Composition of gastric mucinous secretion from Heidenhain pouches of dogs treated with aspirin.

Principal glycoproteins and amino acids of secretions from Heidenhain pouches were studied in control and aspirin-treated dogs in the resting state of fasting and during stimulation with pentagastrin. All samples showed the presence of galactose, galactosamine, glucosamine, glucose, fucose, mannose, uronic acid and sulfate. Galactose and glucosamine were found in equimolar amounts, and the galactose/galactosamine ratio was 2/1. Pentagastrin induced the reduction in concentration of major carbohydrate components and amino acids of gastric mucus. The concentrations of major carbohydrate components and of amino acids of gastric secretions were lower in aspirin-treated animals than in controls.


Theoretical aspects and practical applications of moiré topography.

When a surface is observed at a distance through a parallel line grating which is illuminated by a source of light laterally displaced to the viewing axis, the grating is superimposed on its shadow and this gives rise to a moiré fringe pattern. The fringes represent cross-sections of the surface parallel to the grating plane. The principle of the formation of the contour map has been studied assuming a grating represented by a Fourier series, a source of light represented by a 3D intensity distribution and a viewing aperture of finite dimensions. The experimental system used for illumination and observation of the moiré fringes consists of an equispaced parallel-lined glass grating and two small light sources positioned symmetrically about the imaging device. The arrangement constitutes a 3D imaging system with an accuracy of the order of 1 mm. The technique has been applied in radiotherapy problems such as the design of contour compensators and the measurement of body contours. Moiré patterns have been analysed with the aid of a PDP-8 computer, and have been used to calculate surface areas and volumes such as in breast studies and superficial tumour measurements.


Evaluation of a moiré imaging system.

Moiré fringe techniques can be used to measure surface topography. The factors that affect the formation of the fringes have been assessed theoretically by developing models of gratings and light sources of finite dimensions. In this way the effect of parameters such as the intensity distribution of the light source, the viewing aperture function, the lateral displacement of the source relative to the viewing axis, the viewing distance, the grating spacing and grating ratio have been evaluated. Other factors, related to the physical properties and geometry of the reflecting surface, are also investigated. Suggestions are made for the design of an optimum moiré imaging system.


Ionisation measurements and the derivation of Wn in acetylene and carbon dioxide irradiated with neutrons.

The use of ionisation chambers for neutron dosimetry requires a knowledge of Wn, the mean energy loss per ion pair. Experimental measurements of the ionisation in acetylene and carbon dioxide have been made for monoenergetic neutron beams of mean energies 0.236, 0.554, 1.12 and 1.72 MeV. The neutron fluences were measured with a De Pangher long counter calibrated at the National Physical Laboratory, and spectra determined by the time-of-flight technique. The measurements are compared with calculations based on the work of Dennis. Ionisation values were computed using a program which calculates kerma and uses different empirical models to describe the energy dependence of the W value of heavy ions. For the agreement to better than +/- 8% was obtained between the measured ionisation values and the calculated values based on these models. Larger discrepancies of up to 25% were observed between the measured and calculated ionisation in carbon dioxide. This is thought to reflect the larger uncertainties in the calculation of kerma in this gas due to resonances in the oxygen cross-section. Representative mean values for Wn/Wbeta of about 1-14 for acetylene and 1.58 for carbon dioxide were derived from the experimental measurements and calculated kerma for the neutron energy range 0.2--2 MeV.


Relative determination of W-values for alpha particles in tissue-equivalent and other gases.

W (the average energy to form an ion pair) for 5.4 MeV 241Am alpha particles in a Rossi-type tissue-equivalent (TE) gas, argon and methane was determined to an accuracy better than 0.2% using a new automated data handling system. A vibrating reed electrometer and current digitiser were used to measure the current produced by completely stopping the alpha particles in a large cylindrical ionisation chamber. A multichannel analyser, operating in a slow multiscaler mode, was used to store pulses from the current digitiser. The dwell time, of the order of 60 min per channel, was selected with an external timer gate. Current measurements were made at reduced pressures (200 Torr) to reduce ion recombination. The average current, over many repeated measurements, was compared to the current produced in nitrogen and its previously published W-value of 36.39+/-0.04 eV per ion pair. The resulting W-values were, in eV per ion pair, 26.29+/-0.05 for argon, 29.08+/-0.03 for methane and 30.72+/-0.04 for TE gas, which had an analysed composition of 64.6% methane, 32.4% CO2 and 2.7% nitrogen. Although the methane and argon values agree within 0.1% with previously published values, the value for TE is 1.2% lower than the single previously reported value.


Betatron electron beam characterisation for dosimetry calculations.

Parameters have been specified for electron beams with energies 5--45 MeV from a Brown Boveri betatron for use in computerised dosimetry calculations. A semi-empirical equation is given for the dose at any point at various depths in water. This equation is a modification to Kawachi's predictive model which was based on solutions of a general age--diffusion equation. The depth doses and isodose curves are predicted as a function of the practical range, source skin distance (SSD) and field size. Depth dose accuracy requirements of +/-2% above 50% depth dose and +/-5% at lower doses, relative to maximum dose, have been set and achieved. Also, the shape of the isodose curves with the constrictions at higher doses and bulging at lower values are accurately predicted. Computer calculated beams have been used to generate summed isodose distributions for certain clinical situations.


Compton scatter densitometry in cancellous bone.

A single-source low-energy Compton densitometer has been used to investigate the effects of multiple scattering on density determinations. The relative electron density and mass density were determined in samples of known density, and in samples of human cancellous bone tissue. The influence of sample diameter on the measured relative electron density of known samples was investigated. The measured value was strongly dependent on the diameter and the density range of the sample. The bias inherent in the density determination which is attributable to multiple scattering and attenuation in human femoral bone was evaluated, and a correction for these effects is suggested for clinical measurements.


Development of apparatus to measure calcium changes in the forearm and spine by neutron activation analysis using californium-252.

Techniques were developed to measure small changes of calcium in the forearm and spine in vivo by neutron activation analysis using two sources of 252Cf in a hospital environment. Using purpose-built part-body counters and bilateral irradiation with 7.5 cm premoderation between the sources and the bone, peripheral bone was measured with a total source strength eventually as low as 50 mCi. Two methods of spectral analysis were used and compared. Patient studies of the forearm were successfully undertaken, with a precision of 2.6% which included patient movement, and an annual bone dose of less than 10 rem and skin dose of 35 rem from six measurements. Two 100 mCi sources were used for measurements of the lumbar spine. Care was taken to minimise the problems of non-uniformity of activation which are present using unilateral irradiation. Emphasis was placed on measuring the bodies of the vertebrae with adequate sensitivity and uniformity, and the spinous processes and arches with low sensitivity. A whole body counter was used for the bilateral detection of the induced activity. The precision of the method was 3.0% with an annual peak bone dose of 2.1 rem and skin dose of 18 rem from three measurements.


Post-reconstruction method for beam hardening in computerised tomography.

A method for correcting the beam hardening artefacts in computerised tomography is introduced. After an initial reconstruction of the object the uncorrected image is used to estimate the amount of bone and tissue along each ray. The bone and tissue lengths obtained from the initial reconstruction are used to add a correction term to each original projection. A second reconstruction using the corrected projection data yields the final beam hardening corrected image. The results are presented showing the application of this formalism to a mathematical phantom. The instability of the correction method with respect to various possible sources of error is examined.


The measurement of the depth of a point source of a radioisotope from gamma ray spectra.

The spectrum of the scattered radiation from a 'point' source of 99Tcm located within a slab of tissue-like material has been studied with a 19-phototube gamma camera, a 7.5 cm x 7.5 cm sodium iodide detector and a Ge(Li) counter. Both backscatter and forward scattered radiation contribute to the spectra observed; 'infinite' backscatter is achieved at a thickness of 8 cm. The scattered radiation can be used to estimate the thickness of the overlying material. The scatter from 133Xe and 51Cr was also measured. The depth of a source could usually be determined to within a few millimetres from the proportion of scatter in the spectrum; it was more accurate with the 51Cr (320 keV) than with the lower-energy photopeaks of the other two isotopes. The variation in the spectrum as the source moved across the field of the gamma camera was recorded.


Constrained optimisation and its application to scintigraphy.

Any instrument that records data will produce a distorted or degraded version of the input signal. For example, imaging equipment will produce a blurred image of the object, and in the case of scintigraphic imaging the blurs may be comparable to the size of the physiological structures being investigated. The process of refocusing is called, in mathematical terms, deconvolution. In scintigraphy most workers have implemented deconvolution based on Wiener filtering. The shortcomings of the Wiener method when applied to scintigraphy are identified and an alternative approach to deconvolution using constrained optimisation is presented. The mathematical derivation of the new restoring filter is given in terms of the discrete Fourier transform. The practical implementation of the method on a digital computer is described and, as an example, the result of deconvolving a brain scan is presented.


A study of the point spread function in scintillation camera collimators based on Fourier analysis.

A new technique for evaluating the point spread function of parallel hole collimators in scintillation cameras is studied. The collimator function is developed into a Fourier series and the intensity distribution in the detector plane for a point source is given by a mathematical expression that depends on the object position and on the collimator parameters. The septal penetration effect is considered. The technique is applied to obtain the general formulae for collimators with hexagonal holes and the PSF is evaluated.


The gastrointestinal absorption of plutonium and americium in the hamster.

Plutonium-239 and americium-241 were administered to adult hamsters in various chemical forms and their absorption from the gut was measured. The results have been compared with published data on other species in order to derive values for the estimated absorption of these actinides in man. On the basis of current knowledge, the best values for adults would appear to be: 0.05% for americium, 0.01% for plutonium ingested in soluble form, and 0.0001% for plutonium ingested as the dioxide. Plutonium dioxide should be considered as soluble if a significant proportion (greater than 5%) of the activity is in particles less than 25 nm in diameter.


Application of Mie theory and cubic splines to the representation of light scattering patterns from bacteria in the logarithmic growth phase.

The angular dependence of light scattered by spherical bacteria cannot be explained accurately by treating them as homogeneous spheres with a simple size distribution determined by electron microscopy. Calculations indicated that structural features of the bacterial cell, such as its wall, were responsible, at least in part, for the poor agreement. Thus, there is no simple theoretical model available for light scattering by bacteria. Empirical methods have, therefore, to be used to describe the curves, e.g. for antibiotic sensitivity tests. Cubic splines provide a suitable empirical method.


Energy cost of rehabilitation calisthenics.

This study examined the relationship between total energy cost and cardiac effort for a set of graded calisthenics that have been used in cardiac rehabilitation programs. Cardiac effort was quantified by calculating myocardial oxygen cost from the product of heart rate and systolic blood pressure. Total energy cost was determined by measuring oxygen uptake during steady-state exercise. Results indicate that total energy-cost values accurately reflect the cardiac effort required during the performance of these calisthenic exercises by normal subjects.


Physical conditioning and altered self-concept in rehabilitated hemipelegic patients.

Level of physical conditioning and self-concept are two factors important to all functions of physically disabled persons, both during and after formal rehabilitation. The level of physical conditioning as a determinant of physical fitness and functional status and the measure of self-concept as a determinant of behavior were studied in seven hemiplegic patients who had completed a formal rehabilitation program. Before the rehabilitation program, subjects were physically deconditioned and had altered self-concepts, including lowered self-esteem and other devaluations of the self. Following a 12-week physical conditioning program, subjects demonstrated improvements in physical fitness and functional status and a return to more normal values in some aspects of self-concept.


The patellofemoral joint and its implications in the rehabilitation of the knee.

The normal mechanics of patellar motion lead to an eventual age-dependent degeneration of the patellofemoral joint in the majority of persons. This review explores the relationships between normal patellar mechanics, patellofemoral joint disease, and findings of quadriceps femoris muscle-function studies. Implications of these relationships are then discussed with regard to the rehabilitation of all patients.


Peer review: one department's experiences.

A method of peer review, based on retrospective chart audit and patient care review, is described. This method can help physical therapists fulfill their responsibility of reviewing their services in order to provide optimal care.


Unusual facial hemangioma.

An unusual hemangioma of the face, found in a 7-year-old girl in the masticator space and consisting of multiple lobes, is reported. Direct angiography was effective in clarifying the space occupied by the tumor. It was removed through a combined approach, using both temporal and oral incisions, with almost no bleeding.


Cysts, masses, and tumors of the accessory parotid gland.

An accessory parotid gland occurs in approximately 21 percent of human subjects. It is located anterior to the main parotid gland, usually just above Stensen's duct and connected by its own duct to the latter. Any lesions that can occur in the main parotid gland can also arise in an accessory parotid gland. For the excision of lesions of the accessory parotid gland, we prefer to turn the same cervicofacial flap used for a lateral or total parotidectomy. This permits one to fully visualize the superficial and deep main parotid segments, the trunk and the branches of the facial nerve, and the accessory parotid gland along with its duct system and Stensen's duct.


Periosteal pennant lateral canthoplasty.

A periosteal pennant method of primary lateral canthoplasty is described, and it effectively maintains surgical correction of the axis of the palpebral fissure and the position of the lateral canthus. In using it more than 50 times, we have not had to do a secondary correction.


Tropical ulcers.

We present 87 cases of chronic leg ulcers. The ages and sexes of the patients, and the symptomatology and complications, are described. The term "tropical ulcer" is inappropriate for these cases--though the term may be appropriate for certain rare acute ulcers colonized by Vincent's bacilli. For most persistent leg ulcers in the tropics, however, a general term of chronic ulcer is better--because it stimulates one to look for the cause and to treat the patient accordingly.


Surgical treatment of drooling by bilateral parotid duct ligation and submandibular gland resection.

We have followed 14 patients for up to 6 years after they had submaxillary gland resections and parotid duct ligations for drooling. Good to excellent results were found in more than 85 percent of them in the control saliva, and there have been no recurrences or fistulae. This procedure is technically simple to do, and it is associated with less morbidity than surgical relocation of the parotid ducts.


A study of gustatory and olfactory function in patients with craniofacial anomalies.

Olfactory and gustatory function can be reiably studied in patients with craniofacial anomalies over the age of 7 years. In our unoperated patients with orbital hypertelorism or craniofacial dysostosis, preoperative evaluation of the olfactory and gustatory functions showed normal values. The same techniques were employed to study any changes in these modalities following reconstructive craniofacial surgery, and the results are presented.


Simple method for reconstruction of the cleft hand with an adducted thumb.

We describe a new, simple method for reconstruction of a cleft hand. Ulnar transposition of the index ray followed by creation of a thumb web space is an effective way to get sufficient abduction of the thumb. This procedure is simpler than the traditional "translocation of the flap," and also it produces no circulatory troubles to worry about.


Evaluation of speech after correction of rhinophonia with pushback palatoplasty combined with pharyngeal flap.

A comparison is made of the preoperative and postoperative speech evaluations of 15 selected subjects who had pharyngeal flap operations combined with palatal pushback. Postoperatively, 13 of the 15 patients (86 percent) showed no abnormal nasal emission and no evidence of significant hypernasality during word production. Gross substitution errors were also corrected by the surgical repair. While the number of patients is small, this study indicates equal effectiveness of the surgical technique described--regardless of the sex, the medical diagnosis, whether the procedure was primary or secondary, or the amount of postoperative time--providing there is good function of the muscles of the soft palate.


Influence of submucous septal resection on facial growth in the rat.

Submucous septal resections in young rats caused severe retardation of growth in the upper facial skeleton. These growth disturbances occurred regardless of whether the resections included both the cartilaginous septum and the corresponding mucoperichondrium, or only the cartilaginous septum. The degree of growth disturbance depends on the age when the resections are done.


Thumb reconstruction with a sensory flap from the dorsum of the index finger.

The dorsal skin of the index ray is very useful (1) for a one-staged thumb lengthening procedure after amputation, (2) for covering the stump of an avulsed thumb with sensory skin, and (3) for expanding the first web space. The flap may be transferred as a rotation flap, or the dorsal vasculature and nerve supply to the index may be carefully dissected free as a pedicle to permit its use as a neurovascular island flap. We believe that considerably more sensory skin can be transferred by this flap than by the ring finger neurovascular island flap, and that the technical risks and surgical time are less with the index finger flap.


Satisfactions and dissatisfactions of patients with augmentation mammaplasty.

In the study group, the augmentation with silicone gel prostheses had a high rate (64%) of firmness (as felt by the patients), which seems not greatly affected by the surgeon or by patient exercises or manipulations. In the group, augmentations with saline-filled inflatable prostheses had a much lower incidence of firmness (40%, as felt by the patients). No deflations of the Heyer-Schulte R.T.V. "Jenny" prosthesis were found during the follow-up period. Augmentation mammaplasty by a certified plastic surgeon has a low rate of physical complications (in the range of one to two percent). However there were unfavorable cosmetic results causing patient dissatisfaction with part of the result in about 15%. The incidence of emotional dissatisfaction with the procedure as a whole, as judged by those who would not choose to repeat the operation, was less than 4%.


The muscle-suspension lower blepharoplasty.

The muscle-suspension (or muscle sling) lower blepharoplasty is a technique that can be used to some extent for all lower lids in which tightening and smoothing is desired. It seems to provide an extra degree of support by counteracting the natural tendency of gravity to produce scleral show or ectropion when the lid skin is tightened. It consists of anchoring a sling of orbicularis muscle to the periosteum of the lateral orbital rim, with an upward and lateral pull--while the skin is pulled in a more medial or upward direction.


Straightening the twisted nose.

For correction of the twisted nose, the use of a dorsal onlay cartilage graft, obtained from the resected septum, produces the illusion of a straight nose. This persists in spite of any recurrences of deviations in the septum or upper lateral cartilages.


Velopharyngeal function following maxillary advancement.

In a series of 40 patients who had maxillary advancements, none developed velopharyngeal incompetence. Unlike the cleft palate patient who is more at risk, there are distinct anatomical characteristics in craniofacial dysostosis which favor maintenance of the integrity of the velopharyngeal mechanism. Hyponasality was eliminated in 5 patients with Crouzon's disease. On cephalometric study, it was observed that after maxillary advancement the nasopharyngeal volume was expanded and the angle formed by the hard and soft palates was increased. On phonating cephalograms, the velopharyngeal contact became more physiological after maxillary advancement in the craniofacial dysostosis patient. The only postoperative articulatory changes after maxillary advancement were in the production of the /s/ sound, which is particularly sensitive to changes in dentoalveolar relationships.


Orbital floor fractures--should they be explored early?

One hundred consecutive cases of orbital floor fractures from varying causes are reviewed, and the admission symptoms and signs are compared to the late results. We considered the early findings of diplopia, infraorbital rim step-off, and hypesthesia (with an associated clinical diagnosis of malar bone involvement) an indication for exploration of the orbital floor and possible placement of silicone sheeting. When this was done, minimal complications resulted.


Method for measurement of circumduction of the thumb to evaluate results of opponensplasty.

A simple method for measuring circumduction of the thumb, by using a ratio of the range of motion to the length of the first metacarpal, is described. This method can be of value in assessing many aspects of thumb function, especially the improvement in function after opponensplasty. The improved ability to position the thumb in a useful location, both for pinch and grasp, appears to correlate well with the patient's use of the hand for previously impossible tasks.


Experimental transplantation of small joints by microvascular anastomoses.

Metacarpophalangeal joints in dogs were transplanted with microvascular anastomoses. Some were transplanted as half-joints, others as whole joints, and these dogs were followed for up to 5 1/2 months. When a half-joint was transplanted within the foot, the joint movement became restricted but the vascularized half-joints were well preserved with only slight damage and well-preserved epiphyseal plates--compared to severe damage of the articular cartilage and destruction of the epiphyseal plates in the non-vascularized joint transplants. Vascularized whole joint transplants within the foot were indistinguishable macroscopically and microscopically from normal joints, and they had only a slight restriction of joint movement. They took up tetracycline from the circulation, demonstrating their viability.


Predicting by electromyography the results of nonsurgical treatment of temporomandibular joint syndrome.

This study of 308 patients demonstrated that reliance upon physical findings alone is not reliable for the diagnosis and the prediction of treatment success in TMJS. However, those patients who had a lengthened masseteric silent period on the EMG had a 93% success rate from treatment with occlusal splint and occlusal adjustment. In contrast, those patients who had a normal masseteric silent period on the EMG had only a 21 percent success rate from the same therapy.


Growth in revascularized bone grafts in young puppies.

The results of microvascular transfers of growing ulnas in puppy forelegs have been studied. These transfers were carried out both heterotopically and orthotopically. The growth in the revascularized bone grafts has been compared to that in heterotopic, nonvascularized ulna transfers and to normal ulnar growth. The growth in the vascularized bone grafts was significantly greater than in the nonvascularized grafts, but significantly less than in normal ulnar growth. A metaphyseal contribution to the blood supply of the growing portion of long bones is suggested.


Reduction of the hypertrophic earlobe.

The reduction of hypertrophied earlobes in a young patient is presented. The etiology of hypertrophied earlobes, and several methods for correcting this deformity, are discussed.


[The contribution of forensic psychiatry in the determination of punishable guilt].

As part of the consultative discussions between members of the Supreme Court and workers at the Department of Forensic Psychiatry, G.D.R. Institute of Psychiatrists and Neurologists, problems are being dealt here with, which have been discussed by the present authors as early as in 1972. These are questions arising in connection with expert opinions on responsibility and guilt and concerning the offender's personality, the motives, the kind and extent of guilt, the possible exclusion of guilt, as well as urges of passion beyond the limits of paragraphs 15 and 16 in addition to exceptional objective and subjective circumstances.


[Facial myokomias in brain stem tumors].

Four cases of brain-stem tumor were described, in which myokymias were electromyographically derived from the region of several cerebral nerves. An attempt is made to interpret the effects of twitching by reference to the electromyogram. Myokymias are a positive indication of organic brain stem damage. The use subtle techniques of electromyographic examination shows that this muscular hyperkinesis is not so infrequent a symptom as is generally believed.


[Possible diagnostic misinterpretations in chronic epidural hematoma].

Of fifteen epidural hematomas with a protracted course of growth, three were preoperatively diagnosed on the suspicion of tumorous growth. By taking into account the entire course of disease, evidence of posttraumatic complications was obtained only from anamneses and, in one single case, from a fracture of the skull. Using the methods of instrumental neuroradiological diagnosis, the intracranial occupation of space could not be observed to be outside of the cerebrum.


[Vegetative phenomena in the course of depressive states].

Depressive psychoses are accompanied by vegetative disorders. Third-order blood-pressure waves are an expression of vasomotor rhythms which through diencephalic and limbic structures tend to adjust the blood pressure to the respective overall psychovegetative situation. In the case of depressions with an axious increase of impulse, statistical evidence was obtained, within the framework of clinical improvement, for a correlation between a decreasing score of depression and an increasing frequency of third-order waves. The same central trends of these quantities suggest that both of them are different manifestations of a common functional disorder in the limbic system and diencephalon.


[Psychogymnastic. A nonverbal technic in the course of dynamic group psychotherapy].

This article describes psychogymnastics which is a nonverbal technique employed in dynamically oriented group psychotherapy and which has for many years been successfully used by workers at the day sanatorium at Palata, Prague. Practical examples are given to explain the use of characteristic methods of treatment.


Validity and reliability of a self-administered health history questionnaire.

A self-administered, health history questionnaire devised for routine use in a general medical clinic is completed without the assistance of clinic personnel and used, unedited, by the providers. The reliability and validity of the responses of 23 patients to this questionnaire were tested statistically. In our setting, more than 90 percent of the patients referred for care are capable of completing the questionnaire. The 23 patients averaged 32 minutes to complete the questionnaire. An average of 34 minutes of encounter time is required to obtain the same historical data by interview. Test-retest reliability of patients' responses to the questionnaire was 90 percent. More than 92 percent of the patients' written responses to health history items agreed with the data obtained in a blinded fashion by internists in the traditional interview. The questionnaire accurately obtains items of history frequently missing from the recorded ambulabory care data base, and in some instances obtains items of history more effectively than the interviewing physician. The study results showed a low incidence of false positive (1.8 percent) and false negative (2.8 percent) responses to questionnaire items.


Early diagnosis of malignant pulmonary lesions. Importance of tumor size and growth rate.

The prognosis of peripheral lung cancer and the possibilities of an early diagnosis are discussed on the basis of a unique case of a small bronchogenic carcinoma which was followed with routine radiography over an eight year period. The tumor growth rate as reflected by volume doubling time is utilized for determination of the earliest possible visibility and evolution time. Certain conclusions are drawn about the importance of an early diagnosis and therapy for the prospective chances of a radical cure.


Invasive radiology in the diagnosis of mediastinal masses. Use of fine needle for aspiration biopsy.

A review is presented of the radiological and surgical procedures used for diagnosing mediastinal masses. The radiological examinations evaluate the size, shape and site of the mediastinal lesion, whereas the surgical methods provide tissue diagnosis. Fine needle aspiration biopsy which is an invasive radiological procedure has the advantage of obtaining cytological diagnosis. The method is described and the results of 56 biopsies in 38 patients are discussed in detail. The success rate is 76% and increasing steadily as further experience is gained. The complications are of a light nature and with the exception of one patient no treatment was necessary.


[Ultrasonically guided percutaneous needle aspiration biopsies (author's transl)].

Ultrasonically guided percutaneous fine needle aspiration biopsies were carried out in 179 patients with sonographically proven space occupying lesions of the liver, pancreas and kidneys as well as the retroperitoneal space. The fine needle aspiration biopsies were done using a B-scan-aspiration-biopsy transducer with a special needle having an outer diameter of 0,4--0,6 mm. Liver metastases were proven cytologically in 57/70 patients (81%), pancreatic carcinomas in 20/31 patients (64%), kidney tumours in 15/20 patients (75%), retroperitoneal lymph node metastases and primary malignant lymphomas in 20/32 patients (62%). The ultrasonically guided fine needle aspiration biopsy is simple, practically without pain, risk or complications for the patient, and is an economically feasible examination method.


[CT guided percutaneous needle aspiration biopsy (author's transl)].

Technical aspects of CT guided fine needle biopsy are discussed. Since CT enables the topographic-anatomical localization of even small mass lesions, the success rate of CT guided biopsy may be considerably high. The diagnostic potential of the method for the biopsy of various organs is discussed.


Isolated azygos continuation of the inferior vena cava.

Our case of azygos continuation of the inferior vena cava is very rare because there was no associated heart disease or abdominal situs inversus. The diagnosis of this anomaly of the inferior vena cava should be suspected by observation of a dilated azygos vein on the chest roentgenogram and confirmed by venography.


[X-rays in the eye of the general public. A survey of 181 interviews with office personnel (author's transl)].

For a pilot study, a random sample of 181 office personnel in steel companies were interviewed about their knowledge and feelings on X-rays and other forms of ionizing radiation. The general knowledge about the beneficial and detrimental aspects of X-rays was good, with education at school and news media reports being the main sources of information (70%). In general, the news media are considered to give objective and correct reports on this matter. 85% of the interviewed held ionizing radiation to be at least somewhat dangerous. Those with higher education (college/university) were significantly more vocal on the dangerous aspects. Concerning personal fear of X-rays, 30% were at least somewhat fearful. A significant correlation was found between statements on the dangerous aspects and subjective feelings of fear (anxiety). Interestingly, there was no correlation between general fearfulness (manifest anxiety) and fear of X-rays.


Radiologic features of Reiter disease.

The radiologic manifestations of Reiter disease in 56 patients are described. Although the findings are often nonspecific, certain features are distinctive, particularly when present in combination. These include subtle periosteal bone apposition at bony prominences, the infrequency of regional panarthritis and hip and shoulder involvement, the tendency for destructive arthritis to be confined to small joints, particularly in the feet, and a typically "discontinuous" spondylitis characterized by eccentric, laterally positioned vertebral hyperostoses which tend to bridge around the contigous disk. Attention is drawn to similar hyperostoses which occur above the true sacroiliac joints. The significance of these features, particularly in terms of differential diagnosis, is discussed.


Computed tomography of the osseous pelvis.

Computed tomography (CT) was used for study of the osseous pelvis in 43 patients with definitive pathological or clinical follow-up. CT accurately characterized and determined extent of bone and soft-tissue involvement; neoplasms and other disease processes, such as sacroiliac joint disease, were well localized. In cases of trauma, CT was able to identify, localize, and characterize fracture fragments and bone or joint displacement. CT was judged "useful" or "definitive" in 80% of all lesions and 96% of neoplasms studied.


The tracheo-esophageal stripe and the posterior tracheal band.

While recognizing the importance of the posterior tracheal band as described previously, the author wishes to emphasize the separate characteristics of the tracheo-esophageal stripe and emphasize its importance as a sign of air in the esophagus as well as possible underlying esophageal pathology. Any such band or stripe measuring 3 mm or more in the cervical or thoracic region should be viewed with some suspicion.


Iosefamate meglumine: an iodinated contrast agent for hepatic computed tomography scanning.

Iosefamate meglumine, a water-soluble, iodinated compound which is chemically and pharmacologically similar to iodipamide, was studied as a contrast agent for hepatic CT scanning in dogs. The difference between the CT attenuation number of liver and blood increased by 16 EMI units after intravenous injection of iosefamate 150 mg l/kg. The agent may prove useful in improving the CT detection of isodense tumors within the liver.


Comparison of gray-scale ultrasonography and computed tomography in the evaluation of macrocrania in infants.

Head scans in 27 infants were done to compare the value of ultrasonography and computed tomography (CT) in the evaluation of macrocrania and encephalocele. Ultrasonography and CT correlated well with regard to anatomical information, especially in the assessment of the lateral and third ventricles. However, unlike CT, ultrasonography uses no ionizing radiation, is less expensive, eliminates sedation, and reduces artifacts due to motion and metal clips. In conjunction with an initial CT examination, ultrasonography is useful for serial evaluation of the lateral and third ventricles. It can also be helpful in assessing extraventricular fluid collections and suspected encephaloceles.


Gray-scale ultrasonography of hepatic amoebic abscesses.

Retrospective analysis of the ultrasonograms of 42 hepatic amoebic abscesses in 34 patients was performed. All lesions were less echogenic than normal liver. All but 1 were contiguous with the liver capsule and had slight distal sonic enhancement. Twenty-three were predominantly homogeneous with fine, low-level echoes. This pattern is highly suggestive of hepatic amoebic abscess. Nineteen abscesses did not show this pattern and could not be diagnosed based on ultrasonographic criteria.


Type II choledochal cyst: ultrasonographic appearance.

The ultrasonic findings in a rare Type II choledochal cyst are described. In patients with a right upper quadrant mass in whom the clinical, ultrasonic, or radiographic findings are atypical for other etiologies, this diagnosis should be considered.


Ultrasound observations in multiple gestation with first trimester bleeding: the blighted twin.

Twenty-two patients, 19 of whom presented with first trimester bleeding, underwent ultrasound examination demonstrating a normal amniotic cavity containing a fetus with regular heart activity. In each, a separate anechoic or hypoechoic region was identified within the uterus compatible with a coexistent anembryonic pregnancy or "blighted twin." Three patterns, (a) second sac, (b) crescent of fluid outlining the intact sac, and (c) septal division of the amniotic cavity with one compartment empty, are described. Seven additional cases showing variant situations are discussed. The diagnosis of blighted twin carries a good prognosis for carrying the single gestation to term.


Cavernous hemangioma of the liver: ultrasonography, arteriography, and computed tomography.

Gray-scale ultrasonography and angiography were performed on 5 patients with cavernous hemangioma of the liver. Four patients also had radionuclide scans and 2 had computed tomography. Angiography was the most specific diagnostic examination; the findings of the other 3 techniques were nonspecific, yet valuable for initial identification of the lesions and their characterization as solid tumors.


Scintigraphy and ultrasonograhy of hepatic hemangioma.

The clinical findings, radionuclide scintigrams, and ultrasonograms of hepatic hemangiomas are described for 11 patients. Scintigraphy frequently demonstrated a marginal or subcapsular location. The lesions were otherwise nonspecific in appearance and were indistinguishable from metastatic foci. Sonographically, hypoechoic, hyperechoic, and predominantly anechoic patterns were observed, not unlike those described for malignant foci. However, 7 hemangiomas had a central linear septum. Liver function tests were normal in all patients. Since percutaneous biopsy is hazardous and hepatic angiography usually diagnostic, the scintigraphic and ultrasonic appearances described may help in the selection of the appropriate investigative studies.


Brodie abscess: reappraisal.

Upon review, 25 cases of Brodie abscess demonstrated a radiological spectrum not previously appreciated. One third of the lesions were diaphyseal in location, and 50% had associated cortical thickening, while 40% showed a stimulated periosteal reaction, and 20% contained sequestra. The variable radiological appearance was underscored by the fact that the preoperative diagnosis was other than osteomyelitis in half the cases. A diverse nomenclature has proliferated to describe and catalogue bone abscess formation. Although the radiological spectrum is broad, the unanimity of clinical presentation, pathological findings, and response to surgical excision supports the concept of a single entity with variable expression.


Reproducibility of ejection fraction and ventricular volume by gated radionuclide angiography after myocardial infarction.

To validate the repeated use of radionuclide equilibrium angiography for determining left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF) and end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes (EDV and ESV), 25 patients were studied on an hourly basis an average of 9.1 days after acute myocardial infarction. Data were processed with a semi-automatic computer program which develops an averaged-volume curve from an assigned LV region-of-interest. LV EDV and ESV were derived from a previously described method which correlates well with contrast angiography (r = 0.977, y = 0.0255x - 0.121). Comparison between initial and subsequent equilibrium EF and between initial and subsequent volumes showed excellent correlation. Excluding three anginal episodes, the EF variation between studies averaged 0.03 +/- 0.02.


Clinical standardization of the new dual cardiac probe.

A new mobile dual cardiac probe has been introduced for measurements of the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). In 28 patients, correlation between LVEFs measured by the dual probe and biplane contrast ventriculography was 0.83. Central and peripheral injections yielded comparable curves, and the resultant LVEFs correlated well (R = 0.95). Correlation between LFEVs determined by the probe and by gated blood pool imaging in 43 patients was also 0.83. In 21 patients given three serial injections of 99mTc-albumin, the mean variation of the ejection fraction was 4.2 +/- 3.2%; however, reproducibility was unsatisfactory using 99mTc-sulfur colloid due to sequestration in hepatic background tissue.


Demonstration of bleeding site by 99mTc-labeled red cells.

Radionuclide angiography using in vivo 99mTc-tagged red cells demonstrated different bleeding sites in one patient on three occasions. The study is easy to perform and may be more sensitive than contrast angiography in the presence of slow bleeding.


Tumor sterilization following high-dose pre-operative irradiation for advanced cancer of the larynx or pyriform sinus.

Twenty-two patients with advanced laryngeal cancer and 5 with advanced pyriform sinus cancer were given 51 Gy (5,100 rad) followed by surgical resection. In 10 (45%) of patients with laryngeal cancer, no tumor was found at the primary site pathologically; 15 (68%) had negative neck specimens. All of those with pyriform sinus cancer had positive specimens. Eighteen patients with laryngeal cancer are free of disease. In contrast, only 1 with pyriform sinus cancer is free of disease; 1 has had a local recurrence and 3 have had metastases. The data suggest that 51 Gy (5,100 rad) are insufficient to sterilize pyriform sinus cancer; higher doses together with adjuvant chemotherapy are needed.


Complications of combined surgery and neutron radiation therapy in patients with advanced carcinoma of the head and neck.

A total of 135 patients with advanced squamous-cell carcinoma of the head and neck were treated with cyclotron-generated fast neutrons. Thirty-eight had major surgery before or after irradiation. Major complications (fistula formation, carotid artery exposure or blowout requiring ligation, or major wound breakdown) occurred in 37%. The complication rates associated with surgery prior to irradiation, planned surgery following irradiation, and salvage surgery following irradiation were 0/12, 4/5, and 10/21, respectively. The complication rate for surgery following neutron irradiation alone was 73%; for surgery following mixed-beam irradiation it was 20%. The age of the patient and the interval between surgery and irradiation had no influence on the complication rate.


A practical method for monitoring diagnostic radiation dosage in the newborn nursery.

Diagnostic radiation exposure in 133 consecutive newborns was studied using a TLD monitoring system. Eighty-eight per cent of dosimeters received less than 1 mSv (100 mrem) total exposure. The mean exposure per chest radiograph was 0.044 +/- 0.023 mSv (4.4 +/- 2.3 mrem). Abdominal surface exposure was 0.053 +/- 0.03 mSv (5.3 +/- 3.0 mrem) for boys and 0.044 +/- 0.021 mSv (4.4 +/- 2.1 mrem) for girls. The gonadal exposure, which was calculated from the abdominal exposure data, was 0.053 +/- 0.030 mSv (5.3 +/- 3.0 mrem) for boys and 0.026 +/- 0.012 mSv (2.6 +/- 1.2 mrem) for girls. The correction factor for beam attenuation over gonads in girls was 0.58. In general, the radiation received by these infants did not exceed the currently published protection limits.


A new technique for the calculation of scattered radiation from 60Co-teletherapy beams.

An alternative to the Clarkson technique for calculating total scattered radiation is presented. Resultant TAR values are compared with those obtained by the Clarkson technique for the same field. The new scatter technique is always more than 2.8 times faster than the Clarkson technique and more than 4 times faster on a large number of fields. The new approach appears to offer a simple and expedient alternative to the more traditional methods for iiregular field dose calculations.


The status of film/screen mammography. Results of the BENT study.

Results of the Breast Exposure: Nationwide Trends (BENT) study are presented. In this study, data were collected from 42 states and several other jurisdictions and the number of facilities found to have unusually high or low exposures during mammography was determined. Surveyors trained by representatives of the Bureau of Radiological Health then worked with these facilities to determine the source of the problem and recommend corrective measures. Contrast was found to be reduced by high "inherent" filtration, high kVp, or inappropriate imaging conditions, while resolution was impaired by excessive exposure time, as well as inappropriate imaging conditions. These and other problems are discussed and correlated with image quality.


Computed tomography of the parotid gland during contrast sialography.

By performing CT scanning during contrast sialography, tumors within the parotid gland can be shown and their configuration in relation to the remaining normal salivary gland and surrounding structures can be appreciated. This permits better evaluation of the relationship of the tumor to the facial nerve, possible extension of tumor beyond the gland, and benign versus malignant growth characteristics


A simple method of spleen imaging with 99mTc-labeled erythrocytes.

A simple technique of splenic localization with 99mTc-labeled red blood cells is described. A blood sample is obtained 30 minutes after administration of nonradioactive pyrophosphate. Pertechnetate is added to the sample and the blood is incubated for 35 minutes at 49 degrees C. One to two hours after reinjection, selective spleen imaging can be performed.


Experience with an alternative method of anesthesia for intracavitary therapy of pelvic carcinoma.

Placement of intracavitary applicators for treatment of gynecological cancer is usually done in the operating room under general anesthesia. This requires premedication, operating and recovery room time, and is time consuming and expensive. The authors have found that the implant can be performed in a radiation medicine department using intravenous Demerol and Valium. Analgesia has many advantages in comparison to general anesthesia for intracavitary implant therapy.


An in vitro comparison of computed tomography, xeroradiography, and radiography in the detection of soft-tissue foreign bodies.

Computed tomography (CT), xeroradiography, and radiography were compared in vitro to assess the relative value of each in detecting soft-tissue foreign bodies. Results indicate that CT may prove useful.


An automated ultrasound transducer beam profiling system.

An automatic, three-dimensional, ultrasound beam profiling system was developed and incorporated into a radiotherapy planning minicomputer system with few modifications and at minimal cost. This profiler was invaluable in assessing the characteristics of beams emitted by ultrasound transducers.


Control of hemorrhage from a common carotid arterial-cutaneous fistula by temporary implantation of a balloon catheter.

Hemorrhage from an infected carotid arterial-cutaneous fistula was treated by occlusion of the common carotid artery with a 6-French (Swan-Ganz) balloon catheter. After nine months, there was no recurrence of bleeding or neurological sequelae. Temporary balloon occlusion to induce thrombosis of a major artery is an alternative to transcatheter embolization of small particulate material and larger foreign bodies.


Fluoroscopic placement of intestinal tubes.

The authors have attempted to place fluoroscopically approximately 400 nasointestinal tubes in 7 years. The tube was guided into the jejunum in 39% of patients, into the third portion of the duodenum in 57%, and into the second portion in 76%.


Percutaneous nephropyelostomy using a fine-needle puncture set.

The authors describe an improved method of percutaneous nephropyelostomy using a long, fine, flexible needle combined with a wider and shorter cannula. The needle facilitates atraumatic puncture of the renal collecting system and antegrade pyelography and subsequently serves as a guide over which the nephrostomy cannula is inserted. This technique was successful in 105 of 115 procedures (93 patients) over a period of 15 months and has replaced operative nephrostomy in the author's hospital.


Remote television viewing: an ultrasound teaching device.

Remote viewing of ultrasound scans facilitates assessment of a student's technique while minimizing anxiety for both him and the patient. This method may also be effective for the busy physician who must monitor several procedures at the same time.


Antitrust law and the practice of radiology.

Physicians now find it relevant to acquaint themselves with aspects of the law which heretofore were mainly of concern to the business world. One such area is antitrust, which is beginning to affect the practice of radiology. Three phases of the problem are discussed: exclusive privileges contracts; boycotts of nonphysician consultations (i.e., with chiropractors and cultists); and certificate of need requirements for acquisition of highly technical, sophisticated and expensive equipment.


Torsion of the lung without trauma.

The unusual occurrence of nontraumatic torsion of the lung following pneumonia is presented. A bronchogram was important in confirming diagnosis. The patient was successfully treated with antibiotics and surgical manipulation. A brief explanation of the torsion is suggested.


Venous calcifications associated with cavernous transformation of the portal vein: computed tomographic and angiographic correlations.

A case of rare venous calcifications involving cavernous transformation of the portal vein and spontaneous splenocaval shunt is presented. Findings were obtained with plain abdominal radiography, computed tomography, and angiography. Inflammation of the portal vein with subsequent occlusion could account for splenomegaly and hypertrophy of the splenic artery and vein with atheromatous calcifications due to turbulence and sclerosis. Angiography is essential prior to surgical intervention in order to select the appropriate shunt.


Roentgen diagnosis of linear ulcers.

Linear peptic ulcerations are not uncommon lesions of the stomach and duodenum and can be demonstrated by upper gastrointestinal series. This is facilitated by the double contrast technique, but they may also be appreciated via compression methods. The criteria found helpful to establish the presence of a linear ulcer include: (a) contour deformity; (b) niche projection; (c) fuzzy line; and (d) folds radiating to a line (crater). Routine use of these criteria with the double-contrast method enabled the authors to diagnose 42 linear ulcers.


The radiological spectrum of gastric bypass complications.

Gastric bypass is now the operation of choice for surgical management of morbid obesity. Prompt and accurate radiological diagnosis in the early postoperative period is critical for proper management of suspected gastrojejunal anastomotic leakage, abscess formation, and acute distension of the excluded stomach and afferent loop. Inadequate weight loss may indicate an increase in the gastric pouch and anastomosis or dehiscence of the staple line. Gastric and jejunal ulceration and anastomotic narrowing also require radiological and endoscopic evaluation.


Renal vein thrombosis: an underdiagnosed complication of multiple renal abnormalities.

Thirty-one cases of renal vein thrombosis (RVT) were reviewed retrospectively for clinical laboratory, and radiographic findings. An underlying renal disorder was present in 28 cases, absent in only 3. This supports other evidence that RVT is usually a complication of renal disease rather than a primary event, and that nephrotic syndrome may be due to renal disease rather than RVT. The findings also confirmed the large spectrum of urographic appearances in RVT, and were used as a basis for developing specific and liberal indications for renal venography.


Epinephrine enhanced renal angiography in the diagnosis of hamartoma (angiomyolipoma): a reevaluation.

The vlue of epinephrine enhanced angiography in the preoperative distinction of isolated hamartoma (angiomyolipoma without stigma of tuberous sclerosis) from hypernephroma has been largely discounted in the past. The authors performed this procedure in 6 patients (4 with isolated hamartoma and 2 with tuberous sclerosis complex). Vasoconstriction of the tumor vessels in the isolated group suggested the benign nature of the hypervascular mass in all cases. Vasoconstriction stronger than that of normal parenchymal vessels suggested the diagnosis of isolated renal angiomyolipoma. This form of pharmacoangiography should be part of the routine preoperative workup of all solid renal masses.


Tubular stasis and ectasia due to intrarenal obstruction.

Segmental tubular stasis and ectasia may be early signs of intrarenal obstruction. Case reports of 3 patients are presented. In arriving at a diagnosis, the possibility of significant underlying pathology such as calculi and neoplasm should be considered.


Sclerosing stromal tumor of ovary.

A case of an extremely rare, benign ovarian lesion occurring in young women is presented and its pathology discussed. Radiographically it simulated a large calcified fibroid. The diagnosis should be considered in a young woman with menstrual irregularity and pelvic mass where fibroma and thecoma are unlikely.


Hyperimmunoglobulinemia E syndrome: radiographic observations.

Susceptibility to recurrent staphylococcal cutaneous and respiratory infections beginning in infancy associated with extreme hyperimmunoglobulinemia E is a recently described primary immunodeficiency syndrome. Other clinical features include depressed cellular immunity and deficient antibody formation. Recurrent pneumonia and cyst formation with variable persistence and expansion characterized the radiographic couse in 11 patients. Five cysts resolved with continuous antistaphylococcal therapy; 2 were resected without recurrence; and 4 persisted after surgery and/or antibiotics (2--8 years). The cysts had dense, necrotic surfaces with fibrous walls, eosinophilic and other inflammatory cell infiltrates, and frequent, persistent, bronchial connections. Sinusitis (9/9) and mastoiditis (3/4) were also observed radiographically.


Neonatal meconium blockage in the ileum and proximal colon.

Three cases of premature infants with obstruction of the ileum and proximal colon in the absence of cystic fibrosis are presented. Meconium inspissation complicated low-grade bowel obstruction in 2 infants. In the third, the bowel was anatomically normal, with the tenacious meconium the apparent primary cause of obstruction. Distinguishing features of this unusual type of blockage and other meconium syndromes are also discussed. This condition may simulate necrotizing enterocolitis, requiring surgery for differentiation. It should be considered in the differential diagnosis of low small bowel or colonic obstruction in the premature infant who is several days of age.


Distinctive appearance of the distal phalanges in children with primary hypothyroidism.

An osseous projection from the midportion of the metaphysis of the distal phalanges of the digits was seen in 79% of untreated children with primary hypothyroidism. There is a significant difference (p less than .0005) in the incidence of this projection between children with primary hypothyroidism and those with idiopathic hypopituitarism or psychosocial dwarfism. The presence of this projection together with delayed skeletal should suggest primary hypothyroidism.


Correlation of computed tomographic, angiographic, and neuropathological changes in giant cerebral aneurysms.

Giant aneurysms involving or adjacent to the circle of Willis exhibit three CT patterns: nonthrombotic, partially thrombotic, and completely thrombotic. Partially thrombotic aneurysms have the most specific pattern, consisting of a "target" configuration on the post-contrast scan. Ring calcification of the wall or mural thrombus is frequently observed in partially or completely thrombotic aneurysms. Calcification is not seen in nonthrombotic lesions. Angiographic and neuropathological findings are correlated with the CT findings.


Transfemoral cerebral arteriography versus direct precutaneous carotid and brachial arteriography: a comparison of complication rates.

Cerebral arteriograms in 1,141 consecutive patients, which were done either as direct percutaneous carotid or brachial studies or as transfemoro-cerebral catheter studies, were reviewed. While the overall complication rate for the direct percutaneous studies was higher, the incidence of neurologic complications, both transient and permanent, was higher in the transfemoral group. This higher incidence of neurologic complications may be related to the frequent irrigation of the catheter, which increases the probability of embolism. The incidence of serious complications was lower than in previous studies, perhaps because gravely ill patients are more likely to undergo computed tomographic scanning.


Radiological evaluation of paragangliomas of the head and neck.

Paragangliomas can be differentiated angiographically from most other tumors in the head and neck by their profuse vascularity; specific classification is based on their position and displacement of adjacent vessels. Subtraction usually aids in diagnosis. In most cases, bilateral carotid angiography should be performed, since the ipsilateral carotid artery may have to be ligated and an asymptomatic contralateral tumor may also be found during surgery. Studies of multiple vessels will often show an additional blood supply. Computed tomography can demonstrate the tumor's vascular nature and position and is valuable in follow-up after radiation therapy.


A study of the multiple pinhole coded aperture and the application of the minicomputer in image decoding.

Research has been done on optically reconstructed imaging employing the Multiple Pinhole Coded Aperture (hereafter abreviated as MPCA) in radioisotope tomographic imaging. However, problems remain in the optically reconstructed image method. Therefore, we employed a minicomputer (hereafter abbreviated as CPU) and developed the software for decoding and managing the radioisotope tomographic image. Combining the MPCA and the CPU system, we were able to decode and manage the radioisotope tomographic image. 1) In comparison to the optically decoded MPCA image, various input commands are possibly in the CPU method according to the dialogue between the CPU and the on line typewriter. In addition to this, decoded tomographic images of unrestricted depth are readily attainable. 2) In the CPU method noise elimination and other aspects of image management can be easily performed.


Carcinogenic azo dyes--detection of new metabolites of 3'-methyl-4-(methylamino)azobenzene in rat bile.

Metabolism of 3'-methyl-4-(methylamino)azobenzene (3'-Me-MAB) in the rat has been investigated by an ion cluster technique. A mixture of non-labeled and deuterium labeled 3'-Me-MAB in cottonseed oil was administered orally with a stomach tube. After administration, the rat bile was collected for 24 hr and enzymically hydrolyzed. This sample was applied to an Amberlite XAD-2 column and the column was washed with water. The metabolites were eluted with methanol and were separated by thin-layer chromatography. The mass spectrum of each metabolite was measured. By means of this technique, the metabolites oxidized at the 3'-methyl group were newly detected in the bile in addition to the N-demethylated, arly hydroxylated, and their azo-reduced metabolites. The effect of the ring methyl group on the carcinogenic action of aminoazo dyes is also discussed.


[Studies of intrarenal distribution by macroautoradiogram and tissue distribution of 99mTc-gluconate (author's transl)].

1) The experimental studies have demonstrated that 99mTc-gluconate reaches a high concentration in the kidneys within 1-2 hours after injection and its concentration in organs adjacent to the kidney is low. 2) The initial images of serial macroautoradiograms visualized the inner medulla as well as the cortex and outex medulla, whereas the delayed images revealed only the outer cortex and outer stripes in the outer medulla. These findings suggest that this renal agent consists of two components and the delayed component deposits in the convoluted and straight segments of proximal tuble. 3) This renal agent visualizes the calyceal system and excretory pathways in the initial study and the renal morphology in the delayed study. Therefore, using this renal agent, it may be possible to evaluate a variety of renal diseases, including obstructive uropathy, space-occupying lesions, congenital deformities, etc,.


Adjuvant chemotherapy: theoretical considerations and model studies.

Comparison of response of experimental tumors to adjuvant chemotherapy for minimal disease with the response of solid large tumors to similar drug regimens has indicated that for many tumors the small microscopic foci are more responsive. There are, however, a number of model tumors that respond far less to chemotherapy when applied to minimal disease than when applied to large tumors. The response of these tumors to adjuvant treatment shows similarities with the clinically observed response. The data do not support the hypothesis that the success of a drug combination given as adjuvant chemotherapy may be predicted from the success of the same treatment when applied for manifest disease.


Sialyl transferase activity: a serum enzyme marker in the follow-up of cancer patients.

Clinical evaluation of serum sialyl transferase as a diagnostic tool in malignant disease has shown that there is a strong correlation between enzyme activity and extent of tumor tissue. Thus, patients with large tumor masses show higher enzyme activity than patients with small tumors or in remission. Furthermore, the surgical removal of tumor tissue results in a decrease of enzyme activity to the normal range. The values remain low until metastases recur; this is connected with a new increase in enzyme activity. It has also been shown that successful chemotherapy corresponding to tumor reduction is reflected in lower values. We are thus led to believe that sialyl transferase is a relevant diagnostic blood parameter in the follow-up of cancer patients.


Evidence for natural antibodies (IgG) to polyamines in human sera.

Human sera contain IgGs that react with latex-putrescine spheres. Identification of the IgGs has been achieved by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and their reaction with peroxidase-labeled antihuman gamma-chain-specific antibodies. The inhibition of IgG fixation to latex-putrescine spheres by free spermine and putrescine provides evidence that these IgGs are specific for polyamines.


Methadone binding at nonopiate receptor binding sites.

The binding of 3H-methadone to rabbit brain synaptosomes was studied. Binding was saturable at methadone concentrations below 10(-6)M and unsaturable above 10(-6)M. Except at high 3H-methadone concentrations, only a small fraction of the specific saturable binding of methadone was blocked by levorphanol, naloxone or morphine, suggesting that much of the saturable binding of methadone to rabbit synaptosomes is not binding at the opiate receptor. At low methadone concentrations, stereospecific methadone binding to the opiate receptor is essentially undetectable as determined by displacement with levorphanol and dextrorphan. Experiments with preparations from beef caudate, on the other hand, indicate that a larger percentage of the methadone bound to this preparation is bound to the opiate receptor but that some specific binding is also at other sites.


Persistence of phencyclidine (PCP) and metabolites in brain and adipose tissue and implications for long-lasting behavioural effects.

PCP and its new metabolites persisted for very prolonged periods in rat brain and adipose tissue after a single 25 mgkg-1 intraperitoneal injection and showed accumulation after multiple dosing. The brain to plasma ratios for PCP between 0.5 h to 48 h after injection ranged between 6 to 8.8 and adipose tissue to plasma ratios between 31 to 113. The concentrations of metabolites of PCP in rat brain (ng-eqt/g. tissue) 1, 2 and 3 weeks after a single 25 mgkg-1 i.p. injection of PCP were approximately 390, 230 and 74 respectively and those of PCP 12, 6 and 5 ng/g. respectively. The long sojourn of PCP in adipose tissue and relatively slow egress therefrom explains cumulative effects upon multiple dosing and raises the possibility of mobilisation or release of large amounts of drug from fat stores in situations involving food deprivation, marked weight loss or stress. The persistence of PCP and its metabolites in brain and high degree of binding with melanin, implying a possible localisation in neuromelanin-rich substantia nigra of midbrain and locus coeruleus of pons may help explain the prolonged duration of clinical effects and persistent neurological and cognitive dysfunction several days after PCP administration.


Light-evoked changes in chick optic lobe GABA system.

In young chicks the effects of 3 min stroboscope stimulation on GABA and free glutamic acid content and on GAD and GABA-T activity in optic lobes were studied. A significant depletion in GABA and glutamic acid levels was found to occur. In addition a sustained increase in GABA-T and GAD activity was observed. In conclusion present experiments are in favour of an inhibitory role played by GABA in chick optic tectum during stroboscope stimulation.


Effects of anti-inflammatory drugs on platelet aggregation in rabbits.

Effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (aspirin, indimethacin, flufenamic acid, tiaramide and HG-70) on rabbit platelet aggregation were studied using Evans aggoregometer and a modified form of Chandler's loop method. Tiaramide in 10(-4) and 10(-5)M inhibited effectively the aggregation caused by ADP in the optical density method and accelerated the restoration of the time course of disaggregation in the loop method. The other 4 drugs were ineffective. In collagen-induced aggregation all 5 drugs inhibited the aggregation. Among them tiaramide was most potent. Only tiaramide prolonged the time taken to induce snow storm and aggregates in the loop method.


Tissue distribution and excretion of 14c-styrene in male and female rats.

The tissue distribution and excretion of an oral dose of 20 mg/kg of 14C-styrene was studied in both male and female rats at various time intervals after administration. Peak tissue levels were attained at or before 4 hours post administration. The organ with the highest concentration of radioactivity per unit weight was the kidney, followed, in order of decreasing concentration, by the liver and the pancreas. The data suggest a relationship between tissue distribution and kidney and liver toxicity. The high levels also found in the pancreas may bear some relationship to the reported increase in glucose tolerance in workers exposed to styrene. The principal route of excretion was via the kidneys, with 90% of the dose appearing in the urine within 24 hours of administration. Less than 2% of the dose was recovered from the feces.


The effect of indomethacin on cell proliferation induced by chemical and mechanical means in mouse epidermis in vivo.

Pretreatment of mouse skin in vivo with indomethacin prevents the stimulation of epidermal cell proliferation caused by either removal of the horny layer or by application of phorbol ester TPA. The stimulatory effect of phorbol ester "TI8" is only partially inhibited, whereas the drug indomethacin has no effect on the proliferative response to skin massage or the hyperplasiogenic reaction induced by phorbol ester 4-0-methyl-TPA. These results show that depending on the stimulus, epidermal cell proliferation and hyperplasia can proceed either via an indomethacin sensitive or via an indomethacin insensitive pathway, and that indomethacin sensitivity is neither related to the hyperplasiogenic nor the tumor-promoting efficiency of the stimulus. Although TPA and 4-0-methyl-TPA are structurally closely related phorbol esters, they have different mechanisms of mitogenic action.


The metabolically mediated DNA damage and subsequent DNA repair by 4-chlorobiphenyl in Chinese hamster ovary cells.

The metabolism of [3H]-4-chlorobiphenyl (CB) by Chinese hamster ovary cell cultures resulted in the formation of lipophilic hydroxylated metabolites, trichloroacetic acid soluble conjugates and covalent macromolecular adducts. The major lipophilic metabolite was chromatographically similar to 4'-chloro-4-biphenylol. The intracellular macromolecules were fractionated into protein, RNA and DNA. Although protein was the major target of covalent interaction with [3H]-CB and contributes 85% of the macromolecular binding, the specific binding of [3H]-CB to DNA was 3.5 and 1.4 times higher than that observed for protein and RNA respectively. Incubation of the CHO cells with 10 mM CB, [3H]-thymidine and 10 mM hydroxyurea for 2.5 hr resulted in a 1.6 fold increase in unscheduled DNA synthesis. The data demonstrated that the readily metabolized CB congener not only reacts with mammalian cell macromolecules, including DNA, but the DNA damage can also be demonstrated by its subsequent repair.


The effect of drug schedule on mouse neuroblastoma treated with cyclophosphamide.

The potential difference in survival due to scheduling of cyclophosphamide treatment was examined in A/J mice inoculated with neuroblastoma C1-1300 cells. Treatment was started on the third day post tumor implantation. There were four groups of animals each consisting of 30 mice: Group A, a control group, was injected with 0.3 cc of normal saline for a week. Group B was injected with cyclophosphamide 50 mg/kg/day every other day for five doses. This cycle was repeated in the same fashion starting on day 17. Group C was injected with cyclophosphamide 250 mg/kg on day 3 and this was repeated on day 17. Group D was injected with cyclophosphamide 50 mg/kg/day for five consecutive days. This cycle was repeated on day 17-21. The median survival for group B was 26.2 days (the same as the control group), for group C 47.7 days (87% increased survival) and for group D 63.2 days (143% increased survival with 30% possible cures). Twenty-three percent of the mice in group B died of pneumonia and another 23% had minor evidence of lung infection. Only three mice in this group had tumor at the time of death. The study suggests that the response of murine neuroblastoma as well as the development of pneumonia in A/J mice treated with cyclophosphamide might be schedule dependent.


Relationship of the reductive metabolism of indicine N-oxide to its antitumor activity.

Several pyrrolizidine alkaloids have been demonstrated to have antitumor activity in experimental tumor systems. In general the free base form of the alkaloid exhibits greater biological activity than the  corresponding N-oxide and the N-oxide must be metabolized to the base for the subsequent formation of alkylating intermediates. Indicine N-oxide is an exception in that it is a more active antitumor agent than its free base indicine. Studies of the antitumor activity and metabolism of indicine N-oxide, and the closely related compound, heliotrine N-oxide, given orally and intraperitoneally to mice bearing P-388 leukemia, suggest that conversion of indicine N-oxide to indicine is not essential for its antitumor activity.


The effect of age in culture on the uptake and metabolism of methotrexate by primary cultures of hepatocytes.

Primary monolayer cultures of rat hepatocytes show an initial transient azide-sensitive capacity to concentrate methotrexate several-fold from the medium. However, after 48 h in culture they lose the azide-sensitive ability to accumulate methotrexate. The uptake of (+) 5-methyltetrahydrofolate and folate is not altered greatly with time in culture and is unaffected by azide. Once inside the cell, methotrexate is converted predominantly to di- and triglutamate derivatives. After a short exposure to methotrexate (up to 4 h) most of the intracellular methotrexate is unaltered, but by 24 h nearly 80% is present as polyglutamates. Unlike the capacity of the cells to accumulate methotrexate, the ability of the cells to form polyglutamates does not appear to diminish with the age of the culture.


A new radioassay for serum vitamin B12 determination using chicken serum as a binder and an anion exchange resin column separation.

We present a new method for the determination of serum vitamin B12 concentration by competitive protein binding using 57Co labeled vitamin B12, chicken serum (CS) as the binding protein, and a sephadex column separation. We placed a mixture of extracted sample, labeled B12, and CS binder above an A-25 sephadex column, and after 1 hour incubation at room temperature drained the column and washed it twice with buffer. We counted the free fraction remaining in each column. Within run C.V.'s for low and high values in the normal range were 10.6% and 6.03%. The between run C.V.'s were 7.7% and 7.5% respectively. The values obtained for 95 clinical specimens correlated well with those for a reference method.


Study of the combined and separate administration of doxorubicin and coenzyme Q10 on mouse cardiac enzymes.

Administration of an acutely toxic dose of doxorubicin to mice did not increase, but rather decreased the percent deficiency of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) as calculated according to the coenzyme-apoenzyme system principle. The date indicate that doxorubicin may occupy CoQ10-empty receptors on the apoenzyme, with or without some destruction of enzyme-menbrane structure close to the receptor. Data from mice receiving both CoQ10 and doxorubicin indicated that CoQ10 may protect against doxorubicin. CoQ10 alone corrected the pre-existing deficiency found in control mice.


Influx of glycyl-proline and free amino acids across intestinal brush border of phenobarbital-treated rats.

In a previous study the authors have shown that treatment with phenobarbital in the rat is followed by a generalized increase of amino acid concentration in the plasma. In order to better clarify this phenomenon, the effect of phenobarbital on intestinal protein absorption was now studied by measuring the influxes of Glycyl-L-Proline, L-Phenylalanine, L-Lysine and L-Glutamic acid across the brush border of jejunum and ileum in rats treated with phenobarbital for two or four days. No significant changes of these influxes were observed in the treated animals as compared to the controls, hence suggesting that the effect of phenobarbital on plasma levels of free amino acids is not mediated by an effect on intestinal absorption. The rate of Glycyl-Proline influx as compared to those of amino acid influxes suggests the occurrence of a carrier-mediated transport process for this dipeptide in the rat intestine as previously shown in the rabbit.


The relationship of cellular respiration inhibition activity of 7-substituted 4-hydroxyquinoline-3-carboxylic acids with van der Waals volume.

The cellular respiratory inhibition activity of 7-substituted 4-hydroxyquinoline-3-carboxylic acids recently designed by Shah and Coats is found by regression analysis to be significantly correlated with van der Waals volume (V(w)). A parabolic correlation is obtained in case of ascites cell inhibition and a linear correlation in case of malate dehydrogenase inhibition. The correlation of both types of inhibition with a single parameter, V(w), makes the process of substituent selection in designing more potent inhibitors of whole respiratory cell much simpler.


Sugar derivatives and liver mitochondria. II. Effect of beta-penta-O-acetyl-D-galactopyranose.

beta-penta-O-acetyl-D-galactopyranose stimulated succinate oxidation in intact liver mitochondria (100%), in broken mitochondria (50%) and in EP1 particles (20%), no effect was observed on purified succinic dehydrogenase. This compound enhances the oxidation of succinate in the presence of Ca2+ and ATP; no effect appeared in the absence of calcium. beta penta-O-acetyl-D-galactopyranose prevents the reversal of Ca2+-induced swelling by EGTA. It seems that this sugar derivative would act, in some way, in the efflux of calcium from mitochondria leading to an accumulation of this bivalent ion in the mitochondria.


The effect of large doses of atropine sulfate on heart rate and blood pressure in rats.

Atropine sulfate causes bradycardia in doses which are greater than the usual anticholinergic doses producing tachycardia (Shucard and Andrew, 1977, Res. Comm. Chem. Path. Pharmacol. 16, 401-410). The present study was designed to evaluate the effects of large doses of atropine sulfate on heart rate and systemic blood pressure in rats. Six groups of urethane anesthetized, male, Sprague Dawley rats (200-450 g) were injected with varying doses of atropine via the jugular vein. Groups I through IV received 5 mg/kg, 20 mg/kg, 40mg/kg and 80 mg/kg, respectively. Group V was bilaterally vagotomized before the injection of 80 mg/kg of atropine. Animals in Group VI were bilaterally vagotomized and pretreated with propranolol-HCl before injection of 40 mg/kg of atropine. Atropine caused a significant (p less than 0.005) dose-dependent reduction in both heart rate and blood pressure. The negative chronotropic property of atropine shown in these experiments is in agreement with recent in vitro and in vitro studies. The cause of bradycardia in these doses appears to be an intrinsic property of atropine rather than being centrally mediated. Possible direct action by atropine on peripheral vascular resistance is discussed.


Iproniazid-induced biochemical changes in mice.

Single doses of iproniazid to Swiss-Webster mice caused a prolonged hypoglycemic reaction and transient biphasic changes in liver triglycerides. In contrast, the same dose of iproniazid in mice on a pyridoxine deficient diet elevated plasma glucose and FFA and liver FFA and TGL. Administration of the same dose of ipioniazid for 30 days elevated liver TGL in Swiss-Webster, C57/B1, DBA, and AKR mice; this effect was reversed in all but the AKR mice when the animals were maintained on a pyrodoxine-deficient diet.


Interference by endogenous amines in the determination of monoamine oxidase activity of human platelet samples.

Lower monoamine oxidase (MAO) levels are reported in the blood platelets from chronic schizophrenics than in normal controls. Attempts to replicate these findings in other laboratories have been unsuccessful thus contradicting the suggestion that low MAO activity is a genetically determined biological factor in schizophrenia. We now present evidence to show that the endogenous amines present in platelets (serotonin) react non-enzymatically with the highly reactive aldehyde produced by MAO and thereby reduce the extractable radioactivity in the radiometric assays for MAO. Various biogenic amines such as serotonin, dopamine and m-tyramine were tested for their interference by adding them in nanomolar concentrations to incubation mixtures containing platelet samples or partially purified rat liver MAO and (14C-)p-tyramine or phenethylamine as substrates. The amines were added before, during and after incubation. In all three cases the apparent inhibition by each amine was the same, the percent inhibition depending on the structure of the amine.


Effect of indomethacin and meclofenamate on canine mesenteric and celiac blood flow.

Two nonsteriodal antiinflammatory agents, indomethacin and meclofenamate, were found to produce a marked decrease in mesenteric blood flow, an increase in blood presure and no significant change in celiac blood flow. The initial effect of indomethacin on mesenteric blood flow differed from that seen with meclofenamate. Whereas meclofenamate induced a fall in mesenteric blood flow that was gradual in onset, indomethacin induced a marked vasoconstriction of the mesenteric bed that was immediate in onset and of short duration, which was followed by a decrease of slower onset similar to that seen with meclofenamate.


Lack of effect of cadmium on the biological response to and metabolism of ethanol in vivo.

Following the administration of cadmium (2 mg/kg) neither the duration of hypnosis nor the in vivo rate of tissue decline of ethanol was altered. These results differ from the cadmium-induced alterations in biological response and metabolism of other centrally acting drugs.


Effects of ciguatoxin and maitotoxin on the isolated guinea pig atria.

The effects of ciguatoxin (CT) and maitotoxin (MT) were studied on the isolated atria of the guinea pig. Application of CT evoked a prolonged positive inotropic effect on the electrically-driven atria and both inotropic and chronotropic effects on the spontaneously-beating right atria. The response to MT in contrast was biphasic. At low concentration (10(-8) Gm per ml) MT enhanced the atrial contractility, while at higher concentrations (5 x 10(-8) Gm per ml) it depressed the atria and frequently to a standstill. The results indicate that CT and MT have a direct action on the contractile mechanism of the heart and their effects are readily distinguishable.


Effect of halogenated benzenes on acetanilide esterase, acetanilide hydroxylase and procaine esterase in rats.

1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene, 1,3,5-trichlorobenzene, hexachlorobenzene, 1,2,4-tribromobenzene, 1,3,5-tribromobenzene and hexabromobenzene were compared for their abilities to induce acetanilide esterase, acentailide hydroxylase and procaine esterase. Except for hexabromobenzene all induced acetanilide esterase whereas the hydroxylation of acetanilide was seen only with the fully halogenated benzenes and with 1,3,5-tribromobenzene. Hepatic procaine esterase activity was increased by the three chlorinated benzenes and 1,2,4-tribromobenzene.


Suitability of the rabbit for hypothyroid studies.

New Zealand white rabbits were thyroidectomized, then examined for hypothyroidism after 6 to 8 weeks. Serum thyroxine levels were reduced 77% after surgery. This occurred without apparent calcium homeostatic imbalances even though no calcium supplementation was added to the food or water. The advantages of using the animal and procedure are discussed.


Protein binding properties of prazosin.

The serum protein binding proerties of prazosin were determined by the equilibrium dialysis technique, using radiolabeled drug of high specific activity. At concentrations typically found in human therapy, prazosin is bound to serum proteins to the extent of approximately 92 percent. This value is not altered in the presence of several other drugs frequently diminished in conjunction with prazosin.


Physiological disposition and subcellular localization of 14C-fenclorac in the rat.

The physiologic disposition and subcellular tissue localization of 14C-fenclorac was studied in rats receiving single and multiple oral doses of the drug. The drug was primarily excreted via renal and fecal routes. The 24-hour urinary and fecal elimination rates were 41 and 17% respectively, of the administered dose. The daily elimination rates of drug/drug metabolites were not altered when the treatment period was extended to seven days, suggesting that the processes for the renal and fecal clearance of drug were not affected by this treatment schedule. Studies on the distribution of 14C-fenclorac in slected tissues revealed that hepatic, renal and splenic tissue to plasma ratio of the label twenty-four hours after a single dose was 1.53, 3.88 and 0.11, respectively. Similar results were observed in rats receiving multiple doses of 14C-fenclorac. The 14C-label was distributed throughout the subcellular organelles with the highest concentration in the cytosol and lower levels in the mitochondria and microsomes. Furthermore, these experiments demonstrated that both metabolic (hepatic) and excretory (kidney) organs do not accumulate fenclorac in animals receiving the drug up to seven days.


Acetaminophen-induced glutathione depletion in diabetic rats.

The time course of acetaminophen-induced hepatic glutathione depletion and recovery in control and streptozotocin-diabetic female rats was investigated. Initial hepatic glutathione levels were significantly higher in control animals. After a 1 g/kg intraperitoneal dose of acetaminophen, maximum depletion of reduced glutathione (GSH) occurred within 2 h in diabetics and began to increase thereafter, while maximum GSH depletion occurred at approx. 4 h in controls and did not begin to return to normal until after 12 h. The time course for changes in hepatic oxidized glutathione (GSSG) after acetaminophen administration followed that for GSH in both control and diabetic rats. Diurnal variations in hepatic glutathione levels do occur, but these variations can not explain the changes which occur following acetaminophen administration or the differences observed between control and diabetic rats. Diabetic rats are more susceptible to the glutathione depleting effects of high-dose acetaminophen, suggesting that the diabetic may be less able to detoxify drugs and foreign chemicals.


The effects of ticrynafen in the rat.

The effects of ticrynafen, a uricosuric diuretic, were examined utilizing free-flow micropuncture and clearance techniques in the rat. The intravenous infusion of ticrynafen (50 mg/kg body wt/hr) had no effect on glomerular filtration rate, but resulted in significant increases in urine flow from 4.4 +/- 0.7 microliter/min/g kidney wt to 19.2 +/- 2.6 (p less than 0.001); in urinary sodium excretion from 0.14 +/- 0.07 micronEq/min/g kidney wt to 2.35 +/- 0.52 (p less than 0.01); and in urinary urate excretion from 2.8 +/- 0.2 microgram/min/g kidney wt to 4.0 +/- 0.2 (p less than 0.005). There was no change in urinary phosphate excretion. The end-proximal TF/Pinulin ratio was 2.66 +/- 0.18 in control and 2.67 +/- 0.16 in experimental periods (p=NS). In awake animals, ticrynafen administration resulted in a decrease in CH2O from 6.47 +/- 0.12% to 3.50 +/- 0.69 (p less than 0.05), but no change in TCH2O. These studies demonstrate that ticrynafen is a uricosuric and diuretic agent in the rat. The natriuresis appears to derive from an inhibitory action of this agent in the cortical diluting segment of the nephron. In comparison to a related uricosuric diuretic, MK-196, ticrynafen is a less potent agent with respect to both its uricosuric and diuretic properties in the rat.


The estrogenicity of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): THC neither blocks nor induces ovum implantation, nor does it effect uterine growth.

The estrogenicity of THC was assessed in three estrogen-sensitive systems. The drug did not block implantation when injected (s.c.) on Day 0 of pregnancy: on Day 6, 95% (3 mg/kg) and 86% (12 mg/kg) of the mice had embryos as did 96% (P greater than 0.1) of the controls; implantation occurred in only 9% (P less than 0.005) of mice treated similarly with estradiol (E2; 0.15 mg/kg). Nor did THC induce implantation: pregnant mice were ovariectomized on Day 1, treated daily with progesterone (2 mg, s.c.) and injected (i.p.) with THC on Day 3: at mg THC/kg 39% had embryos, as did 41% of those at 6 mg/kg; these rates do not differ (P greater than 0.99) from that of the controls (38%); in contrast, ova implanted in 75% (P less than 0.025) of E2-treated mice (4.0 microgram/kg). The average number of implanting ova was the same in all groups in both experiments. THC did not cause uterine hypertrophy: ovariectomized mice were injected (s.c.) for 14 days with THC (3 or 6 mg/kg) or E2(2 microgram/kg): the uterine weight, total uterine protein and total uterine glycogen of the ovariectomized controls was 24 +/- 2 mg, 3 +/- 0.3 mg and 11 +/- 3 mg respectively and the values for the THC-treated mice were not different (P greater than 0.05); in contrast, E2 increased (P less than 0.01) uterine weight to 139 +/- 9 mg, uterine protein to 5 +/- 0.6 mg and uterine glycogen to 62 +/- 8 mg. It is concluded that THC is not estrogenic.


Re-evaluation of the uptake of desoxyfructo-serotonin by human platelets, and of its effect on the uptake of serotonin.

Employing C14-glucose and C14-serotonin (5HT) as precursors, we have synthesized desoxyfructo-5HT [1-desoxy-1-(5-hydroxytryptamine)-D-fructose] labelled either in the sugar or 5HT moieties, and examined the uptake of the labelled substrate by washed human platelets. Desoxyfructo-5HT appears to interact with the 5HT uptake site, effectively inhibiting the uptake of H3-5HT. However, our data indicate that contrary to published reports, the entry of desoxyfructo-5HT into platelet vesicles or cytoplasm is negligible.


Relative sensitivities and specificities of tests for small airways obstruction.

This study compared several physiologic maneuvers for detecting small airways obstruction (SAO). Volume of isoflow best separated young smokers (average age--27.6; average cigarette consumption--9.3 pack years) from nonsmokers; this was true for comparisons of both population means and incidence of individual abnormality. However, assessment of individual abnormality by any test was greatly influenced by the criteria used to define abnormality. The best combination of test sensitivity and specificity was achieved by using the 95% confidence limits derived from a control population from the same laboratory. Even so, test results did not correlate significantly with pack years of cigarette smoking. Then, although tests for SAO are very sensitive, their prognostic value in young smokers is uncertain since abnormality presumably should correlate with extent of smoking.


Accuracy of screening for pulmonary embolism in the emergency room.

Pertinent historical, clinical, and laboratory findings were recorded for 37 consecutive patients who presented to the emergency room complaining of shortness of breath and chest pain but without evidence of coronary insufficiency, pneumonia, or musculoskeletal injury. 13 had pulmonary embolism suggested by lung scan with or without pulmonary angiogram, or, in 2 cases, by right heart catheterization. As a group, these patients in whom embolism was judged probable approached fairly closely the profiles of previous studies of patients with documented pulmonary emboli. Nonetheless, they differed very little, and in no clinically useful way short of lung scans and invasive studies, from the remaining 24 patients in whom embolism was judged unlikely. In the population served by this emergency room, which has a high morbidity from chest diseases and putative predisposing conditions to pulmonary embolism, screening patients for high and low probability groups for this diagnosis cannot be done on clinical grounds alone. Six-projection ventilation-perfusion lung scanning may be the only acceptable screening examination, and should be available directly from the emergency room in hospitals with an active emergency service.


Influence on the depth of inhalation on the effect of the beta 2-receptor-stimulating drug fenoterol hydrobromide (berotec).

Study of the influence of different modes of administration of 200 microgram of fenoterol showed that in a selected group of patients, two thirds of the maximal obtainable decrease in airway resistance could be achieved within 3 min of local application of 200 microgram fenoterol onto the nasal mucosa, without inhalation into the lower airways. Aspects of the potential pathways by which inhaled substances reach their receptor or target sites are discussed.


[Effect of chronic hypercapnia on the gastric acid secretion in rats: a comparative study in vitro (author's transl)].

Rats are made hypercapnic by breathing 8% CO2 for a week. Their stomachs, removed under anaesthesia in a hypercarbic atmosphere, are placed in a special chamber and the acidic secretion (free + titratable) is measured in vitro in relation to different parameters of the controlled atmosphere. The secretion depends on the gas composition. Under the same conditions (mucosa CO2 = 8%, serosa CO2 = 10%) the in vitro secretion of the hypercapnic subjects (n = 32) is lower than that in the normal rats (n = 27), the latter secretion decreasing more rapidly with the duration of the in vitro measurement. The differences between the hypercapnic and the control subjects are in the order of +/- 10% in titratable acidity (mEq/l/h/cm2) and +/- 20% in free acidity (muEq/l/h/cm2).


Pulmonary sarcoidosis: roentgenographic, functional, and pathologic correlations.

Discrepancies were observed between functional (PFT), chest roentgenographic, and open lung biopsy findings (granulomata, interstitial pneumonitis, angiitis, and fibrosis) in 81 patients with clinical diagnosis of sarcoidosis. A combination of normal PFT and Type 1 roentgenographic findings (hilar lymphadenopathy) was associated with minimal lung lesions without fibrosis. Type 1 findings alone did not preclude extensive lesions or fibrosis. Advanced roentgenographic and PFT abnormalities correlated with the presence of extensive lung lesions. The pulmonary diffusing capacity correlated best with specific and overall lung pathology, and roentgenographic types. Only this test differentiated the extent of granulomata and the roentgenographic types. Moderate degrees of other pathologic changes were not distinguished by any other PFT. Degrees of overall lung pathology correlated with an individual PFT and most significantly with overall PFT (p less than 0.001). Serial studies of PFT are a practical and valuable means for assessment of the disease process in sarcoidosis.


Giant fibrous pleural mesothelioma associated with myocardial restriction and hypoglycemia.

A giant pleural fibrous mesothelioma was the cause of severe nonobstructive ventilatory incapacity, myocardial restriction with congestive failure and hypoglycemic episodes in a 58-year-old man. Surgical resection resulted in complete recovery of respiratory function and disappearance of hypoglycemic episodes.


On the boundary conditions used in calculations of gas mixing in alveolar lungs.

The lung boundaries exhibit a tight barrier for any insoluble gas; hence boundary conditions for lung gas mixing have to account for the absence of both diffusive and convective fluxes across the lung walls. Scrimshire et al. (1978) have, in contrast, used the less rigid boundary condition that only the net flux be zero. As we believe this boundary condition to be inappropriate for the study of insoluble gases, the results derived appear to have no physiological significance.


Pulmonary receptor chemosensitivity and the ventilatory response to inhaled CO2 in the turtle.

Ventilatory responses of unanesthetized turtles to changes in the intrapulmonary CO2 content of a vascularly isolated and an intact lung were measured during spontaneous breathing. The hyperpnea associated with inhalation of CO2 by the vascularly isolated lung was 19% of that associated with inhalation of CO2 by the intact lung. Transection of the vagus nerve supplying the isolated lung abolished this response. We conclude that both inhibition of pulmonary stretch receptor discharge with increasing levels of FICO2 and a functional increase in central inspiratory volume threshold during hypercapnia contribute to tidal volume increases following CO2 inhalation in normal animals. The major component of the ventilatory response of intact turtles to increasing levels of FICO2, however, was an increase in respiratory frequency. When CO2 was inspired only by the vascularly isolated lung the increase in respiratory frequency was only 21% of that recorded when the same levels of CO2 were inspired by the intact lung. Thus the ventilatory response of turtles to increasing levels of FICO2 is primarily dependent upon concomitant hypercapnia.