied by primary hypopituitarism. With regard to the impaired Leydig cells stimulation by HCG and the abnormal seminal fluid and testicular histology one can suppose a primary gonadal hypogonadism. However, an additional hypothalamic disturbance has to be considered. 2. Idiopathic hemochromatosis. Presumably in hemochromatosis a primary insufficiency of pituitary and/or testes can take place related to the general metabolic disturbances of this illness. The classic hypothesis of an exclusively primary lesion with secondary hypogonadism does not appear to be correct.


The role of insulin and glucagon in the plasma aminoacid imbalance of chronic hepatic encephalopathy.

Increased glucagon (IRG) levels have been documented in liver cirrhosis, particularly associated with portal-systemic shunting. In spite of increased insulin (IRI) levels, IRI/IRG are reduced. This alteration has been proposed to have a pathogenic role in plasma aminoacid imbalance which seems to account for hepatic encephalopathy. We studied IRG and IRI/IRG in 13 controls and in 3 groups of cirrhotics, divided on the basis of their mental state. Glucagon was determined by means of 30 K Unger's antibody; insulin by a double antibody technique. Results are expressed in the table as means +/- SEM. (Formula: see text)A progressive increase in IRG secretion is present in cirrhotics and correlates with the mental state; IRI/IRG is not altered in cirrhosis until neurological distrubances are present. A relative fall in IRI which can no more balance the increasing IRG values characterizes hepatic encephalopathy.


[Double flap method in the frontal and temporal area to cover larger defects left by surgery].

Regional flaps are often necessary to cover defects left after operations in the forehead and temple area, since the skin of the scalp does not stretch well and because of the likelihood of dislocation of the eyebrow. We find the double advancement-flap technique using curving incisions of great use in this area. These curved flaps margins follow the wrinkles of the forehead and the relaxed skin tension lines. This contributes to easy healing and inconspicous scars. At the same time undersired facial asymmetry or disturbance of expression can be avoided.


Protein I and protein II from the outer membrane of Escherichia coli are mouse B-lymphocyte mitogens.

Protein I from the outer membrane of Escherichia coli is a B-lymphocyte mitogen in mice. Polyclonal activation of mouse splenocytes was demonstrated by 3H-thymidine incorporation into DNA, 3H-uridine incorporation into RNA, and by a hemolytic plaque assay in three inbred mouse strains. B-lymphocytes from LPS responder mice (C57Bl/10, STU/nu/nu) and LPS non-responder mice (C3H/HeJ) both responded well to protein I. The presence of serum was not necessary for mitogenicity; bovine serum albumin exhibited a beneficial effect on serum-depleted cultures. Thymocytes of C3H/HeJ mice were not activated by protein I. Protein II* from E. coli was also tested in our systems and showed a weak B-lymphocyte stimulatory activity. Human peripheral blood lymphocytes were not activated.


The Lewis antigen system and its relevance for clinical transplantation.

The influence of the Lewis blood group system on transplant survival was studied retrospectively in 161 kidney transplantations. Le (a-b+) recipients had significantly higher graft survival rates than Le (a+b-) or Le (a-b-) recipients. From the known distribution of the Lewis blood groups among the European population, a high percentage of Lewis-compatible transplants would be expected among Le (a-b+) recipients in contrast to the Le (a+b-) and Le (a-b-) recipients. Other factors which are known to influence transplant prognosis such as HLA-match between donor and recipient, ischemic time of the transplants and pretransplant blood transfusions did not differ significantly in any of the three groups studied. Our data again suggest the relevance of the Lewis blood group system for clinical kidney transplantation. The findings should be confirmed by prospective typing of donor and recipient for Lewis antigens.


Some recent results of the quantitative characterization of heart muscle cells.

The present situation of the quantitative characterization of the heart muscle may be summarized as follows: 1. There exists a great collection of quantitative data of the heart at the macroscopical, microscopical, and ultrastructural levels. 2. These data allow for the explanation of several life processes and of the pathogenesis of various diseases. 3. Correlations between cellular structures and biochemical processes can be realized by quantitative data, especially volume, number, and surface. 4. At present it is necessary to standardize the methods in order to obtain a better comparability of the results. 5. Moreover, the three levels should be correlated because only then numerous results may interpreted correctly. 6. All existing quantitative results show significantly that the isolated recording of quantitative data is an insufficient as is the description of qualitative results. The combination of quantitative and qualitative findings leads, however, to completely new results of higher scientific value which form--in combination with biochemical findings--the basis of the knowledge of normal and disturbed life processes.


[Determination of the course of surface arteries by means of Doppler ultrasonics].

In order to trace the arterial circulation in areas with axial pattern of blood supply, the application of a Doppler-Ultra Sound examination is described by which a precise picture of the circulation can be obtained in a short time and using simple technical means.


[Trepanations of the skull in ancient Latvia (author's transl)].

3,800 skulls of inhibitants of the Baltic Sea coast of previous centuries have been investigated beginning with the neolithic period up to the 18th century. 10 cases of skull trepanation were found, 8 of which were performed in Latvia, 6 were successfull. One of them is of large size (120 x 60 mm) and shows traces of healing. It is dated back to the neolithic period. Five were performed before the 18th century. The favourable results testity the skill and considerable medical knowledge of folk physicians. Furthermore, it also witnesses the great resistance of the organism of ancient people in Latvia in cases of surgical intervention.


A simple method for the separation of tissue-cultured plant cells from unbound bacteria: a demonstration of acquired affinity for bacteria by cells of soy bean.

Tissue-cultured cells of soy bean, grown in liquid medium and then transferred to an agar substratum in so-called tissue chambers, showed an affinity for the binding of applied bacteria (Klebsiella pneumoniae). This binding, which became greater as the plant cells remained on the agar for up to 10 days, was manifested as an increasing resistance of the bacteria to be washed from the plant cells in a standard, gentle and reproducible procedure devised for this purpose. The number of bacteria firmly bound to the cells was determined by the use of 32P-labelled bacteria and was largely independent of the concentration of bacteria in the suspension applied to the tissue-cultured cells.


The influence of ultrasonic waves alone and in presence of certain salts on the microbial production of alcohol by Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

It was, thus, concluded that the influence of ultrasonic waves on the production of alcohol in presence of NaCl was inconspicuous as compared with the effects of other salts. It was evident from the fact that even the optimum yield of alcohol could not exceed the control. However, the influence of ultrasonic waves alone and its influence in presence of KH2PO4 could enhance the amount of alcohol over the control by 45.6% and 26.1%, respectively. The best result obtained amongst these treatments was found with the effect of sonics in presence of NH4Cl, in which the amount of alcohol produced was greater than that of the control by 51.3%.


A versatile soil percolator.

A simple multiple column soil percolator is described. Individual columns operate in parallel and are independent. The apparatus may be operated by pressure or suction. An experiment on the effects of pesticides on nitrification in the percolator is described.


[Surgical diseases in patients under long-time dialysis and after kidney transplantation (author's transl)].

In uremic patients under long-time dialysis and after kidney transplantation surgical diseases with severe complications may occur, such as gastro-duodenal ulcers, inflammatory and ischaemic diseases of the colon, acute pancreatitis, intestinal obstruction. Most of the complications have only poor symptoms. If complications are suspected, an "aggressive diagnostic regimen" is mandatory. The incidence of cancer is higher in these patients. Complications can be diminished by prophylactic operations, such as gastric resection in gastro-duodenal ulcer. A restriction in elective and emergency operations has no longer a place in these patients.


[Integration of the RP4 factor with the chromosome in Escherichia coli K12 and the formation of 2 types of Hfr-strains].

The mutant RP4ts12, derived from the R-factor RP4 and thermosensitive in replication, is incorporated into the chromosome A3dna(ts) of E. coli K12, thus suppressing dnaA mutation. The integration of this factor into the chromosome leads to the formation of Hfr strains of two types: the strains of the first type transfer plasmid markers to recipient cells earlier than to chromosomal ones; the strains of the second type transfer plasmid markers to recipient cells after chromosomal ones. During conjugation the R-factor integrated into the chromosome dissociates from chromosomal DNA introduced into the recipient cell and becomes autonomous.


[Formation of an IgM and an IgG immune response depending on the redistribution of T- and B-subpopulations under the action of serotonin].

The syngeneic transfer of spleen cells or spleen and lymph node cells from donors with an elevated serotonin level stimulated, in comparison with the control animals, immune response in the recipients subjected to sublethal irradiation, which was manifested by an increase in the number of plaque-forming and rosette-forming cells. After the combined transfer of spleen cells and bone marrow cells from similar animals a decrease in the number of plaque-forming and rosette-forming cells was observed, while after the transfer of spleen and thymus cells the intensity of immune response remained unchanged. Serotonin was supposed to induce the redistribution of T and B cells in the non-immunized animals, so that suppressor cells migrated from the spleen and the lymph nodes to the bone marrow.


[Use of a computer for the purpose of identifying bacteria of the family Enterobacteriaceae and the determination of the minimal set of differential tests].

Algorhythm and a program for identification of bacteria of the Enterobacteriaceae family, based on Edwards and Ewing's diagnostic scheme, were worked out. Use of this program permitted to analyze different sets of abbreviated biochemical tests. To determine the genera and species of enterobacteria a minimal set of 11 tests is suggested, including indol formation, Voges-Proskauer's reaction, the presence of urease enzymes, gelatinase, lysine decraboxylase, phenylalanine deaminase, glucose fermentation (gas), or lactose, inosite, sorbit, arabinose, rhamnose. The program admits increase of both the biochemical tests, and toxonomic groups of bacteria, this permitting to consider several families. The presence of strains deviating by properties from this scheme points to the necessity of further improvement of diagnostic schemes for the enterobacteria identification.


[Antagonistic interrelationships of Bifidobacterium bifidum i Proteus vulgaris in vitro in the digestive tract of gnotobiotic chicks].

The antagonistic relations between Bacterium bifidum, strain I/850 phi, and Proteus vulgaris, strain F-30, were studied. These organisms, when introduced together in equal doses into the digestive tract of gnotobiotic chickens in a single administration, were shown to create certain ecological correlations in various organs with the prevalence of bifidobacteria which exerted no negative influence on Proteus vulgaris. The additional daily administration of bifidobacteria for 3 days running in doses 1000 times as great as the initial dose, the content of both dibifobacteria and Proteus vulgaris in the intestine being at that time at its maximum, resulted in the suppression of the growth of Proteus vulgaris. Our findings indicate that the influence of the pH of the medium should be considered in order to obtain the evidence of significantly pronounced antagonistic relations between the two organisms in vitro.


On the intracerebral locus for androgenization of female rats.

Comparison of control and androgenized rats has revealed that many nerve terminals ending on arcuate nerve cells of rats treated neonatally with testosterone phenylpropionate show a decrease in dense-core vesicles, and an increase in the number of clear vesicles and of vesicles that exhibit various degrees of electron density. The same changes were observed in nerve terminals ending on preoptic neurons of rats androgenized neonatally. These findings are discussed in view of the intracerebral locus for androgenization of female rats.


[Effect of temperature on formation of lysozyme in E. coli CRT 266 (dnaB ts) after infection with bacteriophage T3].

Lysozyme formation induced by bacteriophage T3 was studied in the ts-mutant E. coli CRT 266 (dnaBts) and in the wild-type E. coli CR 34--45 (dnaB+) at different temperatures. It was found that lysozyme was formed in E. coli CRT 266, however, no lysozyme synthesis took place at 41.5 degrees C. These results indicate that the expression of the lysozyme gene is disturbed in the ts-mutant at 41.5 degrees C.


[Leukocyte migration inhibition and leukocyte adherence inhibition (LMI- and LAI-assay) in cancer patients by using preparations from human fetuses].

The sensitization of lymphocytes from patients with different tumors was tested against a 3 M KCl-extract of fetal tissue (3.--6. month) by the leukocyte adherence inhibition assay (LAI) and by the leukocyte migration inhibition assay (LMI). Sensitization was compared with the reactivity of controls without any detectable tumor. In the LAI assay the leukocytes of 13/15 patients and 2/12 controls showed an inhibition of the adherence. In the LMI-assay 11/17 tumor-bearing patients and 6/18 controls reacted positive in the presence of the antigen preparation. The two methods demonstrated that patients bearing tumors of different histology are sensitized to fetal antigens.


Detection of a cell surface antigen common to a mouse myeloma and a population of mouse thymocytes.

A new antigen termed PTA (plasmocytoma thymus antigen) is described which occurs on 70--80% of mouse thymocytes of all mouse strains tested and on an IgG 2b producing BALB/c plasma cell tumor. PTA is detectable on mouse spleen and lymph node cells. It is absent from liver, brain, bone marrow, and antibody plaque forming cells. PTA is not related to theta antigen and is not detectable on rat thymocytes.


A common differentiation antigen on plaque forming cells and a subpopulation of thymus cells in mice and rats.

A non species specific lymphocyte differentiation antigen is described which can be detected on plaque forming cells and a small fraction of thymocytes of mice and rats. The antigen is absent from a BALB/c plasma cell tumor and is not detectable on Dexamethasone-resistant thymocytes. On the basis of its occurrence the term TPCA (thymus plasma cell antigen) is proposed for the antigen. A monospecific anti TPCA serum could be prepared which enables the detection of the antigen on about 10% of rat thymocytes.


Stimulation of (Pro-)insulin biosynthesis and release by gastric inhibitory polypeptide in isolated islets of rat pancreas.

(Pro-)Insulin biosynthesis ([3H]leucine incorporation) and insulin secretion were studied in collagenase-isolated rat islets incubated for 3 hours at 1 and 2 mg/ml glucose in the presence of gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP). GIP augmented [3H]leucine incorporation and release of insulin at both glucose concentrations. In a second series of experiments it was found that an amino acid mixture was without influence on the insulotrophic action of GIP. Combined stimulation of insulin release by GIP and glucagon did not result in higher insulin output than observed in the presence of each substance alone. Thus GIP, in constrast to many other gastrointestinal peptides, however similar to glucagon, enhances not only release but also biosynthesis of insulin. This insulinotrophic action can be observed already at a glucose concentration of 1 mg/ml. The results underline the outstanding role which GIP appears to play in the regulation of beta-cell function.


Testicular activity in Cushing's disease.

Plasma testosterone levels were suppressed in 6 of 8 mature male patients with Cushing's disease, all of whom complained of loss of libido and decreased sexual potency. Gonadotrophin levels, both under basal conditions and in response to LH-RH, were generally normal. The testicular response to stimulation with hCG was brisk in the 2 patients examined. Oestradiol levels were slightly elevated in 2 patients and prolactin levels were normal in all patients. Thus, male patients with Cushing's disease demonstrated normal gonadotrophin levels in the presence of suppressed testosterone, or, viewed from a slightly different prospect, low testosterone levels despite normal gonadotrophins. Neither oestradiol nor prolactin excess appeared to account for the observations. Possible explanations for these findings include (a) a combination of impaired hypothalamic and testicular function, and (b) a resetting downwards of the level of testosterone that is seen as appropriate by the disordered bypothalamic-pituitary unit. Following correction of cortisol excess in Cushing's disease, testosterone levels rose into the normal range.


Isolation of the C-terminal peptides of rabbit skeletal myosin.

Purified LMM and its tryptic fragments (LF-1, LF-2 and LF-3) were treated with carboxypeptidase-A and the liberated amino acids were identified by thin layer ion-exchange charomatography. In each protein the only detectable amino acid was leucine. From the total tryptic digest of LMM the C-terminal leucine containing peptides were isolated. Two peptides were found with the following amino acid composition: asx1, g1x6, ala1, leu3, and g1n2-3, leu1, respectively. We obtained the same two peptides from the total tryptic digest of LF-3. We conclude that the C-terminal amino acid of the myosin heavy chain is leucine rather than isoleucine as suggested earlier. Heterogeneity of isolated C-terminal peptides might indicate a heterogeneity in the myosin heavy chains.