[Experimental pancreas transplantation in swine].

After surveying the problem of pancreas transplantation the results of pancreatico-duodenal transplantation attempts performed on dogs and 20 pigs are reported. Surgically, the major pancreatic duct is anastomosed to a Roux' loop using a preserved duodenal patch around the papilla. The graft is sited unto the retroperitoneal space. The animals survived for 6 to 9 months. In some cases an increasing fibrosis of the transplantate was observed. Most often, the animals died from pneumonia. The authors want to continue their research in order to obtain better results.


[Prolactin and thyroid stimulating hormone in late pregnancy after stimulation by thyrotropin releasing hormone (author's transl)].

There is little information to what extent the secretion of prolactin (HPRL) can be stimulated in pregnancy. The effect of thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH) on the secretion of HPRL and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in late pregnancy was examined with special emphasis on the amount and time sequence of secretion of both hormones. 21 pregnant women and 20 non-pregnant women were tested by intravenous injection of 200 ug TRH. In the pregnant group the HPRL serum levels increased much more than in the non-pregnant group, however, the increase of HPRL above baseline levels expressed as percentage was lower. In contrast, TSH secretion was similar in both groups. The baseline levels of HPRL did not influence the response to the stimulus. There was no evidence for a correlation between the secretion of HPRL and TSH. The maximal increase of both hormones in serum occurred at various testpoints, however, most of the HPRL peaks preceded those of TSH. Repeating the TRH test after two or three days resulted in good reproducibility concerning HPRL secretion whereas TSH secretion was diminished.


Effect of oral thyrotropin releasing hormone on serum prolactin, thyrotropin and total thyroxine levels in postpartum women.

A study was designed to investigate the effects of oral administration of thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH) on prolactin levels and on thyroid function during the early puerperium. Eight lactating mothers took a single dose of oral TRH (40 mg) while eight other volunteers had a placebo treatment. Serial serum samples taken before and after treatment were assayed for prolactin, thyrotropin (TSH) and total thyroxine (T4) by using specific radioimmunoassays. There was approximately twofold increase in prolactin level at 30--210 min, about sevenfold increase in the TSH level at 210 min, and a marked increasing trend in the T4 level during the study period only in the treatment group. Six mothers treated with TRH and two treated with placebo regarded milk secretion more abundant in post-test than pre-test feeding. However, before TRH could be extensively tested on mothers with deficient lactation a thorough study of the effects of oral TRH on thyroid function in the puerperium is mandatory.


[Investigations into the fire structure of the asexual developmental stages of Frenkelia in the liver of the bank vole (author's transl)].

Bank voles (Clethrionomys glareolus) were infected by stomach tube with Frenkelia sporocysts from the faeces of buzzards (Buteo buteo). The voles were sacrificed at regular intervals and their livers examined electronmicroscopically. Seven days p.i. developmental stages of Frenkelia could be detected in liver parenchymal cells. The youngest schizonts detected are enveloped by a pellicle consisting of two membranes. This pellicle, which is in direct contact with the host cell mitochondria, shows marked invaginations which increase with the development of the schizont. A parasitophorous vacuole is not detectable. In developing schizonts numerous sections through nuclei with nucleic spindles and merozoite anlagen (dome-shaped) structures) are visible. It is not clear whether there are several nuclei or a section through one large and lobed nucleus. Within the merozoite anlagen the conoid and the subpellicular microtubules are formed first. By the prolongation of the dome-shaped structures towards the posterior pole, the nucleus and the other newly formed cell organelles are incorporated into the forming merozoite. The posterior pole of the merozoite still remains open at this stage of development. With increasing differentiation the merozoites become lancet-shaped, their apical poles bing always directed towards the periphery of the schizont. The outer membrane of the pellicle of the schizont forms the outer part of the pellicle of the merozoites by invaginating around them. At this stage of development the inner membrane of the pellicle of the schizont is no longer detectable. Thus the typical pellicle of the motile stages of sporozoaonsisting of three membranes is formed. In the centre of the merozoites which lie freely in the liver cell a residual body is present. The host cell reacts against the parasites by forming a thick border of mitochondria and distinct endoplasmic reticulum.


[Ultrastructure of the cyst wall of sarcocysts of the roe deer (Capreolus capreolus L.) (author's transl)].

The ultrastructure of the cyst wall of two types of sarcocysts from roe deer is described. In the thin-walled cyst (wall thickness 0.18-00.26 micrometer), the primary cyst wall forms long, finger-shaped protrusions distant from one another and running in parallel with the surface of the cyst (Figs. 1a--d, FP). No fibrils are observable in the protrusions. The primary cyst wall between them forms numerous bubble-like invaginations (Fig. 1c, arrows). In the thick-walled cysts (wall thickness 4.9--7.49 micrometer), the primary cyst wall forms massive, palisade-like protrusions lying close one to another (Figs. 2a, c). There are numerous fibrillar and tubular structures in these protrusions (Fig. 2d), and the primary cyst wall occasionally forms shallow invaginations at the base of some protrusions (Fig. 2b). The unit membrane onthe surface of some protrusions is slightly undulated and covered with a layer of short and thick bars on the outside. The sarcocysts found in roe deer are compared with those from cattle and sheep.


Effect of some--SH and other reagents on aspartate aminotransferase and L-alanine aminotransferase of Paramphistomum explanatum Fischoeder, 1901.

Studies on aspartate aminotransferase (GOT) and L-alanine aminotransferase (GPT) of Paramphistomum explanatum have shown that GPT activity has more than twice the activity of GOT. The effect os some--SH reagents like cadmium, mercury, silver and iodoacetamide revealed that both enzymes were inhibited except that GOT was insensitive to cadmium ions. GPT was found to be much more sensitive to--SH reagents than GOT. There was unusual reaction to the two thiols used, cysteine and mercaptoethanol. Cysteine inhibited both the enzymes and mercaptoethanol activated GPT and inhibited GOT. Thiols in combination with iodoacetamide showed that the strong inhibitory effect of cysteine on both enzymes was reduced by iodoacetamide, but with mercaptoethanol the inhibitory effect on GOT was greater than when either of them was used alone, while GPT the effect of either counteracted each other. EDTA activated both enzymes and partially protected mercury inhibition of both enzymes and silver inhibition GOT only. It provided no protection against silver inhibition of GPT but complete protection of GPT against total inhibition by cadmium ions.


[External quality control for anti-D demonstration within the scope of Rh immunoprevention].

In the GDR the success and the dosage of IgG-anti-D in immune prophylaxis after birth of Rh-positive infants from Rh-negative mothers are controlled by the estimation of anti-D antibodies in maternal serum. For this purpose the papain method was introduced in centers for immune prophylaxis since 1970/71 at the time of general introduction of this immune prophylaxis in the GDR. The results if five external quality control experiments in the 16 to 18 such centers in the district of Magdeburg between 1972 and 1977 are recorded. The false positive and false negative reports are discussed and the demand for those regular external quality controls is carried ant.


[Study on the effect of formaldehyde on the immunological reactivity and morphology of hepatitis B-antigen (author's transl)].

Treatment of purified HB-antigen with formaldehyde solution changes its immunological reactivity and its morphology. A decrease in antigen activity by formaldehyde treatment could be demonstrated by radial immunodiffusion and by radioimmunoassay (Fig. 1). Electron microscopic studies revealed a segmentation of tubular HBAg particles into small round forms (Fig. 3) and a shift of the ratio tubular forms: spherical forms in favour of the spherical particles (Table 1). These findings support the hypothesis that 20 nm particles originate from a division of tubular forms. Round forms became smaller after formaldehyde treatment (Fig. 4). The treatment with formaldehyde changed neither the density of HBsAg testes in CsCl gradients, nor the immunologic identity tested in immunodiffusion tests (Fig. 2). All prescribed effects were observed only in the high concentrations of formalin (10 and 1%), whereas in the concentration of 0.1%, which is usually used for inactivations in the development of vaccines, no immunological and morphological changes of the HBAg could be seen.


[Permanence and parellelism of serogroups of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in hospitalized patients (author's transl)].

The determination of O-antigens of 248 serial isolates of Ps. aeruginosa from 50 patients with respiratory, urinary tract or wound infections reveals that over a period of 41 (8-178) days in 12% of cases a change, in 88% no variation of serogroup at the infection site occurs. Simultaneous incidence of different serogroups in the same specimen is not observed. 55 parallel isolates from the various lesions of 26 multiinfected patients have in 46% of cases different serogroups, in 54% the same serogroup. The striking permanence of serogroups at a particular infection site indicates that the O-antigens of Ps. aeruginosa remain constant under natural infection conditions. A change in serogroup suggests--considering the frequent parallelism of different serogroups--reinfection by a new strain.


[Identification of Corynebacterium diphtheriae by Way of Immunofluorescence (author's transl)].

The immunofluorescence technique (IF) will be demonstrated as a time-saving method for identifying Corynebacterium diphtheriae. In three test-series the IF-test was performed on 74 strains of C. diphtheriae which had been isolated in a small case of epidemic in Gelsenkirchen, on 4 strains of diphtheroids and on some strains to be found in the nasopharynx. All of these strains had been taken from blood agar, 69 toxinogenic strains of C. diphtheriae showed a clear, plainly reproducible fluorescence (Fig. 1). The diphtheroids and the other strains tested could be clearly differentiated from C. diphtheriae as a consequence of absent fluorescence of the cell wall. Because of morphological changes effected by potassium tellurite on C. diphtheriae smears made from tellurite media proved themselves to be inappropriate for the IF-test. Swabs from carriers of bacilli were not available for our IF-test. The results obtained from the blood agar, however, show that the IF-technique has to be considered as an improvement and a broadening of diphtheria diagnostics. New prospects present themselves for effecting the long aimed-at rapid diagnosis within a few hours.


[Interaction between the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus of monkeys in delayed spatial choice].

Interaction between bioelectrical processes in the prefrontal cortex and the hippocampus was investigated on three Macaca mulatta performing a task of delayed spatial choice. It was found that the processes of short-term spatial memory are reflected in certain patterns of reciprocal correlations between EEG of the given structures. Different patterns correspond to tasks of different nature. The data obtained corroborate the hypothesis that the functional significance of brain structures may change instantaneously in the course of mnestic activity, depending on regulation requirements.


[Modified procedure for pyocin typing of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (author's transl)].

The Procedure for pyocin typing of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolations as proposed by GILLIES and GOVAN has been modified in the following aspects: strains are arranged in a symmetrical way, with a central producer zone and radial indicator streaks, optimal size of inocula for both producer (300 x 10(6)/ml) and indicators (50 X 10(6)/ml) was determined, unsupplemented Tryptic Soy Agar is used giving identical results to those when TSA is supplemented with 5% horse blood. The typing results obtained with this simplified and standardized procedure were identical with those from the cross streak method.


[Environmental carcinogens: mechanisms of action and occurrence. Some aspects (author's transl)].

New aspects on the mechanism of action of known environmental carcinogens are described. These compounds are not active as such, but are bioactivated in the mammalian metabolism via chemically reactive intermediates to electrophilic reactants, forming with information-bearing biopolymeres covalent bonds. This change in the genetic code is in agreement with the mutation hypothesis of carcinogenesis. Aflatoxin B1, N-nitroso compounds and benzo(a)pyrene are taken as examples. "Threshold levels", e.g. no-effect-levels derived from animal experiments with all their inherent limitations, are compared with data from human exposure to benzo(a)pyren, aflatoxine, N-nitroso compounds and vinyl chloride. The difficulties of such risk evaluations are discussed.


[Comparative investigations on the efficiency of chlorine and ozone against bacteria and spores (author's transl)].

This paper is concerned with the measurement of first order rate constants for the death of bacteria by chlorine and ozone. While the first order conditions for chlorine were achieved with the aid of a new instrument which works basing on the polarographic principle this was attained for ozone under steady state conditions. Besides differences of species some different properties for both oxidants were found as far as their bactericidal efficiency is concerned. They are discussed in this paper.


[Dermatoglyphics in children and adolescents suffering epilepsy].

A dermatoglyphical study was conducted on 393 children and adolescents suffering from different forms of epilepsy. The group of epileptic patients compared to normals demonstrated more frequent existence of the transversal sulcus, less symmetricity on digital patterns. The authors distinguished correlations between dermatoglyphical features and a form of epilepsy, type of a course and pathogenic forms. The obtained data testify to a certain diagnostical and prognostical value of dermatoglyphical features.


Cell sociology and the problem of position effect: pattern formation, origin and role of gradients.

The control of pattern formation and the significance of gradients is reconsidered on the basis of the concept of cell sociology (which takes into account continuous exchange of information between cells and the possibility of autonomous progression in differentiation). Not all traits of a pattern are imposed by a single prepattern, which would be an organized molecular framework or a gradient. Patterns are unfolded in steps; these are readjustments of a cell population to intrinsic and extrinsic changes in cell activities. Prepatterns are the various components of the programme of every readjustment and are established by information of various origins, which can be dissociated experimentally: determination (elementary social prepattern), preexisting organization (antecedent pp.), surrounding cell populations (environmental pp.), position among other tissues (positional pp.) and the organization of inducers (imprinting pp.). Every transitory pattern formed during a readjustment serves as antecedent pp. during the next readjustment. Covert graded patterns result from various aspects of the social behaviour of cells (growth, aggregation, induction, cell renewal) and may serve as antecedent or imprinting prepatterns. They appear as 'water marks' in the final patterns, or generate overt graded patterns. They also manifest themselves in temporal patterns, particularly in gradients of relative growth.


Massive thrombosis of the superior mesenteric, splenic, and portal veins. Report of a case.

A 19-year-old previously healthy youth developed a deep venous thrombosis and a pulmonary embolism in connection with rupture of a ligament of the left ankle. Two months later, while on effective (thrombotest value 21%) oral anticoagulant therapy, the patient had massive thrombosis of the superior mesenteric splenic and portal veins and died. There was no known predisposition to thrombosis, such as tumour, infection, or trauma. A later examination of a 12-year-old brother revealed decreased fibrinolytic activity in the vessel wall as well as a decreased fibrinolytic response to venous occlusion. Since decreased fibrinolytic activity in the vessel wall is sometimes familial, it seems reasonable to suspect that the same defect might have occurred in the patient with the fatal massive thromboembolic disease.


[Electrophysiologic study of hypothalamo-neocortical connections in Macaca mulatta monkeys].

In acute experiments on monkeys studies have been made on the character and functional properties of the EP as well as of extracellular neuronal reactions in the new cortex zones during stimulation of phylogenetically different parts of the hypothalamus. It was shown that most short-latency, low-threshold EP and neuronal responses in the new cortex of the monkeys are recorded during stimulation of the posterior and lateral hypothalamus. It was also demonstrated that the focus of maximum activity of short-latency evoked reactions is localized in the frontal associative cortex. Differences in the effects of the posterior and lateral hypothalamus on the new cortex in monkeys are discussed.


[Complex forms of behavior in a series of vertebrates].

Within evolutionary line of vertebrates, correlation between the degree of differentiation of the brain and peculiarities of the formation of complex behavioural acts may be observed. Gradual evolution in the organization of complex motor food-searching conditioned reflexes and the capacity to visual discrimination was revealed in phylogenetic line of vertebrates: elasmobranchs (rays and sharks), marine teleosts, reptiles (terrestrial tortoises), insectivores (hedgehogs), rodents (rats) and primates (lower monkeys).


[Participation of the frontal lobes in the integrative activity of the brain in Macaca mulatta monkeys].

Frontal lobe neuronal impulsation during complex behavioral program was investigated by means of the multineuronal recording technique. This program consisted of unspecific expectation after the anticipatory stimulus, conditioned stimulus and delay period, trigger signal and alternative selection followed by food award. Such processes as combining the external stimuli into the integrated program, preservation of short term memory traces, correct and incorrect experimental task solution are reflected in principal sulcus neuronal activity. The level of correct selection and corresponding correlates of neuronal activity changes are in direct dependence on the food motivation level. The data are discussed in connection with the development of thalamos--frontal associative brain system which participates in the behavioral program formation based on current biological motivation.


[Prostaglandins and lung].

The physiologic and pathophysiologic role of the prostaglandins in the lung is not fully understood. Prostaglandins seem to be important in the regulation of local blood flow. They might be involved in relaxation of the pulmonary vascular bed by opposing hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction and in constriction of the pulmonary vascular bed after microembolisation. The tonus of bronchial muscle is also probably modulated by the prostaglandins. Prostaglandin degradation in the lung might be another physiological role of lung function, which would allow the regulation of arterial blood levels. It is not known if this is of importance for the regulation of systemic, or other local circulations. If prostaglandins are primarily involved in patients with asthma is not clear, secondary effects at least, are probable. The therapeutic aspects of exogen administered prostaglandins are thus far of little clinical importance for the lung.


Low flow continuous enteral alimentation with the Levy Nutripompe.

The authors reports the existence of an enteral method of alimentation, a real mechanical nutritional aid which, through the Nutripompe, allows exclusive performances: highest calorie intakes, accelerated absorption in the upper portion of the small gut, excellent tolerance, inversion of the tendency to catabolism, undisputed clinical effectiveness, innocuousness, simplicity, little supervision. It is a very economical procedure.


Transplantation of isologous islets of Langerhans in diabetic rats. Long-term immunohistochemical results.

Isologous isolated islets of Langerhans were transplanted into the peritoneum and through the portal vein into the liver of diabetic rats. This resulted in the normalization of fasting blood glucose levels, with clear improvement of glucose tolerance tests. The results after intrahepatic implantation were better than after intraperitoneal implantation. Three months after implantation of islets into the peritoneum diabetes recurred and after one year only 2 of the 15 rats were alive, with high blood glucoe levels. In the group with intrahepatic islets the normalization of blood glucose was maintained over a period of one year. Immunohistochemical insulin proofs were positive in the peritoneum over a period of 3 months and in the liver up to one year after implantation. Glucagon proofs were positive in the intraperitoneal islets for 6 weeks and in intrahepatic ones for one year. Morphological examination of transplanted islets suggested that the liver is better suited for islet transplantation than the peritoneum.


Effective thyroxine ratio in newborn infants during exchange transfusion.

The effect of blood exchange transfusion on the thyroid has been studied by serially establishing the effective thyroxine ratio (ETR). The ETR value is slightly increased in the newborn infant and the level is further augmented by blood exchange. Since the ETR level is lower in the transfused blood than in the blood of the newborn, the finding points to the good thyroid hormone producing capacity of the neonate.


The influence of pentoxyfylline [1-(5-oxohexyl-) 3,7-dimethylxanthine] (BL 191) on the insulin secretion induced by glibenclamide and by arginine/glucose in the perfused pancreas.

Pharmacodynamic characteristics of pentoxyfylline (BL 191) related to insulin secretion by the isolated perfused rat pancreas are studied. The results obtained show that: 1) BL 191 (5 mM) is capable of stimulating insulin secretion, even in the presence of another stimulator; 2) BL 191 increases both phases of the secretion produced by constant arginine 20 mM/glucose 5 mM perfusion; 3) BL 191 significantly increases and turns biphasic the monophasic insulin secretion pattern produced by 1 microgram/ml glibenclamide; 4) the effects mentioned in points 2) and 3) are inhibited if the phosphodiesterase activator imidazole (300 mg/100 ml) is present in the perfusion medium; 5) the phosphodiesterase inhibitor theophylline has the same effects as BL 191, except for its inability to stimulate insulin release in the absence of another stimulator; 6) somatostatin (100 ng/ml) significantly inhibits insulin secretion produced by arginine/glucose or glibenclamide, as well as by arginine, glucose plus theophylline or BL 191, and by glibenclamide plus theophylline or BL 191, in both cases the inhibitory effect of somatostatin is reduced by the presence of BL 191 or theophylline.


Plasma free amino acid levels during the initial rehabilitation of protein-energy malnutrtion with protracted diarrhoea using a free amino acid--glucose diet.

This study intends to assess, by ion-exchange chromatography of free amino acid levels of peripheral blood plasma, the amino acid absorption of severely growth retarded infants with protracted diarrhoea, during the initial period of rehabilitation. Eleven infants from a very low socio-economic group of a developing country, with nutritional marasmic growth retardation and prolonged diarrhoea, were treated for a period of 10 days with a commercially available free amino acid--glucose diet (Vivonex, Pfrimmer Co., Erlangen, Germany). Excessive hyperprolinaemia characterized the plasma aminogram before treatment. After initial rehabilitation with this diet, the plasma analyses showed very low branch-chained and cystine levels, and marginally high alanine, glycine, and proline levels. It seemed that the free amino acids could not be absorbed quickly enough to meet with the high supply of glucose. Furthermore, this investigation supports the assumption that cystine is an essential amino acid in malnourished infants. In spite of normal or high human growth hormone levels, somatomedin was not detectable in pooled samples from these severely growth retarded infants.


Polygraphic study of the orienting reflex in patients with late post-traumatic epilepsy.

A polygraphic study performed on 102 patients with late post-traumatic epilepsy has shown marked interictal nervous reactivity disturbances. The disturbances, estimated by testing for the electrographic components of the orienting reflex elicited by a repetitive auditory stimulus, and for their habituation, were expressed by alterations in the intensity, resistance to habituation and sequence of habituation of the somatic, autonomic and EEG components. The character and severity of these disturbances depended on the site of the traumatic impact, lesional aspect of cranio-cerebral trauma, electro-clinical form of seizures and features of interictal EEG tracings.


Effects of pure chlorobiphenyls (2,4',5-trichlorobiphenyl and 2,2',4,4',5,5'-hexachlorobiphenyl) on the post-natal growth in mice.

The post-natal growth rate of young mice, pre- and post-natally exposed to either 2,4',5-trichlorobiphenyl or 2,2',4,4',5,5',-hexachlorobiphenyl has been studied. The results show that both the chlorobiphenyls have the ability toincrease the post-natal growth rate in mice and they indicate that this ability of 2,4',5-trichlorobiphenyl is most pronounced in females whereas that of 2,2',4,4',5,5',-hexachlorobiphenyl is most pronounced in males.


Steroidal antiinflammatory drugs as inhibitors of phospholipase A2.

It would seem that steroidal antiinflammatory drugs can block the prostaglandin endoperoxide releasing activity of a wide variety of stimuli. This seems to be due to an inhibition of the release of the fatty acid substrate since the effect is easily reversed by the addition of substrate. The effect of steroids on phospholipase A2 activity in lungs was investigated and it was found that these drugs inhibited the enzyme activity in a time-dependent reversible fashion and that they will block the effect of stimuli such as RCS-RF (bradykinin being an exception). The steroids do not appear to inhibit the phospholipase directly since they do not work in cell-free homogenates. It is too early to say whether or not the antiinflammatory activity of steroids depends on the actions. Many important experiments remain to be done, for example: what exactly is the nature of the phospholipase activation process? Which particular step are the steroids inhibiting? Why do they not work against bradykinin induced stimulation? We hope that in the not too distant future we shall be able to supply the answers to some of these questions.


Effects of ischemia on the oxygen diffusion coefficients in the brain cortex (studies on Macaca irus).

In this series of experiments changes in oxygen diffusion coefficients were measured in waking primates undergoing focal middle cerebral artery ischemia; Ligation of the middle cerebral artery followed by a decrease of the oxygen diffusion coefficient in the areas supplied by that vessel to levels ten to twenty per cent below normal by twenty-five minutes following onset of ischemia. Following release and re-perfusion diffusion coefficient gradually increases and reaches a super normal peak value three hours after release of ligation. This is followed by a gradual reduction in diffusion coefficient with stabilization at preocclusion levels. In the three experiments described these changes following re-perfusion corresponded with clinical improvement of the neurological status of the monkeys;


Yersinia enterocolitica infections in non-human primates.

Yersinia enterocolitica was isolated from ten non-human primates in the Netherlands. The following species were represented: Potto, Senegalgalago, wooly monkey, black spider monkey, common marmoset, cottonhead tamarin, pigtailed macaque and lesser whitenosed guenon.


The chemical restraint of  apes and monkeys by means of phencyclidine or ketamine.

The anesthetic effects of two drugs, namely, Phencyclidine and Ketamine, used alone or in combination with atropine, were compared during clinical and experimental procedures on different primate species ranging from gorillas, orangutans, white-faced and dwarf chimpanzees, baboons, cercopithecus monkeys to new--world monkeys. It is concluded that both these anesthetics are very good and safe drugs for restraint and anesthesia. Ketamine appeared to be superior to Phencyclidine for use among apes and monkeys in so far as it is shorter acting, has wider safety margin and shorter recovery time, provides better muscle relaxation and is practically without side effects. But Phencyclidine has definite advantage in so far as it is needed is smaller quantity to produce comparable effect of anesthesia.


Differential effects of Pitressin on blood flow and oxygen extraction in canine vascular beds.

Physiologic studies in dogs have been performed with an intravascular flow/diameter sensor which can be introduced directly into the aorta or its branch vessels through a percutaneous radiologic catheter. These studies have focused upon attempts to devise a clinically practical means to protect the small intestine from radiation damage during therapy of abdominal and pelvic malignant tumors. The effects on superior mesenteric, renal, and lower extremity blood flows of controlled infusions of Pitressin given directly into the superior mesenteric artery or into a peripheral vein have been measured. In addition, using these regional flow measurements and arteriovenous differences in oxygen content, regional tissue oxygen extraction rates during Pitressin infusions have also been estimated. The data show that intravenous Pitressin at an infusion rate of 0.0124 U/kg/min may be almost as effective as Pitressin given directly into the superior mesenteric artery in lowering superior mesenteric blood flow (40%-70% reduction for intravenous, 50%-70% for direct arterial infusions) and intestinal oxygen extraction (20%-40% reduction for intravenous, 40%-50% for direct arterial infusions). The effects of Pitressin at similar dose rates on the kidney and the lower extremity are less reproducible, and it is possible that relatively selective radiation protection of the intestine using systemic (intravenous) infusions of Pitressin during abdominopelvic radiotherapy might be achievable.


Effects of intravenous vasopressin on canine mesenteric arterial blood flow, bowel oxygen consumption, and cardiac output.

The effects of various doses of intravenous vasopressin on mesenteric arterial blood flow, intestinal oxygen consumption, and cardiac output in anesthetized dogs were investigated. Optimal dose rate of intravenous vasopressin was found to be 3.0 mU/kg/min. At this dose rate, mesenteric arterial blood flow, intestinal oxygen consumption, and cardiac output decreased by 57%, 57% and 26%, respectively. Increasing the dose rate to 8.0 mU/kg/min did not offer significant gains. Maximum effect was observed 20 min after the beginning of the infusion. The effects disappeared 10-20 min after the infusion was discontinued, with the exception of superior mesenteric blood flow which showed a rebound increase. We conclude that in the anesthetized dog, intravenous infusions of vasopressin at low dose rates (3.0 mU/kg/min) substantially reduce mesenteric blood flow and intestinal oxygen extraction with moderate reduction of cardiac output. Possible clinical applications of low dose intravenous infusions of vasopressin would include reduction of portal hypertension and bowel protection during radiation therapy.


Double-blind study of single and double contrast upper gastrointestinal examinations using endoscopy as a control.

A total of 100 patients were examined by both single and double contrast upper gastrointestinal radiography. The radiographs were coded, interpreted blindly by two gastrointestinal radiologists, and the accuracy of each examination was determined using endoscopy as the standard. The interpretation error rate for each type of examination alone was almost identical. Interpretations based on a combination of both studies significantly reduced both the false positive and negative errors and strongly suggests a complementary role for the two methods.


Double channel pylorus.

Radiographic and clinical features in five patients with the double channel pylorus deformity are reviewed and compared with previously reported cases. The double channel pylorus is a form of gastroduodenal fistula with a characteristic radiographic appearance. An accessory channel connects the lesser curvature of the prepyloric antrum with the duodenal bulb. A peptic ulcer lies in or immediately adjacent to the accessory channel in almost all cases. The double channel pylorus appears to be an acquired form of peptic deformity in the great majority of cases and is probably more common than the number of reported cases would imply.


Cholecystokinetic cholecystography: efficacy and tolerance studies of ceruletide.

The effect of intravenous and intramuscular administration of ceruletide on gallbladder contraction was investigated in 67 normal volunteers and patients. Of the 45 normal volunteers, 33 received the drug intravenously and 12 intramuscularly in graded ascending doses. By either means of injection, ceruletide produced a substantial contraction of the gallbladder with a measurable reduction in gallbladder area. Based on findings in these groups, the 22 patients requiring oral cholecystography for clinical evaluation received 0.3 microgram/kg intramuscularly. The intramuscular administration of synthetic ceruletide after oral cholecystography, in a dose of 0.o microgram/kg, afforded a safe and effective means of gallbladder contraction, with resultant cystic and common bile duct visualization. Side effects occurred less frequently when the drug was administered intramuscularly and were minimal and self-limiting. Peak contraction (40% or greater reduction in size) occurred as early as 5-15 min after after intramuscular injection and in most instances within 30 min.


Percutaneous cholangiography in infants.

Percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography was attempted in eight infants with normal-size bile ducts and was successful in four. The technique described is feasible in the infant age group, and is useful in the infant with obstructive jaundice.


Computed tomography of the gallbladder.

Computed tomography (CT) was used to study 79 patients with suspected gallbladder disease. First and second generation scanners were used to determine the efficacy of CT in detecting cholecystitis or cholelithiasis. Manifestations of gallbladder disease such as hydrops, opaque and nonopaque gallstones, chronic cholecystitis with thickened inflammatory walls, and secondary liver abscesses can be easily detected. It is a useful technique for individuals in whom the gallbladder has failed to opacity on oral cholecystography. The scanning method is described, and estimates of reliability are given including its accuracy, limitations, and place in the management of gallbladder disease, especially cholelithiasis. When conventional radiographic examinations or ultrasound fail to give definitive diagnostic information, CT can be a useful alternative with an overall diagnostic accuracy greater than 80%.


Scanning techniques in computed body tomography.

Clinical examinations with the whole body CT scanner require considerable individualization of examination technique in relation to specific organs, anatomic areas, and clinical problems. Careful selection of radiographic factors, patient position, contrast agents, and pharmacologic adjuncts will optimize diagnostic results and patient throughput.


Spontaneous resolution of colonic strictures caused by necrotizing enterocolitis: therapeutic implications.

Colonic strictures are now a well recognized complication in infants surviving necrotizing enterocolitis. We describe the clinical course of seven infants with colonic strictures after necrotizing enterocolitis. Only two demonstrated the finding of fixed fibrotic stricture described in the literature, while the remaining five showed atypical radiographic and pathologic features. Two of the five showed partial or spontaneous resolution of post-necrotizing enterocolitis colonic stenoses on follow-up barium enema studies. In three of four patients with colonic resections, the histopathologic examination revealed a surprising absence of irreversible fibrosis or cicatrix formation. Current surgical practice dictates elective resection of these narrowed colonic segments. The radiologic and pathologic findings in our series of patients suggest surgical resection may be unnecessary in selected cases.


Ultrasonic detection of renal tumor extension into the inferior vena cava.

Five cases of extension of renal carcinoma into the inferior vena cava were detected using gray scale ultrasonography. Two different ultrasonographic appearances reflecting the intracaval tumor were observed. Four patients had one or two intraluminal echogenic nodules or thrombi, and the fifth case manifested generalized caval dilatation with innumerable diffuse low amplitude echoes emanating from the lumen. The role of ultrasonography in the complete evaluation of the patient with renal carcinoma is discussed, and the ultrasonographic features of intracaval tumor are demonstrated.


Replacement lipomatosis of the kidney.

Replacement lipomatosis and renal sinus lipomatosis are parts of a spectrum of fatty replacement of destroyed or atrophic renal tissue. When long-standing inflammation exists in a kidney, especially with calculus disease, replacement lipomatosis may be the end result. Awareness of this process along with the specific radiologic findings will allow a correct preoperative diagnosis.


Ectopic vas deferens: a report of two cases and review of the literature.

Two new cases of ectopia of the urethral end of the vas are described, and six cases reported since 1949 are reviewed. Most cases had associated urinary tract abnormalities, often anomalies of renal position, and imperforate anus was the most frequent gastrointestinal anomaly. The most productive mode of radiologic evaluation was voiding cystourethrography. The two types of insertion and the associated urinary and gastrointestinal anomalies are analyzed on the basis of embryologic development.


Cerebral ischemia. I. Current angiographic techniques, complications, and safety.

The angiographic evaluation of the transient ischemic attack has been technically difficult, time consuming, and complication prone because of underlying arteriosclerosis and other medical diseases. The examination described depends upon small soft catheters, dynamic fluoroscopy for positioning, and selective magnified views of the arteries needed for surgical planning. Five basic views are exposed. On the side of clinical interest, a lateral view of the head and neck, a frontal view of the head, and a fluoroscopically positioned view of the carotid bifurcation are obtained; on the other side the frontal view is omitted. A total of 662 consecutive studies were performed on 603 patients without death or permanent strokes. The only permanent complication was a partial radial nerve palsy.


Angiography of chronic hemodialysis arteriovenous grafts.

The arteriovenous graft has become an accepted vascular access route for chronic hemodialysis. Angiography plays in important role in the demonstration of graft abnormalities and in the management of graft malfunction. We describe the two basic techniques of graft angiography and classify graft abnormalities and factors associated with graft malfunction. The role of angiography in each category is analyzed, and representative cases are presented. Pertinent clinical material is also presented to provide information concerning the relative frequency of graft complications. In addition, the role of arteriovenous grafts in chronic maintenance hemodialysis and highlights in the development of graft technology are reviewed.


Aortic dissection beginning in the abdomen.

Two cases of aortic dissection beginning in the abdominal aorta are presented, and the angiographic and surgical principles are discussed. Every effort must be made to identify the sites of all intimal tears at aortography and to excise or oversew these sites at surgery; otherwise, dissection may continue. If an intimal tear cannot be identified at aortography, we recommend initial conservative therapy unless the patient's clinical condition forces emergency surgery.


Angiography of extremity masses in children.

Arteriography has proved useful in evaluating 24 children with soft tissue extremity masses. In all cases, it was possible to distinguish between benigna and malignant tumors. The five patients with malignant tumors had increased vascularity with coarse irregular vessels and irregular tumor staining. Arteriovenous shunting was present in three of these five. In addition, clinically unsuspected satellite tumors (local metastases) were seen in two patients. Arteriography in 19 patients with benign conditions was characteristic. Benign tumors of non-blood vessel origin (five) showed only arterial displacement but no pathologic circulation. Five hemangiomas and six arteriovenous malformations were easily distinguished; characteristic appearances were present in three patients with miscellaneous benign masses.


Craniocaudal axial view of the sacroiliac joint.

A technique that provides a craniocaudal axial view of the sacroiliac joint is described. This technique gives information about the ventral aspect of the sacroiliac joint, particularly at the level of the pelvic brim. It can demonstrate extraarticular ventral ankylosis of the joint, which is not visible or only suspected on anteroposterior films. In osteitis condensans ilii, it shows the thickness of the involved iliac bone. It is very useful for the accurate localization of paraarticular changes.


Migrating bone shards in dissecting Charcot joints.

Extensive periarticular calcification is characteristic of Charcot joints. Fragmentation of the articular margins of bone contributes to the bony detritus, but the majority forms de novo in the joint capsule. Occasionally the calcific debris is seen far removed from the joint. Dissection of a chronically distended joint along muscle planes is most commonly associated with the inflammatory joint disease of rheumatoid arthritis. Its occurrence in Charcot joints is documented by arthrography, which demonstrates continuity of the joint space and the distant calcifications.


Retropharyngeal tendinitis.

The tendon of the longus colli muscle is an unusual location for a common condition. Acute inflammation with calcareous deposits is similar in radiographic and clinical presentation to acute calcific tendinitis in common locations, such as the supraspinatus tendon in the shoulder. The radiographic finding is characteristic amorphous calcification localized anterior to C1 with associated swelling of the prevertebral soft tissues from C1 through C4. After the acute phase, calcification becomes more poorly defined and begins to resorb, with resorption usually complete by 1-2 weeks. The clinical feature is rather sudden onset of severe pain in the neck and throat aggravated by swallowing and movement of the head; this may be associated with mild fever and elevation of sedimentation rate. Pain reaches a maximum at 2-5 days, then gradually subsides, usually completely by 1-2 weeks.


The pulmonary-renal syndrome.

The pulmonary-renal syndrome is characterized by the coexistence of life-threatening pulmonary hemorrhage and renal disease in individuals without any concomitant destructive pulmonary disease or coagulopathy. Six patients fulfilled the above criteria despite diverse etiologies and pathomechanisms of disease. Two patients showed evidence of anti-glomerular basement membrane antibodies, while three others showed immune complexes in their kidneys. Therefore, it is likely that immunologic events play an important pathogenic role in this syndrome, explaining the effectiveness of nephrectomy as demonstrated in these patients. The chest radiograph was a reliable indicator of the extent of the pulmonary hemorrhage and was representative of the clinical presentation and blood gas levels. During the recovery phase the radiographic findings lagged somewhat behind the clinical improvement in the gas exchange.


Chest film diagnosis of patent ductus arteriosus in infants with hyaline membrane disease.

Patent ductus arteriosus in an infant with hyaline membrane disease is usually a serious complication. To evaluate the diagnostic role of chest radiography in these infants, a double-blind study comparing patients with both hyaline membrane disease and patent ductus arteriosus and matched controls was undertaken. Three pediatric radiologists acted as observers. In no instance were they more reliable than chance in predicting the presence of a patent ductus arteriosus. Analysis according to various clinical criteria (e.g., severity of illness, PAO2) also failed to show any subgroup in which the observers were accurate. From these data it is concluded that chest radiography does not play a significant role in the diagnosis of patent ductus arteriosus in infants with hyaline membrane disease.


Ultrasonic evaluation of radiographic opacities of the chest.

The nature of pleural based radiographic opacities in the chest can be uncertain; however, ultrasonic examination provides a reliable means of distinguishing solid from fluid-containing lesions. It is superior to both fluoroscopy and radiography in accurately localizing loculated fluid collections for thoracentesis and can be performed with commercially available gray scale contact scanning equipment. Cases representing a spectrum of clinical applications are discussed.


Mammographic patterns and risk of breast cancer.

A study of 171 breast cancer cases matched by age and race to asymptomatic controls was undertaken to check Wolfe's assertion [1, 2] that breast cancer risk depends strongly on the mammographic classifications N1, P1, P2, and DY. The classifications were made blindly relative to all variables, including the case-control factor. Distribution of the four categories among the breast cancer patients in this study was consistent with the distribution found by Wolfe. (P = .46). Our age-standardized risk ratio estimates of the categories, relative to N1, are 1.5 for P1, 2.7 for P2, and 7.2 for DY. While not as striking as Wolfe's estimates, the same monotone trend is evident, and the cases and controls differ significantly with respect to the distributions of the four categories (P less than .01).


Contact spot xeromammography in the early diagnosis of breast cancer.

As currently used, xeromammography is a sensitive and specific test to detect early breast cancers. However small the incidence of false positive and false negative diagnoses may be, they do lead to either false assurance of health in some breast cancer patients or cause some cancer-free women to undergo further radiologic and/or surgical diagnostic workup. To improve the accuracy of xeromammography in breast cancer diagnosis, contact spot xeromammography was used to enhance the image detail when findings on the conventional xeromammogram proved ambiguous. This contact spot technique has now been used about 2,500 times in 10,000 asymptomatic women. Our experience with contact spot xeromamography is described, including instances in which it led to correct diagnoses.


An economic evaluation of a genetic screening program for Tay-Sachs disease.

The resolution of policy questions relating to medical genetic screening programs will not be without considerable difficulty. Examples include such issues as the optimal degree of screening program expansion, the relative values of screening for different genetic diseases, the appropriate sources of program funding (public vs. private), and the relative value of funding expanded genetic screening programs vs. research directed toward elimination of genetic traits themselves. Information on the net impact of the relevant alternatives is greatly needed, and this need will increase if the National Genetics Act receives funding approval. We have provided what is hopefully a contribution toward this end. While our analysis pertains to a specific disease and a specific screening program for that disease, the methodology is readily generalizable to other genetic diseases, as well as programs of any size or structure. Hopefully, this will serve to stimulate further research efforts that we believe are needed for the objective consideration of resource allocation alternatives.


Stability of nitroglycerin injection determined by gas chromatography.

The stability of nitroglycerin injection was studied over an eight-week period. Gas-liquid chromatographic assay and thin-layer chromatography were used to study the stability in relation to sorption by rubber and plastic (Viaflex), light and the effect of two diluents (5% dextrose in water and 0.9% sodium chloride for injection). More nitroglycerin was lost from vials with rubber closures, and the loss occurred at a faster rate when compared with nitroglycerin packaged in ampuls. There was no difference in the loss of nitroglycerin from injection packaged in ampuls when stored in the light or in the dark, or in the loss of nitroglycerin from two diluents, 5% dextrose in water and 0.9% sodium chloride for injection, packaged in glass bottles. A 70.4% greater loss of nitroglycerin occurred from Viaflex bags than from glass bottles. Loss of nitroglycerin in this study may have been characterized by reversible first-order kinetics.


Apparent stability of nitroglycerin in dextrose 5% in water.

The apparent stability profile of nitroglycerin (NTG) in dextrose 5% in water when packaged in glass bottles and plastic bags was studied under the following conditions: room temperature (25 +/- 1 C) and room light, room temperature protected from room light, and refrigeration (4 C). NTG stability was assessed by monitoring drug disappearance from solution over a period of five hours after preparation of the admixtures. A spectrophotometric assay was used. There appeared to be no difference in the apparent rate of NTG disappearance when prepared in either glass bottles or plastic bags. Protection of the drug solutions from room light had no apparent effect on the disappearance pattern of NTG. Furthermore, although refrigeration of the NTG solutions appeared to increase the stability of the admixtures, this effect was not seen until approximately four to five hours after preparation of the solutions. It is possible that sorption onto the walls of the glass bottles and plastic bags may account for the observed disappearance of admixed NTG in dextrose 5% in water.


A simple photogrammetric method of measuring anterior chamber volume.

We devised a convenient method of measuring anterior chamber volume in man. Photographs of the anterior chamber were taken with a Zeiss photographic slit lamp with a Polaroid attachment, and measured with a specially constructed transparent scale. Using this method, the standard deviation of individual measurements of volume on different occasions in a given eye was 8 microliter. The standard deviation of the differences between right and left eyes of normal subjects was 10 microliter. The volume of the anterior chamber measured in 78 eyes of 39 normal subjects (mean age, 28 years; range, 19 to 56 years) was found to be 209 +/- 37 microliter (mean +/- SD). We observed a small negative correlation between the age of the subject and the volume of the anterior chamber.


Retinal damage produced by intraocular fiber optic light.

We exposed the maculas of owl monkey eyes to light from an intraocular fiber optic light source similar to that used for human pars plana vitrectomy. Retinal irradiance was calculated at 0.22 W/cm2. Eyes were exposed for time intervals ranging from 30 minutes to five minutes and were observed after light treatment by fundus photography and fluorescein angiography. Tissue was obtained for light and electron microscopy by animal killing at one hour, 24 hours, one week, and four weeks. Fundus lesions were seen ophthalmoscopically as early as five hours following 30 minutes of light exposure. Significant damage to the photoreceptor layer and less damage to the pigment epithelium was present by light and electron microscopy as early as one hour after 30 minutes of light exposure. By one month complete loss of photoreceptors with Müller cell junctions between inner retina and flattened abnormal retinal pigment epithelium cells was observed. Fluorescein angiography revealed significant staining of the pigment epithelium and outer retina 24 hours after 30 minutes of light exposure. No leakage from retinal vessels occurred. At one month following light treatment, transmission of choroidal fluorescein through window defects in the pigment epithelium was present with no retinal staining. The threshold for ophthalmoscopically visible fundus lesions in this study was 15 minutes of light exposure. Ten minutes of light treatment was the threshold for microscopic changes. Short light exposures damaged the outer retina and spared the pigment epithelium. Removing a substantial amount of the infrared light from our light source did not protect the retina from damage. Removal of light between 400 and 500 nm is probably more helpful in protecting the retina. Intermittent light exposure of the retina seemed as harmful as uninterrupted illumination for the same cumulative period of time. We speculate that the retinal damage caused by intraocular fiber optic light has primarily a photic mechanism. Damage to the retinal pigment epithelium may be secondary to outer retinal damage. The present levels of intraocular light used for human pars plana vitrectomy are probably safe in most instances. Lengthy preretinal membrane stripping procedures during vitrectomy, however, may pose a threat of light damage to the retina. This damage must be appreciated as continued efforts are made to produce brighter sources of intraocular light for human pars plana vitrectomy.


Intraocular penetration of gentamicin after subconjunctibal and retrobulbar injection .

We compared the ocular penetration of labeled with radioactive carbon gentamicin in squirrel monkeys after subconjunctival and retrobulbar administration. In both normal and infected (Staphylococcus aureus endophthalmitis) eyes, high concentrations of drug were achieved in the sclera and choroid-retina by both routes, while corneal levels were markedly higher after subconjunctival injection than after retrobulbar injection. Regional variations in concentration were evident in these tissues; the highest levels were clustered about the site of injection. Aqueous humor concentrations were lowest in the group with normal eyes treated by the retrobulbar route; vitreous humor levels were extremely low in normal eyes injected subconjunctivally. These data differ from those in rabbits, especially with regard to penetration of the vitreous humor of normal eyes. Interspecies differences were less marked in inflamed eyes. The two species were similar in demonstrating maximum access to the cornea and aqueous humor with subconjunctival injection, and equivalence of the two routes in penetrating the vitreous humor of the inflamed eyes.


Anticholinesterase-induced cholinergic subsensitivity in primate accommodative mechanism.

I treated cynomolgus monkeys with topical echothiophate iodide twice daily for several months. Accommodative responses to topical or intramuscular pilocarpine were determined after ciliary ganglion or cholinergic nerve blockade. During echothiophate treatment, there was little or no accommodative response to intramuscular pilocarpine doses which were near maximal in nonechothiophate-treated eyes. Similarly, echothiophate-treated eyes demonstrated little or no response to topical pilocarpine doses that were more than 50 times supramaximal in nontreated eye. Within two weeks after stopping echothiophate, accommodative responses to intramuscular pilocarpine had returned noticeably, and by seven weeks after stopping echothiophate, sensitivity to intramuscular pilocarpine had increased to 30 to 50% of control levels. The findings are compatible with acetylcholine-induced cholinergic subsensitivity of the ciliary muscle.


Craniofacial adaptations after total maxillary osteotomy in Macaca irus: a cephalometric and histologic study.

Five Macaca irus monkeys were used in this study to determine cephalometric and histologic changes after total maxillary impactions. In the three experimental animals, the maxilla was impacted 5 to 7 mm. and lateral cephalograms were taken over a 150-day period. By superimposing on craniofacial implants, osseous and dental changes were measured. Excellent skeletal stability was demonstrated during the postoperative period. Histologically, there was normal osseous healing of the osteotomized maxillas. Accompanying the counterclockwise rotation (overclosure) of the mandible, there was extensive change in the temporomandibular joint. In the experimental monkeys, the fibrous articular covering of the temporal fossa was thin and irregular. The condylar cartilage appeared atrophic and showed considerable aging; also, the articular disc was much thicker in the experimental animals. The study showed the superiorly repositioned total maxillary osteotomy to be a stable procedure after 150 days of postoperative observation. However, further studies are needed to investigate the neuromuscular and adaptive response of temporomandibular articulation and mandibular rest position after maxillary surgical procedures.


Ossification in the hand and foot of the macaque (Macaca nemistrina). I. General features.

The appearance of the secondary centers of ossification was investigated in hand and foot radiographs of 112 fetal and neonatal Macaca nemestrina and a maturational index calculated using a scoring system that differentiated between the initial and later stages of ossification. Cumulative incremental curves of skeletal maturation, constructed by plotting the maturational indices against gestational age, demonstrated three distinct periods of ossification: the First Acceleration when primary centers appear, the Plateau, and the Second Acceleration when the secondary centers ossify. Similar curves are constructed for human prenatal and postnatal ossification. The results are also compared with those reported for M. mulatta, and the bases of the observed differences are discussed. Compared with other primates, the fetal and neonatal macaque shows a developmental precocity which may be an ontogenetic adaptation to the socioecological setting of terrestrial life.


Population structure and genetic heterogeneity in the Upper Markham Valley of New Guinea.

An analysis is presented of the standardized Wahlund's variances (f) in gene frequencies of the ABO, Rh and MNS blood group systems among 19 villages of the Atsera isolate of the upper Markham Valley, Papua New Guinea. In the past, there has been some disagreement over the relative importance of population structure and natural selection in the determination of these variances. The Lewontin-Krakauer test is presented as a means of resolving this disagreement. According to this test, selectively neutral variation in gene frequencies should generate essentially homogeneous values of f for all loci, a homogeneity which can be tested by comparing the value of (formula: see text) to a theoretical (formula: see text) expected when variations in (formula: see text) are due solely to sampling error. The observed value of (formula: see text) for the Atsera isolate is 2.9 x 10(-5), which is not significantly different from the expected values that range from 1.23 x 10(-5) to 2.46 x 10(-5) depending on the constant used in calculating (formula: see text). Therefore it appears that nonselective aspects of population structure such as genetic drift and intervillage migration are responsible for the recorded genetic variation in this isolate.


Biosocial functions of grooming behavior among the common Indian langur monkey (Presbytis entellus).

An intensive study of the Indian langur monkey (Presbytis entellus) reveals an interplay between biological and social processes. This study which involved captive animals and over 1,500 observation hours suggests that grooming behavior alone cannot be used to measure status differences between the sexes, nor as a means to understand how pathogens carried by ecto-parasites are controlled. It is shown that the type of grooming exhibited in an interactional setting and the region of the body presented by one animal to another for grooming is often determined by the immediate social events and by the nature of the relationship existing between the participants. For these Colobine langur monkeys grooming behavior not only facilitates integration but it also enables an animal to manipulate a tense situation into a peaceful one. Without reference to many of the other patterns of behavior which only relatively, not absolutely differentiate age and sex classes, grooming behavior cannot be entirely understood.


An ethmoid exposure (os planum) in the orbit of Indri indri (Primates, Lemuriformes).

In 6 of 17 skulls of Indri indri retaining distinct sutures in the medial orbital wall, a small separate bony element intervenes between the frontal and the maxillolacrimal suture. This element is demonstrably continuous with the ethmoid on one such skull. The occurrence of an ethmoid exposure in the orbit of Indri suggests that this trait is not a simple function of orbital size and convergence. Since such an exposure is found in non-cheirogaleine lemuriforms, its distribution provides no support for the hyothesis that lorises and galagos are derived from cheirogaleines.


Morphoclinal variation in the anthropoid shoulder.

A morphocline in the organization of the shoulder joint is demonstrated among anthropoid primates. This metrical test supports the view that hominoid distinctions are monophyletic in origin. The primates that are behaviorally and functionally convergent on hominoids are only partially convergent or are not convergent in shoulder morphology.


The external provision of Health Maintenance Organization mental health services.

The author describes the three ways mental health services may be provided in a health maintenance organization (HMO)--by an internal department of psychiatry, by one or more unrelated external autonomous care providers, or by an external autonomous group of providers. He proposes that the latter type is the best model, offering many of the advantages of the internal department while delivering more personalized, higher quality care at lower cost to the HMO. However, certain conditions must exist, including convenient location, regular conferences with other HMOR physicians, and the provision of educational and preventive services, if the superiority of this model is to be maintained.


Primary upper small-intestinal lymphoma and alpha-chain disease. Report of 10 cases emphasizing pathological aspects.

Ten cases of primary upper small-intestinal lymphoma associated with alpha-chain protein in serum were discovered in a prospective study of the sera of patients with immunoproliferative small-intestinal disease (IPSID). Patients were mostly young males presenting with abdominal pain, weight loss, and diarrhea and showing laboratory evidence of carbohydrate, fat, and vitamin B12 malabsorption and hypoalbuminemia. The more frequently encountered pathologic abnormality was a diffusely nodular jejunal mucosa produced by a plasmacytic infiltrate of variable cell maturity involving a varible depth of small bowel wall with or without involvement of the mesenteric or para-aortic-lymph node complex and, in one instance, the liver. A less frequent picture included circumferential ulcerative and constrictive transmural tumors of the upper small intestine produced by a malignant lymphoma with involvement of abdominal lymph nodes. Small-intestinal surface epithelial abnormalities, a dense mantle of mature plasma cells overlying the lymphoma, a pronounced follicular lymphoid hyperplasia adjacent to and at distances from the lymphoma were other features of note in our IPSID cases associated with alpha-chain protein.


[Eye changes in the merle syndrome in the dog (author's transl)].

In 44 dachshunds of both sexes, reared and held under identical conditions in order to investigate the effects of the merle gene, ophthalmologic examinations were performed. Eleven extreme dapples with a cutaneous depigmentation beyond 50% (homozygous merle animals, MM) exhibited severe defects in variable forms: Microphthalmia and microcornea, microcoria and corectopia, cataracts and colobomas, rudimentary lenses and ectasia of episcleral vessels. In heterozygous merles with a white percentage of coat color beneath 50% (Mm), lacking tapetum lucidum, depigmented retina, papillary anomaly and ectasia of episcleral vessels were stated, as well as in MM-animals, though not in all. These findings are interpreted as obvious gene dosis effects of the incompletely dominant merle gene which is used to produce a characteric harlequin dappling in many breeds of dogs. With the exception of ectasia of episcleral vessels in a few animals, the homozygous well pigmented controls (mm) displayed none of the anomalies mentioned. The meaning of these results for comparactive medicine and animal protection is discussed.


Development of the interpeduncular nucleus in the midbrain of Rhesus monkey and human.

The development of the interpeduncular nucleus (IPN) in primates was studied in rhesus monkey with 3H-thymidine autoradiographic, Nissl and Golgi methods and in humans in histological preparations from embryos and fetuses of different ages. Autoradiographic analysis demonstrated that the neurons of the monkey IPN underwent their final cell division between postconception day 36 (E36) and E42, which corresponds to Stages 17 through 21 of Hendrickx and Sawyer. Autoradiograms of monkeys sacrificed at various short intervals following exposure to a pulse of 3H-thymidine showed that IPN neurons were generated in the proximity of the ventricular surface near the confluence of the 3rd ventricle and cerebral aqueduct, migrated ventrally along the midline and then spread laterally after reaching the ventral midbrain, where IPN was first recognized at E45 (Stage 23). The distribution of successively generated neurons in autoradiograms revealed caudal to rostal and lateral to medial spatiotemporal gradients. Differentiation of IPN neuronal size and development of Nissl substance began in rhesus monkey only after postmitotic cells had reached their destination and seemed to be pronounced mainly through E104. However, growth of the dendrites and elaboration of their side branches as seen in Golgi impregnations progressed gradually from E81 to birth (E165) and perhaps even later. Analysis of histological preparations of a series of human embryos and fetuses was used to derive similar information indirectly, since the autoradiographic method cannot be applied to man. It was found that IPN neurons in human probably underwent their final division between Carnegie Stage 17 and 21. Similarly, as in monkey, postmitotic cells in human IPN displayed an inverted fountain pattern of cellular migration. IPN could first be delineated at Stage 23. There was evidence for both caudal to rostral and lateral to medial spatiotemporal gradients in the human, as in the monkey. Thus, in monkey and human, all IPN neurons are generated within the first quarter of intrauterine life and there is remarkable similarity in the timing, tempo and pattern of IPN neuronal differentiation in both species, indicating the validity of using nonhuman primates as an experimental model for understanding the development of this structure in man.


Paired vessels in the spinal cord of Rhesus monkey and cat.

In the spinal cord of the rhesus monkey and of the cat paired vessels near the central canal are described. These paired vessels, consisting of one artery and one vein, are enveloped by a common glial sheath. In some Virchow-Robin's spaces two arteries and two veins can be observed. The physiological significance of this morphological feature is briefly discussed.


Local cerebral glucose uptake in awake and halothane-anesthetized primates.

Local glucose consumption within specific brain structures in awake and halothane-anesthetized primates was studied using a quantitative autoradiographic technique for glucose (14C-deoxyglucose). In both awake and anesthetized animals, significant heterogeneity (one-way analysis of variance) in uptake of glucose was found in the cortex, subcortical grey matter, and brainstem nuclei. No significant variability was found for any of the white matter areas sampled under either experimental condition. Halothane produced significant decreases in glucose metabolic rates in the occipital cortex, brainstem nuclei, cerebellar cortex, cerebellar white matter, and anterior commissure, compared with the awake state. The greatest decrease in cerebral metabolic rate was found in the occipital lobes of halothaneanesthetized animals. Results of this study suggest that neurophysiologic and behavioral changes that occur with anesthetic agents can, for the first time, be correlated with alterations in local cerebral glucose metabolism.


[Effects of parenteral nutrition solutions on the venous walls (an experimental study) (author's transl)].

Lesions (thrombosis, intimal damage, perivascular inflammation) of the marginal ear vein of domestic rabbits were studied 48 hours after infusions of parenteral feeding solutions administered through a butterfly-type 25 needles. Six-hour infusions with a rather diluted solution (12 g dextrose, 1.25 g. aminoacids, 1.5 mEq., Na, Cl, K and PO4 and 1.5 mEq. Ca and Mg per 100 ml.) with osmolality of 930 and pH of 6.9 were slightly harmful, while the lesions were considerable after 12-hours infusions. A more concentrated solution (15.83 g. dextrose, 2.08 g. aminoacids, 2.5 mEq. Na, Cl, K and PO4 0.2 MEq. Ca and Mg per 100 ml.) with osmolality of 1,600 and pH 6.7 produced severe lesions both after 6 and 12-hours infusions. Similar results were obtained with a mixture of this solution with intralipid at clinical doses (4 g. fat for 100 ml. of solution). This mixture had 1,280 mOsm/1. and pH of 6.7. Rather surprisingly the lesions were even more marked when intralipid alone was infused (osmolality 317, pH 7.5). These results lead to the conclusion that practically all fluids used for parenteral feeding purposes either centrally or peripherally, are considerably harmful for the venous wall after a few hours of infusion, probably due to their shifts from isoosmolality and chemical neutrality. Specially puzzling was the harmful local effect of the otherwise well tolerated intralipid.


[Ketotic hiperglycinemia: one case of possible propionic acidemia (author's transl)].

Authors present the first case to be observed in Spain of neonatal propionic acidemia. The subject is a newborn with symtoms free interval, family consanquinity and siblings who have died prematurely with a similar picture of hyperventilation "sine materiae", progressive metabolic acidosis without anionic discrepancy and terminal coma. The possibility that it might be a question of other metabolopathies is under discussion, but bio-chemical examination, with discovery of large quantities of propionic acid in urine (51 mcg./ml.) and concentrations of aminoacids in plasma, strongly suggest the diagnosis of a new case of neonatal propionic acidemia.


Toxigenic Aspergilli isolated from different sources in Egypt.

45 cultures of Aspergillus, belonging to 25 species isolated from different sources in Egypt, were tested for toxicity to chicken embryos and to Bacillus megaterium growth. Mycotoxins were detected by TLC analysis. 30 isolates out of 45 exhibited toxicity. 3 isolates were recorded as high-toxin producers. (A. egyptiacus, A. carneus and A. terricola). The 2 former produced unknown toxins, while A. terricola produced aflatoxins (B1, B2, G1 and G2). Aflatoxins production by A. terricola is reported for the first time.


[Aflatoxins produced by Aspergillus flavus in soya and other legumes].

There is no doubt that our programme of applied nutrition must include soya on account of the high nutritive value of the legume. This underlines research undertaken here regarding the risks of contamination by A. flavus and the subsequent formation of aflatoxins on and in soya beans. We have studied on parallel lines soya beans and other legumes important in the local dietary habits. These legumes are either obtained locally or imported. On every specimen of legume we have tried to confirm, or otherwise, the presence of A. flavus and the aflatoxins. This was followed by experimenting on the conditions for growth and formation of aflatoxins on every one of the legumes. During subsequent experiments we have studied mixtures of legumes containing soya. Research on these lines has shown the inhibitory effects of legumes such as lentils, dried garden peas, Bengal gram, green peas, red peas, and broad beans on the growth of A. flavus and the formation of aflatoxins. Groundnut, on the other hand, seems to encourage such growth and such formation. The results of the experiments carried out, as above, lead us to conclude that soya must form part of our national food monitoring programme.


Ocular findings in a newborn with cri du chat syndrome.

A deletion of the short arm of chromosome No. 5 has been termed the cri du chat (cat cry) syndrome. We report the first ophthalmologic examination of a newborn infant with this syndrome. Multiple ophthalmic abnormalities were found, including hypertelorism, telecanthus, epicanthal folds, antimongoloid palpebral fissures, exotropia, optic atrophy, and tortuosity of the retinal vasculature. It is of interest that these changes are congenital and present at birth, rather than developmental. Although such individuals are usually so severely mentally retarded that no ophthalmologic intervention is indicated, there are rare exceptions, and each case must be judged individually. Ten percent to 15% of these children inherit the chromosomal abnormality from phenotypically normal parents. Chromosomes from each parent should therefore be evaluated for the purposes of genetic counseling.


[Hepatocystis brosseti n. sp. Haemproteidae, parasite of Epomops franqueti, Pteropinae, in Gabon].

Epomops franqueti (Pteriopinae) trapped around Makokou (Gabon) are frequently infected with Hepatocystis brosseti n. sp. Blood smears and tissue sections were made; all schizonts were found in the liver except a single one in the spleen. In liver, near maturity the schizonts are extracellular, convoluted, medium sized (250 mu) and filled with abundant colloidal substance.


[Study of the thyroid function by the I-M TRH test (2 mg) (author's transl)].

The responses of TSH, T3 and T4 to intramuscular administration of 2 mg of TRH were compared in the same subjects to those observed after intravenous injection of 200 microgram of TRH. In 12 normal subjects the TSH and T3 peaks were significantly higher after intramuscular injection. There was no difference in T4 levels. In 15 patients: 5 toxic adenomas after surgery and 10 Graves' disease after treatment the results were comparable for TSH and T3 by the two routes.


[Chronologic study of free T3 and T4, of responses to TRH and of the suppression test during treatment of Basedow's disease].

32 patients with Graves' Disease were investigated before treatment, during ATD therapy and after recovery with a normal T3 suppression test. Before treatment, TRH response was negative with elevated values of plasma TT4, AFT4, TT3 and AFT3. The 3d, 6 - 9 and 12-18 months and after recovery, several patients remained unresponders to TRH despite normal AFT4 and AFT3 in serum. In an opposite way some patients were responders, 1 month after ATD withdrawal, at the 6-9 month, with elevated values of AFT4 or AFT3. The discrepancy between TRH response and T3 suppression test is pointed out after recovery. The unresponsiveness of TSH to TRH unexplained by serum AFT4 or AFT3 may be due to : 1) a decrease in pituitary TSH stores. 2) an unknown factor inhibiting TSH release during Graves' disease 3) an hypersensitivity of thyreotrop cells to T3.


[Dermatophytosis, pseudo-dermatophytosis and healthy cutaneous portage observed in Platyrhini and Cynomorpha monkeys (author's transl)].

The most frequent tinea of the subhuman Primates are microsporosis due to Microsporum canis or trichophytosis at Trichophyton mentagrophytes and T. simii. The T. mentagrophytes, an anthropo-zoophilic species must be differenciated from T. rubrum and T. interdigitale, dermatophytes of the man; due to the importance of that diagnosis in Primate mycology, some tests are used for the differenciation. Between the 226 monkeys investigated it was registered: 2 trichophytosis at T. mentagrophytes (an onychosis in a Cebus capucinus and a back-skin implantation in a Cercopithecus mona campbelli) and 13 cases of pseudo-dermatophytosis cutaneous disorders. From 40 of the 221 healthy subjects were discovered 14 porteur monkeys of keratinophilic fungi (2 T. terrestre, 1 Keratinomyces ajelloi, 5 Chrysosporium keratinophilus and 7 Chrysosporium sp.). The question of the alopecia of the Primates, without isolating a dermatophyte, was discussed.


[Alterations in thyroid hormones and thyrotropin response to TRH in cirrhotic patients with or without hyperammonemia (author's transl)].

Serum concentrations of thyroid hormones and TSH response to TRH are studied in normal controls and in patients with liver cirrhosis. T3 levels are significantly diminished in the cirrhotic group while the mean total T4 concentration, the basal TSH and the magnitude of the peak response to TRH are similar in cirrhotic and control patients. However when the cirrhotic patients are separated in two groups according to the level of arterial ammonemia, it appears that the group with hyperammonemia (n = 10) has a significantly higher peak response than the control group. Since hyperammonemia is a wittness of hepatic encephalopathy it is suggested that TSH release or synthesis may be modified by this situation resulting from a cerebral accumulation of false neurotransmitters and a depletion of aminergic mediators.


[Contribution to the study of ontogeny of the cells synthetizing IgE class immunoglobulins (author's transl)].

It is known that a treatment, initiated with birth, of repeated injections of anti-mu heavy chain sera leads in mice to considerable decrease of the serum level of the various classes of immunoglobulins : IgM, IgA, IgG1, IgG2. A similar treatment led to similar results in rats but, in addition, made it clear that the IgE serum level was also decreased by the treatment. Moreover, a series of injections of an anti-rat IgD serum also produced a significative decrease of the IgE serum level. The results suggest that the precursor cells of the IgE plasma cells are bearing molecules of IgM and IgD classes on their membrane.


The pathophysiology of focal epilepsy: neurophysiological considerations.

The study of epilepsy serves to emphasize the importance of integrating basic research with clinical data. In this selective review, the results of recent experiments using intracellular recording techniques, ion-specific microelectrodes, and a methodology suitable for studying mammalian cortex in vitro are discussed in terms of cellular phenomena which underlie clinical observations made in epileptic patients. This information has begun to clarify: (1) the changes in neuronal behavior associated with interictal and ictal events; (2) alterations in local ionic microenvironment which occur during focal epileptogenesis; (3) intrinsic control mechanisms which serve to restrict seizure spread; (4) neuronal characteristics which account for the differences in seizure patterns seen in infants and adults; and (5) the possible long-term consequences of recurrent local neuronal hyperexcitability.


IgD myeloma: immunology and ultrastructure.

A case of multiple myeloma producing IgD-M component with light chains of lambda type is reported. It involved the skeleton and was complicated by compression of the spinal cord and massive extension to the pleura. The urine contained lambda Bence Jones protein. Under the electron microscope, the neoplastic plasma cells showed dissociation between nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation.


McArdle disease: the mystery of reappearing phosphorylase activity in muscle culture--a fetal isoenzyme.

To understand the apparently paradoxical appearance of phosphorylase in muscle cultured from patients with McArdle disease, the enzyme in muscle culture was studied immunologically and electrophoretically. Antibody against normal human muscle phosphorylase completely inhibited the enzyme of adult muscle, but it had no effect on phosphorylase activity of muscle cultures from normal individuals or patients with McArdle disease. Also, amounts of antibody that would completely inhibit phosphorylase in mature muscle left about 30% of the activity in muscle obtained from human fetus at four months' gestation. Acrylamide-disc and slab-gel electrophoresis showed a single band of phorphorylase activity in adult muscle and two bands in fetal muscle. This suggested that at four months' gestation, both fetal and mature forms are present but that only the mature isoenzyme is inhibited by the antibody. The enzyme from cultured muscle gave only a single band, with the electrophoretic mobility of the fetal isoenzyme. These data suggest that phosphorylase activity in muscle cultured from patients with McArdle disease is due to a fetal isoenzyme whose genetic control is different from that of the mature enzyme.


Familial multiple sclerosis: clinical, histocompatibility, and viral serological studies.

Evaluation of presumed "multiple sclerosis families" and comparison with recently reported families has led us to the following observations: (1) Seven of our original fourteen presumptive multiple sclerosis families had to be eliminated after personal clinical evaluation of family members failed to confirm the diagnosis in a second close relative. (2) No segregation of HLA type was noted between affected and unaffected individuals in our seven bona fide multiple sclerosis families, and no consistent segregation was noted in the twenty-eight families reported elsewhere. This supports other genetic evidence that there is not a single, major gene mapping in the HLA complex which predisposes to multiple sclerosis. (3) The DW2 antigen was increased in frequency among affected members of our families, and the A3 B7 haplotype was more frequent among affected members of other families reported. But unaffected members also tended to have an increased frequency of these same antigens. (4) No relationship was noted between HLA type and antimeasles antibody titer within our families.


Levodopa in Parkinson disease: a long-term appraisal of mortality.

Mortality rates for a group of patients in a collaborative multicenter study of levodopa (Larodopa) in the treatment of parkinsonism were compared with corresponding mortality rates in the general population adjusted for age and sex distribution in accordance with that of the parkinsonian patients under study. The death rate, conservatively adjusted for dropouts among parkinsonian patients, is estimated to be approximately 33% greater than that for the general population. This is in contrast to an earlier study of Hoehn and Yahr, prior to the advent of levodopa treatment, wherein the mortality rate for parkinsonian patients was shown to be in excess of that in the general population by a factor of 2.9, or nearly 200%.


Isolation and properties of fungi that lyse blue-green algae.

Of 70 pure microbial cultures isolated from aquatic habitats, soil, and air according to the ability to lyse live blue-green algae, 62 were fungi representing the genera Acremonium, Emericellopsis, and Verticillium. Algal-lysing fungi were isolated from all habitat types sampled. The remaining isolates comprised four bacteria and four streptomycetes. All isolates lysed Anabaena flos-aquae and, in most cases, several other filamentous and unicellular blue-green algae. The fungi generally showed greater activity than most other isolates towards a wider range of susceptible algae, including green algae in some cases. Acremonium and Emericellopsis isolates, but not Verticillium, also inhibited the growth of blue-green algae and gram-positive bacteria, but did not lyse the latter. Lysis of blue green algae by Acremonium and Emericellopsis spp. was associated with the formation of diffusible heat-stable extracellular factors which, evidence suggests, could be cephalosporin antibiotic(s). Blue-green algae were also lysed by pure cephalosporin C. The frequent isolation of lytic fungi from algal habitats suggests a possible natural algal-destroying role for such fungi, which might be exploitable for algal bloom control.


Suggested procedure allowing use of plastic petri dishes in bacteriocin typing.

After bacteria are mechanically removed from solid media, the remaining viable cells can be killed by exposure to chloroform vapors. Until recently, the applicability of this procedure was restricted to glass petri dishes. Here a procedure is described in which plastic petri dishes are used and remain stable in the presence of chloroform vapors.


Sarcocystis cymruensis n. sp., a parasite of rats Rattus norvegicus and cats Felis catus.

Sarcocystic cymruensis n. sp. is described from wild Rattus norvegicus. The parasite, which was maintained cyclically in rats and cats in the laboratory, resembles S. muris but was not infective for laboratory mice. Sporocysts were produced by cats within four days, but only in very small numbers. Muscle cysts were distinguishable in rats after three months, and grew continuously reacing 5 cm in length at nine months.


Mode of action of the 2-nitroimidazole derivative benznidazole.

Using cultures of Trypanosoma cruzi cells in a liquid medium, the mode of action of the 2-nitroimidazole derivative benznidazole was examined. Benznidazole inhibits protein synthesis and RNA synthesis in T. cruzy. The DNA synthesis is only slightly decreased and no effect on the aerobic respiration of T. cruzi was observed.


Long-term treatment of onchocerciasis in children with low doses of diethylcarbamazine.

Two groups of children were treated daily with 12.5 or 25 mg diethylcarbamazine for five months and a further group with 12.5 mg daily for seven weeks; 88 children completed the course. The trial was under constant supervision and ophthalmic and parasitological examinations were carried out at approximately one-month intervals. The acceptability of the drug was poor owing to adverse reactions, but the clinical response to treatment good.


Inhibition of DMBA-induced carcinogenesis by phenformin in the mammary gland of rats.

It is shown that daily oral administration of 5--10 mg of an antidiabetic biguanide-phenformin (phenethyl-biguanide) for 2.5--5 months suppressed DMBA-induced mammary tumour development in rats considerably. Phenformin-treated rats revealed-a tendency towards a decrease in blood insulin level (radioimmunoassay). The obtained data are regarded as additional evidence for the proposed existence of the same metabolic background of diseases of compensation, i.e. adult-onset diabetes, artherosclerosis and cancer, and suggest studies on possible antitumour effect of phenformin in man.


[Screening for lung cancer (author's transl)].

Incidence of lung cancer is high in the male population of the German Democratic Republic: 0,005--4,63 per thousand annualy in the age groups 25 years and above. Therefore, efforts to improve early detection are mandatory. Possibilities and effectivity of screening for lung cancer are discussed. Only mass X-ray examination and exfoliative cytology have up to now gained practical importance. Most roentgenological studies performed so far show methodological weaknesses. Based upon recent studies of screening of high risk groups in the USA and in the GDR, it is suggested that this method applied in short intervals may be effective. Cytological screening of risk groups demands high costs and cannot be implemented on a broad base. Ways of optimization of cost-benefit ratio in roentgenological screening are discussed.


Exacerbation generalized nonconvulsive seizures with ethosuximide therapy.

We describe a patient whose absence seizures increased greatly in number after the addition of ethosuximide to ongoing phenobarbital therapy. This unusual response and review of other cases in the literature suggested the possibility of some as yet underfined interaction between ethosuximide and other anticonvulsant drugs. That a particular subytpe of epilepsy may be worsened by ethosuximide therapy is also considered.


Grand mal seizures after retrobulbar block.

Convulsions developed in two patients after retrobulbar block. The amount of local anesthetic agent that was used was considerably less than the intravenous toxic dose in both cases. No retrobulbar hemorrhage resulted. The probable cause of seizures was inadvertent injection of local anesthetic directly to the CNS via the ophthalmic artery or its sheath.


Optic nerve in globoid leukodystrophy (Krabbe's disease). Ultrastructural changes.

Globoid leukodystrophy (Krabbe's disease) was diagnosed in an infant in whom a progressive neurological disorder and optic atrophy developed. At autopsy, ultrastructural examination of the optic nerves and cerebral white matter revealed characteristic tubular inclusions in globoid-epithelioid cells. Thinning of the nerve fiber and ganglion cell layers of the retina appeared to be due to retrograde degeneration of the optic nerve related to the abnormal metabolism of myelin. We discuss the pathogenesis of the clinical and pathological ocular findings, with regard to the inherited absence of the enzyme galactocerebroside beta-galactosidase and the accumulation in the optic nerve and brain of its substrates, galactocerebroside and psychosine.


Involutional entropion. A review with evaluation of a procedure.

The pathophysiologic changes that lead to involutional entropion are discussed. The Quickert entropion operation gives good results because it rectifies the effect of enophthalmos; it restricts the upward movement of the preseptal muscle; it repairs the relaxation or disinsertion of the lower eyelid retractors; and it corrects the buckling of the upper tarsal border. Using this procedure, the recurrence rate of 3.7% is comparable with that of other procedures.


Penetrating keratoplasty with fresh and cryopreserved corneas. Donor endothelial cell survival in primates.

Eight monkeys received bilateral corneal transplants, one fresh and one cryopreserved, from eight other healthy monkeys of sex opposite to that of the recipients. Three of the animals maintained clear grafts in both eyes, and the sex chromatin patterns of the corneal endothelial cells in these transplants were studied at one, two, and three years after keratoplasty. Definite survival of donor endothelial cells of their progeny was observed in each graft, and the percentage of cells of donor origin was similar for both fresh and cryopreserved grafts at each timer period.


Histocompatibility antigens (HLA): associations with immunopathic diseases and with responses to microbial antigens.

Described is the experience from a single histocompatibility typing laboratory sampling, firstly, Australian patients with various immunopathic diseases and, secondly, subjects previously classified as "responders" or "non-responders" to various microbial antigens. The diseases considered included chronic active hepatitis (CAH) and various cirrhoses, "thyrogastric" autoimmune diseases, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis, dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) with intestinal villous atrophy, and multiple sclerosis (MS). The immune responses considered included those to flagellin, candidin, mumps, trichophyton, tuberculin and streptococcal enzymes. The HLA specificities particularly associated with disease included B8 (CAH, thyrotoxicosis SLE, DH, and miscellaneous immunopathic diseases) and B7 (thyrotoxicosis, SLE, DH, and MS). The same specificities were present in excess, although not impressively so, among responders to certain of the microbial antigens, i.e. B7 with high responders to flagellin and B8 (and A1) with responders to trichophyton.


Sheep mortalities associated with the blue green alga Nodularia spumigena.

In 2 field mortalities studied, sheep died and showed haemorrhage and diffuse liver necrosis after drinking water from dams containing growths of the blue green algae Nodularia. Sheep dosed with water containing N. spumigena Mert 5, 9 and 18 days after collection from one of the farm dams developed pyrexia and leucopenia before death. At necropsy, these sheep showed extensive haemorrhage, accumulations of yellow fluid in body cavitis and acute hepatic necrosis. Guinea pigs dosed with the water 9 days after collection died and developed periacinar liver necrosis, but those dosed 12 days after collection did not.


Survivorship of drosophila in nitrogen reduced hypobaric atmospheres.

Populations of Drosophila melanogaster were maintained from eclosure to death in 150 torr oxygen/150 torr nitrogen (300 torr total pressure). Survivorship was identical to siblings maintained in normal atmospheric pressures. The study demonstrates that a significant reduction in atmospheric nitrogen does not affect the toxicity of oxygen at normal partial pressures. The author indicates that this information provides the basis for future studies concerning hypobaric, oxygen-enriched atmospheres.


Sequence of the full-length immunoglobulin kappa-chain of mouse myeloma MPC 11.

MPC 11 mouse myeloma cells synthesize two immunoglobulin kappa light chains, coded by two separate genes. One of these Kappa-chains has no variable region and is degraded intracellularly. The other is a full-length kappa-chain contaning both variable and constant regions: this chain is secreted, both by itself and combined with heavy chains in molecules of immunoglobulin G. This paper reports the amino acid sequence of the myeloma MPC 11 full-length kappa-chain. The chain is unusual in having 12 extra residues at its N-terminus when its sequence is aligned with those of other mouse kappa-chains; no other anomalies were found in its sequence.


Location of O-methyl sugars in antigenic (lipo-)polysaccharides of photosynthetic bacteria and cyanobacteria.

An attempt was made to localize a number of O-methyl sugars in lipopolysaccharides and antigenic polysaccharides isolated from photosynthetic bacteria and from cyano-bacteria. Methylation analysis with [2H3]methyl iodide as methylating agent was the method of choice. One has to differentiate between (lipo-)polysaccharides having only trace amounts (less than 1% of polymer dry weight) of O-methyl sugars and those having them in larger amounts (more than 4% of polymer dry weight). In the former case O-methyl sugars occupy either non-reducing or reducing terminals. When present in larger quantities they may be present as part of each repeating unit either in chain-linked or in terminal positions or in both. A possible role of O-methyl sugars in biosynthesis of O-chains, and their contribution to the lipophilic character of the cell surface are discussed.


Resolution of the methane mono-oxygenase of Methylococcus capsulatus (Bath) into three components. Purification and properties of component C, a flavoprotein.

1. Ion-exchange chromatography resolves the methane mono-oxygenase from soluble extracts of Methylococcus capsulatus (Bath) into three fractions. 2. Fractions A and B are comparatively stable at 0 degrees C, whereas fraction C is very unstable unless kept in the presence of sodium thioglycollate (1-10 mM) or dithiothreitol (5-10mM). 3. The active component from fraction C was purified some 80-fold. 4. Purified component C has mol. wt. 42000. Its solutions are yellow with absorption maxima at 270 and 465 nm and a shoulder at 395 nm. The 465 nm peak is abolished by reduction with NADH or sodium dithionite, or by photoreduction in the presence of EDTA. A new spectral species, probably a neutral flavin semiquinone, is observed on partial reduction of component C. 5. No copper was detected in samples of purified component C, but the protein contains 1.3-1.5 atoms of iron/molecule. 6. On boiling, component C releases a yellow-green fluorescent material that has been identified as FAD from its absorption and fluorescence spectra and by t.l.c. 7. Component C contains 1 mol of FAD/mol of protein.