[Study of survival in angiographically determined ischemic cardiopathies: Apropos of 345 medically treated patients].

A study of 345 patients with ischaemic heart disease due to coronary arteriosclerosis which had been demonstrated by coronary arteriography, and seen between November 1967 and December 1974, was directed towards finding out what had happened to the patients so that, by an actuarial study of their survival, the prognostic significance of the arteriographic and ventriculographic studies could be determined. The prognostic value of the clinical findings has shown the importance:--of the presence of clinical left ventricular failure;--of the presence of coronary insufficiency with frequent attacks; of the presence of sequelae of infarction as seen on the ECG at rest;--on the length of the symptomatic history before arteriography. The assessment of the prognostic potential of the arteriographic findings has emphasised:--the fundamental importance of diffusion of stenoses and occlusions of several main coronary trunks;--the high risk if the lesion affects the left coronary trunk; the high risk of prognostic significance of lesions on the IVA. The prognostic significance of ventricular lesions as demonstrated on ventriculography in the right anterior oblique incidence has shown the sinister significance of extensive lesions of more than two or three of the seven ventriculographic segments and of lesions with dilatation, whereas very localised static plaques hardly influence the prognosis at all.


[Role of the characteristic impedance of the ascending aorta in the evolution of indices of left ventricular performance during the ejection stage].

In this study of 61 patients (group I: 37 patients with no signs of cardiac failure, group II: 24 patients with signs of cardiac failure), a comparison is made between the indices of left ventricular performance obtained during the isovolumic phase dp/dt/Pt max of the left ventricle (5F Millar micromanometer) and in the ejection phase (ejection fraction, mean speed of fibre contraction, corrected mean systolic ejection speed (left ventricular cineanigiography) and maximal acceleration of the aortic blood flow (electromagnetic velocimeter). Calculations were also made of the modulus of elasticity (Ep) and the characteristic impedance of the ascending aorta (Zo) in every patient. The results show that, for group I patients the correlation between the indices in the isovolumic and ejection phases is improved by taking Zo into account. This result is not true for group II cases except with respect to the acceleration of aortic blood flow. An analysis has been made of the hypotheses and the discrepancies.


[Septal displacements during  intraventricular conduction disorders. Echocardiographical study].

We have analysed the echocardiograms of ten healthy subjects, sixty patients with disorders of intra-ventricular conduction, and ten who were treated by a temporary intracavitary pacemaker. There was found to be a pre-ejection displacement of the septum towards the posterior wall, beginning just after electrical depolarisation of the ventricle followed, in most cases, by 'paradoxical' displacement towards the anterior wall during systole. Such a displacement, producing a 'beaked' image on the echocardiogram, is only found when the ventricular complexes have the characteristics of complete left bundle branch block (LBBB), whether this is spontaneous LBBB or a functional LBBB produced by an intracavitary pacemaker. The results support the hypothesis that the posterior displacement of the septum in cases of LBBB is related to abnormal spread of excitation. Under these conditions, during the pre-ejection period the septal forces predominante over those of the free wall of the left ventricle. In a patient with LBBB who had failed to show this typical septal displacement in several investigations, the 'beak' of the septum could be observed only when the electrical axis deviated to the left, and when the QRS complex exceeded 0.14/s to 0.16/s, this condition being fulfilled because the LBBB was really complete at the time of the last investigation.


[Surgical treatment of acute dissection of the ascending aorta].

The authors present 20 cases of acute dissection of the aorta operated on between 1967 and 1974, and 8 more recent cases operated on in 1975-1976. The various factors in diagnosis and surgical treatment are discussed. The results that 60% of patients survive to leave hospital, and the long-term survival (with a mean follow-up of 3 years) is 45%. The main determining factor is survival time appears to be the age of the patient. The authors concluded by advocating operation for all cases of acute dissection of the aorta in patients under 45. Conversely, operation in not advised in patients over 60 years of age.


[Romano-Ward syndrome and left stellectomy. General review apropos of a recent case].

A new familial case of the Romano-Ward syndrome in a young girl of 21 years is reported. A progressive worsening of the condition with multiple syncopal attacks, together with difficulty in controlling the patient, lead us to carry out a left stellate ganglionectomy. The operation did not lead to any shortening of the QT interval. It appeared in the end that propranolol was the most effective way of preventing the syncopal attacks.


[Hypoplasia of the right ventricle with inter-atrial communication and without any other abnormality. Apropos of a case treated surgically by closure of the inter-atrial communication].

A case is reported of hypoplasie of the right ventricle with a wide atrial septal defect in a child of 10. The presence of cyanosis with right atrial and left ventricular preponderance led us to suspect tricuspid atresia, but this was excluded by catheterisation and angiocardiography. There was definitely and atrial septal defect with a two-directional shunt, but the tricuspid valve could be negotiated, and the right-sided opacity provided the essential diagnostic criterion, namely hypoplasia of the sinus portion of the right ventricle with a normal infundibulum. 17 other published cases of hypoplasia of the right ventricle with atrial septal defect are reviewed. The current indications for surgery are discussed in the light of the nature of the disordered physiology. Simple closure of the atrial septal defect, which was carried out successfully in 3 cases, appears to be of great value in the larger child, when there is a wide defect.


[Veinous return from the inferior vena cava into the left atrium after surgical correction of Fallot's tetralogy].

A child of 6 presented with a syndrome of gross respiratory distress together with persistant arterial desaturation, requiring ventilation for maintenance of life, occurring after the apparently straightforward correction of a Fallot's tetralogy. Postoperative investigation on the 15th day showed the reasons for the desaturation: there was a massive right-left shunt caused by flow from the inferior vena cava into the auricle of the left atrium through a low atrial septal defect which had not been recognised. Reoperation on the 15th day to close the atrial septal defect corrected the condition satisfactorily.


Adaptation by hot spring phototrophs to reduced light intensities.

Photosynthesis was measured by the 14C method on natural as well as low light adapted populations of Chloroflexus (a photosynthetic bacterium) and Synechococcus (a blue-green alga) from hot springs in Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming U.S.A.), to test the ability of these phototrophs to photosynthesize at a variety of light intensities. The herbicide 3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,1-dimethyl urea (DCMU) was used to distinguish uptake of the blue-green alga from that of the photosynthetic bacterium, while measurements of chlorophyll a and bacteriochlorophyll c served to quantitate the standing crops of these organisms. Natural populations of Synechococcus were found to be slightly inhibited by full sunlight intensities (summer values can surpass 90000 Lux), whereas the Chloroflexus populations were not. Populations of both phototrophs subjected to reduced light intensities through the use of neutral density filters were found to adapt to low light, and then become severely inhibited by high light intensities. Adaptation to various light regimes may be an important ecological phenomenon to the survival of these hot spring phototrophs.


The effect of amino acids on the motile behavior of Bacillus subtilis.

Constant levels of amino acids enhanced the velocity of Bacillus subtilis 60015 cells about 2-fold and stimulated the response in motility assays. The stimulation of velocity did not occur via the receptors for chemotaxis. Cysteine and methionine, general inhibitors of chemotaxis, both completely inhibited the smooth response in a temporal gradient of attractant. After methionine starvation B. subtilis 60015 showed no measurable response in a temporal gradient of attractant, this in contrast to the effect observed with some other bacteria. Addition of methionine to starved cells restored the response toward attractant. Revertants of B. subtilis 60015 for methionine requirement could not be starved and showed a normal behavior toward temporal gradients of attractant.


Alternatives to the mental hospital: use of residential facilities for long-term psychiatric care.

We examine the use of the mental hospital and alternative residential facilities by 149 chronic psychiatric patients in Ontario. All major movements of patients since the time of first admission were recorded, including the number of episodes and duration of hospitalization and placement in alternative facilities and in the community. Clinical and social variables thought likely to influence use were correlated with duration, placement, and mobility. In spite of the lack of formal criteria for placement, relatively discrete and homogeneous populations were found in each facility and clear patterns of use could be distinguished. For many patients, their present placement represents their most typical setting and implies a particular route through the psychiatric services. We describe factors relating to different types of movements, and emphasize the continuing importance of the mental hospital in long-term psychiatric care.


Antibacterial activity of amniotic fluid against Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans and Brucella abortus.

Sixty amniotic fluid samples from sixty patients between 14--42 weeks gestation were studied for antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Brucella abortus and antifungal activity against Candida albicans. Both antibacterial and antifungal activity of the amniotic fluid were observed. When antimicrobial activity was correlated with gestational age, it was found to increase with the period of gestation. Maximum antimicrobial activity of the amniotic fluid was found to be present in the samples obtained between 36--42 weeks of gestation. All samples before 20 weeks gestation showed week antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, but comparatively strong reaction against Candida albicans and Brucella abortus.


[The ultrastructure of Langhans cells in pathologic human placentas (author's transl)].

In electron microscopic observations on the villous cytotrophoblast in pathologic human placentas we find, besides a general increase of the amount of Langhans cells, significant ultrastructural differences according to the different diseases in pregnancy. Diabetes mellitus: the most striking observations are small, extremely electron dense mitochondria and a lot of intracellular filaments in a hydropic cytoplasm. Rh-incompatibility: according to the stage of placental damage the Langhans cells show a different structure. In light cases we find hydrolic cells with normal mitochondria as well as swollen ones. The plasmalemm shows a lot of foldings and dentations with the syncytium. In serious cases of rh-incompatibility the Langhans cells cover the trophoblastic basal membrane completely. Their electron density is even higher than that of the syncytium. Characteristic lysosomes appear. In the most serious cases the syncytium is completely destroyed and maximal hydropic Langhans cells cover the villi. EPH-gestosis: the Langhans cells show different phases of differentiation, but no other characteristic criteria. The importance of the Langhans cells for the regeneration of the syncytotrophoblast is discussed. Mitochondria and rough endoplasmic reticulum are obviously not formed in the syncytium but they must be regenerated by taking up Langhans cells by syncytial fusion.


The influence of antibiotics WR 142 on permeability of cell membranes.

The influence of antibiotics WR 142 (fractions I and II and Wr 142 FPG) on transport across cell membranes of B. subtilis and C. albicans was studied. Antibiotics Wr 142 did not increase permeability of cell membranes as 86Rb was not exchanged by other monovalent ions in the presence of the antibiotic preparations. Temperature, ionic strength and pH had no significant influence on the action of these antibiotics on the cell membranes. Antibiotics Wr 142 do not form lipid-soluble complexes with alkali metal ions, and therefore do not transport these ions, in contrast to the ionophoric antibiotics. No effect of antibiotics Wr 142 on the stucture of the cell membrane depriving it of its selective function as an osmotic barrier was observed.


Sensitivity of various human lymphoblastoid cells to the antiviral and anticellular activity of human leukocyte interferon.

Of eight lymphoblastoid cell lines studied five were insensitive to both the anticellular and antiviral activities of human leukocyte interferon, and two were sensitive to both activities. One line could not be fully evaluated since it was not possible to study its sensitivity to the antiviral activity.


EEG recognition of Aicardi's syndrome.

Thirty-two EEGs from six cases of Aicardi's syndrome were reviewed. A characteristic EEG pattern was found in all cases. This consists of multifocal epileptiform abnormalities occurring on a burst-suppression pattern showing complete asynchrony between the two hemispheres. This pattern has been described so far only in Aicardi's syndrome. These characteristic EEG features are more readily found early in the course of the disease and occur less frequently six months after from the onset of symptoms, at which time they are often replaced by multiple epileptic foci on a severely disorganized background. The EEG sleep pattern was profoundly altered in all stages of the disease. The EEG is considered a helpful tool in the diagnosis of Aicardi's syndrome.


Foveal sparing. New anatomical evidence for bilateral representation of the central retina.

The pattern of retinal ganglion cell projections to the dorsal lateral geniculate nuclei has been demonstrated with horseradish peroxidase neuronography. A 1 degree-wide strip centered on the vertical meridian has been found in which ipsilaterally and contralaterally projecting ganglion cells intermingle. This strip expands to a width of 3 degrees at the fovea, since mixing of horseradish peroxidase-labeled and unlabeled ganglion cells was found in a band approximately 0.5 degrees wide along both the nasal and temporal rims of the foveola. These labeled ganglion cells rimming the foveal pit in its entirety represent a possible anatomical basis for "foveal sparing".


Optic disc edema in raised intracranial pressure. III. A pathologic study of experimental papilledema.

Optic nerve heads of 21 eyes from 13 rhesus monkeys that had developed papilledema secondary to chronically raised intracranial pressure from balloon implantation in the subarachnoid space were studied by light and electron microscopy. Nine eyes were also examined with the horseradish peroxidase tracer technique. The pathologic changes in the optic nerve head included severe axonal changes and mild interstitial edema. Axonal alteration ranged from axonal swelling to formation of cytoid bodies. Interstitial edema and vascular leakage of horseradish peroxidase were noted in the posterior lamina retinalis, lamina choroidalis and lamina scleralis (prelaminar and lamina cribrosa regions), as well as in the retrolaminar myelinated optic nerve. No intracellular edema of the glial elements was noted. Axonal swelling was so prominent that it appeared to be primarily responsible for the overall swelling of the optic disc observed ophthalmoscopically.


Protracted radiation-stressed primate performance.

An experimental investigation has been made of the effects of nuclear radiation on the behavior of four trained primates (rhesus monkeys) proficient in control of the primate equilibrium platform during a hypothetical 72-h aircraft mission. The radiation exposure was assumed to result from a radioactive cloud penetration at the start of the mission, with subsequent low dose rate exposure resulting from radioactive debris in and on the aircraft. Minor performance changes were detected in three of four subjects; all experienced emesis.


Histopathology of retinal lesions produced by long-term laser exposure.

The maculae of rhesus monkeys were exposed for 120/s to Nd-YAG and argon laser radiation at wavelengths of 1060 and 514.5 nm, respectively. Histopathology of lesions associated with a thermal and a nonthermal damage mechanism were compared. Differences were observed for both lesion development and retinal layers affected, depending upon the damage mechanism involved.


Heavy-ion-induced cataractogenesis.

Cataract formation following heavy ion exposure (O+8) was noted in three rhesus monkeys secondary to a study of retinal effects. The pathogenesis of these lens changes follows many, but not all, of the characteristics for "radiation cataracts." The ring-shaped opacity was not noted to occur. Posterior capsular changes were noted initially and followed through the formation of a mature cataract.


Characterization of a photoproduct of 7,12-dimethylbenz[alpha]anthracene and its effects on chick-embryo cells in culture.

A common impurity of 7,12-dimethylbenz[alpha]anthracene was more effective than 7,12-dimethylbenz[alpha]anthracene in inducing morphological alterations, and in causing an increase in glucose uptake, DNA synthesis and cell number in chick-embryo fibroblasts. Gradual morphological transformation follows the increase in DNA synthesis after 2 days when either primary or secondary cultures are treated with 3 microgram of the compound/ml. The compound, isolated from 7,12-dimethylbenz[alpha]anthracene by alumina column chromatography, was characterized by t.l.c., mass spectroscopy, carbon-hydrogen analysis, u.v. and nuclear-magnetic-resonance spectroscopy and thermal decomposition. It was the photo-oxidation product of 7,12-dimethylbenz[alpha]anthracene, 7,12-epidioxy-7,12-dimethylbenz[alpha]anthracene. It is suggested that some of the biological effects observed after treatment of cultures with 7,12-dimethylbenz[alpha]anthracene may be due in part to the presence of the photo-oxidation product.


Studies on the mechanism of hepatic microsomal N-oxide formation. The role of cytochrome P-450 and mixed-function amine oxidase in the N-oxidation of NN-dimethylaniline.

Evidence is established for the existence of alternative metabolic routes of N-oxidation of NN-dimethylaniline in rabbit liver microsomal fraction. One pathway involves the participation of two types of cytochrome P-450 with different sensitivities towards heat. Both types may represent distinct haemoprotein species or two physical forms of a single pigment. The other pathway is represented by the mixed-function amine oxidase. The enzyme lacks NADPH dehydrogenase activity and is insensitive to treatment with 2-bromo-4'-nitroacetophenone and steapsin: it catalyses N-oxidation of imipramine, trimethylamine and NN-dimethylaniline in molar proportions considerably different from those of the cytochrome P-450-supported reactions. Cytochrome P-450 is estimated to account for the formation of at least 50-60% of the total NN-dimethylaniline N-oxide formed in the intact rabbit liver microsomal fraction, the remainder arising from the action of the mixed-function amine oxidase.


The biosynthesis of tyramine glucuronide by liver microsomal fractions.

Labelled tyramine glucuronide was synthesized in vitro from UDP-[14C]glucuronic acid, [14C]tyramine or [3H]tyramine. The glucuronidation was carried out at pH9.2 in the presence of a monoamine oxidase inhibitor, trans-2-phenylcyclopropylamine. The Km values for tyramine were 69 and 125 micrometer and those for UDP-glucuronic acid were 260 and 290 micrometer respectively for guinea-pig and rat liver microsomal preparatons. The specific activities of microsomal glucuronyltransferase measured in fresh hepatic preparations of guinea pig, mouse and rat were respectively 601, 251 and 235 pmol of [14C]tyramine glucuronide/min per mg of protein. Increase in activity ranged from 2- to 6-fold in preparations which were frozen and thawed once and 5.4- to 10-fold when the freezing and thawing was repeated. Rabbit liver has very low activity, and monkey liver and intestine were completely devoid of this conjugating capacity.


Comparison in different species of biliary bilirubin-IX alpha conjugates with the activities of hepatic and renal bilirubin-IX alpha-uridine diphosphate glycosyltransferases.

The bilrubin-IXalpha conjugates in bile and the activities of bilirubin-IX alpha--UDP-glycosyltransferases in liver and kidney were determined for ten species of mammals and for the chicken. 1. In the mammalian species, bilirubin-IX alpha glucuronide was the predominant bile pigment. Excretion of neutral glycosides was unimportant, except in the cat, the mouse, the rabbit and the dog, where glucose and xylose represented 12--41% of total conjugating groups bound to bilirubin-IX alpha. In chicken bile, glucoside and glucuronide conjugates were of equal importance. They probably represent only a small fraction of the total bile pigment. 2. The transferase activities in liver showed pronounced species variation. This was also apparent with regard to activation by digitonin, pH optimum and relative activities of transferases acting on either UDP-glucuronic acid or neutral UDP-sugars. 3. Man, the dog, the cat and the rat excrete bilirubin-IX alpha largely as diconjugated derivatives. In general, diconjugated bilirubin-IX alpha could also be synthesized in vitro with liver homogenate, bilirubin-IX alpha and UDP-sugar. In contrast, for the other species examined, bilirubin pigments consisted predominantly of monoconjugated bilirubin-IX alpha. Synthesis in vitro with UDP-glucuronic acid, UDP-glucose or UDP-xylose as the sugar donor led exclusively to the formation of monoconjugated bilirubin-IX alpha. 4. The transferase activities in the kidney were restricted to the cortex and were important only for the rat and the dog. No activity at all could be detected for several species, including man. 5. Comparison of the transferase activities in liver with reported values of the maximal rate of excretion in bile suggests a close linkage between conjugation and biliary secretion of bilirubin-IX alpha.


[Petit mal status].

The historical evolution of P.M.S. nosography is pointed out, and his clinical features are exposed, mainly on the ground of the study performed by Lob and Coll., for the Tenth Marseilled Colloquium. Stress is laid upon the onset age of P.M.S., making reference to a review of 133 cases previously reported in the literature. Two paradigmatic cases are reported, selected between six P.M.S. observations we collected, and electroclinically investigated, from 1972 to 1975: a woman aged 34 who was suffering from P.M. and G.M. seizures since she was 12-years old, and also had some other P.M.S. episodes during past years; a woman aged 45 who suffered from a sudden P.M.S. attack, during a febrile illness: it seemed that it was the first occurrence, but an accurate catamnestic search suggested that previous P.M.S. manifestations had probably occurred during the infancy. Finally P.M.S. nosography is discussed for what concerns the variable features emphasized by our observations, the correlation between P.M. and P.M.S., and the problem of P.M.S. as the sole epileptic phenomenon.


Nitrogen-sparing effect of different feeding regimes in patients after operation.

In patients recovering from surgery, water, electrolytes, protein and calories all produce significant nitrogen sparing whether given by i.v. or intraduodenal routes. The nitrogen-sparing effect of protein and calories is greater when given to these patients via the gastrointestinal tract, and nitrogen equilibrium is approached when nutrients are supplied in amounts that satisfy theoretical requirements. I.v. regimes do not achieve nitrogen equilibrium, even when amino acids and calories are supplied in amounts that exceed theoretical requirements.


Antigens common to human ovarian mucinous cyst fluid and gastric mucosa.

Ovarian mucinous cysts, but not ovarian cysts of other histological types, contain common antigens with normal gastric mucosa. By immunodiffusion, antigens of both extracts give identical reactions. Immunofluorescence experiments localize these antigens in the epithelial coat of ovarian mucinous cysts and in the mucous cells of the surface epithelium of the fundic and pyloric gastric mucosa.


Hamster cells, untreated and treated with chemical carcinogens, maintained in vitro for 2 1/2 years.

We have maintained in culture, for a prolonged period, untreated hamster cells from whole embryo, foetal brain and lung from newborn animals. Among the 7 lines studied we observed only one spontaneous transformation during the first year of culture. The cells of the 6 other control lines remained normal and diploid, and were not transplantable during the first 9 to 12 months of culture. After the 12th month, changes appeared in their in vitro behaviour and their transplantability: grafts of 0-5-2 X 10(6) cells induced tumours in the hamster; fewer cells did not. In vitro chemically transformed hamster cells were fundamentally different from untreated cells of the same origin, not only in morphological and growth characteristics but also in transplantability; of the 9 lines obtained, 7 induced tumours after injection of 10(1)-10(4) cells, and 2 after injection of 10(5) cells per animal.


Mechanisms of red cell destruction mediated by non-complement binding IgG antibodies: the essential role in vivo of the Fc part of IgG.

F(ab')2G anti-D was prepared by limited digestion of IgG anti-D with pepsin. Conditions of digestion were chosen in order to obtain a nearly complete conversion of the anti-D antibody molecules as tested by immunochemical and serological techniques. The F(ab')2G anti-D was not capable of inducing adherence of rhesus D positive red cells to monocytes in vitro or of eliminating such cells in vivo in normal volunteers. These findings are compatible with a role of the Fc-receptor-mediated adherence to cells of the macrophage system in vivo in the destruction of erythrocytes by non-complement binding IgG antibodies.


Prevention of rhesus isoimmunization with intravenous anti-D gammaglobulin.

The prevention of rhesus isoimmunization was studied in 2247 rhesus negative mothers given varying intravenous doses of gammaglobulin (IgG) anti-D post partum. The results obtained show that 240 microgram of IgG anti-D affords excellent protection, if the efficacy of prophylaxis is monitored by a single fetal cell count at 72 hours after injection, and further doses of immunoglobulin are given in the few cases where fetal red cells remain in the circulation.


Pulsating enophthalmos and choroidal hamartomas: two rare stigmata of neurofibromatosis.

A young girl with neurofibromatosis demonstrated two rare stigmata of this disease--pulsating enophthalmos and multiple pigmented choroidal hamartomata. Fundus photographs of the latter are believed to be the first of their kind to be published.


Adenomatoid odontogenic tumour (adenoameloblastoma).

Two cases of adenomatoid odontogenic tumour affecting the jaws of two young Nigerian Africans are described. One was diagnosed clinically as a cyst, the other as an ossifying fibroma, but their true nature was later unmasked by histopathological studies. Although considered rare, the adenomatoid odontogenic tumour should be borne in mind in the differential diagnosis of radiolucent lesions of the jaws since an incorrect diagnosis may lead to mutilating surgery whereas the lesion is amenable to a conservative surgical approach. It is also important to examine histologically all excised specimens from the jaws even in the so-called 'obvious cases.


Experimental protein and energy deficiencies: effects on brain free amino acid composition in rats.

1. The effects of protein-energy malnutrition on brain free amino acids of acidic and neutral groups were investigated in experimental rats. 2. Severe energy restriction did not modify the free amino acid composition of the brain while protein deficiency affected certain amino acids of the brain in opposite directions. Significant decreases in the levels of aspartic acid, threonine and tyrosine were observed in the protein-deficient rats. 3. These changes in brain amino acids appear to be specific to protein deficiency and not affected by energy deficiency.


Multiple forms of Drosophila embryo DNA polymerase: evidence for proteolytic conversion.

The DNA polymerase in crude extracts of Drosophila melanogaster embryos sedimented at 9.0, 7.3, and 5.5 S on glycerol velocity gradients. The relative proportions of these enzymes depended on the method used to prepare the extract. Extracts of whole embryos contained the 7.3S and the 5.5S DNA polymerases and extracts of dechorionated embryos contained the 9.0S and 7.3S DNA polymerases. The porportion of the 5.5S DNA polymerase increased relative to the 7.3S DNA polymerase during storage of the extract of whole embryos. The protease inhibitor, phenylmethanesulfonyl fluoride, inhibited the formation of the 5.5S DNA polymerase, suggesting that it was proteolytically produced from the 7.3S DNA polymerase. This was demonstrated directly  by converting the 7.3S DNA polymerase to the 5.5S DNA polymerase by treatment in vitro with trypsin. The degradation of the enzyme occurred without significant loss of DNA polymerase activity. It is further demonstrated that endogenous proteolysis reduced the chromatographic heterogeneity of the Drosophila DNA polymerase on diethylaminoethyl-Sephadex. When endogenous proteolysis was reduced, three forms of DNA polymerase were isolated by diethylaminoethylcellulose chromatography; two of these enzymes sedimented at 7.3S and the third sedimented at 9.0S. These results demonstrate the physical heterogeneity of the Drosophila DNA polymerase and suggest its similarity to vertebrate DNA polymerase-alpha.


Primary structure of the variable regions of two canine immunoglobulin heavy chains.

The complete amino acid sequences of the variable regions of two canine immunoglobulin heavy chains have been determined by automated Edman degradation and found to be strongly homologous to the human VHIII subgroup. The canine sequences were identical with each other at 76 of 113 residue positions. Twenty-three of the 37 differences are located within the four hypervariable regions previously defined by the sequences of several human VHIII proteins. Forty-five of 77 framework residue positions are invariant in the seven human and two canine VHIII proteins which have been completely sequences. The canine proteins are 78% homologous to the framework of the human prototype. Phylogenetically associated residues before the first hypervariable region were confirmed and several potential phylogenetically associated residues were identified between the first and third hypervariable regions. This study represents the first complete amino acid sequences of VH regions of spontaneously occurring, nonhuman homogeneous immunoglobulins. The date demonstrate a high degree of preservation of VHIII structure in another species.


Partial purification and characterization of a uracil DNA N-glycosidase from Bacillus subtilis.

A uracil specific DNA N-glycosidase activity has been partially purified from crude extracts of Bacillus subtilis. The enzyme has a molecular weight of approximately 24 000 with no subunit structure. It has no requirement for any known cofactors but is inhibited in the presence of Co2+, Fe2+, or Zn2+. The enzyme is specific for uracil in single- and double-stranded deoxyribonucleopolymers and does not release free uracil from RNA or from poly(rU):poly(dA). In addition, neither Udr, dUMP, nor dUTP is recognized as substrate. The enzyme will attack small poly(dU) oligomers but the minimum size recognized as substrate is (pU)4. This enzyme may have a role in the repair (by base excision) or uracil in DNA arising either by incorporation during DNA synthesis or by deamination of cytosine in DNA.


Synthesis of types I and III procollagen and collagen by monkey aortic smooth muscle cells in vitro.

Analysis of pepsin-resistant proteins produced in culture by monkey aortic smooth muscle cells (SMC) indicates the synthesis of types I and III collagen. As determined by carboxymethylcellulose chromatography and disc gel electrophoresis, SMC cultures synthesize more type III collagen than monkey skin fibroblast cultures; aortic adventitial cell cultures (a mixture of SMC and fibroblasts) synthesize an intermediate amount of type III collagen. Both types I and III procollagens can also be isolated from the culture medium of SMC and skin fibroblasts. The procollagens were separated by diethylaminoethylcellulose (DEAE-cellulose) chromatography in identified by electrophoresis and after cleavage with pepsin and cyanogen bromide. Quantitation of the procollagen by DEAE-cellulose chromatography suggests that 68% of the SMC procollagens and less than 10% of the skin fibroblast procollagens are type III. On the other hand, estimation of the proportions of collagen types secreted by cells, employing pepsin digestion of cell culture medium at 15 degrees C, leads to an underestimation of the amount of type III collagen relative to type I. SMC and fibroblasts may differ in their ability to convert type I procollagen to collagen ad indicated by the observation that skin fibroblast culture medium contains both pN and pC collagen intermediates after 24 h, while cultures of SMC essentially lack the pC collagen intermediates.


Amino acid sequence of the VH region of a human myeloma immunoglobulin (IgG New).

The amino acid sequence of the heavy-chain variable region of the human immunoglobulin. New has been determined. Since the amino terminus of the heavy chain was blocked, the sequence of residues 1-69 was established by digesting the appropriate CNBr fragment separately with trypsin, chymotrypsin, and thermolysin and sequencing the resulting peptides. The region from residues 70 to 120 was present in another CNBr fragment which was submitted directly to automatic Edman degradation. The result of this experiment extended the sequence to residue 100. The primary structure of the remaining portion of the VH region was determined by automatic Edman degradation of a lysine-blocked tryptic peptide derived from this region which included residues 98-214. The sequence of the VH region of New corresponds most closely to VH sequences of proteins in the VH II subgroup. This primary structure makes it possible to construct a model from the high-resolution electron-density map of protein New.


Primary structure of human J chain: isolation and characterization of tryptic and chymotryptic peptides of human J chain.

Human J chain isolated from the plasma of a patient with Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia was subjected to extended and limited digestion with trypsin and chymotrypsin. The digests were fractionated by combination of column chromatography and high voltage paper electrophoresis. Peptide purity was established by their amino acid analysis and a single amino terminal residue. All the necessary peptides which would provide the total primary structure of molecule were thus obtained.


Primary structure of human J chain: alignment of peptides from chemical and enzymatic hydrolyses.

The primary structure of the J chain from a human Waldenströms IgM protein has been determined using a combination of automated and conventional Edman degradative procedures. Eighty-five percent of the sequence was established with peptides isolated from tryptic digests of carboxyamidomethylated and citraconylated J chain, many of which were sequenced completely. Alignment of the tryptic fragments was achieved with peptides generated by chymotrypsin and limited acid hydrolyses. The j chain consits of 129 amino acids and a single oligosaccharide structure linked to asparagine at positon 43 of the sequence. The molecular weight, including 7.5% carbohydrate by weight, is 16 422. The location and arrangement of three half-cystines could be deduced from previous studies, whereas the pairing of the remaining five disulfide bonds still needs to be clarified.


A new mutation affecting ribosomal RNA synthesis in Escherichia coli.

A temperature-sensitive mutant of Escherichia coli is described. At the nonpermissive temperature there is a 12-fold reduction in the rate of rRNA synthesis, while tRNA and mRNA syntheses are affected to only a slight extent. Both protein and DNA syntheses also continue at nearly the normal rate. The mutation appears to affect the synthesis of 16S and 23S rRNA equally and has no detectable affect on rRNA maturation. The temperature-sensitive lesion appears to be caused by a single point mutation lying between minutes 21 and 27. It is suggested that this mutation seems to define a new genetic locus involved in the regulation of rRNA synthesis.


Intramembranous particles and chlorophyll complexes in chloroplasts.

The size and population density of large and small particles from freeze-fractured chloroplasts of three wild-type algae and of normal spinach were determined. Computer analyses of low-temperature absorption spectra of chloroplast preparations from these species were performed, and a possible correlation between the occurrence of seven chlorophyll complexes and the aforementioned properties of the intramembranous particles was studies. It was found that only single-sized particles occur in a species containing neither chlorophyll b nor chlorophyll a-685 complexes. The three remaining species carry particles of two sizes, termed large and small particles. However, from quantitative considerations it is concluded that the chlorophyll content of none of the various pigment complexes is related to the size and the population density of the studied particles. If such a relationship exists, it seems likely to be due to the carrier moiety of the chorophyll b-chlorophyll a-685 complex.


The effect of cytosine arabinoside on the frequency of single-strand breaks in DNA of mammalian cells following irradiation or chemical treatment.

1-beta-D-Arabinofuranosyl cytosine (araC), a pyrimidine nucleoside analog used in the treatment of malignant tumors [1, 2], inhibits ultraviolet repair of DNA in a reversible manner. The inhibition occurs during the resynthesis-ligation step and is apparent at all sites undergoing repair. By use of araC it was possible to substantiate the reported observation that the initial velocities of ultraviolet repair are dose dependent and that hamster and human cells are more efficient that mouse cells in excising DNA damage after fluences of less than 50 J/m2. araC does not strongly inhibit gamma-ray-induced repair, although alkali-labile sites are removed more slowly in araC-treated cells. Repair of damage to DNA by N-methyl-N-nitrosoguanidine, mitomycin C, 4-nitroquinoline oxide and 8-hydroxyquinoline is strongly inhibited by araC.


Active water-insoluble derivatives of papain and other enzymes based on preformed diazonium-type supports.

Papain (EC 3.4.22.2) has been coupled to supports of titanium (IV) oxide and cellulose, which are particulate and pre-coated with diazotised 1,3-diaminobenzene, giving water-insoluble and stable derivatives which possess low proteolytic activity but high esterolytic activity. In addition the reversible binding of zinc (II) at the active site of papain has been exploited to inhibit protectively the enzyme during its linkage to the aforementioned supports, thereby yielding water-insoluble derivatives of papain having superior activity upon reactivation with EDTA. Application of the improved procedure of enzyme coupling to macroporous cellulose particles gave a water-insoluble derivative of papain having further enhanced proteolytic activity. Other properties of the water-insoluble derivatives of papain and of similarly prepared water-insoluble conjugates of urease (EC 3.5.1.5) and cholinesterase (EC 3.1.1.8) with cellulose are also reported.


Effect of organic sulfur compounds on the chemical and enzymatic transformations of prostaglandin endoperoxide H2.

The effects of several sulfur organic compounds on the enzymatic and non-enzymatic transformations of prostaglandin endoperoxide H2 to prostaglandins were studied. Mercaptoethanol, methional alpha-lipoic acid and dimercaptopropanol increased the chemical (i.e. non-enzymatic) reduction of prostaglandin H2 to prostaglandin F2alpha but except for alpha-lipoic acid, had no effect on the enzymatic conversion of prostaglandin H2 to prostaglandin. In contrast, reduced glutathione showed no effect on the chemical conversion of prostaglandin H2, but exerted a marked and specific stimulation on the enzymatic isomerization of prostaglandin H2 to prostaglandin E2. This specific effect of gluthione may serve to regulate the overall intracellular activity of prostaglandin synthetase as well as the particular ratio of prostaglandins produced.


Microheterogeneity of human placental lactogen showing different patterns in individuals.

Samples of human placental lactogen, obtained either as a standard pooled preparation or prepared from individual placentas, were shown to migrate as a single band on acrylamide gel electrophoresis. When subjected to isoelectric focusing in polyacrylamide gels, the pooled sample was resolved into bands at pI values 5.0, 5.5, 5.8. 6.0, 6.1 and 6.2. Different batches of the standard pooled sample gave different proportions of each isoprotein species. Isolation and refocusing of individual bands did not alter the pI of each. Treatment with urea or with p-chloromercuribenzoate did not eliminate microheterogeneity seen on isofucising, indicating that the observed heterogeneity is probably not due to conformational differences or to restriction of molecular shape of disulfide bonds. It was shown by immunodiffusion that all the isofocusing reacted similarly against a common antibody to human placental lactogen. When placental lactogen was extracted from individual full term human placentas, the same isoprotein bands were observed but their proportions varied markedly from one placenta to another, and not all bands were present. Thus human placental lactogen displays considerable microheterogeneity which varies with individual placentas.


Purine degradation in Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Pseudomonas testosteroni.

1. Adenine, hypoxanthine, xanthine and guanine are broken down in Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Pseudomonas testosteroni to allantoin by the concerted action of the enzymes adenine deaminase, guanine deaminase, NAD+-dependent xanthine dehydrogenase and uricase. 2. Uric acid is broken down by an unstable, membrane-bound uricase with an unusually low pH optimum. 3. In both strains adenine inhibits growth and xanthine dehydrogenase. A second type of inhibition is manifest only in Ps. testosteroni and concerns the regulation of the biosynthesis of amino acids of the aspartate family. Enzymic studies showed that in this strain aspartate kinase is inhibited by AMP.


Melanin biosynthesis during differentiation of Physarum polycephalum.

Melanin synthesis in the myxomycete Physarum polycephalum occurs during sporulation but not during spherule formation. Melanin-like pigment was extracted from spores. An almost identical substance of polyphenols was extracted from spherules and characterized by its ultraviolet and infrared absorbance spectra. Polyphenol oxidase activity in spherules was very low and showed only one weak isoenzyme band in isoelectric focusing polyacrylamide gels. A much higher activity, and an increasing number of isoenzymes, were detected in sporulating cultures after illumination during the differentiation process. The addition of melanin precursors resulted in the synthesis of brownish-yellow spherules, probably containing dopachrome, whereas the addition of polyphenol oxidase inhibitors resulted in yellow sporangia. The results indicate that melanin synthesis is probably only a stage in maturation but not an essential part of the morphogenetic process itself.


[Viral RNAs from cells infected by an oncornavirus. I. Characterization of viral RNAs associated with cytoplasmic particles].

Oncornaviral particles on the way of their synthesis have been isolated from cytoplasm of a Friend virus-producing murine cell line. By use of electron microscopy and retrotranscriptase assay, it was found that the majority of the viral structures is pelleted by sedimentation at 90.000 g. The Poly (A) RNA of this pellet contains principally 70S and 35S RNA species which, as judged by size determination and hybridization with Friend-virus c-DNA are the species embedded into the virions. We verified that conditions which were used in the course of isolation, effectively dissociate polysomes and prevent them from co-sedimenting with viruses.


[Purification of an extracellular thiol-dependent hemolysin from Bacillus alvei].

Alveolysin a sulfhydryl-dependent cytolytic extracellular protein released by Bacillus alvei has been purified by salting-out by ammonium sulfate, gel filtration, isoelectric focusing on pH gradient and chromatography on DEAE-cellulose. The purified protein after reduction by thiols (active hemolytic form) proved homogeneous by disc polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and by gel immunodiffusion. The molecular weight was 60,000 daltons, Two molecular forms of pI 5.1 and 7.0 were detected by gel isoelectrofocusing. The toxin was lethal to the mouse. Lytic activity was inhibited by cholesterol and antistreptolysin O anstisera. Immunological cross-reaction was observed between alveolysin and streptolysin O.


Zone electrophoresis study of the bile lipoprotein complex.

Sucrose gradient column electrophoresis was performed with human hepatic and gallbladder bile. It is shown that bile phosphatidylcholines exhibit a more rapid anodic mobility than do bile salts and serum albumin. This high mobility of bile phosphatidylcholines is not due to the negatively charged lipids which are present in bile, i.e. bile salts or free fatty acids. It is demonstrated that phosphatidylcholines are associated with anionic polypeptides. Electrophoresis of reassociations between these purified polypeptides and dilaurylphosphatidylcholine showed that these anionic polypeptides are primarily responsible for the high anodic mobility of the bile lipoprotein complex. This work describes a procedure for the purification of the bile lipoprotein complex which can be useful for the study of other kinds of lipid-polypeptide associations.


Localisation of part of the binding sites of 30S ribosomal proteins S4 and S20 in a small uninterrupted fragment of 16S RNA.

Analyses of the T1 ribonuclease-alkaline phosphatase fingerprint of a continuous fragment of the 16S rRNA, 170-230 nucleotides long, isolated from the products of autodigestion of 30S ribosome subunits show that it contains a sequence near the 5'-phosphate terminus of intact 16S rRNA and corresponds to segment H'-M of this molecule as defined by Ehresmann et al [29]. Incubation of this fragment with total 30S ribosomal proteins under reconstitution conditions leads to the formation of a complex containing proteins S4, S20, and one or both of proteins S16 and S17. The stoichiometry of these proteins in the complex is discussed.


[Studies on the glycopeptides of canine prothrombin].

After degradation of canine prothrombin by the complex of Streptomyces griseus proteases four glycopeptides were obtained. Each of them contained aspartic acid, hexosamines, mannose, galactose and sialic acids. Canine prothrombin contains two or three carbohydrate chanins, which are bound to aspartic (asparagine) residues. Microheterogenity of the carbohydrate chains of canine prothrombin was found.


Pseudo-clinical Fabry's disease without alpha galactosidase deficiency.

The authors describe two cases of clinical Fabry's disease. The first patient presents a deficiency of alpha galactosidase and a urinary excretion of ceramide trihexosides and dihexosides ; the second patient had a normal alpha galactosidase and normal excretion of urinary lipids. In this latter case the Km and the activity of the enzyme measured at different pH were similar to those of normal enzyme. The other lysosomal enzymes, beta galactosidase, beta glucosidase, hexosaminidases A and B, alpha fucosidase, arylsulfatases, phosphatase acids were also measured in patient 2 and all have normal activities. There is no urinary excretion of glycolipids or mucopolysaccharides. Yet this patient has an accumulation of material in his fibroblasts and renal cells. The authors also present a genetic study.


The effects of temperature and ultraviolet irradiation on multiplication of bacteriophage phi29.

The effects of temperature and of ultraviolet radiation on the multiplication of bacteriophage phi29 were studied. Samples of phi29 that had been irradiated to surviving fractions of 0.44 or 0.10 were propagated at 37 degrees C, 42 degrees C and 43.5 degrees C. Latent periods and burst sizes were obtained from one-step growth curves. At a particular temperature, as the dose delivered to the virus was increased, the latent period was extended and the burst size was decreased. For unirradiated virus, the burst size was the same at 42 degrees C as at 37 degrees C, but decreased dramatically at 43.5 degrees C. For virus subjected to a particular dose, the burst size decreased as the temperature was raised. A statistical technique  for improving the reliability of parameters obtained from one-step growth curves is presented.


Calcium ion, a putative intracellular messenger for light-adaptation in Limulus ventral photoreceptors.

Calcium ion fulfills several criteria for identifying an intracellular messenger for light-adaptation in Limulus photoreceptors. Direct injection of Ca++ mimicks two aspects of light-adaptation; sequestration of intracellular calcium tends to prevent light-adaptation; and light induces an increase in intracellular Ca++ as demonstrated by two independent techniques.


Neurofibromatosis: a neoplastic birth defect with two age peaks of severe problems.

A survey involving more than 400,000 patient sources revealed a population of 129 NFT patients relatively unbiased by the specific character of the disease (eg neurologic vs orthopedic problems), though biased in terms of severity. Two age peaks of severe disease were demononstrated, one early in life (10 yr or less) and one late (apex in 36- to 50-yr group). Neural crest-derived malignancies were the critical component of the second peak (75% of severe cases). The high burden nature of the disorder is emphasized by the fact that moderate and severe cases amounted to 64% in the survey population (ie those brought to medical attention) and 26% in nonproband affected family members in 46 families. In addition, even correcting for 5% of ascertainment of minimal-mild cases and 61% ascertainment of moderate-sever cases, 7% of the presumed NFT population may be considereed at risk for severe problems.


[Vesiculocytosis].

Phenomenon of false plaque formation due to release of the cell contents into the surrounding environment and cell pyknosis occurred in case of replacement of physiological saline by hypertonic (10--15%) salt solutions in making the blood and tissue preparations for detection of plaque-forming cells producing autoa antibodies. This phenomenon took place with blood karyocytes of various species of animals and man with the action of different salts, for example sodium nitrate, ammonium sulphate, calcium chloride, etc. False plaque formation in hypertonic solutions failed to take place in all the cells in the preparation, i.e. depended on cell condition. This phenomenon was particularly pronounced at the period of maximal immune response of the cells.


The effects of metiamide on cell-mediated immune reactions in the guinea-pig.

1 The effects of the H2-receptor antagonist, metiamide, on two types of cell-mediated immune response in vivo was investigated in the guinea-pig, in a test of the hypothesis that H2-receptor antagonists would result in 'runaway' unregulated hypersensitivity reactions. 2 Metiamide in doses of 5 mg-125 mg/kg given by 6-hourly injection during sensitization and challenge did not modify the delayed hypersensitivity reaction to tuberculin. 3 Metiamide in doses of 25-125 mg/kg given by injection, 6-hourly throughout sensitization to dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB) and subsequent challenge six days later, did not modify the contact sensitivity reaction to DNFB. 4 It is concluded that metiamide, given during these cell-mediated immune reactions in the guinea-pig, does not enhance cell-mediated hypersensitivity responses.


The concentration maximum concept in intravenous cholangiography.

The excretion of ioglycamate in the bile of the rhesus monkey was measured at 5% and at 100% bile diversion following an intravenous bolus injection of ioglycamate. At 100% diversion the bile volume was reduced and the concentration of ioglycamate was increased, but the quantity excreted was unchanged. A similar study using iodipamide reported previously gave the same result. When the ioglycamate was given by intravenous infusion, the effect of 100% bile diversion was quite different. The concentration of ioglycamate in the bile was unchanged by the bile diversion but the excretion was reduced. These results indicate that the transport maximum for the excretion of ioglycamate in bile is not a constant and is reduced by interruption of the enterohepatic circulation of bile salts. The maximum concentration of ioglycamate in bile was constant and was independent of the reduction in bile salt output produced by 100% bile diversion. Following a single bolus injection however, the reduction in bile flow produced by 100% bile diversion increased the biliary concentration of ioglycamate. These results suggest that the excretion of ioglycamate is limited by a maximum concentration rather than a transport maximum. The maximum rate of transport (Tm) is dependent on two factors--the maximum concentration of ioglycamate in the bile and the rate of bile flow. The maximum concentration is achieved by an infusion technique and not by a single bolus injection and this supports the view that an infusion technique should be used for intravenous cholangiography.


Parenteral nutrition in carcinoma of the oesophagus treated by surgery: nitrogen balance and clinical studies.

Nitrogen balance studies and clinical observations were made on two groups of patients suffering from obstructive carcinoma of the oesophagus. In 10 patients (group A) parenteral nutrition with a high calorie and nitrogen content was given pre- and early postoperatively. Five patients (group B) received intravenous dextrose/saline solution pre- and postoperatively with no nitrogen supply. Patients in group A had a positive nitrogen balance before and after operation and had a satisfactory postoperative progress. The patients in group B had a negative nitrogen balance until the resumption of oral feeding and their postoperative progress was not as satisfactory as that of patients in group A.


Ten-year survival rates in breast cancer using combination chemotherapy.

The outcome in 254 patients with all stages of breast cancer treated by combination chemotherapy is presented. All the patients were treated 10 or more years ago. The 10-year survival rate for Stages I and II combined is 60 per cent, in Stage III 19 per cent and in Stage IV 3 per cent. The combined rate in Stages I and II differed markedly according to hormonal status. In premenopausal patients the rate was 84 per cent compared with 42 per cent in postmenopausal patients.


Antibodies against BCG antigen 60 in mycobacterial infection.

A sensitive specific radioimmunoassay was developed to measure antibodies against BCG antigen 60, a prominent antigenic component of BCG bacilli which cross-reacts with similar components in many mycobacterial species including Mycobacterium leprae and M tuberculosis. A lepromatous serum pool had anti-BCG-60 activity with a titre of 10(5) and the tuberculoid pool a titre of 10(4). Testing of individual sera showed striking variations within groups of patients with lepromatous and tuberculoid leprosy. In five of the 20 tuberculoid leprosy sera the anti-BCG-60 activity was above the median for the lepromatous group. The current view that antibody formation against mycobacterial antigens is very low in tuberculoid leprosy thus no longer appears to be tenable. Sera from eight patients with active pulmonary tuberculosis also showed a striking variation in anti-BCG-60 content, and the median value of this group was even higher than in those with lepromatous leprosy.


Contributions of the corpus callosum and the anterior commissure to visual activation of inferior temporal neurons.

Most neurons in the inferior temporal cortex of the rhesus monkeys have visual receptive fields that extend across the vertical meridian well into both the contralateral and ipsilateral visual half-fields. We examined the role of different portions of the forebrain commissures in providing the ipsilateral input with the following results. (1) Combined section of the splenium and anterior commissure eliminated visual activation from the ipsilateral visual half-field. (2) Section of the splenium, with sparing of the anterior commissure, reduced the incidence of ipsilateral activation by about one-half. (3) Section of the anterior commissure, with sparing of the splenium, did not alter the incidence of ipsilateral activation. (4) Section of the non-splenial portions of the corpus callosum had no effect on the laterality of the receptive fields. Thus, both the splenium and the anterior commissure but not the non-splenial callosum can provide information from the ipsilateral visual field to neurons in inferior temporal cortex. These results are interpreted as suggesting that the converging input from the two visual half-fields onto single inferior temporal neurons provided by the forebrain commissures may mediate interhemispheric transfer of visual habits.


Functional organization of the superior vestibular nucleus of the squirrel monkey.

The response to angular acceleration of units in the superior vestibular nucleus (SVN) of barbiturate-anesthetized, cerebellectomized squirrel monkeys was used to study the distribution of semicircualr-canal inputs to the nucleus. Some so-called intact animals had 6 active semicircular canals. In other animals, the 3 canals on one side were rendered nonresponsive by plugging. In plugged animals, superior, posterior, and horizontal-canal units were encountered on both the plugged and unplugged sides, showing that all 6 canals influence the nucleus. Most units responded bilaterally to labyrinthine polarization; 92.5% of units in intact animals responded to angular acceleration, and this incidence was not decreased in plugged animals. These results suggest that most units in the superior nucleus receive bilateral canal inputs. Convergence of influences arising in orthogonally related canals was detected in less than 10% of units, so the bilateral ampullary influences must arise in parallel canals. Most SVN canal units on the plugged and unplugged sides gave type I responses, indicating that the contralateral canal influence is carried by a crossed inhibitory pathway. Most units influenced by the ipsilateral superior canal were located in the lateral half of the SVN. Posterior-canal units were in the medial half. There was no clear localization of the relatively few horizontal-canal units which were encountered.


Prefrontal granular cortex of the rhesus monkey. II. Interhemispheric cortical afferents.

In 6 adolescent rhesus monkeys, horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was injected into 6 regions of the dorsalateral convexity of the prefrontal granular cortex. The commissural connections originated in both homotopical and heterotopical zones of the hemisphere contralateral to the injection site. The areas affected by the injections, i.e. areas 46,45, 10, 9, 12 and 8a, received extensive homotopical interhemispheric input. HRP-labeled neurons were less extensive in heterotopical as opposed to homotopical cortex but they were seen in all 6 cases and were most common in prefrontal areas and less common in cingulate areas, areas 21 and 22 in the superior temporal sulcus and in insular cortex. The cells, whether of heterotopical or homotopical origin, were located primarily in layer III. The most common distribution pattern was a horizontal band of HRP-labeled neurons which waxed and waned in cell density especially in homotopical cortex or patches and clusters of labeled cells especially in heterotopical cotex. This waxing and waning and grouping of neurons in pathces and clusters may well represent a vertical type of organization to the neurons which give rise to the interhemispheric cortical afferents to prefrontal granular cortex in the monkey.


Sturctural homologies in mammalian neurofilament proteins.

Antibody has been prepared to purified neurofilament protein extracted from calf brain. This antibody crossreacts with brain and nerve extracts from all mammals tested but fails to crossreact with frog, cod and chicken nerve extracts. Thus the serologic homology of these neurofilament proteins appears to be restricted to the mammals. Structural similarities between the mammalian neurofilament protein are also indicated by the strong resemblance between iodinated peptide maps prepared from the electrophoretically purified neurofilament proteins.


A sulphated glycopeptide in human supragingival calculus extracts.

A method is described for the isolation and purification of a sulphated glycopeptide from human supragingival calculus. The compound was isolated after using EDTA treatment, 2 M CaCl2 extraction, proteolytic digestion, ethanol precipitation, and finally purified by DEAE cellulose chromatography. It migrated as a single component of cellulose acetate electrophoresis, and chemical and infrared spectral analysis showed the presence of covalently attached sulphate groups. The sulphated glycopeptide was distinguished from being a sulphated glycosaminoglycan.


Phenylalanine utilization in brain and peripheral tissues during development in normal and protein malnourished rats.

Rats born of mothers fed a low protein diet (8% casein) compared to control rats on a normal diet (25% casein) started 5 weeks prior to mating showed significant increases in uptake, incorporation and percent incorporation into protein of 14C-phynylalanine into brain and peripheral tissues. These effects were most pronounced on the day of birth. Also, different patterns of uptake of radioactive phenylalanine were observed between the two diet groups at birth. At ages 5, 11 and 21 days the 8% casein rats showed significant increases only in uptake and incorporation of 14C-phenylalanine into brain tissues as compared to the 25% casein animals with the percent incorporation of total radioactivity into brain protein being the same for both diet groups. For the most part, there were no significant changes in uptake and incorporation of radioactivity in peripheral tissues for the two diet groups on these post-birth days. Overall, the data indicate the possible presence of a brain specific effect whereby preferential utilization of an essential amino acid (phenylalanine) by the central nervous system occurs when rats are fed a low protein diet.


Feeding and drinking in rats maintained on a low protein diet.

Male and female rats born of protein malnourished mothers were fed a low-protein diet (8% casein) for 150 days after weaning and daily food and water intakes and body weights were monitored. Although daily intakes of diet throughout the study were significantly lower than those of rats maintained on a normal protein diet (25% casein) or stock diet, intakes/100 g body weight were significantly greater. Daily increments in body weight, as percent of previous day's weight, were consistently higher in rats fed the low-protein diet in comparison to rats fed the normal protein diet. Marked retardation of body growth was evident throughout the study although feeding efficiency ratios (daily body wt. increment per g daily food intake) were comparable among the various dietary groups. Compensation for reduction of the protein component of the diet by increased daily food intake/100 g body weight did not alleviate growth retardation.


Species differences in cell culture of mammalian articular chondrocytes.

Articular chondrocytes from eight mammalian species (rabbit, opossum, woodchuck, cat, dog, sheep, rhesus and cebus monkeys) were grown in monolayer culture using a single regimen. The animals were immature or young adults. Ham's F12 medium supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum was employed for the primary cultures and Dulbecco-Vogt medium, for the secondary. Marked species differences were found with respect to cell morphology, growth in primary and secondary cultures, incorporation of radiosulfate into macromolecules, adhesion to the flask surface, response to vitamin C, and chondroid expression in spinner bottles. Under these particular conditions, rabbit chondrocytes grew most rapidly and incorporated several times more sulfate than did the others. Additional experiments carried out with other media on four of the species indicate that optimal conditions for culturing mammalian chondrocytes must be determined for each species individually.


Field potentials in primate locus coeruleus following stimulation of the dorsal noradrenergic bundle.

Stimulation of the dorsal noradrenergic bundle, but not of adjacent areas, elicited field potentials in the locus coeruleus in the stumptail monkey (Macaca arctoides). This result suggests a procedure for locating the dorsal noradrenergic bundle in vivo.


Human pituitary thyrotropin. Isolation and characterization of the hormone and its subunits.

Procedures have been described for the isolation of highly purified thyrotropin form frozen or acetone-preserved glands or from side fractions of somatotropin isolation and for the separation of its alpha and beta subunits. The products have been characterized by terminal residue analyses, amino acid composition, carbohydrate content, disc electrophoresis, ultracentrifugation, and biological activity.


Folic acid compounds in romaine lettuce.

The composition of folate coenzymes in romaine lettuce was studied. Lettuce extract was purified on QAE-Sephadex A-25 and folate compounds were separated into a monoglutamate fraction and a polyglutamate fraction by chromatography on Sephadex G-15. Both the mono- and poly-glutamate fractions were resolved on DEAE-cellulose. Positive identification of DEAE peaks was made by further cochromatography with high specific activity radioactive marker folate compounds and with differential microbiological assay. The distribution of folate compounds in lettuce is as follows: 32% 5-CH3-H4PteGlu; 1% 5-CHO-H4PteGlu; 3% 5-CHO-H4PteGlu4; 9% 5-CH3-H4PteGlu4; 13% 5-CHO-H4PteGlu5; and 31% 5-CH3-H4PteGlu5.


Isolation of sporopollenin from four myxobacteria.

Sporopollenin, a resistance material previously found only in algae, fungi, pollen grains, and in some plant spores, has been found in four species of Myxococcus. Sporopollenin was isolated from vegetative cells and myxospores of the myxobacteria tested but it was not detected in any of the other bacteria tested.


Fimbriation in gliding bacteria.

Of twenty-two strains of gliding prokaryotes examined, all but three were found to possess polar fimbriae. Fimbriae were not observed on two gliders, while Chloroflexus aurantiacus bore abundant peritrichous fimbriae. In some gliding bacteria, fimbriae were associated with 'holes' surrounded by an electron-transparent collar bearing 12 spike-like projections.


Inhibition of attachment of Neisseria gonorrhoeae to tissue cells by goat milk antigonococcal immunoglobulin G.

An immunoglobulin G (IgG)-containing fraction was isolated from milk, obtained from a goat before and after instillation of the mammary gland with Neisseria gonorrhoeae colony type 1 (T1). The presence of IgG and the absence of immunoglobulins-A and -M in this fraction was confirmed by immunodiffusion in gel and immunoelectrophoresis. Postinstillation IgG inhibited the attachment of the homologous strain of N. gonorrhoeae (T1) to tissue cells. The percentage of Rhesus monkey kidney cells with gonococci attached was 38.9% +/- 6.4. Inhibition was significant (P less than 0.01) when compared to the inhibitory effect of preinstillation IgG (73.5% +/- 3.1) or buffer control )76.8% +/- 2.8). Absorption of postinstillation IgG with rabbit anti-goat IgG or whole cell gonococci removed the inhibitory effect. Postinstillation IgG gave little or no inhibition of attachment (maximun 13%) of seven heterologous (T1) strains of N. gonorrhoeae to tissue cells. These results may provide a reason for recurrent gonococcal infection in humans despite the presence of circulating antibody (IgG) to N. gonorrhoeae. Such an antibody, if present in secretions bathing the mucosa, may fail to prevent infection and colonization of the urogenital tract by a different immunotype of N. Gonorrhoeae.


Haloperidol-induced dyskinesias in the monkey.

Haloperidol (0.25 mg/kg i.m.) was injected daily for 6 months in six normal monkeys. Over a 24 hour period, the following symptoms could be observed: akathisia, circling, akinesia, choreoathetoid and dystonic movements, oro-facial dyskinesias and postural tremor with or without harmaline. Six months after cessation of haloperidol, harmaline-induced postural tremor could still be observed in all animals and oro-facial abnormal movements, in one monkey. The neuropathologic study of the experimental material did not disclose any alteration of the central nervous system.


Leukocyte transfusions for the prophylaxis and treatment of infections associated with granulocytopenia.

The role of leukocyte transfusions in the prevention and treatment of infections in adults with granulocytopenia was investigated. Leukocytes were obtained from healthy volunteers by continuous-flow centrifugation. Histocompatibility antigen (HLA)-matched leukocytes were used to assess the prophylactic value of leukocyte transfusions. Seven patients with acute myelogenous leukemia received HLA-matched leukocytes during the period of maximal granulocytopenia associated with initial remission induction therapy; 20 concurrently treated patients who did not receive leukocyte transfusions were the control group. The patients receiving HLA-matched leukocytes had significantly fewer (P = 0.043) infectious episodes (not bacteriologically proven) during the study period, and remission occurred in 5 of the 7, compared with 10 of the 20 controls. In addition, 52 series of two or more ABO-compatible transfusions were given to 50 patients with proven infection or elevated temperature presumed due to infection and a granulocyte count of less than 0.5 X 10(9)/L. Response, indicated by a decrease in temperature, occurred in 23 patients. Leukocyte transfusions thus have an important adjuvant role in the management of patients with severe granulocytopenia.


Total parenteral nutrition in malnourished infants with intractable diarrhea.

Thirty-four infants (25 Inuit and 9 Caucasians) with protein-energy malnutrition and intractable diarrhea were treated with total parenteral nutrition (TNP) consisting of a casein hydrolysate, a soybean emulsion and dextrose. Initially peripheral veins were used in all the infants, and 22 were treated successfully without resort to a central venous catheter. The mean duration of treatment by the peripheral route was 29 days. Although mean energy intake and protein intake were high, weight gain was poor and growth continued at the prehospitalization percentiles. There were two deaths, both from complications of the use of central lines. Specific diagnoses were established for 7 of the 9 Caucasian infants but only 2 of the 25 Inuit infants. Concentrations of serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT) were elevated in 80% of the patients at the time of admission, increased further in 82% when TPN was begun, but decreased towards normal before discharge in all patients. Eosinophilia was common during TPN. Liver biopsy in seven patients with elevated SGOT values showed eosinophilia, increased pigment in the Kupffer cells and slight lymphocytosis in the portal tract. Intercurrent infections occurred frequently and were often preceded by a short period of lipid intolerance or neutropenia, or both. Tolerance to lipids returned after the infections resolved. Thus, peripheral TPN is a safe and relatively simple method of providing adequate nutrition during episodes of diarrhea in malnourished infants.


Tri-hopsital diabetes education centre: a cost effective, cooperative venture.

Six years ago, three teaching hospitals in Canada's fastest growing metropolitan area decided to pool their resources, share facilities and staff to develop a patient education program for the diabetic and his family that would emphasize preventive aspects of medicine and ambulatory care. The venture has paid off handsomely in terms of well informed, highly motivated patients and more effective utilization of costly hospital facilities.


On determining the levels of treatment to optimize the probability of a favorable response.

This paper presents a statistical method for analyzing the dose response surface associated with treatments resulting from combinations of any number of cytotoxic agents. The results of such an analysis are the dosages of each agent in the combination which will maximize the probability of a favorable response. An example utilizing a combination of hexamethylmelamine and ICRF-159 is presented. The predictive ability of the model is verified by a kappa 2 goodness of fit test. The advantages of such a method relate to its potential applicability to more complex experimental situations where multiple drugs are used in combination and/or where variations in timing of drug administration exist.


Exercise testing and indirect assessment of myocardial oxygen consumption in evaluation of angina pectoris.

Exercise testing is an important means of evaluating the patient with angina pectoris, providing objective data not available from conventional clinical assessment. In utilizing exercise to determine functional impairment in angina, it is essential to distinguish between external stress, or the load on the skeletal muscles, and internal or cardiac stress. Evaluation of external exercise capacity alone is limited as a measure of cardiac peformance since the relationship between external function and cardiac performance is not necessarily direct. A readily applicable approach to determination of cardiac capacity in angina is afforded by indirect assessment of myocardial oxygen consumption (MVO2). This is achieved through derived indexes utilizing heart rate and blood pressure, two major determinants of MVO2, in the form of the product of heart rate and systolic blood pressure. Although this approach does not encompass all the major determinants of MVO2, changes in the heart rate-blood pressure product bear a close correlation to alterations in directly measured MVO2. Within limits and employed with caution, indirect assessment of MVO2 is useful in elucidating mechanisms of action of extracardiac and intrinsic myocardial factors in the provocation and therapy of angina pectoris.


Chromosomal rearrangements which affect the chromosomal integration of the ribosomal genes in Drosophila melanogaster.

Sucrose gradient analysis of DNA from detergent-pronase lysates of whole adult flies has been used to examine a variety of genotypes for the presence of ribosomal genes not integrated into the DNA of the chromosome. Such genes were found in females in which one X chromosome carries an inversion, having one of its breakpoints between the nucleolus organizer and the centromere. These inversions move the nucleolus organizer to the distal end of the X chromosome. Other inversions which do not move the nucleolus organizer, as well as a series of bobbed deficiencies, did not induce unintegrated genes. The same inversions which induce unintegrated genes in adults also produce them in the diploid brain and imaginal discs of larvae. On the other hand, in the polytene salivary glands, unintegrated genes were found in every genotype examined.


The effect of X chromosome heterozygosity on the structure of the ribosomal genes in Drosophila melanogaster.

Sucrose gradient analysis of DNA isolated from detergent-pronase lysates of adult flies has been used to look for ribosomal genes not integrated into the DNA of the chromosome in genotypes containing various combinations of inversions having breakpoints in the proximal heterochromatin of the X chromosome. Unintegrated genes are found in females heterozygous for inversions which have one breakpoint between the nucleolus organizer and the centromere. Homozygotes and males do not have unintegrated genes. The results suggest that unintegrated ribosomal genes result from an interaction between homologues having different arrangements of the proximal heterochromatin. In addition, data from a series of stocks carrying duplications of the X heterochromatin provide independent evidence for the size of the DNA on our gradients.


Selection and characterization of cells resistant to diphtheria toxin and pseudomonas exotoxin A: presumptive translational mutants.

Two classes of diphtheria toxin-resistant variants were selected from Chinese hamster ovary (CHO-K1) cells: permeability variants, in which uptake of toxin was impaired, and a new class of cytoplasmic variants, which were cross-resistant to Pseudomonas exotoxin. EF-2 prepared from the cytoplasmic variants was resistant to ADP-ribosylation by either toxin. The evidence presented suggests that these are translational variants possessing a mutationally altered EF-2 gene product. These studies also confirmed that Pseudomonas toxin ADP-ribosylates EF-2 in toxin-sensitive intact cells, as well as in cell-free systems.


Cloned Bacillus subtilis DNA containing a gene that is activated early during sporulation.

An endonuclease restriction fragment of Bacillus subtilis DNA has been identified that contains a gene whose transcription is activated early during the process of spore formation. This 4.4 kilobase (kb) DNA was detected by hybridizing electrophoretically separated Eco R1 restriction fragments with a radioactively labeled RNA of 0.4 kb from sporulating cells. The 4.4 kb B. subtilis DNA was then cloned and amplified in E. coli by insertion into the plasmid vector pMB9. Using the cloned B. subtilis DNA as a hybridization probe, we were able to detect the 0.4 kb transcript in total RNA from pulse-labeled bacteria. In wild-type cells, the gene coding for the 0.4 kb RNA was turned on within the first 30 min of spore formation. Although transcribed normally in a mutant blocked at stage II of spore development, the gene for the 0.4 kb RNA was not turned on in six different mutants blocked at stage 0 of sporulation. We conclude that the cloned B. subtilis DNA contains a gene whose transcription is regulated by events occurring at the onset of spore development.


Sequence arrangement of tRNA genes on a fragment of Drosophila melanogaster DNA cloned in E. coli.

A plasmid with the vector Col E1 attached to an insert of Drosophila melanogaster DNA carrying four tRNA genes has been cloned in E. coli. Some features of the sequence arrangement and the positions of the tRNA genes have been determined by electron microscopic methods and by restriction endonuclease mapping. tRNA genes were mapped at 1.4, 4.7, 5.9 and 8.6 kb from one of the Drosophila/Col E1 junctions in the Drosophila insert of total length 9.34 kb. There are several secondary structure features consisting of inverted repeat sequences of length about 70-100 nucleotide pairs, some with and some without intervening loops, irregularly distributed on the insert. Cross-hybridization of tRNAs isolated by hybridization to separated restriction fragments indicate that the tRNA genes at 4.7, 5.9 and 8.6 kb are identical and differ from the one at 1.4 kb. Thus the positions of the genes, of the secondary structure features and of the restriction endonuclease sites all indicate that the spacers between the genes are not identical tandem repeats. In situ hybridization with cRNA transcribed from the plasmid showed localization at region 42A of chromosome 2R.


Inhibition of prostaglandin synthetase by anti-tumour agents.

The effect of a number of anti-tumour agents on prostaglandin (PG) production from arachidonate by sheep seminal vesicles has been investigated. Of the drugs examined only those belonging to the alkylating agent type series showed inhibition of enzyme activity. Unlike most inhibitors of PG synthetase (EC 1.14.99.1) these agents caused an inhibition of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production, while unaffecting the formation of prostaglandin F 2alpha (PGF2 alpha). This suggests the site of inhibition is the isomerase converting prostaglandin H2 (PGH2) to PGE2. Kinetic studies indicated that merophan [DL-o-micron-(di-2-chloroethylamino)phenylalanine] inhibited the synthetase competitively with respect to substrate. The kinetics of the inhibition were also consistent with the formation of a reversible enzyme-alkylating agent complex prior to irreversible inactivation of the enzyme. The inactivation process could be described by the Main equation from which a dissociation constant (Kd) and a reaction rate constant (k2) were calculated. The inhibition of PG synthetase may be important in the anti-tumour effect of these agents.


Ficoll fractionation for the separation of parasitized erythrocytes from malaria infected blood.

Separation and concentration of parasitized erythrocytes from infected blood was achieved by centrifugation of a sample placed in a layer on top of a cushion of a Ficoll solution with a critical density. Pure suspensions of parasitized erythrocytes were obtained from Plasmodium berghei infected rodent blood, whereas results with P. vivax infected monkey (Aotus trivirgatus) blood were partially successful. Titration experiments revealed that the parasitized erythrocytes obtained by Ficoll fractionation were infective.


The use of transportable single-radial-diffusion immunoplates in seroepidemiological studies of influenza in the Gambia. The occurrence and persistence of antibody to influenza A/Hong Kong/68 (H3N2) virus in selected inhabitants of two rural villages.

Seroepidemiological studies of influenza in the Gambia were made using transportable single-radial-diffusion immunoplates containing A/Hong Kong/68 (H3N2) virus as antigen. The frequency and durability of antibody so detected in selected residents of two Gambian villages (Manduar and Kafuta) are described. Transportable immunoplates were found to be an effective method for the serological surveillance of influenza and to be applicable in studies in remote areas where laboratory facilities may not be available. Results indicated that infection with influenza was widespread in Manduar residents on several occasions between 1968 and 1974 and that reinfection with A/Hong Kong/68 virus or its antigenic variants occurred frequently. Serum levels of antibodies to the haemagglutinin and neuraminidase antigens of the A/Hong Kong/68 virus often persisted for only a short time (mean half-life about 28 days), particularly after first infections. Antibody persistence increased following repeated reinfection. No precise explanation can be offered at present for the relatively short persistence of antibodies in Gambians. Possible reasons include genetic and environmental factors, depressed immunological reactivity associated with concurrent infection (notably parasitic diseases), and unusually high rates of synthesis and catabolism of immunoglobulins. The value of transportable immunoplates for serological surveys and for accurate assessment of antibody persistence is discussed.


Enhanced stability of meningococcal polysaccharide vaccines by using lactose as a menstruum for lyophilization.

A comparison is made between lactose and mannitol as additives for the lyophilization of meningococcal polysaccharide vaccines. From the stability data obtained on storage at high temperatures, it is concluded that vaccines containing lactose as a menstruum for lyophilization are much more stable than vaccines prepared with the currently used additive, mannitol. The enhanced stability of these vaccines makes it possible to store also group A vaccines at 5 degrees C instead of at -20 degrees C, and to use them in places without freezing facilities.


[Genetic activity of mouse oocytes during in vitro "spontaneous" maturation].

Mouse oocytes, liberated from ovarian follicles, resume meiosis in the obligatory presence of Ca++. PHMPS exerts a toxic effect on this mechanism. m-RNA synthesis, in contrast to that of r-RNA. seems to be required during the first hours of maturation in order to ensure realization of the following steps: in addition the 2nd maturation period, corresponding to the first polar body extrusion, depends on the presence of proteins synthesized during the chromatin condensation process and germinal vesicle breakdown. We suggest that it might be a factor responsible for microtubule formation in metaphase I.


[Correlation between inhibition of stimulatory membrane repolarization and positive inotropic response caused by ouabain in rat heart].

During a stimulus train, the diastolic membrane potential of rat atria exhibits a depolarization phase followed by a slower repolarization phase which has been attributed to the activation of an electrogenic sodium pump (ATPase Na+, K+). This pump seems to be all the more active as stimulation frequency is higher. The parallel evolution of the sodium pump inhibition and a positive inotropic effect in response to ouabain perfusion, suggests that the enzymatic inhibition is directly involved in the development of the cardiotonic effect of digitalis.


[Repair of fundo-antral gastric fistula by homologous and heterologous fundo-antral tranplansts in adult rats].

Use of fundo-antral gastric transplants excised from Rat or guinea-pig stomach in order to repair fundo-antral fistula was well tolerated by adult Rats and compatible with a normal survival. In 90% of homologous transplantation, and 70% of heterologous transplantation, no brutal and mortal rejection of transplant was observed. The transplant did not regenerate, but its corpse was not eliminated, and remained united to the wall of the receiver's stomach, and infiltrated with lymphocytes. We explain the benignity of immunologic reaction in evoking the role of the liver which acts as a filter in sequestering a great part of antigens, and so moderating the antibody response by the spleen and lymphoid system.


[Radioimmunoassay of hormonal activity of Gobius niger L. testicular interstitial tissue in organ culture: spontaneous activity and stimulation by pituitary gland].

After the interstitial tissue was cultivated, the radio-immunoassay revealed in the media very small quantities of free testosterone but much larger quantities of testosterone conjugates as glucuronids and sulfates. Association of pituitaries increases greatly the secretion. 12-13 days precultivated pituitaires retain close to 70% of their stimulating potency.


[Reduction of efferent renal nerve activity by propranolol in rabbits].

During intravenous infusion of propranolol (0.3--0.8 mg/kg) in the Rabbit, systolic arterial pressure is decreased (-6.5 +/- 4.2 mmHg) and electrical activity recorded from central end of the renal nerve is reduced significantly (-8.7 +/- 14.-%) with regard to the activity obtained, at the same pressure levels, by hemorrhage (+7.9 +/- 6.4%; p less than 0.25) or by intravenous infusion of the peripheral vasodilator sodium nitroprusside (+14.1 +/- 9.9%; p less than 0.01).


[In vitro study of cellular affinity to various protein supports suited for vascular prosthesis].

We compare the affinity of different cellular samples with regard to variosu artificial materials by organotypic culture method. We use a technique which allows at once, to obtain the cells and to measure their migration on the artificial surface. The results show a high variation of the cellular affinity from one sample to another.


[Location of cysteine in primary structure of yeast 3-phosphoglycerate kinase].

In order to study the location of the single cysteinyl residue in the primary structure of yeast 3-phosphoglycerate kinase, cyanylation by 2-nitro-5-thiocyanobenzoic acid has bben carried out. Analysis of the two fragments obtained shows that the--SH group is located near position 100.


[Unexpected antibiotic properties of a cephalosporin].

The presence of an oximino group on the methylene of the (2-aminothiazol 4-yl)-acetyl side chain bound to the 7-amino cephalosporanic acid affords derivatives with syn or anti configuration. Whereas the anti isomers display low antibiotic activities, the syn isomers possess a surprising high efficiency against gram negative bacteria, enhanced a factor of 10 to 100 as compared with the cephalosporins known at the moment.


[Relationship between ultrastructure of various phages and protein-phage conjugates with their specific neutralization].

Back to our technique of phage sensitization by protein fixation with the aid of coupling reagents, and of their inactivation by the specific anti-protein antibodies, comparative studies were made on phages having a morphologically different tail. Here we report the results concerning the ultramicorscopic observation of four phages, the efficiency and the rate of their sensitization, and the possibility of their respective neutralization.


[Branchial vascularization in the eel: action of acetylcholine and adrenaline on the distribution of polymerizable resin in the different vascular compartments].

The current findings from gill vascular cast preparations in the eel emphasize the division in each primary lamella of the afferent vasculature into two efferent pathways: an arterial pathway (via the secondary lamellae and the efferent branchial artery to the dorsal aorta), a venous pathway (via the central lamellar compartment and the branchial vein to the sinus venosus). By the same technique two antagonist mechanisms have been shown presumably controlling the blood flow in both pathways. 1. Acetylcholine increases the filling of the central lamellar compartment by constricting the efferent arterial sphincters and therefore increases the venous return. 2. Epinephrine impairs the filling of the central lamellar compartment (by acting on alpha receptors) and dilates the arterial pathway (by acting on beta receptors). Therefore the stimulation of these two synergic receptors by epinephrine increases the systemic blood flow.


[Stimulation of the synthesis and non-competitive inhibition of alkaline phosphatase by theophylline in normal hamster fibroblasts and absence of response in transformed fibroblasts].

Theophylline increases the synthesis of alkaline phosphatase in normal Hamster fibroblasts (activity X6 after 24 hours with theophylline 10-3 M). The enzymatic activity of these cells is inhibited by theophylline in vitro (80% inhibition in the presence of theophylline 10-3 M). The inhibition seems to be non competitive, since the apparent Km of the enzyme is not modified. This stimulator and inhibitor effect of theophylline is absent in Hamster fibroblasts transformed by SV 40 virus.


[Action of radiation of the head on the capacity for lymphoblastic transformation in the adult rabbit].

The temporary immunological depression previously demonstrated after high level head irradiation of adult rabbits seems to be due to decrease in lymphoblastic transformation capacity connected with encephalon injury.


[Influence of sex on radioinduced changes in longevity: comparative sensitivity of 2 strains of Drosophila melanogaster].

Two strains of Drosophila were irradiated with 25 to 75 Krads of 60Co gamma rays at a dose rate of 1 000 rad/mm, on the fourth day of imaginal life. A radiosensitivity difference between the strains was observed. However, the influence of sex was similar in the two strains, the females being more sensitive than the males.


[Enzymatic differences in mycobacteria. Ribitol dehydrogenase].

Contrary to the tubercle Bacilli (H37Ra, BCG), Mycobacterium phlei has a ribitol-NAD dehydrogenase (that also oxidizes, although to a lesser extent, erythritol and glycerol). This difference is observed with the Bacteria grown on Sauton's medium, as well as after their adaptation to ribitol. The extracts of all these Mycobacteria reduce, NADP in the presence of glycerol, ribitol or erythritol, though very slowly.


[Transfer of pathogenic activity of a virulent strain of Listeria to an avirulent strain].

The pathogenicity of a virulent strain of Listeria monocytogenes was transfered to an avirulent strain by mixing the filtered culture of the pathogenic strain with an exponentially growing avirulent strain.


[Isolation of Myxovirus influenzae surface antigens by affinity chromatography].

Surface antigens of Myxovirus influenzas A/r8/34 and A/Hong Kong/1/68 were isolated on Fetuin covalently attached to Sepharose. The amino acid composition of isolated neuraminidases was determined.


[Genetic localization of a mutation rendering the growth of E coli K12 insensitive to illumination at 365 nm].

The genotype of the Nop mutant recently isolated from the E. coli K 12 strain AB 1157 has been characterized. This mutant lacks 4-thiouridine in its tRNA and is much less susceptible to near ultraviolet-induced growth delay than wild type cells. This phenotype results from a single mutation called nuv which has been localized on the E. coli genetic map. nuv is found by conjugation to lie between the origins of injection of Hfr P4X and Hfr cavalli in the vicinity of the lac gene. Cotrans-duction with bacteriophage P1 more precisely maps nuv at 0.3 min. clockwise from tsx.


[Rapid freezing of biologic tissue. Measurement of temperature and rate of freezing by thin-layer thermocouple].

An apparatus for rapid freezing of biological tissues by contact with a copper block cooled by liquid helium has been devised to reduce the contamination of copper block surface. It prevents the precooling of the specimen while going through the layers of cold helium gas surrounding the copper block and reduces the quantity of helium necessary for freezing. It also enables one to obtain easily reproducible results from freezing by immersion in liquid coolants. Freezing rates are measured directly, related to the specimen thickness, by a thin film thermocouple; its low thermal inertia gives speed measurements of the order of 100,000 degrees C/s.


[Demonstration of Yersinia pseudotuberculosis in in cultivated soils].

The bacteriological analysis of 37 pools of cultivated soils collected in a limited area in the Parisian district permits the isolation of 14 strains of Y. pseudotuberculosis: 9 strains are of serotype II, 3 of serotype I, 1 of serotype III, and of serotype IV. This diversity contrasts with the prevalence of serotype I in infections of man and animals and the scarcity of type III and IV in these species. The abundance of our isolates is in favour of a large distribution of the germ in this substratum, which can be considered as a potential contamination source.


[Regulation of isoleucine and valine biosynthesis in Bacillus cereus T: possible role of threonine deaminase].

Threonine desaminase: a possible regulatory element suggested by the analysis of isoleucine, valine pathway regulation in Bacillus cereus T.


[Effect of estrogens on infection of rabbits with cattle plague virus previously administered to rabbits].

The Rabbit bovipest virus selectively destroys the lymphoid B line in the Rabbit. Estrogens inhibit this destruction when they are administered before the infection which leads are to think that they act on membrane sites of the lymphocytes.


[Rotavirus and gastroenteritis in the newborn infant. Initial observations].

A simplified method for the diagnosis of Rotavirus by electron microscopy is presented. The incidence of these viruses is observed in new-born infants and the relationship with acute gastroenteritis is recalled.


[Experimental cholera in the monkey].

Experimental studies on cholera in Baboons (Papio, P. anubis) and Rhesus Monkeys, have led to unfavourable results. However we have obtained a typical cholera disease in cotton-top Marmoset Saguines oedipeus.


Circulatory reflexes from carotid and extracarotid baroreceptor areas in man.

The carotid sinus baroreceptor reflex was studied in 11 normotensive subjects, using a variable pressure neck chamber and correcting for imperfect pressure transmission to the carotid sinus. Decreased carotid baroreceptor stimulation caused a sustaineded rise in arterial pressure, and increased carotid baroreceptor stimulation caused a sustain fall. The responses were in linear relation to the stimulus, and, after reaching the steady state, greater for the reduced than for the increased baroreceptor stimulation. Thus the carotid sinus baroreceptor reflex of the normotensive man is an effective antihypotensive and antihypertensive feedback system, though the former function may have more sensitivity. The increased and decreased baroreceptor stimulation by the neck chamber also caused bradycardia and tachycardia which were modest in magnitude and often transient. In eight subjects the reflex changes in heart rate induced by the neck chamber were compared with those induced by altering transmural pressure not merely at the carotid sinus but throughout the arterial tree (injection of phenylephrine and trinitroglycerin). The slopes of these relations were 3 times as great in the latter circumstance. Thus the carotid baroreceptors play a lesser role in heart rate control than do extracarotid baroreceptors.