Immunological tests for LH and FSH in urine.

The addition of 100 g/l NaCl and 200 mg/l nitrofurantoin to 24-h urine samples destined for determination of LH and FSH with haemagglutination tests, proved to be an adequate preservative in comparison to chilling.


Determinant of efficiency of a monomeric enzyme: acceleration by site-specific molecules for trypsin.

The interaction of a specific ligand at substrate binding site was shown to be responsible for the catalytic efficiency of trypsin. The reasoning of 'induced fit' theory was refined by kinetic analysis of characteristic properties of 'inverse' substrates.


Determination of trace elements in peripheral lymphocytes from tumor-bearing rats.

Neutron activation analysis of peripheral lymphocytes from healthy and Walker 256 carcinosarcoma-bearing rats resulted in the quantitative determination of Co, Cu, K, Mn, Rb, Se and Zn, and a qualitative determination of Au and Sb. From corresponding plasma samples, Co, Zn, Rb, Se and Cs were analyzed. Differences in trace element concentrations could only be detected in plasma of tumor-bearing animals which showed a decreased Zn and Co content of 50% and 30%, respectively, and a rise of Rb when compared to plasma of control animals.


Comparison of X-prolyl dipeptidyl-aminopeptidase activity in human cerebrospinal fluid with that in serum.

X-Prolyl dipeptidyl-aminopeptidase activities in cerebrospinal fluid and serum from the same patients without neurological diseases, undergoing surgery under lumbar anesthesia, were assayed fluorometrically with a newly synthesized fluorogenic substrate, 7-glycylproline-4-methylcoumarinamide; the values were 129.1 +/- 19.5 nmoles/min/l and 54.17 +/- 3.11 mumoles/min/l (mean +/- SEM, n = 23), respectively, and there was no correlation between both activities (r = 0.0894).


Tryptophan in Kinixys crosa hemoglobins.

The hemoglobins, THI and THII, isolated from the red cells of the testudinid Kinixys crosa each have 3 tryptophan residues/18,000 daltons. Total number of amino acid residues for the proteins are therefore 156 and 155/18,000 daltons respectively.


A pathogenic hypothesis of malformation caused by amniocentesis.

The role of amniocentesis in producing fetal malformations has been investigated in the rat. Relevant uterine contractions were observed after amniocentesis. The pathogenetic mechanism of fetal malformations is discussed on the basis of the present results.


Sex chromosome aberrations involving loss and translocation of tumor-inducing loci in Xiphophorus.

Karyotypic changes involving a deletion and a translocation of certain sex-linked tumor-inducing loci of the platyfish, Platypoecilus (Xiphophorus) maculatus, have been investigated. The effects of these chromosome aberrations on tumor formation and viability of the fish are discussed.


Some observations on bipolar filaments formed by non-muscle myosins.

Adrenal medullary and retinal myosins formed bipolar filaments in vitro. These filaments showed features suggesting flexibility in the rod region of the myosin molecules composing such filaments; in certain cases the myosin heads spread away from the filament backbone, in others the backbone itself was twisted. In addition the bare central backbone showed transverse striations.


Association of intermediate filaments with other cell organelles in carcinoid tumor of the colon.

Carcinoid tumor of the colon was studied in electron microscope. In cytoplasm, prominent intermediate-sized filaments were seen frequently  attaching to nucleus and mitochondria. Direct contacts of intermediate filaments with secretory granules were not observed.


Biochemical and autoradiographical distribution of hyaluronic acid in calf rib cartilage.

In calf rib cartilage, about one half of total hyaluronate is soluble with guanidinium hydrochloride, the other half only after collagenase treatment. Evidence is presented for its pericellular and intracellular distribution.


Galactose induced Balbiani-ring-like structures in chromosomes I and II of Chironomus thummi.

In one strain of Chironomus thummi, galactose feeding of the larvae induced the appearance of 2 Balbiani-ring-like structures on salivary gland chromosomes I and II. This phenomenon may be related to the galactose induction of BR6 in C. pallidivittatus.


Template specificity of DNA-dependent RNA polymerase from calf liver nuclei.

The efficiency of transcription of both mammalian and bacterial templates by 3 distinct multiple forms of DNA-dependent RNA polymerase from calf liver nuclei has been determined. The homologous template and salmon sperm DNA were more efficiently transcribed than bacterial templates. The native DNA/denatured DNA activity ratio of the 2 alpha-amanitin-insensitive forms was found consistent with that described for enzymes exhibiting nucleolar localization.


Effect of stimulation of vagus nerves on gastric tissue histamine concentration in albino rats.

2 different time schedules were applied in order to stimulate vagus nerves around the oesophagus at the region of the cardio-oesophageal junction. The result shows a significant reduction in gastric tissue histamine concentration following vagal stimulation, the reduction being more when the duration of stimulation was longer.


Areas in the amygdala necessary to the operation of the vagosympathetic pressor reflex.

Lesions of portions of the basal and cortical amygdaloid nuclei and the stria terminalis reversed or abolished arterial pressor responses to ipsilateral centripetal vagal stimulation (CVS). Destruction of these particular limbic structures in the rat did not affect cardiopulmonary responses to CVS.


Opposing temperature responses to intrahypothalamic injections of 5-hydroxytryptamine in the pigeon exposed to cold.

5-Hydroxytryptamine injected into posterior and anterior parts of the pigeon hypothalamus evoked a short lasting hyperthermia or hypothermia, respectively. Variable responses obtained within the same brain region suggest the existence of different 5-HT systems, even in rather limited hypothalamic areas.


Pathways for excitatory and inhibitory innervation to the guinea-pig tracheal smooth muscle.

The trachea receives excitatory cholinergic innervation from the vagus nerve and the stellate ganglion. Inhibitory adrenergic fibres have the same sources. Those in the vagus nerve probably derive from high vagosympathetic anastomoses. Nonadrenergic inhibitory fibres have a preganglionic vagal supply.


Brain catecholamines and organ weight of mice genetically selected for high and low blood pressure.

Statistically significant differences were found between the high and low genetically selected blood pressure lines for systolic blood pressure, norepinephrine content of whole brain, absolute heart weight, heart to b. wt ratio, kidney weight, kidney to b. wt ratio, and adrenal to b. wt ratio.


RNA-synthesis in rat kidneys after fluorinated anesthetics or inorganic fluoride administration.

RNA-synthesis in rat kidneys is affected by the administration of 0.5% methoxyflurane and 1% enflurane; also fluoride, a product of fluorinated anesthetics metabolism, hinders renal RNA-synthesis in rats.


Mechanical responses of the isolated cervix of the day-22 pregnant rat to field stimulation.

Field stimulation of isolated, spirally-cut cervix from day-22 pregnant rats produced contractions which could be inhibited by tetrodotoxin or hyoscine and potentiated by propranolol. The rat cervix would appear to receive both cholinergic and noradrenergic innervations whose transmitters activate muscarinic cholinoceptors and beta-adrenoceptors respectively.


The rate of action of cyclic ammonium and sulfonium analogues of acetylcholine.

The rate of action of cyclic acetylcholine analogues in the 4-acetoxypiperidine and 4-acetoxythiacyclohexane series has been determined by using the isolated left guinea-pig atrium. The kinetic data obtained has been correlated with the experimental ED50-value on the muscarinic receptor.


Influences of temperature change on the relaxation and amplitude inhibition by noradrenaline in the rabbit jejunum.

In the rabbit jejunum, the elevation of temperature within the range of 25-37 degrees C diminished the sensitivity to noradrenaline (NA) for both the relaxation and amplitude inhibition. The relaxation by NA was mainly mediated via adrenergic beta-receptors at 25, 30 or 37 degrees C. The amplitude inhibition was mediated via alpha-receptors at 37 degrees C, and both alpha- and beta-receptors at 30 or 25 degrees C.


The effect of age on cardiac output and its distribution in the rat.

Cardiac output distribution in the rat was found to be affected by age. Cardiac index and blood flow to the liver, kidneys, skin and skeletal muscle were lower in 11-12 month compared to 3-4 month old rats.


Studies of the mechanism of action of the carotenoid crocetin.

The carotenoid crocetin was found to be taken up by normal rat muscle cells grown in vitro, and was found in the ribosomal-microsomal fraction, supporting the hypothesis that crocetin affects cell division enzymatic processes.


Inhibition of protein synthesis in ischaemic liver from phenobarbitone-treated rat.

Both ribosomal factors and cytosolic inhibitors are involved in the reduction of the rate of protein synthesis which occurs in the ischaemic hepatocyte from control and phenobarbitone-treated livers. Of these 2 factors it is the latter which seems to play a major role in determining the irreversible impairment of protein synthesis. Phenobarbitone administration has no effect on the rate of protein synthesis of ischaemic and post-ischaemic hepatocyte.


Acetylsalicylic acid-induced morphological changes in the ductus arteriosus of the chick embryo.

The effect of acetylsalicyclic acid upon the ducti arteriosi of the embryonic chick was studied. A spectrum of gross malformations and histological findings associated with premature closure of the right ductus arteriosus is presented.


Interaction of digoxin with activated dimethicone and other antacid constituents.

A study was made of the effect of activated dimethicone on the absorption of digoxin in relation to other commonly used antacid constituents using an in vitro experimental model. Dimethicone was found not to affect the absorption of digoxin in relation to aluminium hydroxide, bismuth carbonate, light magnesium carbonate and magnesium trisilicate whose effects on the absorption of digoxin were in agreement with values reported in the literature.


Permeability of Ehrlich ascites cells and spectrophotometric assay of the sub-cellular enzymes.

A permeabilization method which allows the assay of intracellular enzymes of the Ehrlich ascites cells is described. The developmental changes in the activity of lactic dehydrogenase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase of toluene-treated Ehrlich ascites cells were studied.


Multinucleated cells in the retinal pigment epithelium: a scanning electron microscopic study.

Multinucleated cells in the retinal pigment epithelium of the albino rat are shown with the scanning electron microscope beside normal mononucleated cells. We suggest that such elements are formed during foetal life, owing to the absence of any mitotic activity in adult rats.


Transplantation of neural tissues in the brains of laboratory mammals: technical details and comments.

Various technical details on the transplantation of the embryonic neural tissues in the brains of the neonatal and adult rats are presented. Conditions determining successful or leading to unsuccessful survival, growth and differentiation of these transplants are critically examined.


Aldolase and dehydrogenase activities in Spirillum bengal.

Spirillum bengal is unable to grow on sugars, but can utilize different organic acids as carbon sources. Dehydrogenase activities were tested with different substrates and were found highest with lactate, glutamate, acetate, succinate and malate. A low aldolase activity was also detectable.


Affinity chromatography of human serum proteins using matrix bound lectin from Viscum album L.

The D-galactose specific lectin from Viscum album L. reacts with serum proteins that contain the corresponding D-galactopyranosyl residues. By affinity chromatography of human serum on lectin-sepharose IgM, alpha 2-macroglobulin, haptoglobin and beta-lipoprotein were quantitatively retained. Only parts of IgA, IgG and transferrin were retarded. The other serum proteins are unbounded as albumin, beta 1 A- and beta 1 C-globulin.


Sex-dependence in triglyceride metabolism in response to dietary carbohydrates.

In humans, as well as in mice, fed on high carbohydrate diets, there was a significant sex difference in the plasma tirglycerides in that males had higher levels than females. This was mainly due to the difference in their removal rate of circulating triglycerides in the animals of both sexes. In mice, males had higher levels of liver triglycerides as well as higher rate of incorporation of U- 14C-glucose into liver triglycerides when compared to females.


Effect of exercise on ribonuclease activity in rat skeletal muscle.

Distribution of ribonuclease activity (measured at pH 7.6) in subcellular fractions of homogenates of rat skeletal muscle was investigated in sedentary animals and after 8 weeks running program. Training increased ribonuclease activity (expressed as units of enzyme per g of muscle protein). There was no increase in nuclear fraction, but in both cytoplasmic and mitochondrial fractions the RNA-ase activity increased 42% and 45% respectively.


Permeability of cellophane membranes to parotid during dialysis.

Pooled paratoid saliva was dialyzed in cellophane membranes against water for periods of up to 1 week and loss of proteins was monitored by acrylamide gel-electrophoresis. A gradual loss of cationic proteins was observed whereas anionic proteins were not appreciably affected. Loss of the cationic proteins could be greatly reduced by performing dialyses against dilute electrolyte solutions rather than water. These effects were attributed primarily to electrostatic changes associated with the dialysis membranes.


Multiplicity of monoamine oxidase in chick brain.

The substrate- and inhibitor-related characteristics of monoamine oxidase (MAO) were studied on chick brain mitochondria. It was found that neither 5-hydroxytryptamine nor beta-phenylethylamine is the specific substrate for type A and type B MAO in chick brain.


Tetrapyrrole biosynthesis from 4,5-dioxovaleric acid in rhodopseudomonas spheroides.

Prophyrin biosynthesis from 4,5-dioxovaleric acid was studied in cell suspensions of R. spheroides. The experiments show that 4,5-dioxovaleric acid is a far precursor of porphyrins through delta amino laevulinic acid formation in a transmination reaction involving also l-alanine. It differs radically from the classical delta aminolaevulinic acid synthesis using glycine and succinyl CoA as substrates.


Chromosome aberrations in in vitro irradiated lymphocytes from human cord blood.

An in vitro dose effect curve of dicentric chromosome aberrations in human cord blood lymphocytes has been obtained for 250-kV X-rays. This is compared with a curve prepared in an identical manner using blood from adults. The comparison shows a marginally higher dicentric yield in blood of newborns at doses above about 250 rads.


Induction of uncoiled chromosomes by vibration.

Chromatin condensation during metaphase can be removed by simple vibration of metaphase cells prior to fixation. Uncoiled chromosome arms consist of long threads with dense regions at irregular distances each from the other.


Primary tissue cultures from organ fragments: a simplified method.

Organ fragments washed in Ca++ and Mg++--free saline, treated with trypsin and placed directly into culture flasks adhered within seconds to the vessel surface. If the fragments were suspended in culture medium before they were added to the flasks, they did not adhere. This technique permits the rapid attachment and subsequent growth of the primary tissue cultures.


GABA stimulates the rabbit corneal endothelial fluid pump.

GABA and its analogues were shown to activate the rabbit corneal endothelial fluid pump in the micromolar range. The stimulation was abolished by bicuculline and chlorpromazine, but not by picrotoxin.


DNA-repair in mammary tumor cell lines with different X-ray sensitivities.

2 murine mammary tumor cell lines with different radiosensitivities (D0 = 65 and 92 rad) showed no significant differences in levels of unscheduled DNA-synthesis following X-ray or UV-exposure.


The formation of disulfide bonds in human protamines during sperm maturation.

The disulfide contents of human sperm heads, as measured by reduction to the sulfhydryls and subsequent alkylation with 14C-iodoacetamide, increase about 2-fold during the sperm passage from the caput to caudal epididymides. Majority of the increased disulfides resides in the human protamine fractions.


Binding of Lens culinaris lectin to sea urchin embryo chromatin.

Lentin binds specifically to sea urchin embryo chromatin. This binding is saturable and inhibited by alpha-methyl-mannose. Scatchard plot analysis of the binding reaction suggests a single binding site.


Frequency of spontaneous impulsation in rat cervical symphetic nerve preganglionic fibres after chemical sympathectomy.

The frequency of spontaneous activity of single preganglionic fibres in the cervical sympathetic nerve of sympathectomized and intact animals was compared, and was found to be higher in the sympathectomized group, averaging 5.9 +/- 1.4 pulses per sec, compared with 2.3 +/- 0.5 in the control group.


A rat model of neurobehavioral development.

The neurobehavioral evolution of the normally growing rat has been investigated by means of a series of reflex, motor and sensory tests from birth up to weaning. A sequential development of behavioral responses has been assessed over this 21-days period, and 2nd week following birth representing an important step in the neurobehavioral maturation of the rat. This rat model may be considered as an useful reference to evaluate changes that may be induced by pharmacological and toxicological agents in the developing exposed rat.


Dopamine-beta-hydroxylase, adrenaline, noradrenaline and dopamine in the venous blood of adrenal gland of man: a comparison with levels in the periphery of the circulation.

In 10 human subjects plasma dopamine-beta-hydroxylase activity was found in the adrenal vein blood to be as high as in the periphery of the circulation. Adrenaline concentration in the adrenal vein blood was in the mean 170 times, noradrenaline concentration 11 times and dopamine concentration little higher than levels in the periphery.


The origin of the series elastic component in single crayfish muscle fibres.

High-speed cinematographic studies on the length changes of single tetanized crayfish muscle fibres during a step decrease in length revealed a farily uniform distribution of a highly compliant series elastic component along the fibre length, suggesting that it mainly originates from some structures in each sarcomere other than the cross-bridges.


The fate of choline in the circulating plasma of the rat.

Labelled free choline injected into the peritoneum failed to enter the brain but preferentially entered the liver. Subsequently labelled phospholipid was found in the plasma with a concurrent increase in the brain. This labelled plasma injected by cardiac puncture caused a rapid incorporation of the choline labelled phospholipid into the brain.


A simple interspike interval analyzer for study of neuronal spike trains.

A simple, low cost interspike interval analyzer for the analysis of trains of nerve impulses is described. The analyzer is built with readily available integrated circuits and has been used to analyze spike trains in the lateral vestibular nucleus of cats.


Do peripheral nerves contain a factor inducing acetylcholine sensitivity in skeletal muscle?

A crude extract of the sciatic nerve, eluate of dialyzed nerve extract or 2 folin-positive sephadex fractions induced acetylcholine sensitivity of extrajunctional regions in extensor digitorum longus muscle fibres of the rat, when released from silastic plates implanted for 3--4 days onto the muscle surface.


Free amino acids in motor cortex of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

Free amino acids were estimated quantitatively in the motor cortex from 3 patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and 11 control subjects. Among 7 amino acids which showed statistically significant changes, taurine was the only one which was increased constantly and most markedly in the motor cortex of all the 3 ALS cases. It was suggested that the metabolism of sulfur amino acids might be affected in comparatively early stages of ALS.


Effects of aresenite and oxamate on the in vitro functional activity of estrogen-dominated rate uterine horns.

Arsenite but not oxamate produce in vitro a distinct depression of estrogen-dominated uterine motility, both in the absence of substrate as well as in the presence of exogenous glucose or lactate. The addition of oxamate to preparations suspended in a medium with lactate as the sole external substrate ameliorates the depression of uterine motility elicited by arsenic.


Presence of sodium transport inhibiting factor in dog plasma during volume expansion.

Plasma dialysates from volume-expanded dogs (E) were compared directly to dialysates from the same dogs when hydropenic. In a double-blind study, E caused relative inhibition of short-circuit current in toad urinary bladder. We therefore confirm the presence of a sodium transport inhibiting factor in plasma of volume-expanded dogs.


The origin of the instantaneous elasticity in single frog muscle fibres.

High-speed cinematographic recordings of single tetanized muscle fibres during a quick decrease in length revealed that the shortening was mostly localized at the fibre segment nearest the released end of the fibre, indicating that the instantaneous elasticity may not originate from the elasticity of the cross-bridges.


Effects of octylguanidine on the electrical activity of Xenopus heart.

The effects of laboratory synthesized octylguanidine are described. There is an early decease of the maximum rate of rise of the action potential with negligible reduction of the overshoot although the membrane resting potential is unchanged. Subsequently, there is a remarkable reduction of both membrane potential and overshoot, while the plateau is shortened. The former effects resemble those seen with tetrodotoxin, the latter ones, with metabolic poisons.


The effect of an ethanol extract of catnip (Nepeta cataria) on the behavior of the young chick.

The alcohol extract of catnip has a biphasic effect on the behavior of young chicks. Low and moderate dose levels (25--1800 mg/kg) cause increasing numbers of chicks to sleep, while high dose levels (i.e. above 2 g/kg) cause a decreasing number of chicks to sleep.


Effect of vitamin A deficiency on rat hepatic and colon epoxide hydrase.

Rat liver microsomes and homogenized mucosal linings prepared from vitamin A-supplemented and deficient male rats were used in metabolic studies of 7-3H-styrene oxide. The colon tissue in deficient animals exhibits a significantly higher value of Vmax than the same tissue from vitamin-supplemented animals. The implications of this finding in addition to our earlier observation 10 is discussed in relation to colon carcinoma.


Chemotherapeutic effects of 4-isothiocyanato-4'-nitrodiphenylamine (C9333-Go/CGP 4540) on infections with Nematospiroides dubius, Hymenolepis diminuta, Hymenolepis nana and Spirometra mansonoides.

4-Isothiocyanato-4'-nitrodiphenylamine possessed anthelmintic activity against Nippostrongylus dubius and Hymenolepis nana in mice and H. diminuta in rats as determined by both egg counts and recovery of parasites at autopsy. No activity was detected against the cestode. Spirometra mansonoides, in cats.


Effect of aspirin and vitamins C and E on synovial rheumatoid arthritic and other cells.

Normal and rheumatoid arthritic human synovial cells, normal rat muscle and bone cells, were cultured with combinations of aspirin (acetylsalicytic acid), vitamins C and E. Aspirin reduced percent growth of all cells by about 1/5 relative to controls. High vitamin C eradicated arthritic cells. In combinations, vitamin C was most important in eradicating arthritic cells. A low-vitamin C combination was most effective in reducing arthritic cell populations, while having little effect on normal cells. Vitamin E retarded but did not prevent the action of vitamin C.


Dose-effects of 8-methoxypsoralen and long wave UV-light in 3T3 cells: evaluation of phototoxic index.

3T3 cells were cultured until confluency and treated with various doses of 8-methoxypsoralen followed by long wave UV light irradiation. The inhibition of 3H-thymidine incorporation was dose-dependent for both, psoralen and light. A phototoxic index (PTI) was established demonstrating that a constant correlation between psoralen and UVA light exists for the photoinactivation in living cells.


Effect of thiamine hydrochloride on the blood level of 2-formyl 1-methyl pyridinium oxime chloride (2-PAM.C1) in rats.

The biological half-life of 2-PAM.C1 was found to increase in female rats pretreated with thiamine hydrochloride (10 mg/kg i.m.). No such effect was observed in the male rats.


Pharmacokinetics of pindolol in Africans.

The pharmacokinetics of pindolol were determined in 12 hypertensive African subjects after a single oral dose of the drug. The estimated pharmacokinetic parameters do not differ significantly in Africans from the values which have been obtained in other races.


Penetration barrier to sodium fluorescein and fluorescein-labelled dextrans of various molecular sizes in brain capillaries.

The permeability of the blood-brain barrier to sodium fluorescein, or fluorescein-labelled dextrans of various molecular weights, was investigated. Unlike the capillaries in both the area postrema and the eminentia mediana, the capillaries of the cerebral cortex were impermeable to all the intravenous tracer substances used.


Hepatocellular iron-containing deposits in relatives of patients with latent idiopathic hemochromatosis: a qualitative and quantitative approach.

The quantitative and qualitative study in electron microscopy of hepatic fragments taken in apparently healthy collaterals of idiopathic hemochromatosis, shows the presence of siderosis, undetectable by Perls reaction comparatively with normal liver samples.


Lack of effect of butylated hydroxytoluene on dimethylhydrazine-induced colon carcinogenesis in rats.

Rats were given 6600 ppm of butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) in the diet along with 10 weekly oral doses of dimethylhydrazine (DMH, 30 MG/KG). The incidence and mean number of colonic tumors produced were similar to that of rats given DMH alone. Thus, BHT did not provide any protective effect against colon carcinogenesis.


Course of development of isolated rat embryonic ectoderm as renal homograft.

When the isolated head-fold stage rat embryonic ectoderm is grafted under the kidney capsule, it gives rise to a new mesenchyme with the capacity to differentiate into mesodermal tissues.


Lymphopenia and lymphocyte transformation in alcoholics.

The basis of peripheral blood lymphopenia observed in patients with chronic alcoholism and liver disease was investigated by examining the effect of sera of these patients on in vitro transformation of normal human peripheral blood lymphocytes. A positive correlation was demonstrated between the serum inhibition of phytohaemagglutinin- and pokeweed mitogen-induced transformation and the degree of lymphopenia. Thus serum factors may contribute to the observed lymphopenia by inhibiting lymphocyte production in vivo.


Thyroid activity in response to some gonadal steroids in methallibure-treated Heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch).

Methallibure treatment is as effective as hypophysectomy in reducing thyroid activity in H. fossilis. Sex steroids (TP and EB) administration restored thyroid activity in methallibure-treated females to normal level, but failed to elicit any response in males. This drug seems to block TSH secretion and thyroid hormone synthesis in H. fossilis.


Relevance of specific activity in experimental erythrocytocide by 55Fe.

Iron loads between 0.20 microgram and 26 microgram, added to 5 mu Ci 59Fe, were followed for up to 150 days in mice. Relative organ uptake increased as a function of iron load in liver and kidneys while it decreased in bone marrow and blood. Several weeks after injection, all load-related differences disappeared.


A new method for measuring radioactivity in select areas of intact tissue sections.

A new technique is described for measuring radioactivity in select areas of intact tissue sections. The method, which makes use of a liquid scintillation counter, also makes possible identification of the studied zones by prestaining.


Marriage, remarriage, marital disruption and age at first birth.

Out-of-wedlock pregnancy, especially for a teenager, and even more for a black teenager, hastens early marriage. The younger the age at first birth, the likelier that the first marriage will dissolve. White women are more likely than black women to remarry. Women under 20 at first birth are more likely to have their second marriage dissolve.


Women who obtain repeat abortions: a study based on record linkage.

The proportion of induced abortions in a year that are repeat procedures rises over time, but this rate is as low as can be expected given the shortcomings of currently available contraceptives. There is no evidence that women substitute abortion for contraception. Teenagers and poor women have greater difficulty avoiding unwanted pregnancies.


The long-term impact of pregnancy at marriage on the family's economic circumstances.

In the long run, premaritally pregnant white couples seem able to overcome the problems stemming from early marriage and parenthood. They earn middle-class incomes, own their homes, have some savings. But they do have 22 percent less in total assets and they have more unplanned children than couples who married and deferred childbearing.


[Effect of tranquilizers on cerebral cortex excitability in cats].

Chronic tests on cats showed that diazepam and nitrazepam lower the amplitude of primary responses (PR) of the second somatosensory zone of the brain cortex both to a single and paired stimulation of the thalamo-cortical radiation of fibers. Meprotan, while potentiating the PR to a single stimulation, does not influence the course of the PR restitution cycles. Benacryzine, while enhancing the PR to a single stimulation, produces the appearance of a lengthy phase of depression throughout the PR restitution cycle. In acute tests with unanesthetized, flaxedil immobilized cats, with an isolated cortical band underneath a stimulating electrode, analogous changes in PR both to a single and paired stimulation of the thalamo-cortical radiation of fibers were noted.


[Study of skeletal muscle cholinoreceptors using alkylating agents].

The ability of decamethonium containing beta-clorethylamino groups to alkylate the nicotinic cholinoreceptors of the frog tonic muscles was studied. D-tubocurarine prevented the action of the alkylating decamethonium (AD). The latter equally inhibited the effects of carbacholine and tetramethylammonium. The degree of alkylation did not change with pH varying from 6 to 11. AD did not produce any parallel shifts, but inhibited at once the maximal response to carbacholine both of the frog intact muscle and of a single tonic fibre. It is suggested that decamethonium blocks the cholinoreceptors anionic sites, which are represented by the carboxylate, or phosphate anions. The frog tonic muscle probably fails to posses any spare receptors.


Family planning availability and contraceptive practice.

Analysis of World Fertility Survey data from five countries--Colombia, Costa Rica, Korea, Malaysia and Nepal--shows that the availability of contraceptive services and supplies is a major determinant of use. In Nepal, where few women know where to obtain supplies, only two percent are contracepting. In Costa Rica, where almost all married women know an outlet nearby, 53 percent use effective methods.


[Distribution of lithium in the plasma and erythrocytes of frogs following a single injection of different doses of lithium carbonate].

On administration of lithium carbonate to grass frogs (Rana temporaria) in doses of 50-100 mg/kg its concentration in the plasma after 1 hour (2.9 +/- 0.48-8.7 +/- 0.43 mekv/l) far exceeded the therapeutic concentration in man and also in other animal species after administration of the comparable doses of lithium concentration ratio in the erythrocytes and plasma comprising 0.1-0.2. On administration of lithium in doses of 10 and 25 mg/kg its concentration in the plasma corresponded after a lapse of 1,4 and 24 hours to 0.38 +/- 0.03--0.98 +/- 0.03; 0.33 +/- 0.02--0.69 +/- 0.03 and 0.37 +/- 0.01-0.70 +/- 0.02 mekv/l, respectively, while the ratio of concentration in the erythrocytes and plasma was 0.5-0.3. and approximately accorded with the therapeutic values in man. To make a comparison between clinical and experimental findings, obtained in other animal species, it is advisable the lithium carbonate doses not exceeding 25 mg/kg be used.


[Age and the effect of proserine on the contractile response of the rectum and inhibition of its cholinesterase in rats].

The motor reaction of the rectum strips in rats of 4 age groups and inhibition of its cholinesterase with proserine were studied. To low proserine concentrations (1.10(-8)-1.10(-6) M) the intestine of 1-week old rattlings was found to react only by relaxation, contractions appearing only with a concentration of 1.10(-5) M. The maximal contractile reaction of the intestine to proserine was found to occur in 4-week old rattlings. The cholinesterase activity in the rectum of 1-week old rattlings is lower, and in the 4-week old ones higher than in adult animals. The inhibition of cholinesterase occurs in all the age groups from a minimal tested proserine concentration (1.10(10) M), gaining in strength parallel with increasing concentration. The maximum inhibition of the enzyme was found to occur in the 4-week old rattlings.


[Effect of lithium hydroxybutyrate on several heart function indices].

DL50 of intraperitoneal lithium oxybutyrate administered to cats was found to amount to 724 mg/kg, while in doses of 13.5--360 mg/kg it increases the coronary blood flow volume in cats by 20.3--122.2 per cent, directly proportional to the dose. Lithium oxybutyrate prevents the chlorocalcium arrhythmia in rats and eliminates strophanthine-induced anemia in cats, surpassing an analogous effect of lithium chloride, potassium chloride, quinidine, novocainamide and isoptin. It raises the activity of the succinate dehydrogenase in the myocardium and weakens the ability of calcium chloride to reduce the glycogen content in the conduction system of the heart in rats.


[Effect of nonsteroid anti-inflammatory substances on mediators of inflammation].

The action of nonsteroid antiinflammatory substances on the content in the inflammation focus of the inflammation reaction mediators, histamine, serotonin and kinines, and some aspects of their metabolism were studied. Sodium mephenaminate and butadion are shown to bring down the histamine content in the exudate of rats with experimental pleurisy. Sodium mephenaminate depresses the histamine synthesis (by inhibiting histidine decarboxylase in the pulmonary tissue), while butadion activates decomposition of this amine (by raising histaminase activity). All the study compounds (except sodium mephenaminate) force down the serotonin level in the exudate and inhibit 5-hydroxytryptophan decarboxylase. The content of kininogen in the exudate decreases only under the influence of butadion. Sodium mephenaminate and butadion mitigate the reaction of the dermal vessels to exogenous histamine and serotonin and chingamine does so only in response to histamine.


[Mechanism of the therapeutic effect of furosemide and mannitol in hemorrhagic shock and developing acute renal insufficiency].

Acute hypotension leads to the development of anuria, almost complete stoppage of the cortical nephron filtration with blood retransfusion failing to restore the upset functions. But against background of preliminary administered diuretics the blood retransfusion renews filtration and restores diuresis. Preliminary administration of diuretics prevents collapse of the proximal tubules, their administration after blood losses increases the tubular pressure and prevents obstruction of the nephron. Under the effect of diuretics the oxygenation of deep-seated segments of the kidney substantially gains in strength due to an increasing renal blood circulation and diminished vasoconstriction. Diuretics increase the oxidative phosphorylation in the cells of the renal epithelium, help augment accumulation of calcium by renal mitochondria and prevent the development of irreversible hypoxic shifts. Combined administration of furosemide and mannitol represents an effective means of prevention and early treatment of acute renal insufficiency.


[Effect of thiamine on the activity of liver endoplasmic reticulum enzymes metabolizing drugs].

Experiments on mongrel albino male rats have shown that a single subcutaneous administration of thiamine in a dose of 200 mg/kg raises in the liver microsomes the level of cytochromes P-450 and B5 and increases the activity of aniline-n-hydroxylase ethylmorphine and aminopyrine-N-demethylase. Administration of the vitamin in a dose of 30 mg/kg for 64 days forces down the cytochrome P-450 and the aniline-n-hydroxylase and ethylmorphine-N-demethylase levels. In vitro tests the P-450 and B5 cytocrome levels and the activity of ethylmorphine-N-demethylase in the liver microsomes start to decrease at the thiamine concentration of 1 mM and of aminopyrine-N-demethylase of 4 mM.


[Effect of folic acid on metabolic processes in wounds].

In experiments on rats the effect of folic acid on the redox and energy-producing processes as well as upon the synthesis of collagen and protein fractions of the muscular tissue in the area of the wound was investigated. Low doses of folic acid are shown to intensify in the muscles of intact animals anaerobic, and in the wound muscles--aerobic processes. High doses of folic acid produce an opposite effect on the wound muscles, by intensifying anaerobic processes. Folic acid manifests itself as an activator of anabolic processes by intensifying the gluconeogenesis in the wound tissues, the biosynthesis of collagen in the muscles of intact animals, and to a lesser degree in the muscles of surgically treated animals.


[Effect of inhalations of polyvinylpyridine-N-oxide on the development of experimental silicosis].

Experiments on albino rats showed that polyvinylpyridine-N-oxide (PVNO) inhalations (mol. mass 2000; 9.8 +/- 1.2 and 99 +/- 4 mg/m3 for 7 months) slowed down the course of silicosis developing with a gradual entrance and uniform distribution of dust in the lungs, but proved little effective with a one-time introduction of a large amount of "aggressive" dust because of the difficulty for the drug to reach and penetrate the sclerosed sections of the tissue. Considering low toxicity and an insignificant cumulative effect of PVNO, the electivity of its accumulation in the lungs during inhalation and marked protective action of low doses the authors hold it expedient to employ the inhalation method of administering the polymer for prevention of silicosis, while its use for curative purpose is not recommended.


[Experimental study of the myelotoxic effect of tomizine].

In tests conducted on 220 rats with transplantable sarcoma M-1 and intact animals acute toxicity, antineoplastic effect and the action on the blood system of tomizine, a new neoplastic drug of the group of the folic acid antagonists, were studied. Investigation involved a single intraperitoneal injection of the drug in DL50/30 and MTD. The compound is shown to exert an inhibiting action on the development of sarcoma M-1 and lengthens the survival of the tumour-stricken animals, without producing any pronounced myelotoxic effect. The disclosed shifts on the level of the periphedal blood and marrow were short-lived and concerned mainly the erythroid germ cells.


Acceptability of reversible versus permanent tubal sterilization: an analysis of preliminary data.

Data regarding the acceptability of reversible versus permanent tubal ligation were randomly collected from 147 ever-married, obstetrics-gynecology patients of reproductive age during a pilot study in 1977. Subjects were potential candidates for sterilization in that none was medically or contraceptively sterile, nor married to a vasectomized male. The research questionnaire designed for this study elicited basic sociodemographic data and attitudinal information with respect to both permanent and hypothetically reversible tubal ligation. Responses toward both procedures were compared and analyzed for statistically significant differences. Results indicate that approval of, serious interest in, intention eventually to undergo, and immediate demand for tubal ligation would be increased by 30%, 85%, 171%, and 92%, respectively, if reversible procedures were available. All increases were statistically significant at P less than 0.001. It is concluded that if results from the larger ongoing study confirm those of the pilot study, they will provide support for biomedical research in this area.


Is there an embryo-fetal exogenous sex steroid exposure syndrome (EFESSES)?

A survey of all outpatient cases referred for genetic counseling during a 10-month period has revealed a history of preconceptional and early gestational exposure to maternally administerd sex hormones in 16 of 91 instances. Particular interest was aroused by 9 of these 16 cases, all of whom were children with dysmorphic features, no cytogenetic anomalies by Giemsa banding studies, and no recognizable clinical diagnosis. Similarities among them were striking and consisted of varying combinations of the following features: moderate growth retardation; mild to severe mental retardation; facial elongation with frontal bossing; primary telecanthus and downward-slanting palpebral fissures; broad, flat, nose bridge and pug nose; pouting lower lip and blunt, square chin; umbilical eversion; deep sacral pit; and, in males, moderate to severe external genital anomalies ranging from mild hypospadias to genital ambiguity. This may suggest the existence of an embryo-fetal exogenous sex steroid exposure syndrome.


Evidence for a nonpituitary source of amniotic fluid prolactin.

Prolactin levels were determined during a gonadotropin-induced pregnancy following hypophysectomy for a chromophobe adenoma. Maternal plasma prolactin concentrations did not vary significantly from prepregnancy values throughout gestation, remaining between 25 and 35 ng/ml. Fetal prolactin levels were 55 ng/ml and maternal levels were 29 ng/ml at delivery. Amniotic fluid prolactin concentration was approximately 100 ng/ml. Decidual tissue isolated from the maternal surface of the chorion released significant amounts of prolactin into the medium during a 24-hour incubation. Final concentrations of prolactin in the incubation medium were as high as 196 ng/ml. It is concluded that after hypophysectomy (1) prolactin is present in the maternal circulation during pregnancy, and the concentration does not change significantly throughout gestation; (2) fetal and amniotic fluid prolactin concentrations near term do not differ significantly from those reported for normal pregnancy; and (3) the capacity of the decidua to release prolactin in vitro is not diminished compared with normal term decidua, suggesting a nonpituitary source of amniotic fluid prolactin.


Treatment and follow-up of patients with infertility due to spermagglutinins.

A therapeutic trial based on pharmacologically induced azoospermia followed by the administration of corticosteroids was carried out in 48 patients with infertility due to spermagglutinins. Three types of responses were observed: type A, no modifications in the blood and spermagglutinating (SA) titer (19 cases); type B, disappearance or significant decrease in SA titer during treatment, with return to normal values upon resumption of spermatogenesis (7 cases); and type C, disappearance or significant decrease in SA titer for at least 1 year after stopping treatment (22 cases). Within the 1st year after stopping therapy only men who responded in type C fashion were able to impregnate partners, three pregnancies ended in abortion and nine in normal births.


Artificial insemination homologous with oligospermic semen separated on albumin columns.

Semen samples obtained from 27 infertile men were separated on human serum albumin (HSA) columns prior to artificial homologous insemination (AIH). The columns contained either a single 7.5% HSA layer or two 17.5% and 7.5% HSA layers. Separated specimens were free of seminal debris, had significantly improved motility and progressive drive, and had a decreased percentage of abnormal forms. The total sperm count was also significantly decreased after separation, especially with the two-layer technique. No conceptions occurred in 21 couples when two-layer separation was used, but four pregnancies in 12 couples resulted from AIH with semen separated on the single-layer column. The mean total count of motile sperm obtained for AIH was 5 million with the two-layer and 31 million with the one-layer technique.


Testicular testosterone concentration following testicular vein ligation.

A rat model to study the local effects of testicular vein ligation is described. One hour after unilateral testicular vein ligation, the testicular concentration of testosterone was significantly greater (P less than 0.01) on the side that was ligated than in the contralateral testis (177.1 +/- 19.7 [SEM] ng/gm of tissue as compared with 108.8 +/- 11.8 ng/gm of tissue, respectively). This effect was not seen 1 week after the testicular vein ligation. The testosterone concentration in the ligated testis was also higher than that in sham-operated animals. These differences in testicular testosterone concentration were not associated with changes in peripheral serum testosterone levels. ligation of the testicular vein causes an acute rise in the testicular concentration of testosterone and may thus mediate changes in testicular function.


Role of dextran 70 in microtubal surgery.

Pelvic adhesion formation represents a major problem following fallopian tube surgery for infertility. Intraperitoneal dextran may prevent pelvic adhesions. Extensive personal clinical experience (W. H. U.) with intraperitoneal dextran organ-flotation on completion of tubal and ovarian surgery has appeared to limit adhesions. A specific study was designed to test the validity of this theory. Four randomized groups of rabbits were subjected to bilateral tubocornual division and microsurgical reanastomosis with total hemostasis and pelvic lavage. Routine peritoneal closure was performed on one group, but followed instillation of 30 to 50 ml of normal saline into the peritoneal cavities of the second group, and 30 to 50 ml of 6% dextran 70 into those of the third. Study of fourth group, which received 32% dextran 70 in the peritoneal cavity, was discontinued because of complications. A second laparotomy was performed 4 weeks later for precise assessment and photography of adhesion formation. Each animal was mated 4 weeks after the second operation in order to determine fertility rates. Reduced adhesion formation and increased fertility rates following the instillation of dextran are reported. A role for dextran 70 in infertility surgery is recommended.


The choice of sterilizing procedure according to its potential reversibility with microsurgery.

Twenty-seven women were evaluated for reversal of previous tubal sterilization in the 2-year span beginning January 1, 1976. Of the thirteen who came to surgery, only seven were able to undergo reanastomosis. Five of these seven had had Pomeroy type ligations and two had ahd "one-burn" electrocoagulation. Six patients who had had "two- or three burn" electrocoagulation did not have sufficient length of fallopian tube remaining. Tubal patency was achieved in 87.5% of those who underwent reanastomosis. The pregnancy rate was 37.5%, with no ectopic pregnancies. Electrocoagulation is not recommended in healthy young women.


Combination therapy of extrapyramidal disease with trihexyphenidyl and L-dopa: an electromyographic study with specific reference to tremor.

An electromyographic method was used to study the effect of combination therapy with L-dopa and trihexyphenidyl on tremor in thirty patients suffering from extrapyramidal motor system disease. In this method tremor activity was measured and documented so that the course of the disease could be followed objectively. L-dopa alone was slightly more effective against tremor than was trihexyphenidyl alone. The combination of the two drugs was more effective than either drug used alone, and its side-effects were mild and definitely fewer than had been reported with L-dopa combined with a decarboxylase inhibitor. Good control of tremor with L-dopa and trihexyphenidyl was obtained clinically and verified electromyographically.


Amikacin concentration in the cerebrospinal fluid of children with acute bacterial meningitis.

Penetration of the aminoglycoside, amikacin, into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of twenty children with acute bacterial meningitis was studied at various times after intramuscular administration and at various stages of therapy. Six of the patients were evaluated during therapy with amikacin at 7.5 mg/kg (intramuscularly) every 12 hours plus ampicillin every 6 hours at 300 mg/kg/day (intravenously); thirteen of the remaining fourteen patients were treated with ampicillin alone, but were given a single intramuscular dose of 7.5 mg/kg of amikacin for evaluation of CSF concentration. Amikacin concentration in CSF with respect to time after administration followed essentially the same pattern as in serum. A minimum concentration of 2 microgram/ml was found in 76% of the CSF samples obtained between 0.5 and 7 hours after administration. A mean amikacin serum/CSF ratio of 3:1 was demonstrated up to 7 hours after dose in all patients who underwent clinical improvement. Patient response was predictable by a correlation of in vitro MIC values with in vivo CSF concentration in three of the six patients who received amikacin therapy.


Magnapen treatment of infections in the elderly.

Magnapen is a combination of two well-proven semi-snythetic penicillins which together offer the theoretical advantages of a broad spectrum of activity, good bioavailability and a low incidence of side-effects. It is of particular value in treating infections in the elderly. In this study the theory is borne out in practice in a population presenting special problems for which this combination seems particularly appropriate. Ninety-six patients have been treated with a course of Magnapen syrup. Of the total entered into the study, 73% of patients were clinically cured following therapy, with a further 19% improved. Clinical failure occurred in 8% of patients. Fifty-two patients were bacteriologically assessable, forty-seven of whom (90%) had infecting organisms cleared by therapy. Side-effects occurred in four patients (4%), one of whom had to discontinue therapy.


Successful use of a moderate analgesic (Fortagesic) in the symptomatic treatment of osteoarthritis.

In a between-patient single blind controlled trial, two groups of patients with osteoarthritis were treated for two weeks with either Fortagesic or naproxen tablets. Onset of analgesia was significantly more rapid with Fortagesic than with naproxen. Other assessments favoured Fortagesic but the differences were not statistically significant. It is concluded that Fortagesic can be successfully used to fill the gap between mild analgesics and the anti-inflammatory agents in the symptomatic treatment of osteoarthritis.


Salicylsalicylic acid revisited: a multicentre study.

Twenty-eight medical specialists (internists, rheumatologists) selected 102 primarily arthritic patients for a two-week efficacy and safety field study of salicylsalicylic acid. Data were gathered on pain, morning stiffness, range of motion, serum salicylate concentration, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and gastro-intestinal bleeding before and after a 15-day drug trial. Results showed a 67% favourable clinical response in the physician's global evaluation and a 60% improvement in pain; the drug itself was well tolerated by 96% of patients. Response correlations with morning stiffness and range of motion were equivocal. Of fifty-four patients examined before and after treatment for intestinal bleeding, only two (3.7%) had detectable faecal blood loss. Good clinical response had a statistically significant association with serum drug concentrations of 13.6 to 13.8 mg%; unsatisfactory response was noted in those patients with mean serum salicylate levels of 8.6 mg%. ESR decreased or was unchanged in thirty-five patients with satisfactory clinical response and in fourteen patients with unsatisfactory response.


Renin-angiotensin system in phlorhizin compared with alloxan diabetes in the rat.

In alloxan-treated diabetic rats, plasma renin activity (PRA) is decreased. One possible mechanism that may explain the decreased PRA is an increased delivery of sodium to the macula densa produced by the glucose osmotic diuresis, resulting in decreased renin release. To evaluate this possible mechanism, rats with phlorhizin diabetes, which produces a glucose osmotic diuresis without hyperglycemia, were studied and compared with rats with alloxan-induced diabetes. Whereas phlorhizin-treated rats had low blood glucose and alloxan-treated rats had elevated glucose, the glucose osmotic diuresis was similar in the two groups. PRA and plasma renin concentration (PRC) were significantly increased in the phlorhizin group. In the alloxan group, PRA was decreased and angiotensin II sensitivity increased, both significantly. Plasma renin substrate (PRS) remained adequate in each group. These results suggest that the decreased PRA in alloxan-induced diabetes is due neither to factors associated with the glucose osmotic diuresis including changes in renal tubular sodium not to decreased PRS.


Glomerular basement membrane metabolism in the diabetic rat. In vivo studies.

The effect of diabetes on the metabolism of the renal glomerular basement membrane has been studied in the rat with the aid of injected tracer doses of tritiated proline. At various times after administration of the labeled amino acid, the specific radioactivities of the proline and hydroxyproline of the basement membranes from alloxan diabetic rats were determined and compared with those of age-matched normal rats. In both normal and diabetic animals the incorporation of radioactivity into the basement membrane was slow and, after a maximum was reached, an extended period of almost constant specific activity of proline and hydroxyproline was observed. The diabetic basement membrane, however, differed from the normal by attaining specific activities of the amino acids which were about twice as high as normal (P less than 0.001 at 42 h after injection of radioisotope). Although the proline concentration of serum and renal cortical fluid was the same in normal and diabetic rats, there were substantial differences in the specific activity of this precursor amino acid in these pools that had to be taken into account to compare the two types of animals. The results of the present study are consistent with an accelerated rate of glomerular basement membrane polypeptide synthesis and proline hydroxylation in diabetes.


Influence of arginine on splanchnic glucose metabolism in man.

To examine the mechanism of the arginine-induced rise in blood glucose concentration, splanchnic glucose output (SGO) and precursor uptake were studied during i.v. infusion of arginine (30 g/30 min) with and without somatostatin infusion (500 microgram/h, 90 min) in postabsorptive and in 60-h fasted healthy subjects. The hepatic venous catheter technique was employed. In the postabsorptive state, arginine infusion was accompanied by an eightfold and a fivefold increment, respectively, in the hepatic venous concentration of insulin and glucagon; SGO doubled and blood glucose increased by 30%. After cessation of arginine infusion, SGO and blood glucose returned to basal levels within 30 min. When both arginine and somatostatin were administered, glucagon rose threefold, whereas the insulin response was abolished. And while the rise in SGO during arginine infusion and its subsequent decline were uninfluenced by the simultaneous infusion of somatostatin, the rise in blood glucose was more pronounced and the glucose concentration remained elevated longer than in control studies without somatostatin. Splanchnic uptake of glucogenic precursors was uninfluenced by arginine infusion, with or without simultaneous somatostatin administration. In the 60-h fasted group, arginine infusion was accompanied by a minimal increase in insulin but a fivefold elevation of the glucagon level. Combined arginine and somatostatin infusion did not boost insulin significantly but the glucagon level rose threefold above the basal value. Basal SGO was 55% lower than in the postabsorptive state, and it rose in response to arginine administration (+50%) as well as during combined arginine and somatostatin infusion (+80%). No significant change in splanchnic uptake of glucogenic precursors was observed during arginine infusion with or without somatostatin administration. We conclude that (1) arginine infusion is accompanied by a rise in SGO and blood glucose due to arginine-induced stimulation of glucagon secretion, (2) the rise in SGO is caused primarily by glucagon-stimulated hepatic glycogenolysis, and (3) combined somatostatin and arginine administration is accompanied by a more marked rise in blood glucose due to hypoinsulinemia and reduced peripheral glucose utilization.


Acute non-A, non-B hepatitis. Prolonged presence of the infectious agent in blood.

Non-A, non-B hepatitis, previously transmitted to chimpanzees by inoculation of human serum, was serially transmitted through a second and third passage to additional chimpanzees using serum drawn during acute non-A, non-B hepatitis. Sera obtained at weeks 4 and 5 after inoculation from two different chimpanzees, and from one chimpanzee at week 13 after inoculation, were shown to cause elevation of serum aminotransferase levels and abnormal liver biopsies in recipient chimpanzees, with no serologic evidence of hepatitis A or B, cytomegalovirus, or Epstein-Barr virus infection. Serum obtained 3 wk after inoculation did not cause elevation of aminotransferase levels in the recipient chimpanzee, although a single abnormal biopsy was obtained. Thus, the non-A, non-B hepatitis agent was present in serum during acute disease near the time of the first aminotransferase elevation (week 4; perhaps also week 3), and persisted at least until 1 week after the peak aminotransferase level (week 13).


Effects of spontaneous portal-systemic shunting on insulin metabolism.

Insulin degradation was measured by the C-peptide/insulin ratio in 19 patients with portal vein block with extensive spontaneous portal-systemic shunting but minimal liver cell damage: 13 patients with biopsy-proved cirrhosis and 12 controls. Blood obtained fasting and for 3 hr after oral glucose was assayed for glucose, insulin, and C-peptide. Fasting C-peptide and insulin levels in patients with portal vein block and those in controls did not differ. Eight of 13 cirrhotic patients had fasting hyperinsulinemia with a significantly reduced C-peptide/insulin ratio. After glucose administration, the C-peptide/insulin ratio in portal vein block patients with normal aspartate transaminase levels did not differ from control values. In portal vein block patients with elevated asparatate transaminase levels, the C-peptide/insulin ratio was significantly reduced only from 60 min onwards. All the cirrhotic patients showed a significantly reduced C-peptide/insulin ratio after glucose administration. It is suggested that portal-systemic shunting of blood in the presence of a normal liver does not influence hepatic insulin metabolism and that the hyperinsulinemia of cirrhosis is a feature of parenchymal liver damage. In addition, insulin degradation was abnormal in all cirrhotic patients at high insulin secretion rates, even when fasting insulin levels were normal.


Significance of blood ketone body ratio as an indicator of hepatic cellular energy status in jaundiced rabbits.

Changes in the free NAD+/NADH ratio and the energy charge (ATP + 1/2 ADP/ATP + ADP + AMP) of the liver were compared with the ratio of acetoacetate to beta-hydroxybutyrate of arterial blood in rabbits subjected to ligation of the common bile duct. Both the acetoacetate/beta-hydroxybutyrate ratio of the liver, which reflects mitochondrial free NAD+/NADH ratio, and the heptic energy charge decreased in accordance with the decrease of mitochondrial phosphorylative activity after the ligation. The decrease in the acetoacetate/beta-hydroxybutyrate ratio of the liver was attributed to a restricted mitochondrial reoxidation of NADH due to an inhibition of oxidative phosphorylation. Moreover, changes in the ratio of acetoacetate to beta-hydroxybutyrate in arterial blood were positively correlated with those of the liver (r = 0.695, P less than 0.01) and the hepatic energy charge (r = 0.844, P less than 0.01). It is suggested that the ratio of acetoacetate to beta-hydroxybutyrate in blood can reflect the energy charge of the liver in jaundiced rabbits.


Contractile fibroblasts in chronic alcoholic cirrhosis.

Contractile fibroblasts were sought via electron microscopy in liver tissue from 12 patients with chronic alcoholic cirrhosis, and from 3 noncirrhotic patients. In 9 of the 12 cirrhotic livers, contractile fibroblasts (myofibroblasts) were seen containing the classic features of 60-80 A microfilament bundles with electron-dense bodies along with prominent microtubules. The remaining three cirrhotic liver specimens had fibroblasts containing microfilament bundles but without electron-dense bodies. Myofibroblasts were not found in any of the noncirrhotic livers. Just as in other types of scars, myofibroblasts are probably the active contractile force in the scarring and fibrosis which characterize chronic alcoholic cirrhosis.


Simultaneous gastric and plasma immunoreactive plasma carcinoembryonic antigen in 108 patients undergoing gastroscopy.

Simultaneous measurement of plasma and gastric immunoreactive carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) was performed in 108 patients undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Gastric immunoreactive CEA was more sensitive than plasma CEA (92% vs. 65% positive) in patients with gastric cancer. In cancer patients gastric CEA was significantly higher than in all other patient groups. The extent of disease, the histologic type of adenocarcinoma, and the macroscopic appearance of the tumor had no influence on gastric CEA results. Gastric CEA was elevated in 44% of patients with gastritis and 26% of patients with benign gastric ulcers, but was never elevated in patients with no gastric pathology. In patients with benign disorders, elevated gastric CEA was significantly correlated with atrophic gastritis especially of moderate or severe degrees. Elevated levels persisted in patients with pernicious anemia and severe atrophic gastritis but returned to normal with healing of benign gastric ulcers. Simultaneous measurement of gastric total protein or potassium content was necessary to correct for variations in sample collection. We conclude that gastric CEA was not useful for distinguishing between benign and malignant lesions but should be studied further for screening high risk patients, for identifying and following patients with "premalignant" conditions, and for following cancer patients before and after surgery and/or chemotherapy.


Ultrastructural observations on giardiasis in a murine model. I. Intestinal distribution, attachment, and relationship to the immune system of Giardia muris.

Infected immunocompetent mice were studied prospectively in a well-described murine model system with the use of ultrastructural techniques to establish normal distribution of Giardia muris trophozoites, their relationships to intestinal mucosa, particularly Peyer's patches, and structural indications of the normal reaction of intestine and intestinal immune organs. Trophozoites colonized the proximal 25% of the intestine, adhered to microvilli of columnar cells near the bases of villi, wedged into furrows in the epithelial surface, or lodged in mucus within the unstirred layer. Density of trophozoite colonization of the jejunal epithelium correlated with stool cyst excretion. Over Peyer's patches, Giardia adhered to columnar cells and not to M-cells, which transport soluble antigens and particulate material from the lumen into the lymphoid system. Giardia entered intestinal lymphoid structures by incursions through defects in the lymphoid follicle epithelial barrier. During clearance of parasites, lymphocytes crossed the epithelium and attached to Giardia in the lumen. Giardia produced no apparent ultrastructural damage in normal mice but elicited a previously undescribed intraluminal cellular immune response during clearance by the host.


Effect of taurine conjugated bile salts with and without lecithin on water and electrolyte transport in the canine gallbladder in vivo.

Because dihydroxy bile salts alter water and electrolyte transport in the intestine, we tested the effects of taurine conjugated bile salts on water and electrolyte transport in the canine gallbladder in vivo. 16.7 mM taurodeoxycholate or taurochenodeoxycholate completely abolished net absorption of water (P less than 0.01). 40 mM taurocholate significantly reduced net water absorption (P less than 0.05), whereas 16.7 mM taurocholate had no significant effect. Net movement of electrolytes was closely related to net water movement. Water and electrolyte absorption continued undisturbed when the gallbladders were exposed to 16.7 mM taurodeoxycholate together with 5.6 mM lecithin. Biliary lecithin, therefore, is important for the protection of the mucosa of the gallbladder from the potentially damaging effects of bile salts.


Depressant effect of sodium nitroprusside on the lower esophageal sphincter of the opossum.

In this study, we evaluated the effect of sodium nitroprusside (SNP), a vascular smooth-muscle relaxant, on lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure in the opossum. Resting LES pressure was monitored with a perfused sleeve sensor which allows accurate recording of LES pressure irrespective of axial LES motion. Intravenous pulse doses and infusion doses of SNP both caused significant decreases in both blood pressure and LES pressure. Les tone, however, was more sensitive to SNP than blood pressure. For example, an SNP pulse dose of 20 microgram/kg which lowered blood pressure only about 30% virtually abolished LES tone. A similar result was obtained for an SNP infusion dose of 10 microgram/kg/min. Tachyphylaxis to SNP did not occur for repeated pulse doses to 10 microgram/kg, but did develop during a 20-min infusion of 10 microgram/kg/min. The effect of SNP on LES pressure was not antagonized by propranolol, metiamide, haloperidol, atropine, phentolamine, or tetrodotoxin. We conclude that the potent depressant effect of SNP on LES tone is due to a direct action of the drug on sphincter smooth muscle.


Pancreatic secretion in rats after chronic treatment with secretin plus caerulein.

Rats were given subcutaneous injections of secretin (12.5 microgram kg-1) plus caerulein (0.5 microgram kg-1) in a depot carrier or depot carrier alone every 8 hr for 10 days. Basal pancreatic secretion and responses to secretin and cholecystokinin were then studied while the rats were under urethane anesthesia. In the treated animals, basal secretion of fluid was more than six times greater, basal bicarbonate output more than three times greater, and and basal protein output more than two times greater than in the control rats (P less than 0.01 for each). After subtracting basal values and normalizing for body weight, the treated group means were statistically significantly greater than those of the control for: maximal bicarbonate output (1.81 times control) to secretin; and maximal outputs to cholecystokinin of volume (2.46 times control), bicarbonate (2.69 times control), and protein (2.28 times control). The mean pancreatic weight per kilogram of body weight in the treated group was 1.65 times (P less than 0.01) that of the control group. When normalized for pancreatic weight (basal values subtracted), the increse in maximal protein output (1.37 times control) to cholecystokinin was still statistically significant (P less than 0.05). We conclude that chronic treatment with secretin plus caerulein exerts a trophic effect on the pancreas associated with increased maximal protein output to cholecystokinin and increased maximal bicarbonate output to secretin.


Sieving of solid food by the canine stomach and sieving after gastric surgery.

Present concepts on the gastric emptying of solid materials derive from experiments with plastic spheres now known to be emptied differently than food. Accordingly, experiments were undertaken with radiolabeled chicken liver to assess (a) the size of meat particles passed by the normal canine stomach and (b) the effects of ulcer surgery on the rate of emptying and the size of emptied meat particles. Control or ulcer-operated dogs were prepared with chronic duodenal fistulas from which chyme was collected after a standard meal of beefsteak + radioliver + water. Collected chyme was sieved over a stack of sieves of decreasing pore size, and the percent of radioactivity recovered on each sieve was determined each postcibal hour for 5 hr. Control dogs emptied the meal slowly, and virtually all recovered meat was emptied in particles equal to or less than 2.0 mm. Dogs with vagotomy (V), pyloroplasty (P), vagotomy + pyloroplasty (V + P), or antrectomy with end-to-end (A-BI) or end-to-side (A-BII) gastroduodenostomy did not empty the meal faster than the control dogs. In all ulcer-operated dogs except those with P, there were significant upward shifts in the size of meat particles emptied from the stomach; but changes were marked only dogs with V + P or A-BII. Although the experiments verify the antral sieving mechanism noted in earlier work with plastic spheres, the trituration of solid food is probably more complex than previously envisioned.


Protein precipitation by acetone for the analysis of polyethylene glycol in intestinal perfusion fluid.

Canine ileal segments were luminally perfused with known amounts of polyethylene glycol (PEG), and samples obtained were freed of protein by a cold acetone (CA) method and assayed for PEG by trichloroacetic acid in the presence of calcium cations. This procedure was compared to the Barium salt (BaS) protein precipitation method of Hyden (Ann R Agric Coll Sweden 22:411-424, 1955). The CA method saved specimen volume and time in handling, whereas its stability, linearity, and reproducibility were equivalent to the more complex BaS method. In vitro studies disclosed no appreciable differences when PEG specimens were bile stained or dissolved in various solvents. A small modification of the CA method improved accuracy in measurement of small PEG concentrations.


Ileal chloride secretion as a cause of secretory diarrhea in a patient with primary intestinal tuberculosis.

Severe secretory diarrhea resulting in dehydration and hypokalemia was observed in a patient in whom primary cecal tuberculosis was diagnosed by colonoscopy. Although the ileum appeared normal at colonoscopy and by biopsy, intestinal perfusion studies showed that the ileum was secreting water and electrolytes. Chloride secretion against a high electrical gradient suggested active anion secretion. Absorption in the colon was unimpaired. The diarrhea resolved after 4 wk of antituberculous therapy. Repeat perfusion studies after 3 mo showed normal absorption in the ileum. This case report suggests that intestinal tuberculosis can cause secretory diarrhea. The mechanism by which secretion occurs is not clear, but probably involves active anion secretion.


[Medical procedure in cases of rape (author's transl)].

Directions are given concerning the medical procedure in cases of rape. Besides emergency treatment for serious injury the patient should have her legal rights explained as well as the procedure for the forthcoming examination. A case history with special attention to the present case of rape is obtained. During the examination special attention is paid to the obtaining of evidence which wll stand up in a court of law. The taking of suitable samples is explained. The available methods for tracing sperm sources are described. Finally the treatment of after effects of rape is discussed.


[Possible effects of infusion pumps on the registration of cardiotocograms (author's transl)].

Artifacts in cardiotachographic tracings caused by infusion pumps have been recorded and are presented. Registration of the artifacts occurs in ultrasonic or abdominal EKG-tracings when the fetal signals are weak or absent. The cause of these misregistrations which can lead to faulty interpretations are an interference of the infusion pump through the general circuit. Interference from the infusion pump is registered when grounding is insufficient or when the infusion pump is in close proximity to the abdominal electrode. In the abdominal EKG technique the instruments have to be in closer proximity than in the ultrasonic technique.


[Case report on a myocardial ischemia due to medical tocolysis with ritodrin (pre-par) (author's transl)].

In the 24 year old former competitive athelete tocolysis with ritodrin (pre-par) was started at 28 weeks gestation in her second pregnancy for premature labor. Diffuse cardiac ischemia occurred during the intravenous infusion of ritodrin. The betamimetic drug was the factor which started the myocardial ischemia as evidenced by the serial electrocardiograms. The importance of serial electrocardiograms during treatment with ritodrin is emphasized.


[The women in society--a breakthrough? (author's transl)].

The recent changes in the marriage rates and birth rates as evidenced by demographic data demonstrate that these changes are closely related to the capitalistic economic order. The international competition forces the national economies continually to rationalize and to introduce automation. The striving for a secure place of employment leads in the market economy to lay offs and the reduction in new employment, women are confronted with the problems of profession and employment in a way which leads them to exercise more determining influence of the reproductive behaviour than before.


[Papillary polypoid adenofibroma of the uterine body (author's transl)].

Case report on a 80 year old patient with recurrent bleeding from a papillary adenofibroma of the uterus. The clinical and morphological findings of this case were compared with previous cases. A polypoid papillary adenofibroma of the endometrium is a benign mixed muellerian tumour.


[Unusual formation of squamous epithelium in a case of adenocarcinoma of the endometrium (author's transl)].

Report is given on a case of a highly differentiated adenocarcinoma of the endometrium with an extensive formation of squamous epithelium. The findings are discussed with regard to the occurrence of squamous epithelium in carcinomas of the corpus uteri.


[Comparison of the sebaceous secretions of the skin of the forehead under the treatment with three oral contraceptives. Diane, Neogynon and Lyndiol (author's transl)].

Ten women who took oral contraceptives for six months or longer were investigated. The women took in a randomized sequence cyproteronazetate 2 mg. ethinyloestradiol 50 mcg. (Diane), D-Norgestrel 0.25 mg., ethinyloestradiol 50 mcg. (Neogynon), and Lynestrenol 2.5 mg. with ethinyloestradiol 50 mcg. (Lyndiol). During each treatment cycle at four defined pounts the sebaceous secretions from the skin of the forehead was measured. Since each patient received one cycle of each of the oral contraceptives each patient served as her own control. With Diane and Neogynon the sebaceous secretions were the same. With ingestion of Lyndiol there was a significantly higher sebaceous secretion than with the other two oral contraceptives (p less than 0.05, t-test for paired observations).


[The balloon vaginoscopy (author's transl)].

The regular Huffman vaginoscope is fitted with an endotracheal sleeve to obtain a balloon vaginoscope. The balloon vaginoscope makes inspection of the cervix in children much easier, and facilitates the removal of foreign bodies from the vagina of children. Vaginoscopy can be learned easier with the balloon vaginoscope.


[Delivery of a pregnant woman with a rare phenotype in the Colton-blood group system (author's transl)].

The rare case of a minus phenotype in the colton-blood group system in a Para 3 Anti Coa, Cob is reported. In two deliveries the newborns had a positive coombs test. The hemolytic disease was mild. The possibility to obtain compatible blood from other children is mentioned.


The growth of memory during infancy.

Eight middle class infants were administered a series of tasks over a nine month period from 5 to 14 months of age. Major procedures included object permanence, vacillation, memory for locations and pictures, and reaction to unfamiliar adults and to separation. The results suggested that during the last half of the first year there is a major enhancement in the ability to retrieve a representation of a past event, to compare that representation with present experience, and to tolerate both longer delays between an original and transformed event and greater interference during those delays. It was suggested that many of the diverse phenomena that appear during the last half of the first year are mediated, in part, by an amplification of memorial capacity.


[Primary splenic cysts. Clinical study of a rare from of splenomegaly].

Two cases of a dysontogenetic splenic pseudocysts with seldom symptomatology are described. A splenomegaly can easily be cleared up by angiography of the truncus coeliacus. The risk of operation is minor to that in other forms of splenomegaly. Prognosis is good.


[The Apert syndrome (acrocephalosyndactylia). A case study].

In a patient of our hospital, who underwent surgery twice, a typical case of Apert-syndrome was diagnosed. Esophageal dilatation and diverticulum was found, which led to regurgitation during the induction of anesthesia. The association of the esophageal deformity with the Apert-syndrome is discussed.


[The significance of primary radiotherapy in cervical carcinoma in older women].

In spite of the increasing interest in geriatric-operative therapy primary irradiation therapy still has its important place in the treatment of cervical cancer in cases of higher age. About every third patient with cervical cancer belongs to the age group over 60 years, which is more or less excluded from operative therapy. The advantage of irradiation therapy is to be seen in the low post-therapeutic mortality and the remarkable survival and healing rates.


[Parametrial aspiration cytology].

Cytologic findings of fine needle aspiration from the parametrial region are compared with the clinical course of 54 patients with and without recurrence after therapy of gynecologic cancer. Parametrial aspiration cytolovy is as reliable as histology done by van Silverman biopsy. The frequency of complications and insufficient material is low. Anesthesia is not necessary. The procedure is simple. Aspiration cytology seems to be a progress in detecting recurrence of cancer in the parametrial soft tissue region.


[Pregnancy-specific beta-1-glycoprotein (SP-1) during the second half of pregnancy].

In this paper are defined new data about distribution, controlling factors, metabolism and aspects of physiological function of pregnancy-specific beta 1-glycoprotein during the second half of pregnancy. In high-risk pregnancies with diabetes, Rh-incompatibility and intrauterine death SP-1 concentrations in amniotic fluid were significantly increased. By evaluation of maternal serum concentrations of SP-1 in cases of high-risk pregnancies with EPH-gestosis and fetal retardation relevant results could be demonstrated.


[Prevention of premature delivery with acetylsalicylic acid].

In 52 cases acetylsalicylic acid was used to prevent labor when symptomatic tocolysis with beta-adrenergic substances showed insufficient results. By applying this method, 48 children were carried to full viability. Upon admission, all pregnancies were below 36 weeks of gestation. Upon delivery, 15 were between the 34th und 36th week, and 31 beyond the 36th week of gestation. We succeeded fully in 32 cases, 15 incomplete cases were observed and 5 failures. In addition to tocolysis, therapy with acetylsalicylic acid appears promising in preventing premature delivery.


[Side effects of drug for thromboembolism prophylaxis. Results from the University Women's Clinic Freiburg/Br].

It is reported on the side-effects of the antithrombotic prophylaxis in 10611 gynecological operations and caesarean sections at the University Hospital Freiburg/Br. Because of multiple side-effects a risk-free method of antithrombotic prophylaxis does not exist. The main problem in using heparin and oral anticoagulants are the complications caused by bleeding. Two cumarine necroses were observed. Two severe anaphylactoid reactions were seen under dextran prophylaxis resulting in the death of one newborn. Wound healing is delayed under low-dose heparin due to an increase in hematomas. Additionally two fatal pulmonary embolisms were caused by the so-called "rebound effect" after use of low-dose heparin.


[Does cancer preventive care on the cervix need to be reformed? Gynecological preventive care and early diagnosis--current knowledge on cervix neoplasms].

A comparative study shows high incidence of preclinical cancerous lesions of the uterine cervix in women under thirty years of age. The rate of positive cytology in this age group was the same as in the group of women over thirty (0.3 per cent each). The histological findings revealed intraepithelial lesions like dysplasia and carcinoma in situ in the younger group compared to more advanced lesions like microinvasive cancer in the higher-aged group. The use of colposcopy rendered optical evidence--predominantly in the younger group--of lesions which under long-term observation preceded positive cytology for years as well as the consequent histological proof of dysplasia and preclinical carcinoma. As a result of the given and discussed clinical data in both compared age groups the value of colposcopy is stressed in improving the quality of detection of preclinical neoplasia in the uterine cervix and the necessity of cancer-screening in younger-aged women is emphasized.


[Compression bandages in the so-called leg disease].

The compressive bandaging of limbs as a supportive therapy in venous insufficiency and lymphedema is neither difficult, nor a mystery. The compressive therapy is to be applied exclusively to walking patients. The principles of some types of compressive bandages are explained.


[Efficiency of cancer-preventive examinations. Problems in early detection for the physician and laboratory].

The efficiency of gynecological cancer detection and verification depends on optimal team work of different medical specialties, such as General Medicine, Gynecology, Cytopathology, Histopathology, Surgery, Radiology. Each number of the team, working incompetently in its field, lowers the efficiency of the whole group. The most important factors leading to inefficiency in gynecological cancer detection and verification are discussed. The comparison of two different sized cancer detection programs (1962-1964; 38 119 patients vs. 1968--1976: 331 355 patients) revealed that the efficiency of verification of cancer cases does not improve with the size of the program: The cancer verification rates were higher in the small program with less routine work-up material (verification rate: 80%) compared withe the big program containing mostly follow-up cases (verification rate:75%). Much more attention should be paid to the control of optimal cooperation of the medical specialties participating in a cancer detection program, since not only the size of a program but the quality of the work-up can improve the results in cancer detection.


[Pathophysiology of kidney lesions after temporary ischemia and measures for their prevention].

The efficacy of the so-called "hyperosmolar kidney preservation" is pointed out with respect to protecting the kidney from the otherwise lethal effect of protracted periods of normothermic ischemia. Furthermore the protective effect of various pharmacologic agents against 2 and 3 hours of normothermic ischemia is investigated and the morphology and pathophysiology of renal ischemic damage is pointed out. In further experiments extracorporeal renal operations were performed in 12 dogs to determine the efficacy of a new renal preservation method.


[Behavior of serum and urine sodium and potassium during treatment with benzbromarone].

16 adults received Benzbromarone at a dosis from 50 mg to 100 mg/day. No alteration of sodium and potassium concentration in serum could be found. During Benzbromarone application the elimination of sodium, potassium and water was not influenced.


[Functional disorders of the esophagus. Diagnosis and therapy].

Functional disorders of the esophagus may be divided into alterations of the pharyngeal and upper esophageal sphincter motor function, malfunction of the tubular esophagus and disorders of the lower esophageal sphincter. Radiology, endoscopy and manometry are essential in the evaluation of the individual patient, in lower esophageal sphincter insufficiency with reflux disease acid clearance, reflux provocation test, acid perfusion and pH metry should be added. Conservative vs. operative therapy has to be critically evaluated. The diagnostic criteria of the most common functional disturbances like idiopathic diffuse esophageal spasm, achalasia and scleroderma are presented and therapeutic efforts discussed.


[Pregnancy hypotension and fetal outcome].

A prospective study on 28 hypotensive pregnant women was carried out at the I. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Vienna. Besides periodical controls of HCS and E3, placental perfusion measurings with isotopes were undertaken. The placental perfusions of hypotensive patients were, in comparison to normal cases, significantly reduced. Most of the neonates were evidently smaller than normals and showed dystrophic signs. It is suggested that in the light of our study a maternal blood pressure below 115/70 mmHg must be considered alarming.


[The syndrome of acute fatty liver in pregnancy].

It is reported on the syndrome of the acute fatty liver of pregnancy and pointed out that early diagnosis, subsequent early termination of pregnancy and intensive treatment of complications, especially of hepatic and renal failure and disturbed blood clotting could reduce the mortality from almost 90 to 45 per cent within the recent years.


[Psychocomatic aspects in colectomized patients].

Patients who have undergone colectomy can be divided into two groups: 1. patients with mainly psychosomatic diseases (ulcerative colitis, ileitis terminalis Crohn) and 2. patients with mainly neoplastic diseases of the colon or rectum. The patients of the first group suffer from their symptoms for a longer time and often want to undergo an operation. Although they have considerable personality changes in a neurotic sense they tolerate the operation better than the patients of the second group. These are suddenly confronted with the fact that an operation is necessary. The physician is confronted with depressive reactions of the patients. A satisfying relationship between the patient and his doctor has to be regarded as the basis of the treatment. Additional psychopharmacotherapy, special psychotherapeutic training or/and self-help-groups, e.g. the International Ostomy Association (IOA), can then be considered.


[Autogenic training: quo vadis?].

The authors point out that a very successful psychotherapeutic treatment method, autogenic training, shows some trends in its development which require some thought. Basing on the technique theoretically and experimentally developed by J. H. Schultz the authors examine different questions in connection with autogenic training: The "autogenic" question, the commercialization and the application of biofeedback techniques in autogenic training therapy. Further the relationship between autogenic training and analytical methods are studied: autogenic neutralisation, daydream techniques (katathymes Bilderleben), doubletrack psychotherapy etc. are being discussed. The authors show that optimal results can be obtained from autogenic training only if combined with an analytical method.


[Electroretinography and electrooculography in ischemic retinopathy].

Ischemic retinopathy caused by central retinal artery occlusion destroys the inner retina including the inner nuclear layer. The b-wave and the oscillatory potentials in the ERG on-response and the d-wave and the oscillatory potentials in the ERG off-response are impaired. In EOG the amplitude of the slow oscillations and the standing potential are reduced. These findings can help to localize the generators of the different ERG- and EOG-components.


[Clinical and electroophthalmologic findings in x-chromosomal juvenile retinoschisis].

The wide range of clinical manifestations in x-linked retinoschisis can cause misinterpretations. Careful electroophthalmologic evaluation is a valuable acid, especially in patients without peripheral retinoschisis. The b-wave amplitudes of the electroretinogram are reduced and the oscillatory potentials are non-recordable. In the electro-oculogram the amplitudes of the slow oscillations are impaired.


[Formula diets in gastroenterology].

Elemental diets are in use for therapy of intestinal fistulas, diarrhoe of unknown etiology, short-bowel-syndrom and chronic inflammatory bowel diseases.


[The value of breast feeding in infant nutrition].

Breast-feeding is not only a question of dietary, but in addition to this an arrangement to forward a harmonic communication between mother and child. Breast-fed children are more satisfied, have less overweight and show little behavior disorders.


[Hemoglobins. XXVI. Analysis of the primary structure of the dimeric insect haemoglobin CTT VIIB (Erythrocruorin) from Chironomus thummi thummi, Diptera].

The dimeric haemoglobin CTT VIIB (Erythrocruorin) of Chironomus thummi thummi, Diptera, has been sequenced. Either globin or globin with maleic acid blocked lysines were cleaved with trypsin. The separation of peptides and the sequence analysis are given in detail.


[Hemoglobins. XXVII. The amino acid sequence of hemoglobin III from Myxine glutinosa L. A new hemecomplex: E7 glutamine, E11 isoleucine].

The sequence analysis of the main component, "HbIII", of the hemoglobins from the hagfish (Myxine glutinosa L.) is described. The hagfish belongs to the Cyclostomata, the most primitive class of the vertebrates. The hagfish hemoglobin displays a great heterogeneity, as described earlier. It consists of several monomeric hemoglobins. The globin of HbIII was isolated and used for the sequence analysis. The tryptic peptides as well as the cyanogen bromide and the BNPS-skatol fragments were separated. The sequences of the peptides were determined automatically by the help of a sequenator. Compared with other hitherto analyzed vertebral hemoglobins, also including other Cyclostomata, the primary structure of "HbIII" differs by more than 50%. The differences are so many that one can refer the Myxine hemoglobin neither as an alpha- nor as a beta-chain (of the tetrameric hemoglobins). The hagfish hemoglobin like other Cyclostomata has an additional segment of 9 residues at the amino terminus end compared with the mammalian hemoglobins. In the F-helix there is an insertion of 3 amino acid residues and in the interhelical gap, GH, there is a deletion of 9 residues. The substitutions of the residues forming the heme complex are of special interest. The distal histidine, E7, is substituted for glutamine. The proximal histidine, F8, is invariable. The valine E11 is substituted by isoleucine and the leucine FG3 by phenylalanine. These positions are involved in the contact with the heme group. This complex has never been described before.


Partition of trypsin and Kazal inhibitor in reaction mixtures with human serum.

The partition of trypsin and pancreatic secretory trypsin inhibitor (PSTI) in reaction mixtures with human serum was studied by electroimmunoassay and also by gel filtration on Sephadex G-200. The same pattern of trypsin complexes with alpha2-macroglobulin and alpha1-antitrypsin was observed in the presence or absence of PSTI. When sufficient trypsin was added to saturate the alpha2-macroglobulin, more complex with alpha1-antitrypsin was formed. A small amount of PSTI-trypsin complex was formed only when large amounts of trypsin and PSTI were present. The majority of PSTI was found in the fractions containing alpha2-macroglobulin, indicating the formation of a PSTI-trypsin-alpha2-macroglobulin complex. The remaining PSTI was eluted as free inhibitor. Increasing the added PSTI increased the fraction eluted as free inhibitor. alpha1-Antitrypsin and alpha2-macroglobulin appear to be much stronger than PSTI in their competition for trypsin in reaction mixtures of human serum, trypsin and PSTI.


Improved synthesis of CMP-sialates using enzymes from frog liver and equine submandibular gland.

An efficient method for the preparation of CMP-N-acetylneuraminic acid using crude or partially purified CTP:N-acylneuraminate cytidylyltransferase from equine submandibular gland or frog liver is described. The yield of the sugar nucleotide after purification by ion-exchange chromatography and gel filtration was 95%. The compound was studied by 360 MHz 1H NMR spectroscopy in addition to the usual chemical and physical analyses. The preparation of radioactive or unlabelled CMP 4-O-methyl-N-acetylneuraminic acid, which is not known to occur in nature, was achieved in 17% yield with the aid of the equine enzyme.


Albumins, glyoxysomal enzymes and globulins in dry seeds of cucumis sativus: qualitative and quantitative analysis.

1) Albumins and globulins were prepared from dry seeds of cucumbers (Cucumis sativus) by differential extraction. The globulin fraction was analyzed by gel electrophoresis under denaturing conditions in the presence and absence of mercaptoethanol. The subunit (Mr = 54000) of the tetramer (Mr = 240000) was shown to be composed of two different peptides. Microheterogeneity rendered the exact interpretation of the analysis difficult. 2) Glyoxysomal proteins were already present in dry seeds: malate synthase, isocitrate lyase, citrate synthase, malate dehydrogenase, catalase and crotonase could be detected unequivocally. It was demonstrated that the enzymatic and immunological properties of malate synthase and isocitrate lyase were not distinguishable from that of enzymes assigned to glyoxysomes of fully developed cotyledons. 3) Homogenates prepared from seeds by cautious cell disintegration were subjected to sucrose density gradient centrifugation and yielded microbody and protein body fractions, among other things.


A surfeit of surveys: escalating data demands on community mental health centers.

In a recent six-month period, a state-operated community mental health center was required to gather data for nine major surveys, reviews, and budget requests. Such surveys cover much the same ground, yet without any attempt to standardize formats so that the data a center compiles for one survey can be used in the next. The surveys frequently are not designed for the programs required to complete them; they are a drain on increasingly scarce staff time and deplete staff morale. A two-part solution to the problem would involve coordiantion and control of the demands for data, perhaps through the development of a model mental health data set and format by the National Institute of Mental Health, and the development of locally based, smaller-scale information systems. The latter step would generate more complete and reliable data for local clinicians and administrators and yield a limited amount of basic information to be used by outside agencies.


Developing a community board for a mental health center.

Federally funded community mental health centers are required to have governing boards made up of community residents to ensure that services are meeting the community's needs. Sound View-Throgs Neck Community Mental Health Center in Bronx, New York, met that requirement by developing three local advisory boards, one for each subcatchment area served by an outpatient clinic. Later a central community board with 12 members, four from each of the local advisory boards, was formed. The central board has several standing committees that parallel the organization of the center, including community, hospital, and rehabilitation services; research and development; and administration. Board members and center staff meet regularly. They have found that they must act as partners and learn to share power, privileges, and knowledge.


Staff reactions to the closing of a community mental health center.

Many community mental health centers face seriuos financial problems as they near the end of the federal funding period. The author describes the developments surrounding an extended financial crisis at an inner-city mental health center that eventually was forced to close. Using a crisis theory framework, she examines staff reactions to the crisis and proposes an intervention model in which a consultant is employed to help staff identify and avoid maladaptive coping behavior.