[Phosphorylation of aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase preparations of rat liver tissues in vivo and in vitro].

The capacity for phosphorylation was studied in aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases isolated from the rat liver after introducing Na2H32PO4 to the organism as well as in the in vitro experiments. Some kinetic characteristics of this reaction were investigated. The velocity of the aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases phosphorylation reaches its maximum 5 minutes later, and the enzyme saturation with substrate occurs at low concentration of the latter. The values of Km, Vmax and V0 are 1.27 x 10(-2) mg/ml, 8.33 mumol 32P/mg per 1 min and 6.09 mumol 32P/mg per 1 min, respectively. A conclusion is drawn that in the in vivo and in vitro experiments there occurs phosphorylation of the total preparation of aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases and individual lysyl-tRNA synthetase.


[Effect of mitochondria and microsomal fractions on glycolytic activity of rat brain and liver tissues under hypoxia].

It is found that acute hypoxia inhibits the glycolytic activity of postmitochondrial fraction in the liver, activates in the brain, but has no effect on glycolysis under conditions of a preliminary administration of diethylaminoethylamide of parachlorophenoxyacetic acid--antihypoxic preparation. In the processes of two- and four-week interrupted training of adaptation to hypoxia the activity of the liver glycolytic system rises. Suspensions of the mitochondric and microsomal fraction added in definite ratios to the postmitochondrial fraction of the brain and liver intensify its glycolytic activity both in control and hypoxic animals. The activating effect of mitochondria is higher as compared with the control when glycolysis is decreased; when glycolysis is increased the phenomenon is not observed. A mechanism of the found changes in glycolysis and the validity of the tissue glycolysis estimation from the activity of the postmitochondrial fraction are discussed.


[Effect of freezing-thawing on proteolytic activity of soluble and immobilized trypsin].

The proteolytic activity of soluble trypsin was studied after the effect of different freezing-thawing conditions ranging from 0 to 196 degrees C. The enzyme is inactivated most essentially during a slow warming of the preparations under experiment. The trypsin activity decrease is found to depend directly on the number of the freezing-thawing cycles. The loss of the enzymic activity within 3h after the effect of low temperatures and warming is irreversible. The data obtained give reason to consider the leading role of the physicochemical factors arising at the stage of the enzymic preparations thawing in the mechanism of trypsin cryodestruction.


[Nucleases of cell fractions of rat brain tissues].

Nucleases are found in different fractions of nerve cells in the rat brain. The nuclease denaturating preferably the one-chain DNA at pH 8.0 is located chiefly in the neuron nuclei. Fractions of cell nuclei containg mainly neuron nuclei or glial nuclei were obtained by the method of ultracentrifugation within the sucrose gradient.


[[14C] GABA and [14C]GABA-pantoyl metabolism in mice].

It is shown that more than 90% of the labelled substance D-[1-14C] calcium homopantotenate is rapidly removed from the organism with urea; 6-8% are products of its transformation, among them GABA is identified. An insignificant transformation of D-[1-14C] calcium homopantotenate up to 14CO2 is observed. After the preparation administration only unchanged D-[1-14C] calcium homopantotenate was found in the tissues, except of the liver where, as in urea, there is a nonidentified product with small Rf. [1-14C] GABA is rapidly transformed to 14CO2 and only its insignificant part is removed with urea, chiefly as products of transformation.


[Peculiarities in structure and properties of rabbit blood serum and liver albumins in ontogenesis].

Isoelectrofocusing and infrared spectroscopy were used to study blood serum and liver albumins in rats aged 30, 45, 90 days, 6 months and 2 years. The analysis of infrared and isoelectric spectra shows that the blood serum albumin as compared to the liver albumin is more basic albumin with a less hard structure. With age theses albumins are found to become similar. An assumption is advanced that a modified albumin participates in the processes of this albumin decay and synthesis.


[Changes in lipid composition of mucosa secretion from chick glandular stomach intermediate zone in A-vitaminosis].

The lipid composition of secretion and the vitamin A content in it were studied. Secretion of normal chickens is shown to contain 96 +/- 3.1 mg of lipids, 82.5 +/- 3.4 of substances extracted by the solvent hexane-diethyl ester, 30 +/- 2.1 of unsaponifiable lipids and 2.43 +/- 0.285 micrograms of vitamin A per 1 g of dry residue. With A-avitaminosis the secretion amount is twice as large with vitamin A absent; the lipid content is almost twice as low, the total weight of substances extracted by the solvent hexane-diethyl ester is four times as low and that of the lipid unsaponifiable fraction--2.5 times as low. Quantitative and qualitative changes in lipid zones were detected by means of thin-layer chromatography and UV-spectroscopy, and structural changes in the secretion--by electron microscopy. Vitamin A is suggested to participate in formation of macromolecular lipid systems of the secretion.


[E-vitamin activity of vitamin E derivatives with experimental encephalomalacia in chicks].

When adding pharmacopoeian alpha-tocopherylacetate, short-chain alpha-tocopherylacetate, alpha-tocopherylquinine, short-chain alpha-tocopherylquinone and alpha-tocopheronolactone to E-avitaminotic rations pharmacopoeian alpha-tocopherylacetate and alpha-tocopheronolactone manifest the highest E-vitamin activity in preventing encephalomalacia in chickens. The action of alpha-tocopheronolactone is not directly associated with changes in the content of vitamin E and ubiquinone in the brain and liver tissues. All the studied derivatives are effective in increasing resistance of erythrocytes to osmotic hemolysis. The data obtained evidence for a nonspecific function of vitamin E in preventing alimentary encephalomalacia in chickens as well as for the absence of disturbances in ubiquinone metabolism under conditions of the E-hypovitaminosis experimental model.


[Effect of low temperatures on the phospholipase A2 activity of rat liver mitochondria].

Phospholipase A2 is shown to be activated by freezing-thawing, possibly due to changes in the state of lipid bilayer under the effect of both the temperatures themselves and physicochemical factors formed in the low-temperature range.


[Characteristic of sorption properties of skeletal muscle nuclei in the normal state and with E-avitaminotic muscular dystrophy].

Sorption properties of skeletal muscles nuclei in rabbits in normal state and with E-avitaminosis were studied using organic dyes: neutral red (cationic) and turquoise direct light-fast "K" (anionic) and the influence of calcium-modified membrane of nuclei on their sorption. The nuclear surface is established to have both positive and negative charged groups sorbing turquioise direct and neutral red, respectively. The maximum volume of the dyes binding and the dissociation constants of the membrane-dye complex are estimated. It is shown that with muscular dystrophy the number of charged groups of both signs on the nuclear surface decreases. Calcium ions decrease the cationic dye sorption both in the normal state and with dystrophy and insignificantly decrease the anionic dye with dystrophy.


[Effect of hypothermia on the ammonia-glutamine-glutamic acid system in ground squirrels after hibernation].

The effect of forced cooling was studied as applied to the contents of ammonia, glutamine, glutaminic, asparaginic and alpha-amino butyric acids in the brain of sousliks woken-from hibernation. The cooling of the woken sousliks to the body temperature of 30, 20 and 25 degrees C decreased to some extent the ammonia content in the brain. A deeper hypothermia (10 degrees C) causes its 60,4% decrease as compared to the ammonia amount in woken animals. The cooling of the animals to 30, 25, 20 and 10 degrees C considerably decreases the contents of glutamine, glutaminic acid and GABA in the brain tissue.


[Possibilities for Ellman reaction application in the presence of detergents].

Triton X-100, triton X-305, twin-80 and sodium deoxycholate in definite concentrations lower the colour intensity of the solution which contains the product of the Ellman reaction. In the case of triton X-100 the colour disappearance is due to resynthesis of the Ellman reagent from 5-thio-2-nitrobenzoate with the presence of detergent in the concentration which is higher than the critical concentration of micelle-formation.


[Protein amidation in the aging organism].

The role of protein amide groups was studied in the process of the organism ageing. It is shown that with ageing there occurs the asparagin deamidation in water-soluble and water-insolbule proteins of the rat brain, liver and heart. The glutamine content in the old rat tissues remains at the level determined in the young animal tissues. Tissue proteins of old rats are better substrates for protein--a complex of proteinases of a wide specificity that those of young animals. An increased attack of the old animals proteins by nonspecific proteinases is due to a decrease in their amidation degree during ageing.


[Determination of tyrosine and tryptophan in proteins by the absorption spectra of derivatives].

The contents of tyrosine and tryptophan were determined by the method based on the first derivatives of the proteins absorption spectra within the alkali pH. The advantages of the method are as follows: a much better resolution of tyrosine and tryptophan spectral maxima located at 293 and 307 nm, respectively, which allows the precision of their assay to be increased, especially in case of a small amount of one amino acid and relative abundance of the other and high turbidity of the preparations; the account of the cystine absorption is not necessary; possibility to study proteins containing the chromophore prosthetic groups.


Effect of nicotinic acid on the posttraumatic increase in free fatty acids and fibrinolysis inhibition activity in the rat.

Nicotinic acid effectively inhibited the posttraumatic increase in both free fatty acids (FFA) and fibrinolysis inhibition activity (FIA) in the blood in rats, indicating that FFA might be involved in the posttraumatic increase of FIA. The FIA in the liver was greater than that in other organs studied and was increased in the posttraumatic phase. The possible role of the liver in the posttraumatic increase of FIA is discussed.


Hepatic triglyceride and lipoprotein lipase activities of post-heparin plasma in normals and hypertriglyceridemics.

Post-heparin plasma hepatic triglyceride lipase (H-TGL) and lipoprotein lipase (LPL) activities were 8-34 and 3.5-21 (range) mu mol/ml/hr respectively in males with normal serum lipid concentrations. In females the corresponding values were 4-25 and 4-16 mu mol/ml/hr. No significant differences were observed between ages or between the two sexes. Male patients with hypertriglyceridaemia had similar activities of H-TGL but significantly lower values for LPL activities than the control males. Significant linear correlations were found between serum triglyceride concentrations and LPL activities both for males (coefficient of correlation = r = -0.64) and for females (r = -0.62).


Thyroid function in breast cancer patients before and up to two years after mastectomy.

In 41 women newly diagnosed as having breast cancer the thyroid function was assessed by determination of the serum TSH, tririodothyronine (T3), reverse triiodothyronine (rT3), thyroxine (T4), T3-resin uptake and free T4-index. Blood samples were drawn before the primary treatment and at follow-up after 7-28 months. There was no significant change in any of these variables during the period of observation. Nor was there any difference between the values of the patients who developed recurrent disease and of those who did not. These results contradict previously proposed hypotheses of a progressive decrease in thyroid function after primary treatment and of a relation between the clinical course and the thyroid function in breast cancer patients.


A prospective epidemiological survey of cerebrovascular disease in a Swedish community.

A prospective epidemiological study of cerebrovascular diseases and transient ischemic attacks (TIA) is presented. During a three-year period the annual incidence of strokes was 2.90 and of TIA 0.45 per thousand population. This difference in incidence and the disparities in age characteristics favour the hypothesis that TIA precedes only a minority of the strokes. The short-term mortality is high among the stroke patients.


Estimation of parenchymal cell mass of parathyroid glands using a volumeter technique.

A volumeter technique was used to estimate the density of the two main tissue components of the parathyroid gland--parenchymal and fat tissue. The difference in density between the two components was distinct (1.06 and 0.93 g/ml) and measurements of the weight and volume of parathyroid glands could therefore be utilized in calculating their parenchymal tissue content. The results of these measurements corresponded to those obtained at histopathological evaluation of parathyroid glands. The presented technique is simple and convenient and with slight improvement could be used for intraoperative characterization of parathyroid glands.


Clinical and surgical staging of Hodgkin's disease.

Staging laparotomy was performed in 36 patients with Hodgkin's disease. The surgical procedure changed the stage in 14 cases or 36% and also revealed subdiaphragmatic disease in 14 patients. Mixed cellularity and nodular sclerosis were the main histopathological types, contributing 44% and 42%, respectively, of the whole material. Postoperative complications occurred in 8 cases (22%)--none was fatal. The average hospital stay was 9.5 days, the longest being 22 days.


Rupture of an abdominal aortic aneurysm into the vena cava.

Aortic abdominal aneurysm combined with aorto-caval fistula is a rare condition with a high mortality. We discuss here the sympatomatology and treatment of one such patient.


[X-ray picture of diseases of the osteoarticular and ligamentous apparatus of the digits in large ruminants].

Röntgenological findings are presented of bone-joint and finger-joint apparatus diseases in big ruminants in cases of bone distrophy in highly productive cows, of asceptic ligament, tendon and periosteum inflammatory diseases as well as of suppurative inflammatory bone and hoof joints.


[Radiotelemetric studies of uterine motility in cows with placental retention].

Uterine motility of 21 cows with retention of the placenta from delivery to 120 D was studied by the radiotelemetric method. Higher uterine motility until 48 D was established in cows with retention of the placenta as compared to cows with a normal third stage of delivery. The mean values of total uterine motility frequency and amplitude of contractions are presented in tables and graphs. Estradiol 17-beta content in cow blood plasma until the 40 D post delivery was higher in cows with retention of the placenta. Bending and folding of uterine horns proved to be the reason for retention of the placenta in 6 cows.


[Effect of ultraviolet-irradiated milk on the macroelements, alkaline phosphatase, vitamin D and density of the bones in calves].

Comparative experimental investigations, including 70 experimental and 70 control calves aged 15 to 105 days, aiming to establish the effect of ultraviolet irradiated milk on Ca, inorganic phosphorus, magnesium and vitamin D contents, alkaline phosphatase activity and the density of the distal radius part, carpal and metacarpal bones and tail vertebrae, were performed. It was established that ultraviolet irradiated cow milk has a favourable effect on the physiological state of young calf organism and leads to higher blood serum Ca, inorganic phosphorus, magnesium and vitamin D contents, enhances alkaline phosphatase activity and stimulates osteogenesis processes.


[Changes in the amount of free amino acids in infections due to Gram-negative agents].

Changes of free amino acid content in blood plasma from sheep and hens infected with S. abortus ovis and P. multocida or treated with purified lipopolysaccharides (endotoxins) of the respective agent, were studied. It was established that the infection reduced total free amino acid content by about 46% in sheep and by 36% in hens. The reduction in total free amino acid content did not affect to the same extent each individual amino acid. Treatment of sheep and hens only with purified lipopolysaccharides of respectively S. abortus ovis and P. multocida resulted also in reduced total free amino acid content equal to 33% in sheep and about 59% in hens. The reduced content of total free amino acids in this case also did not concern equally the individual amino acids. However, in all cases observed, when a given amino acid was reduced during the infection period the same reduction was evident following endotoxin treatment only. The conclusion is drawn that disturbances in cell metabolism arising under the influence of endotoxins let free by the respective agent are the main cause for the reduction both of total free amino acid content and of the individual free amino acid content.


[Clinical and paraclinical studies in experimental nematodiriasis of lambs].

An experiment including 20 lambs aged 3.5--4 months was performed with the aim to study the clinical and paraclinical characteristics of experimental nematodirosis. The lambs were divided into 4 groups each consisting of 5 animals. Experimental invasion with N. spathiger larvae was effected once per os as follows:group I--with 5000, group II--with 10 000, group III--with 30 000 larvae, and group IV was used as control. It was established that the course of nematodirosis is typical with well expressed clinical symptoms in group III -- diarrhoea, loss of appetite, nervous symptoms, oligochromemia, erythropaenia, leucocytosis, lymphocytosis, eosinophyly, acidosis, reduced carotene and total protein. Calcium and magnesium vary within the normal range while phosphorus content is reduced. The prepatent period is within the range of the 15th to the 22nd day. The first clinical symptoms appear in most cases before the first eggs in the feaces are observed. Clinical symptoms haematological changes are correlated with the number of larvae given.


[Anti-inflammatory action of extracts from marine algae collected in the area of Burgas seacoast].

It was established by a series of experiments with white Wistar rats that intraperitoneal injection of water extracts (infusions) of a mixed sample of dried algae (Cystosira barbata, Ulva lactica and Zostera nona) collected at the Bourgas coastal region, respectively leveled to an isotonic solution by use of 0.9% NaCl produces well expressed antiinflammatory effect in Caragina provoked oedema. The mixed sample of algae has LD0--0.250 g dry drug per kg body weight, LD'100--0.500 g/kg b. w. and LD50--0.407 g/kg b. w. The therapeutic index of the algae is relatively high -- LD50/U50+20.


[Pathomorphological studies of experimental thiazole-80 poisoning in sheep].

Investigations on the pathomorphological changes occurring in the organisms of 4 sheep poisoned experimentally by varying Thiazole-80 doses applied orally were made. It was established macroscopically that after opening the rumen a smell of sulfuric hydrogen is felt. The abomasum was with rusty brown haemorrhages and liver distrophy as well as enlarged gall bladder were observed. The histological studies of parenchymal organs revealed vascular disturbances, hyperemia, oedema and intervascular haemolysis. A heavy diffuse nephrosis, hyaline and protein cylinders were found in the kidney cortex, while in the ganglial cells of medula oblongata were evident degenerative changes. Histochemically, in sheep poisoned by thiazole-80, a well expressed reaction to iron in the lungs, leptomeniges and distrophic hepatocytes were established. Glycogen quantity in the liver was considerably reduced.


[Effect of certain procedures on the puerperal period in cows].

The course and duration of the post delivery period, uterine involution, independence and service period, number of fertilizations and the percentage of complications were studied in 82 cows aged 3 to 7 years, reared by two differing technoligies. One group (experimental) of 53 cows was reared together with the calves until the 6th day post delivery, while the other group (control) of 29 cows was reared without the calves. Both groups were subdivided into groups with and without complications; It was established that the proposed technology of cow rearing with the calves sucking until the 6th day post delivery creates good conditions for the course of puerperium. Clinically uterine involution lasts 27.5 +/- 0.88 days, the independence period lasts 95.8 +/- 5.94 days, the service period -- 115.9 +/- 4.28 days, and the fertilization index is 1.26 +/- 0.21. The proposed technology of cow rearing letting the calves suck until the 6th day post delivery can be applied in animal rearing practice.


[Pathogenic Newcastle virus carrier state in congenitally immune chickens].

Five-day-old chickens decendants of hens vaccinated several times under conditions existing in the practice were ophtalmo-nasally inoculated with 10(5),5ELD50 velogenic viscerothropic Newcastle Disease virus NDV. Thirty two per cent of them were stricken by the disease and died, but the remaining 68% resisted the provocation and showed no clinical symptoms 80 days post inoculation. The virulogical investigation of the chickens resistant to inoculation proved they are spreading the virus for 45 days and remained virus-carriers for 54 days post inoculation. NDV did not change its pathogenic properties even after persisting for long periods of time. Two virulogical methods for virus isolation were used -- tissue homogenates and cloaca washings inoculated on hen embryos and tracheal organ culture. The advantages and the great possibilities for discovering latent NDV infection of the organ culture are pointed out. Latent fowl pest infection in birds is discussed.


[Microbiological studies of brynza cheese].

Studies on the changes occurring in the microflora at the time of 45-day ripening and 4-month storage of cheese produced in pitchers (earthen jugs) were performed. It was established that at the beginning of the ripening period the total number of microorganisms as well as the number of lactic acid producing microorganisms increases, but after the 15th day of ripening until the end of storage their number diminishes. At the time of ripening and storage of cheese curdled in pitchers, coliform bacteria diminish progressively. In case cheese curd is used, these bacteria vanish as soon as ripening comes to an end, while in case lactic acid or butter curd is used they vanish during the 1st month of storage. In spontaneously curdled cheese coliform bacteria vanish during the third month of storage. At the time of cheese ripening in a pitcher the yeast quantity increases, while during storage it varies. At the time of ripening fungae get into the cheese produced in pitchers and their number increases along with the ripening process.


[Na and K content in the blood and feces of healthy newborn calves and in those ill with dyspepsia].

Investigations on natrium and potassium content in erythrocites, plasma and faeces of healthy calves and in calves suffering from gastrointestinal disturbances aged 1 to 20 days were carried out. A clearly expressed trend toward reduction of potassium and increase of natrium content in erythrocites with age was established. Natrium content rose from 47 mg% in one-day old calves to 76.1 mg% in 20 day-old ones, while potassium was reduced from 203.89 mg% to 131.70 mg% respectively. The same rate of natrium and potassium changes was preserved in sick calves, but Na values in this case were higher as compared to these in healthy animals. Potassium content in erythrocites of recovered 6 to 10 day-old calves increased. Standard values of natrium and potassium in faeces of calves of the same age are presented. It was established that natrium content in faeces of new born calves is higher, while the content of potassium is lower as compared to that in faeces of 10 day-old calves. In case of sickness Na and K contents in the faeces rose while post recovery it became normal again. The investigation contributes for the elucidation of the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal disturbances in calves and for the improvement of the method used in Na and K assessment in biological materials.


[Architectonics of the blood vessels in the wall of the allantoamnion of the mare].

Alantoamnion vascularization was studied on clarified preparations from three mares in advanced pregnancy. Two large blood vessels (artery and vein) beginning from the umbilical vessels were found in the alantoamnion wall. Numerous anastomoses were observed at the passage between the arterial and the vein section. The large arteries had a thick, jely-like vascular wall and snake-like folded lumen. In separate sections of the alantoamnion wall a well developed capillary net was observed consisting of individual particles, polygonal in shape. Vast avascular zones surrounded by numerous vascular branches and anastomoses were found. It is presumed that the blood vessels in mare alantoamnion take an active part in amnion fluid production and metabolism.


[Pathomorphological changes in experimental nematodiriasis of lambs].

Pathomorphological studies on three lamb groups experimentally invaded by 5000, 10 000 and 30 000 capable of invasion N. spathiger larvae were performed. The macro- and microscopic changes of the inner parenchymal organs observed at the 18th and 60th day post invasion are described. It was established that morphological changes due to experimental nematodirosis depend both on the number of N. sathiger larvae swallowed and on the duration of their sojourn in the host organism. Lighter invasion caused slight to moderate changes mainly in the small intestines, while heavier invasion led to similar changes in some parenchymal organs (liver, spleen and kidneys) also.


[Morphological changes in diplococcosis in calves].

Diplococcous infection was observed in 15 calves aged 3 to 30 days. Diplococcous pneumoniae was isolated from synovial fluid and parenchymal organs in affected joints of dead calves. Clinically and morphologically the disease had an active course in calves aged up to 20 days, while in the older ones a subacute or chronic course of the disease was observed. The morphological changes depended on the type of infection. In acute infections a septic course of the disease, including hemorrhagic diathesis, enlarged spleen, myocarditis, hyperaemia, oedema and isolated hemorrhages of the brain meninges was observed, while in the chronic cases pneumonia, pleutisy, pericarditis, arthritis of the knee, elbow, dorsal and carpal joints and ofien suppurative meningoencephalitis were encountered.


[Determination of sorbic acid, its salts and salicylic acid in food products of animal origin].

A foreign method for quantitative assay of sorbic acid and natrium sorbate in food stuff of plant origin was applied by the authors for food stuffs of animal origin. The conservant of the food stuff was isolated by water vapour distillation. Sorbic acid and natrium sorbate assay was performed on part of the distillate colorimetrically at wave length lambda--532 nm. The method proved highly sensitive (2 gammas and 94% reproduction). It can be used in conservant assay of various fish assortments, canned food, roe and some types of cheese. A qualitative method for proving the presence of salicylic acid is proposed, using water vapour distillation of the biological material. Part of the distillate produced is treated directly by 1% ferriammonium sulfate water solution. A violet tint of the solution proves the presence of salicylic acid in the product studied.


[Kinetic studies of the technical phosphate of Pharmachem tylosin in chickens and pigs].

Studies on the pharmaco-kinetics of the technical tylosine phosphate (TTP) with an activity of 50 UI/mg were carried out using chickens and pigs. It was established that the tylosine phosphate contained in TTP is resorbed in the alimentary canal of the chickens and produces the needed bacteriological concentrations in the blood both following single intraingluvial application (in doses of 1 and 2 g/kg b.w.) and after application via fodder (in doses of 10 and 20 g/kg b.w.). Absorption of the preparation by the digestive tract of pigs following compulsory application is satisfactory, but it is very slight and uneven in case of application through the food ration. Therefore, the use of TTP in this way should be limited in swine only and exclusively for therapy or prophylaxis of intestinal infections (dysentery, necrotic enteritis, etc). Following resorption TTP penetrates to a varying extent in the individual organs, tissues and fluids of chicken and pig organisms and remains there for a long period of time. It is eliminated mainly through the gall bladder secretion and by the urine, as well as by the eggs (of layers). In order not to allow residual quantities of the antibiotic in the products obtained from treated mammals and birds TTP application must cease 4--5 days before decapitation. The use of preparation for hens of commodity farms is not appropriate.


[Effect of cortisome on monocyte "disappearance" from the blood].

The effect of cortisone on monocyte "disappearance" from peripheral blood of guinea pigs sensibilized with live S. abortus ovis culture and showing positive skin-allergic reaction with allergen of the same salmonella was studied. It was established that in case cortisone is applied in a dose of 22 mg per guinea pig intramusculary 3 or 1 h before or simultaneously with intravenous injection of homologous allergen, it blocks the allergen's effect on monocyte "disappearance", i.e. the number or monocytes in cortisone treated animals does not change, while their number in the control animals (not treated with cortisone) decreases considerably. The possible blocking effect mechanisms of cortisone on the specific allergen action are discussed.


[Carcinoma of the uterus in the Austrian mortality statistics. I. Carcinoma of the uterus in Viennese autopsy reports 1976 (author's transl)].

The official mortality statistics in Austria fail to report the localization of uterine cancer in nearly two thirds of cases and, thus, the annual death rate of women with cervical versus endometrial cancer is not clear. These two diseases behave totally differently with regard to their aetiology, age distribution, early diagnosis, therapy and prognosis and, therefore, a separate analysis is necessary. This study presents an analysis of the incidence of uterine cancer in a series of 7,276 women who died in Vienna hospitals in 1976. Of the 151 cases (2% of all the women in the examined collective) 109 died of cervical carcinoma, 33 of endometrial carcinoma and 9 of unspecified uterine carcinoma. The average age of women who died of cervical carcinomas was 60 years, whilst that of patients with endometrial carcinoma was 71.7 years. In 12.6% of cases double carcinomata were found. The relation between deaths from cervical carcinoma to endometrial carcinoma is 3.3:1. If this ratio is applied to the 942 deaths from uterine carcinoma in 1976 in Austria, then one can estimate that more than 700 women must have died of cervical carcinoma and more than 200 of endometrial carcinoma. The 303 deaths from cervical carcinoma and 65 from endometrial carcinoma reported in the official mortality statistics are, therefore, totally misleading and ought not to be used as a basis for epidemiological investigations.


[Amenorrhoea and hyperprolactinaemia (author's transl)].

Prolactin was determined by radioimmunoassay in the serum of 112 patients with primary or secondary amenorrhoea. 21 cases showed hyperprolactinaemia with levels above 25 ng/ml (18.7%). 10 patients with levels between 25 and 50 ng/ml showed heterogeneous clinical features. In nine women (8%) the prolactin level was above 100 ng/ml; they all had severe amenorrhoea. As a result of treatment with bromocriptine menstrual bleeding occurred in 4 out of 7 cases and 2 of these patients became pregnant. In 3 cases prolactin did not return to normal levels and in 2 out of these patients microadenomas of the pituitary gland were diagnosed by special methods. They were removed surgically by the transsphenoidal approach.


[Does myocardial damage arise as a result of administration of tocolytic drugs? (author's transl)].

Fifty pregnant women admitted consecutively on account of threatened abortion or premature labour and treated with Ritodrine and Verapamil intravenously in the usual dosage were investigated with respect to creatine kinase activity and, in the event of a raised level, its isoenzyme creatine kinase--MB. Determinations were carried out before treatment and, in accordance with expected peak values in case of myocardial necrosis, after 6 and 12 hours. Three pathological values were recorded and these are discussed individually. Furthermore, statistical evaluation of the recorded values showed no significant differences.


[Results of postoperative radiotherapy in breast cancer (author's transl)].

The results are presented of postoperative irradiation in the treatment of breast cancer at the Department of Radiotherapy and Radiobiology, University of Vienna. Our data compare well with the best results reported in the literature. Apart from the importance of high loco-regional freedom from disease for the quality of life of these patients, the related increase in survival prospects is stressed.


[Hexoprenalin as a tocolytic drug (author's transl)].

Hexoprenalin, a betasympathomimetic drug, was tested with respect to tocolytic effect and cardiovascular side effects. The dosage varied according to the obstetrical situation and the resultant indication for tocolysis. "Long-term tocolysis" in the prophylaxis of premature labour was indicated when more or less rhythmical uterine contractions were present without any effect, as yet, on the cervix. The dosage was 0.075 microgram/min hexoprenalin intravenously as long-term infusion using a motor pump. In a collective of 20 patients in the last trimester of pregnancy the tocolytic effect was satisfactory, the mean rise in fetal heart rate being 2.43% and the mean rise in maternal heart rate 4.13%. Massive tocolysis to inhibit effective premature labour was indicated when rhythmical uterine contractions had already exerted an effect on the cervix. The dosage was 0.33 microgram/min hexoprenalin intravenously in form of a long-term infusion using a motor pump. In a collective of 20 patients in the last trimester of pregnancy the tocolytic effect was satisfactory, the mean rise in maternal heart rate being 33% and the mean rise in fetal heart rate 3%. Acute tocolysis to inhibit labour during parturition was indicated when ominous signs of fetal distress were present, or as premedication before surgical intervention. The dosage was 1.0 microgram/min hexoprenalin as an intravenous bolus over a period of 5 min. In a collective of 10 patients the tocolytic effect was adequate. Evaluation of the rise in maternal and fetal heart rate does not appear to be useful.


[Primary amenorrhea, a symptom of occlusive hydrocephalus].

A report is given on the syndrom: primary amenorrhea, gliosis of the aqueduct and hydrocephalus internus of non-tumoral and non-inflammatory origin. In all three cases a cyclic menstruation was induced by performing shunting procedures.


[First clinical experiences with a new atrial pacemaker electrode ("atrial tined J lead") (author's transl)].

First clinical experiences with a new atrial tined J-shaped pacemaker electrode are reported. The electrode was used for permanent atrial stimulation and--together with a ventricular lead--for bifocal stimulation. Implantation technique, stimulation thresholds and complications are described. Advantages and disadvantages of various atrial electrodes are discussed.


[Early operation of patients with life threatening hemorrhage from an intracerebral arteriovenous angioma (author's transl)].

In the last twenty years 113 arteriovenous angiomas were treated at the University Clinic for Neurosurgery in Graz. Contrary to earlier practice tending towards conservative measurements in acute hemorrhage improved technic and close cooperation between the radiologist, the anaesthesist and the neurosurgeon have resulted in a diminished operative risk and made early operative intervention possible. Operation even in patients with an acute life threatening hemorrhage improve the prognosis markedly. This is demonstrated by a case report.


[Psychosurgery today (author's transl)].

After discussion of the historical and neurophysiological bases of psychosurgery a report on personal experience in different indications is given. Finally, the present degree of informedness of doctors and the media on psychosurgery is discussed.


[Sudden deafness (author's transl)].

"Sudden deafness" is understood as an instant loss of the hearing ability meaning a sensorineural hearing loss of one or both ears which can lead to total deafness. Suitable measures for treatment of sudden deafness are vasodilatation by infusions of Complamin (Lamuran, Dusodril, Rheomacrodex), blockage of the ganglion stellatum, hospitalizations of the patient to protect him from psychogenic stress factors and prescription of sedatives. From 1973 to 1977 84 patients with sudden deafness were treated at the ear, nose and throat department of the Landeskrankenanstalten Salzburg. Only 2 patients were under 20 years of age, 53 (62.3%) were between 20 and 50, and 29 (34.5%) over 50 years old. In 60.6% of the cases an improvement of the hearing ability by 20 db to normal could be achieved, 39.4% did not show any positive therapeutic results.


[Standardized forced diuresis and peritoneal dialysis in the therapy of organophosphorous poisoning (author's transl)].

In a case of severe poisoning with the organophosphorous insecticide methidathione standardized forced diuresis and peritoneal dialysis were performed for the first time in addition to the usual therapeutical procedures (e.g. repeated gastric lavage, induced diarrhea, atropine and intensive care). The course of the illness as well as the duration of the acute phase were significantly shorter than in comparable cases. No hazardous situation occurred after the first hours of treatment. The presence of the organophosphorous cholinesterase inhibitor or of its metabolites in the urine and the dialysate was proved by thin-layer chromatography.


[Possible relations between Reiter's disease and psoriasis (author's transl)].

Description of a characteristic venereal type of Reiter's disease with a pustular exanthem and a balanitis circinata. In the course of the disease the pustular exanthem probably transformed into a typical Psoriasis vulgaris. In search of genetical markers it was not possible in this case to show the HLA-antigens, which are characteristic of the Reiter's disease and the Psoriasis vulgaris; the HLA-antigens A 10, B7 and B12 however could be proved. The question is up for discussion, wether a HLA-B 27-negative Reiter's disease might include a disposition to the appearance of a phenotypical Psoriasis vulgaris, the genotype of which is represented by rather "unusual" histocompatibility-gens.


[Parasitological results of a medico-anthropological research-work at the Azande in northeast-Zaire (author's transl)].

Among 165 examined Azande 118 (71.5%) were found with intestinal helminthic infections: Hookworm (69.1%), Schistosoma mansoni (13.9%), Trichuris trichiura (4.2%), Ascaris lumbricoides (1.2%), Strongyloides stercoralis (0.6%). The intradermal Schistosoma test with a commercial antigen preparation was positive in 63.3% of 147 examinees. Protozoa-excretions were found in 62.2% of 151 examines: E. histolytica (27.2%), E. hartmanni (13.2%), E. coli (24.5%), Jodamoeba buetschlii (7.3%), Endolimax nana (1.3%), Lamblia intestinalis (17.2%). Microfilariae were found in 87 of 165 blood-smears (52.7%). The positive diagnoses increased with the age of the examinees. 73.8% of 141 examinees showed an increase of eosinophilic granulozytes up to 11-29%, and 7.8% up to more than 30%. The reliability of the methods used to conserve the test material under extreme conditions as well as the connection between ethnographical situations and the detected parasites are discussed.


[Typical annual course of urolithiasis in relation to the chemical structure of the concrements (author's transl)].

Urolithiasis is seen in our region throughout the year as a periodic appearing disease with peaks not only in summer, but also--somewhat lower--in January, April and October. This appearance is especially caused by the calcium oxalate stones. Uric acid calculi show a rise between May and October. The magnesium ammonium phosphate stones appear almost completely irregular.


[Results of partial duodenopancreatectomies (author's transl)].

The results of 36 partial duodenopancreatectomies (1956-1976) are reported. The operative mortality was 25%, during the last 5 years 12.5%. The lowest operative mortality and the best prognosis was found in carcinomas of Vater's ampulla, with 14.2% mortality and 50% 5 years survival time, followed by carcinomas of the distal bile duct. The most infavorable result was found in the carcinomas of the head of the pancreas with an operative mortality of 36% and the shortest survival times.


[Occurrence of pyruvic acid in capsular polysaccharides (K antigens) of klebsiellas].

The capsular polysaccharides of 77 Klebsiella K-types were analysed for the presence of pyruvic acid. One half of the polysaccharides investigated were found to contain between 1.3 and 12% of the keto acid. A comparison between the analyses performed and the calculated values from some pyruvic acid containing polysaccharides of known structure showed that there is only in 5 out of 10 cases a good correlation with a regular substitution of the oligosaccharide repeating units.


[Steroid-transforming enzymes from microorganisms. X. Enrichment of a 4-en-3-oxosteroid-5 alpha-reductase from Mycobacterium smegmatis as well as separation and enrichment of the apoenzyme by means of affinity chromatography].

The 4-en-3-oxosteroid-5 alpha-reductase from Mycobacterium smegmatis was bound biospecifically on the affinant containing an immobilized testosterone ligand. The enzyme obtained by elution with ethylene glycol and urea in a 32 fold purity has a S. A. of 8.73 X 10(-3) microM androstenedione min-1 mg-1. The coenzyme (FAD) could be separated from the immobilized enzyme substrate complex on the affinity matrix, in the presence of (NH4)2SO4 at pH 3.0. After elution of the apoenzyme 97% of the initial enzyme activity was obtained by incubation with FAD. The reactivated enzyme results in a 40-fold enrichment.


[The psychophysiology of the visual thought perception of visually evoked brain potentials and recognition mechanisms].

The study tries to demonstrate, that the combination of the actualgenetic method (Sander, Froehlich), and the VEP, allows a systematic and differentiated analysis of the psychophysiological process of visual thinking. A student group was compared with mental retardates in VEP and EOG, watching actualgenetically manipulated picture series. Phasic EEG-changes are significantly related to the identification process. Most sensitive are amplitude changes about 120 to 270 msec. The mental retardates had significant VEP changes 180--270 msec, the students 128--192 msec after picture presentation. The process factor analysis (Pawlik) elaborated an illumination factor and two factors being labelled general reaction set. VEP averaging over the persons revealed different attention and/or discrimination behavior for the student group and the mental retardates, identifying the picture objects.


[The role of the pupil's size in the perception of other persons].

Studies by Hess (1975) show that the pupil serves as a source of information in perception of the emotional state of another person. Large pupils are interpreted in a positive sense. Basing on the results of Hess, the hypothesis that pupil size does not become a relevant variable in person perception until after puberty, was formed. The following result would be interpreted as supporting the hypothesis: since girls reach puberty before boys, more girls should react to pupil size than boys of the same age. 121 students between the ages of 11 and 16 years judged in several statements which of two face photos of a teacher expressed a greater degree of positive attention and esteem towards the students. The two face photos were identical with the exception of pupil size. All age groups rated the photos with larger pupils more positively. Sex differences occurred in the  ratings of the 11 to 12-year-olds. Some basic differences between this experiment and that of Hess are discussed.


[Gastritis and stomach ulcer].

Patients with ventricular ulcer (n = 109) were examined endoscopically and bioptically concerning the frequency of an at the same time existing gastritis. It was shown that stomachs with ulcer practically without any exception, i.e. in 96 per cent, had a pangastritis. In the endoscopic comparative group without focal lesions (n = 231) a gradually less pronouncedly expressed gastritis is present than in patients with ulcer. Patients with gastric ulcer and such persons with endoscopical negative dyspepsia (endoscopic comparative group) have common the more pronounced appearance of the gastritis in the antrum (antritis) than in the corpus. Gastric ulcers appeared in males at the age from 30 to 49 years twice as often as in females. The latter showed an approximately linear increase of the frequency of corpus ulcers between 20 and 69 years. In antrum ulcers like in duodenal ulcers the males dominate at the age from 20 to 59 years, whereas the females prevail in the 7th decennium.


[Chronic gastritis in stomach cancer].

In a random test of 128 patients with neoplasms of the stomach and in a control group of 170 persons corresponding to age without any focal lesion at the stomach the connection between carcinoma of the stomach and the chronic gastritis was tested. The carcinoma of the stomach is always accompanied by chronic gastritis. The chronic atrophic gastritis with intestinal metaplasia is significantly more frequent than in control persons. We found the chronic atrophic gastritis with intestinal metaplasia more frequently than in the adenocarcinoma (environmental carcinoma) than in the solid carcinoma. The clear dependence of age of the carcinoma of the stomach is confirmed; particularly great increase of the frequency of the carcinoma in the male in the fourth to the seventh decennium of life, in which case males more frequently have an adenocarcinoma, females, on the other hand, a solid carcinoma.


[Duodenitis].

In 211 bulboscopies 108 normal findings, 29 duodenal ulcers, 44 cases of scar bulb, 4 times erosions of the bulb and 26 times a bulbitis alone (macroscopically) were found. The macroscopic findings duodenitis were confirmed histologically in 85%, the macroscopic findings normal bulbous mucous membrane only in 30% of the cases. In patients with the histological findings duodenitis the bulbous mucous membrane was endoscopically regarded as normal in 70% of the cases. Patients with duodenitis more frequently have an antrum gastritis and less frequently a corpus gastritis than a control group corresponding to age without any macroscopic changes at the stomach and duodenal bulb. On account of its clinico-therapeutic importance is referred to the fact to demarcate the peptic corrosive bulbitis (bulbitis with bulboscopically probable lesion) from the bulbitis without bulboscopic lesion.


[The value of fiber gastroscopy and targeted gastrobiopsy in the diagnosis of stomach ulcers and tumors].

In 2,000 patients the fiber-gastroscopic and bioptic findings were tested with the help of control examinations, results of operations and course observations. Here the fibergastroscopic diagnosis tumour was confirmed in 89.4%. 13 times a wrong diagnosis of tumour was made. Here different substrates were in question (ventricular ulcers, polypous hyperblastic mucous membrane and others). 11 carcinomas were gastroscopically not recognized as tumour. In 25 cases (20%) of the histological investigation of bioptically taken tissue did not result in a confirmation of the fiber-gastroscopic diagnosis of tumour. But 19 times of them the histology was falsely negative. The supplementation of the gastroscopy by biopsy resulted in a right diagnosis in 93.6%. By control examinations a further increase of the accuracy to 96.8% could be reached.


[Use of B-sonography in the diagnosis of liver diseases].

The criteria important for the sonographic judgment of the liver and the value of the sonography in the strategy of the diagnostics of liver diseases are described. Since none of the symptoms mentioned, such as size of the liver, ventral contour, lower margin of the liver, demarcability, sound conduction as well size, density and distribution of the structural reflexes, is typical for a certain disease, an approximate diagnosis or the exclusion of certain diseases is a possible only taking into consideration several symptoms and also extrahepatic, sonographically probable ones. On account of the simplicity and of the undangerousness of the examination it is obvious to use the sonography immediately after the examination and thus to organize the selection of further diagnostic measures more rational.


[Various viewpoints in the evaluation of rheograms of the extremities. I. Rheographs of the leg].

1. All angular measures of the rheogramme depend in their size on the height of the gauge wave. In order to gain uniform reference values and to perform a comparison between different curves, it is necessary to eliminate the effect of the various heights of gauge waves on the curves by a standardisation on a constant reference value. The technical performance of the standardisation is described. 2. The connection between height of the gauge waves and the angular measures is not linear. A polynoma of second degree is the result of the function of size of angle and height of gauge wave. 3. As strongest parameter for the separation between pathologic cases and comparative persons with healthy vessels the standardized sum of angles of the three first after-waves in the descending side of the curve is found. 4. Other separation parameters are the relative pulse volume, the standardized ascending and peak angle as well as the peak height in milli-Ohm. For these parameters the mean value and the lower limits of the reference regions are given.


[The effect of drugs on laboratory diagnosis. The effect of ascorbic acid on selected automatic laboratory methods].

The paper presents further investigations for a critical survey on the influences of drugs on laboratory methods. In controversion to the meanings you can find in the literature that ascorbic acid is most one of the important drugs to interfere with laboratory results we couldn't see in our systematical experimental investigation such results. Only in very extremly cases it seems to be right. Selected parameters of clinical chemistry (glucose, lactic dehydrogenase, aspartal-aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, protein, albumine, creatinine, butanol extractable iodine, ferrum) show under therapeutic conditions no influences of ascorbic acid, which can lead to diagnostic or therapeutic false interpretations. Above all the often mentioned example that glucose estimations in blood (reduction methods) can disturb if ascorbic acid is present, is abstracted in an uncritical manner how our experimental results may show.


[Sideropenia].

The most frequent deficiency state in our population, the sideropenia, is caused by decreased intake, increased losses and increased need of iron. In certain groups of persons, in whom sideropenias are particularly frequent, a prevention of iron deficiency is to be recommended by the application of iron preparations, above all during puberty and gravidity, in strongly menstruating women and in persons who more than twice a year act as blood donors. The quantity of iron which is to be added in hypoferric anaemic is easily to be calculated from the existing deficit of haemoglobin; the substitution of iron mostly demands an oral therapy lasting several weeks, in more severe anaemias started by intravenous applications of iron, if necessary.


[The slope clearance method in renal functional diagnosis. J-131-hippurate clearance is used as an example].

The clinical relevance of the clearance of radiopharmaca is controversial in literature. The cause for this are in our opinion the different methods of evaluation which either make difficult or make impossible a comparison of individual results. The late phase of the disappearance (at least 70 and 100 min p.i.) possesses a high value under the aspect of renal diagnosis, since by its means with a high approximation the renal function may be established itself.


[Neonatal intensive care (author's transl)].

About 3 percent of live borns on average need intensive care. This has been proved to be highly effective in reducing neonatal mortality and morbidity provided it is incorporated in a graded system of regional perinatal health services. Its concept is based upon selection and weighing of risks and distribution on different care levels according to individual needs. It depends on close interdisciplinary regional cooperation. Although high quality conditions could be established at single places, there is yet, in general, lack of understanding of and of proper facilities for functionally adequate neonatal care.


[Cardiac effect of fenoterol alone or combined with Verapamil (author's transl)].

Two groups each consisting of twelve healthy students received Fenoterol (0,03 microgram/kg/min) alone or in combination with Verapamil (1,2 micrograms/kg/min) intravenously. In both groups, heart rate, arterial blood pressure amplitude and echocardiographically determined left ventricular contractility parameters increased significantly and equally. These results suggest that Verapamil does not counteract the positive chronotropic and inotropic effect of Fenoterol.


[Serum kreatinkinase MB during fenoterol tocolysis (author's transl)].

In the investigation of possible myocardial damage, the assay of the heart specific isoenzyme kreatinkinase MB has established itself as a highly sensitive proof of a heart necrosis. In patients who underwent stationary treatment for premature contractions, the CK-activity was measured in the initial phase of tocolysis and additionally right before the therapy was ended. There was no laboratory indication of any heart damage due to tocolytic treatment.


[Electrodiagnostical determination of strength-duration curves during pregnancy, labour, puerperium, and their evaluation (author's transl)].

Electrodiagnostical determination of Rheobase and Chronaxy has been carried out on 10 women during pregnancy, beginning labour and puerperium. Rheobase and Chronaxy were marked in a Strength-Duration Curves scheme as well as some other points within that scheme. As a base of rise of the gained curves the actual rise at the point of the chronaxy was calculated. Our results show that with all 10 women the t-Difference-Test showed a significantly much lower curve during labour than that obtained during pregnancy. The same applied to the rise of the curve obtained during labour, which was significantly much lower than that during puerperium. There was no significant difference between the curves obtained during pregnancy and puerperium. The significance of the decline of the actual rise at the point of the Chronaxy of the Strength-Duration Curve before starting of labour as a physiological method of functional diagnostic will be discussed there under.


[Electrodiagnostical investigations during pregnancy, labour, puerperium, and in impending early delivery (author's transl)].

Electrodiagnostical investigations measuring the Rheobase and the Chronaxy have been carried out on 100 women, 36 during pregnancy, 21 during labour, 29 in puerperium and 14 with impending early delivery. As the results show, the rheobase values, which were determined during pregnancy, were significantly much higher, than those during labour or impending early delivery. The rheobase values were significantly lower during 19th--30th week of pregnancy than during 30--40th week, and the latter were significantly much higher, than those during labour or impending early delivery. In puerperium there was no significant difference of the rheobase values to those during labour, but a significant difference to the values obtained during pregnancy. The chronaxy values show no significant differences during pregnancy and labour and during pregnancy and impending early delivery. Only the chronaxy values in puerperium were significantly lower than in pregnancy as well as in labour.


[Psychomotor development of children born operatively by Caesarian section, vacuum or forceps in the period between 3 and 7 years (author's transl)].

In the period between 1966 and 1977 9,591 children were born at the UFK, Mannheim, and of these 1.008 were operative deliveries (10.5%). Out of these children, 99 of those delivered by section, 39 by forceps, 140 by vacuum and 67 spontaneous births were examined in an alphabetically determined group (R) for mental and motor development. The means used for the follow-up investigation were the Kramer-Binet Intelligence Test, and careful questioning of the parents on their children's early development. No connection between the type of delivery and intelligence quotient could be determined. A mean IQ of 114.4 was found for those delivered by section, 116.6 for those by forceps, and 117.7 for thos delivered by vacuum. The spontaneously-born children had an IQ of 108.7. The IQ results determined were correlated with the following data: EPH-gestosis, alteration in the child's heart sounds, protracted birth and Apga. No significant differences in the intelligence or any delayed motor development could be found in relation to the comparative group.


[On the problems of prognosis in cerclage operations. A suggestion for classification according to indication groups (author's transl)].

While limiting the definition to the period between the 14th and the completed 28th week of pregnancy, it is suggested to exclusively use the anatomic functional findings with regard to the internal os uteri as a basis for valid classification by indication groups. Evaluation of the results of 262 cerclage operations at the Feiburg University Gynaecological Hospital on this basis, supports the suggested principle.


[Measurement of regional and global coronary sinus blood flow with the continuous thermodilution technique. I. Method and experimental studies (author's transl)].

Experiences from 233 coronary sinus blood flow measurements with the Ganz continuous thermodilution technique are reported. Experimental studies revealed: 1. Because of incomplete isolation of the external thermistor against injectate one has to take into account a systematic error in the range of 3--4%. 2. If flow exceeds 200 ml/min, injection rate must be increased from 30--40 ml/min to 60--70 ml/min for complete mixing of blood and injectate. Then flow rates up to 450 ml/min may be measured precisely. 3. Using the double thermistor catheter experimental studies indicated complete mixing of blood and injectate between injection orifice and first external thermistor. 4. To avoid right atrial admixture the external thermistor should be positioned 3 cm deep into the coronary sinus. 5. It is easier to obtain an identical catheter position within the great cardiac vein, when repeated measurements at different days are necessary. Compared with other measuring methods of myocardial blood flow this technique is inexpensive and simple. It permits rapid changes in coronary sinus blood flow to be studied. The possibility to determine simultaneously myocardial substrate utilisation is of great advantage.


[Diagnosis of coronary artery disease: value and limitations of non-invasive methods. (Ecg, thallium perfusion scintigraphy, radionuclide angiography) (author's transl)].

In order to compare the three non-invasive exercise tests Ecg, Thallium myocardial perfusion imaging and radionuclide angiography in the diagnosis of coronary artery disease, the results of these tests in a consecutive series of 30 patients and 14 controls were analyzed. In all 88 symptom-limited exercise tests a significantly higher double product (heart rate x systolic blood pressure, mm Hg/min) was reached on a treadmill test (for Ecg and Thallium scintigraphy) as compared to the supine bicycle ergometer exercise (for radionuclide angiography: 243.1 +/- 61.1 vs. 215.2 +/- 46.5 x 10(2) (p less than 0.01). Considering all 132 diagnostic tests the overall sensitivity for rest/exercise Ecg was 67%, for Thallium scans 77%, for both combined 83% and for the ejection fraction response to exercise determined by radionuclide angiography 97%. If only the exercise response was considered, the corresponding sensitivity values were 60% (Ecg), 47% (Thallium scans), 70% (both tests combined) and 97% (radionuclide angiography). The specificity for coronary artery disease was determined to be 79% for Ecg, 86% for Thallium scintigraphy, 64% for Ecg/Thallium scans and 71% for radionuclide angiography. The most common reason for a false-positive result in all tests was found to be the diagnosis of cardiomyopathy, whereas most false-negative results were seen in patients with single vessel right coronary artery disease. Based on these results, the clinical implications of the three non-invasive tests in the diagnosis of coronary artery disease are discussed.


[Electrocardiology basis of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (author's transl)].

55 patients (15 subjects in whom a special cardiac disease could be ruled out and 40 patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation) were investigated by means of the extrastimulus method at a driving rate of 80 min-1. In 32 of the 40 patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation occurred signs of atrial vulnerability. When compared with the healthy subjects and the remaining 8 patients who did not fulfil the criteria for vulnerability, there were significant shorter effective and longer relative refractory periods of the right atrium in the vulnerability group. These findings suggest that the re-entry phenomenon may be the underlying mechanism of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in the group with atrial vulnerability.


[Exercise tolerance of patients with artificial cardiac pacemakers (author's transl)].

In order to determine their exercise tolerance, 20 patients with artificial ventricular demand pacemakers below the age of seventy were studied by bicycle ergometry. Only 30% of the patients showed a normal exercise tolerance according to the criteria by Kaltenbach, while 70% stopped the test prematurely because of leg fatigue, dyspnoe or chest pain. In terms of their exercise tolerance, there was no difference between patients who developed normal sinus rhythm or rapid atrial fibrillation during the exercise and those who remained at the fixed pacemaker rate throughout the test. It is concluded, therefore, that the exercise tolerance of pacemaker-patients is not only limited by the fixed heart rate but mainly by the underlying heart disease (coronary heart disease, cardiomyopathy, hypertensive heart disease etc.) and the general physical condition of the patients. In an age-matched control group of 20 patients 50% showed a normal exercise tolerance and the duration of exercise in this group was only slightly longer (21%) than in the pacemaker-group.


[Scatter radiation during heart catheterization--a new protective device (author's transl)].

During cardiac angiography the scatter radiation can reach a relevant dose at the head of the examiner. Radiation was measured with a dosimeter in the left temporal region with and without a new flexible lead-shield. The shield did not disturb the procedure. Scatter radiation was reduced to one fifth of the values without shield.


[Bone marrow depression with peripheral pancytopenia under the treatment with an ampicillin/oxacillin combination (author's transl)].

Under the treatment with ampicillin or oxacillin resp. hematologic changes turn up very rarely except for eosinophilia, in addition it is only granulocytes or platelets alone which are involved in the cases yet published. In the case presented here therapy by an ampicillin/Oxacillin combination induces bone marrow depression with peripheral pancytopenia on a toxic or allergic base.


[Left ventricular diastolic pressure-volume relations during exercise (author's transl)].

Left ventricular diastolic pressure-volume relations (PVR) were analysed from biplane ventriculograms and simultaneous pressure measurements in 33 patients at rest (R) and during ergometer exercise (E) (8 normals [N], 8 patients with coronary artery disease [CAD], 8 patients with congestive cardiomyopathy [COCM], 5 patients with aortic insufficiency [AI] and 5 patients with pressure overload (4 with aortic stenosis [A-St.] and 1 coarctation of the aorta). In N and AI diastolic PVR was essentially unchanged with E, the time constant of isovolumic relaxation (T) decreased significantly (N: delta T = -24.4 +/- 11.6%, p less than 0.001; AI: delta T = -27.3 +/- 6.8%, p less than 0.005). In CAD diastolic PVR was shifted upwards in all cases with angina pectoris during E (7/8), minimal rate of left ventricular pressure change (dp/dtmin) and T did not change significantly. In COCM diastolic PVR was shifted upwards in 4 cases, while dp/dtmin increased significantly (R = -1107 +/- 327, E = -1508 +/- 626 mm Hg-s-1, p less than 0.05), T on the average was unchanged (R = 53 +/- 10.5, E = 51 +/- 14.2 msec). In A-St. in 3 of 4 cases diastolic PVR was significantly shifted upwards with E, dp/dtmin increased (R = -1633 +/- 93, E = -2093 +/- 170 mm Hg-s-1, p less than 0.001), T in contrast to N and AI was prolonged (R = 33.8 +/- 4, E = 39.9 +/- 1.9 msec). In N and AI diastolic ventricular function is not altered with exercise. In COCM and especially in A-St., however, there are similar alterations like in CAD with angina pectoris. Changes in T indicate that shifts of the PVR with exercise in non-ischemic heart disease are related to a disturbed ventricular relaxation.


[Echocardiographic dimensions of the left ventricle during ergometric exercise: results in normal subjects (author's transl)].

10 healthy men aged 18 to 32 years underwent M-mode-echocardiographic studies at rest, during exercise and recovery. Semisupine bicycle exercise was performed using work loads of 25, 50, 75, and 100 W with measurements taken every minute. With increasing exercise, heart rate rose significantly (p less than 0.01) from 68/min to a maximum of 132/min, blood pressure as obtained by sphygmomanometry rose from a mean of 83 torr to 102 torr. Left ventricular enddiastolic dimension (EDD) did not change significantly with exercise, left ventricular endsystolic dimension (ESD) decreased from a group mean of 34.8 mm to 30.5 mm. This paralleled an increase in stroke dimension from 18.3 to 22.6 mm and of fractional shortening (FS) from 0.34 to 0.43. Mean velocity of circumferential fiber shortening (MVCF) rose from 1.01 circ/s to 2.06 circ/s. During recovery, heart rate and blood pressure returned faster to resting levels than did ESD, FS, and MVCF. Again EDD did not change. These data indicate that heart rate contributes more to the increases in cardiac output observed with ergometric exercise than does stroke volume; with moderate exercise levels this increase in stroke volume is produced by diminishing endsystolic volume whilst enddiastolic volume remains unchanged.


[Pressure-dimension analysis of the poststimulation potentiation--influence of heart rate and ventricular function (author's transl)].

The mechanism of poststimulation potentiation (PSP) was studied in 17 patients with coronary artery disease by simultaneous pressure-dimension analysis. The left ventricular pressure (LVP) was measured by catheter-tip-micromanometer and LV diameter by M-mode echocardiography. The pressure signals were digitised and analysed on line by 400 Hz. The pressure-dimension tracings were additionally analysed half-automatically. Measurements were done during right atrial pacing at 80, 120, 140 beats/min and during the poststimulation period. 1. Right atrial pacing increased the rate of LV pressure development (dp/dt max), the rate of pressure fall (dp/dt min), the velocity of circumferential fiber shortening (VCF mn), and fiber dilatation (vcf mx) dependent on heart rate and cardiac function. 2. LV enddiastolic diameter (LVEDD) reached during the first poststimulation period the starting point independent on pacing rate and cardiac function. LV enddiastolic pressure (LVEDP) showed a slight overshoot. PSP resulted in an increase of LVP, dp/dt max, VCF mn, and the velocity of posterior wall motion, dp/dt min, VCF mx, and the velocity of posterior wall relaxation decreased, however, with the first post-stimulation beat. 3. The PSP was dependent on atrial pacing rate. The higher the pacing rate the higher the PSP. dp/dt max increased after cessation of 120/min for +29% and after 140/min for +38%. The PSP for the preload independent parameter of contractility, V-40, was, however, equal for both heart rates +25% and +28% respectively. 4. Another determinant of PSP was cardiac function. The PSP was relatively higher in patients with reduced ejection fraction than in patients with a normal ejection fraction: dp/dt max +55% and 25%, VCF mn +18% and +7% respectively.  From the derived ventricular function curves, it could be shown, that atrial pacing reflected an increase in LV contractility (Bowditch effect), whereas PSP reflected an increase in LV performance by the Frank-Straub-Starling (Woodworth staircase) effect on a new left ventricular function curve, which was shifted to the left by atrial pacing.


[Quantitative gated nuclear cardiography in coronary artery disease after administration of isosorbiddinitrate (author's transl)].

The change in left ventricular volume during a representative cardiac cycle was assessed in 19 patients with CAD and 8 control subjects before and after 10 mg isosorbiddinitrate sublingually. 15mCi99mTc-HSA were administered intravenously. After the tracer had equilibrated, the precordial changes of activity were measured with a gamma-camera connected to a computer. In order to determine the overall left-ventricular function from volume curves, the ejection fraction, the maximal systolic ejection rate and the maximal diastolic filling rate of the left ventricle were measured. For the assessment of regional wall motion abnormalities the volume changes were observed in a cinemode on a colour video display. In addition the relative changes of regional EF, regional stroke volume and the timing of endsystole were recorded as a functional scintigram. The results showed very clear differences between control subjects and patients with CAD. Furthermore differences existed between patients with hypokinesia and those with akinesia or aneurysm. The results emphasize that quantitative gated nuclear cardiography not only provides information concerning the left ventricular function but also allows the assessment of local wall motion as to reversible or irreversible asynergy.


[Influence of perhexilinmaleat on the exercise electrocardiogram (author's transl)].

In 15 patients with angiographically proven coronary heart disease and reproducible exercise induced ischemic ST-segment depression the antianginal effect of Perhexilinmaleat was tested in a cross-over randomized double-blind trial. The patients were treated 4 weeks with a placebo, 2 weeks with 200 mg and 2 weeks with 400 mg/day Perhexilinmaleat. The exercise-induced ischemic ST-segment depression was significantly reduced (p less than 0.001) by Perhexilinmaleat. This calcium-antagonist drug also prolonged the PQ-interval and reduced the heart rate during exercise. Some liver specific enzymes were slightly elevated. These and other side effects more often occurred at the higher dose of 400 mg/day.


[Localization of sclerotic lesions in the coronary arteries and their epicardial branches (author's transl)].

In the hearts of 100 unselected adult autopsies (average age 65 years) the coronary arteries and their major branches were investigated. After opening the lumen, the vessels were measured, and the location of all sclerotic lesions was identified, including fatty streaks. The frequency of distribution of advanced sclerotic changes was similar to that of lipid and fibrolipid plaques. 1003 major coronary artery branches were studied. 25% of them showed sclerotic changes in contrast to 92% in the coronary arteries themselves. There was a good correlation between the sclerotic lesions in the coronary arteries and their branches: no changes were found in the branches the corresponding stems of which were unchanged. In contrast to that, sclerotic branches nearly always originated from sclerotic areas of the coronary arteries. Branches of the left anterior descending artery were more frequently affected by atherosclerosis (39%) than branches of the right coronary artery (17%). Contrary to the right coronary artery sclerotic changes of the proximal branches of the left anterior descending and the left circumflex artery were significantly more frequent than sclerotic lesions of the distal branches. The frequency of sclerotic lesions in the branches was similar to that in the coronary arteries; the proximal part was more frequently affected than the distal one. In addition, the peripheral decreasing frequency of sclerotic changes, which was found to be more pronounced in the left coronary arteries than in the right one, showed a similar behaviour in the corresponding branches. Our investigations indicate the vessel's diameter to be a significant (but not the only) factor in atherosclerosis development in coronary arteries and their branches. In case of a corresponding size of lumen, the frequency of sclerotic changes in the coronary arteries was approximately the same as in their branches.


On some cardiological aspects of Steinert's disease (myotonic dystrophy).

The authors investigated 10 ambulant patients with myotonic dystrophy, under 40 years of age (mean 22.3 years) and free of subjective heart complaints. Not only Ecg alterations but also kinetocardiographic changes and anomalies of the systolic intervals were rarer and milder than those found in patients with other neuromyopathies, namely Friedreich's disease and Duchenne's disease. This observation suggests that, at least in older patients, not all the cardiac alterations usually attributed to myotonic dystrophy are really imputable to the disease. On the other hand, the observed echocardiographic alterations (reduction of per cent systolic-diastolic variation of internal diameter of the left ventricle and/or the ejection fraction) apparently indicate an early tendency to modification of left ventricular function in patients with myotonic dystrophy. Since other authors have found cardiac anomalies in this disease before the onset of any neurological manifestations, the possibility emerges that some cases of myocardial disease interpreted as "primitive" might in reality be secondary to undetected myopathy.


[External mechanical cardiac stimulation. Methods and possible application (author's transl)].

External mechanical cardiac stimulation represents a noninvasive method for myocardial stimulation which has significant advantages of external electric stimulation. This paper describes a new method using pressure- and shockwaves for transthoracic cardiac stimulation. On the basis of animal experiments the potential value of external mechanical stimulation for emergency medicine and various other therapeutic and diagnostic procedures are discussed.


[Pharmacodynamic studies in suicidal digoxin poisoning (author's transl)].

In two patients with suicidal digoxin poisoning the correlations between serum digoxin concentration and changes in the duration of QTc and the flattening of the T-waves were studied. The digoxin serum half-life following suicidal digoxin poisoning was in the first patient (10 mg beta-acetyl derivative of digoxin) 77 h, prolonged cause of renal insufficiency, and in the second patient 39.6 h. (20 mg beta-acetyl derivative of digoxin). In both patients the digoxin induced flattening of the T-wave reached a plateau of maximum efficacy at a serum level of 2-3 ng/ml with no further change up to a serum level of 13.2 ng/ml and 9.6 ng/ml respectively. A linear correlation, however, was found between the digoxin serum concentration and the digoxin induced shortening of QTc, r = 0.88 and r = 0.92 respectively. A plateau maximum efficacy was not found. The regression equations were y = -12.0 chi + 430.8 and y = -8.0 chi + 391.9 respectively. The shortening of QTc is therefore an important parameter for the diagnosis of digoxin poisoning. It can be determined very quick with no methodical problems.


Babesia bovis (argentina): analysis of fibrinogen-like proteins during infection.

Fibrinogen and fibrinogen-like proteins (FLP) were isolated from plasma and serum of cattle acutely infected with Babesia bovis. The sizes and chain structures of these proteins were examined and clotting assays performed. The results indicated that the blood was in a hypercoagulable state due mainly to enhanced production of hydrogen bonded fibrin and offset partly by slight inhibition of chain cross-linking. The latter appeared due to a Factor XIII inhibitor. Reduction of A alpha chains of plasma FLP was not evident, nor could lower molecular weight remnants be regularly detected strongly suggesting that fibrin(ogen) lysis rarely occurred. Similarly the size and chain structure of the majority of noncoagulable FLP of serum was consistent with their being the product of coagulation and not fibrinolysis. Only in heavily infected splenectomized cattle were products from lysed cross-linked fibrin detected and these constituted only about 3% of total serum FLP.


The plasma cryofibrinogen of calves infected with Oesophagostomum radiatum.

A cryofibrinogen complex was detected in the plasma of cattle infected with Oesophagostomum radiatum. Its formation coincided with the development of hypofibrinogenaemia and it consisted basically of fibrinogen and soluble noncross-linked fibrin in both monomer and high molecular forms. Also present in the complex, albeit in trace amounts, were cold insoluble globulin, TgG, and plasminogen. It is suggested that the complex results from thrombin activation in vivo and its role is to maintain fibrin in solution thus preventing its deposition in the vascular system.


[Histological reactions of the host induced by the larvae of the warble-fly Oestromyia leporina Pall. (Diptera, Hypodermatidae) (author's transl)].

The histological reactions of Mastomys natalensis induced by the larvae of Oestromyia leporina are described from the start of the infection to the complete healing of the evacuated cyst. Against the migrating larva no cellular reactions take place. After the larva settles, the most obvious feature is a non-suppurative inflammation of the surrounding tissue, while a layer of granulation tissue, infiltrated with eosinophils, is built up around the parasite. About 13 days p.i. the number of eosinophils starts to decrease again. No giant cells are present; plasmocytes and lymphocytes are relatively scarce. A few days before the parasite leaves the host, the inner surface of the warble is infiltrated with masses of neutrophils, obviously caused by secondary invasion of bacteria through the warble opening. After the parasite leaves the host, the repair of the tissue takes place within three weeks. The remaining scar tissue contains cells carrying haemosiderin, which disappears entirely about two months later.


The surface topography of a monogenean, Diclidophora merlangi revealed by scanning electron microscopy.

The body surface of adult Diclidophora merlangi is characterized by an annular array of irregularly-shaped ridges, with the intervening troughs of tegument invested with microvilli. The microvilli measure approximately 0.5 micrometer in length and 0.06 micrometer in diameter and at maximum density (10.8/micrometer 2) increase the body surface area by a factor of two. On the anterio-dorsal surface of each peduncle the ridge-like structures consolidate as a distinct area of ornamentaltion some 100 micrometer in diameter. A frontal pit opens just inside the mouth and is thought to provide the outlet for the buccal gland secretions. The tegument surrounding the gonopore and paired excretory pores is unmodified in morphology. Presumed sensory endings are of at least two types: (1) uniciliated structures, projecting from a pit or supported by a collar of tegument, and distributed either singly over the general body surface and in the buccal cavity, or in groups around the mouth; and (2) large numbers of non-ciliated papillae localized on the opisthaptor. A number of these papillae occur on a wart-like outgrowth of tegument positioned on the ventral surface of each peduncle and have obvious significance in contact communications.


Learning capacity and memory of normal and Toxoplasma-infected laboratory rats and mice.

An experimental Toxoplasma-infection affects the learning performance and the memory of laboratory rats and mice. The investigations yielded the following results: 1. Maze experiments with rats showed that infection significantly reduces the learning performance of the infected animals. However, no significant differences were found between infected rats inoculated at varying times prior to training. In contrast to the learning capacity, memory does not seem to be impaired at all by infection. 2. Compared to rats, the learning capacity of mice is much more conspicuously retarded by a Toxoplasma-infection. In the memory test, the infected animals remained significantly below the performance level of the controls on all days, indicating that their memory was severely affected. 3. A significant correlation was established between the learning performance of the mice and the number of brain cysts. It is assumed that the cysts contribute to the impairment of learning ability. The fact that animals infected for a longer period usually show improved test performances further supports this assumption. This coincides with the decrease in brain cysts. Nevertheless, the clusters of necrosis developing together with the cysts in the nervous tissue might also cause learning retardation. 4. In mice, infection with an avirulent Toxoplasma-strain does not always take a wholly asymptomatic course. When observing the animals closely, a few of them could be seen to run in 'circles' with their heads bent to one side when moving and sitting, which might be interpreted as an impairment of the sense of balance. 5. Another effect of the Toxoplasma-infection in the animal species used is the significantly reduced activity observed on many days of training.


Immunization of lambs against Oesophagostomum columbianum, using irradiated third stage larvae.

The effect of gamma irradiation at doses of 40- and 50 kR on the development of third stage larvae of Oesophagostomum columbianum and the protection conferred by these irradiated larvae against the nematode, was studied in 6-8 week old male Kashmir Merino lambs. At 40- and 50 kR doses, the third stage larvae failed to develop to the adult stage in the intestine. Though single vaccination with 2000, 50 kR irradiated larvae failed to protect the animals against the infection, vaccination with the same number of 40 kR irradiated larvae conferred a partial protection. The presence of adult worms of O. columbianum in sites outside the intestine of 6-8 week old lambs have been demonstrated for the first time.


[Sequence of reconversion of the sporocysts of Schistosoma mansoni producing cercariae, to the production of new generations of sporocysts (author's transl)].

During the life cycle of Schistosoma mansoni the production of sporocysts of a higher order than secondary is a normal mode of larval multiplication which intervenes in asexual reproduction of the parasite. The sequence of reconversion of sporocysts producing cercariae to those producing sporocysts III, IV, etc... can be divided into three principal steps: (1) cessation of cercariae production; (2) degeneration of cercariae contained in the sporocyst, and (3) production of the new generation of sporocysts. Degeneration of intrasporocystic larval material seems to be an indispensable step for the new orientation of production. The signifance of this method os multiplication in the ecology of transmission is discussed.


Effect of BCG on the resistance of rats to infection with Fasciola hepatica.

The effects of three different doses of BCG, given at various periods before infection, on the subsequent establishment of Fasciola hepatica metacercariae were studied. Although evidence was found to suggest that rats which received BCG had mounted a cell mediated immune response, there were no significant differences in worm recovery between BCG-treated rats and controls. The significance of these results in the light of current knowledge on immunity to F. hepatica in rats is discussed.


[Problems in comparative psychotherapeutic research in psychogenic disorders].

A documentation system is described that provides data for different research programmes. Facts are collected concerning: 1. Disease and Development of the disease, 2. General anamneses, 3. Anamnese of the family, 4. Items, describing psychic reactions of the patient and special ways of communication, 5. Prognosis, 6. Therapeutic plan.


[Client centered psychotherapy].

In the discussion concerning which psychotherapeutic methods should come under the auspices of the medical health system in West Germany, the question is raised regarding the client-centered therapy of Carl Rogers. Can it be considered a distinct psychotherapeutic method? A review of the scientific literature dealing with this method shows that it provides neither a theory of mental illness nor a theory of clinical application based on individual cases or specific neurotic disturbances, Therefore it should be categorized as a useful method of communication in the field of psychology and not as a therapeutic method for treating mental illness.


[Behavior therapy].

In the discussion concerning which psychotherapeutic methods should come under the auspices of the medical health system in West Germany, the question is raised regarding the behavioral therapy. Can it be considered a distinct psychotherapeutic method? A review of the scientific literature in this area shows that "behavioral therapy" includes a conglomerate of therapeutic procedures which have no common basis neither in theory nor in practical application. These therapeutic procedures are usually pragmatic and symptom-orientated, many of them never having been sufficiently tested in experiments or in clinical application. Before behavioral therapy can be inclused as a legitimate therapeutic method, it is necessary first to establish a catalogue of acceptable procedures. Psychologists working as behavioral therapists must be required to go through thorough training in their own special field as well as basid training in the mental health sciences comparable to that of psychotherapists with a medical background.


[The mirror stage ("Stade du Miroir" by J. Lacan) as a crucial stage of development for finding one's identity - normal, neurotic, psychotic development].

The socalled "Mirror Stage" ("Stade du Miroir" by J. Lacan) seems to be a normal stage of development between the sixth and the eighteenth month of age. In the centre of this study you find terms of developmental psychology and especially of psychoanalysis like: 'mother-child relationship', 'first relationship to objects', 'passage from primary to secondary narcism', 'ego-ideal' and 'ideal of the ego' and others. The Mirror Stage seems to be especially important for the formation of the identity: wether the child becomes 'normal', 'neurotic' or 'psychotic'. Here we also find terms, invented by Lacan like the 'Real', the 'Imaginary' and the 'Symbolic'.


[Homing behavior in Salamandra salamandra (L.)].

Homing behavior in salamanders (Salamandra salamandra) was studied in the field (52 adults) and in laboratory experiments (75 adult animals). Displacements, occluding of sense organs and experiments with different visual patterns revealed that the home-site orientation is guided by vision. While visual landmarks are most important, Salamandra is also able to use a moon-compass.


[Disordered relationships in psychoses and forms of relationships in their psychotherapy].

In psychosis the relationship between the patient and the world is deeply altered because the self-absorbment of the patient within the influence of his bad intrapsychic objects. The psychotherapy is possible through the establishment of a therapeutic symbiosis, where parts of the ill personality are introjected by the psychotherapist and parts of his personality are adopted by the patient, as shown by the fact that the dreams, the unconscious fantasies, and the efforts of the therapist reflect the anxieties of the patient, whereas the patient's dreams are structured by the inner movements of the psychotherapist, as if there were a partially shared identity between them both.


[The borderline syndrome - a sign of our times].

In conclusion, I would like to say until about 30 to 40 years ago, the patients we saw in our clinical practices presented mainly mono-symptomatic disturbances. Now the picture tends to be multi-symptomatic. It is possible that stronger Victorian influences on ego disciplines were responsible for the mono-symptomatic pattern; in any case, at present, the ego-self boundaries seem weakened, more "permissive", yielding and permeable and this may account for the more multi-symptomatic picture.


A model of imprinting evolved from neurophysiological concepts.

The imprinting process is described by a model evolved from physiological data. For the case of sexual imprinting in zebra finches a second sensitive phase, occurring at sexual maturity, is considered. The first sensitive phase is not restricted exclusively to the imprinting of sexual objects. Properties of the model allow for the explanation of apparent reversibility of imprinting. The same physiological mechanisms involved in the organization of simple neuronal connections are assumed to operate in the highly complex networks associated with imprinting phenomena.


Temperature dependence of memory in fish.

The influence of temperature on the retention period of a pattern discrimination task (cross versus triangle) was examined on Carassius carassius, Cichlasoma nigrofasciatum and Phoximus phoximus. After training at optimal temperature conditions the experimental subjects were kept at a 10 degree C lowered temperature, whereas for control subjects there was no temperature change. Tests, carried out every two weeks, showed a significant increase of retention for Carassius c. and Cichlasoma n.; Phoximus p. showed a slightly more rapid forgetting. These results and investigations of oxygen-uptake indicate a direct dependence of memory processes on the metabolic level.


[Osteosynthesis by ultrasonic welding (author's transl)].

The use of ultrasound as so-called power sound in operative medicine is a new method for operations on the skeletal system. This method was first developed in the USSR. The technical and medical problems of ultrasonic welding are dealt with. However further improvements by experimental work are required.


[Arterial blood supply of the liver].

We examined (dogs) the influence of hypovolaemic shock and reversible interruption of the portal vein on the arterial blood flow and metabolism of the liver. Depending on the arterial mean-pressure hypovolaemic shock decreases the flowrate of the hepatic artery, while it is increases to 30 to 40% during interruption of the portal vein. Whether hypoxy will cause liver damage or not is only dependant from the resulting oxygen supply of the liver. This critical range is below 6 to 7 ml/min per 100 g liver tissue.


[Differential diagnosis of obstructive jaundice (author's transl)].

Preoperative differential diagnosis of obstructive jaundice by simple methods may be useful for screening and for planning the operation. Interpreting the statistical evaluation of parameters of 89 patients it is suggested to use the "index of alimentation", i.e. the deviation from Broca's normal weight in percent. Its sensitivity and specifity is about 80%.


[Ebstein's malformation].

2 patients suffering from Ebstein's malformation underwent a total correction 3 years or 9 months respectively ago. In the first case we used a Björk-Shiley valve, plication according to Hardy was omitted. In the second case an Angell-Shiley-bioprosthesis combined with Hardy's plication was performed. Both children are in a good condition now.


[Shunting procedures in portal hypertension in children (author's transl)].

31 children aged 2,5 to 14 years suffering from portal hypertension underwent shunting operations (cavosplenal and cavomesenteric anastomoses). The follow-up period covers 2 months to 8 years. Patent anastomoses could be demonstrated in 26 patients.


[Interscapulotharacic ampulation, disarticulation of the hip, hemipelvectomy. Indications and results].

Interscapulothoracic amputation, disarticulation of the hip and hemipelvectomy were performed relatively seldom in the past. The results in 38 patients demonstrate that the aim to save the extremity at all events at the beginning of treatment will often lead to incurable conditions later on. Radical surgery of sarcomas of the extremities is the only chance for cure.


[Malignant melanomas of fingers and toes (author's transl)].

From 1968 to 1978 more than 500 patients suffering from histologically verified malignant melanoma were seen. Only in 12 cases (appr. 2%) the tumour was situated on the tip of the fingers and toes. In such cases nowadays amputation and exarticulation of the whole extremity is no longer practiced. It is sufficient only to remove the corresponding finger or toe. Additional chemotherapy should supplement surgery.


[Influence of strumectomy on preoperative tracheal compression (author's transl)].

Young persons and the groups of age past fifty years form the greatest portion of preoperative tracheal compressions caused by struma. In most cases there is no relationship between subjective complaints and objective findings. 80% of all retrosternal strumata showed a narrowing of the trachea. The age of the patients could be found to be the most important factor for restitutio ad integrum of the compression of the trachea.


[Heredity of individual disposition for malignant tumours (author's transl)].

The problem of heredity of the individual disposition for malignant tumours (immunity and protectivity hypothesis) is demonstrated by example of a melanom-family. Only team-work (surgery and immunology) yields new possibilities to detect cancer in high risk patients early.


Association between Azotobacter and other soil bacteria and its effect on nitrogen fixation.

The association between A. vinelandii and either Agrobacterium sp. or Micrococcus sp., which are usually found as contaminants in Azotobacter cultures, was investigated. In comparison with pure cultures, association increased the microbiol counts in addition to increasing nitrogen fixation rates and efficiency. In liquid cultures higher Azotobacter densities were observed in the top 5 cm of the column concomitant with lowering the economic coefficient of utilization of carbonaceous compounds, which resulted in low efficiency of nitrogen fixation. In deep layers, lower amounts of nitrogen gain were obtained, but higher efficiencies of N2-fixation were recorded. In sand cultures, the biggest amounts of fixed nitrogen were in the 5--15 cm layer of the soil column and in deeper layers economic utilization of sugars occurred, but nitrogen gain sharply decreased.


Nitrogen-fixing capacity of Azotobacter as affected by the type and depth of substrate.

Sixty isolates, representing the different types of azotobacters in Egyptian soils, were studied for their N2-fixing capacity. When A. chroococcum and A. vinelandii were grown in shallow layers of N-deficient liquid medium, nitrogen gains ranged from 48 to 92 and from 20 to 120 ppm with efficiencies of N2-fixation from 15.8 to 50.0 and from 16.6 to 21.2 mg N fixed/g C oxidized, respectively. Culturing in deep layers generally lowered the nitrogen gains and the oxidation of carbon, but at different rates, resulting in the increase of the efficiency of N2-fixation by 2--78%, indicating that the depth of the liquid medium has a definite effect on the outcome of N2-fixation. In another experiment, A. vinelandii was grown in increasing depths of liquid or solid substrates and consequently at variable ratios of surface area: depth. In liquid medium, maximum counts, sugar consumption, and nitrogen gains were detected in the widest surface area: depth ratio, but the efficiency of N2-fixation increased with the narrowing of the ratio. In sand cultures an opposite trend was observed.


Vitamin requirements of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. vasinfectum.

The effect of eight water-soluble vitamins on germination, germ-tube extension, growth, and sporulation of Fusarium oxysporum Schl. f.sp. vasinfectum (Atk.) Snyder and Hansen, was studied. Each vitamin was utilized in eight different concentrations. The fungus responded favourably to all of the utilized vitamins in almost all the concentrations where germination, growth, and sporulation were substantially greater than the controls. Among the vitamins used, the fungus appeared to be highly sensitive to thiamine and pyridoxine, moderately sensitive to inositol and pantothenate, and least affected by folic acid.