Newcastle disease virus in Taiwan: II, Relationship between polykaryocytosis and virus virulence.

Fifteen selcted local isolates and five known Newcastle disease virus strains were examined for their cytopathic effects in chick embryo kidney (CEK) cells, egg-infectious units in chick embryos (CE), virulence by mean death time, intracerebral and intravenous pathogenicity indexes for CE and chicks, and ability to cause polykaryocytosis of fusion from within (FFWI) or fusion from without (FFWO) in CEK and BHK-21 monolayer cells. The capacity of the different virus strains to induce cell FFWI at 15 hr post-infection was related to their virulence for CE and chicks, but cell FFWO did not seem to be any relationship with the virulence of the strains.


[A trial on nutritionally forced mating of conventional glutamate-producing bacteria].

By nutritionally forced mating, we tried to find the sex factor in glutamate producing bacteria with some auxtrophic mutants of Corynebacterium glutamicum, Micrococcus glutamicus and Brevibacterium divaricatum. We failed to find true mates in this trial, even when the cells cured by acridine orange were used to mate with non-cured ones. There were some positive growth when two densed cell suspensions were dropped on the minimum medium, but after subcultured on the minimum medium no growth was found. It seem likely that the bacteria used here, at least, require an enforced cell adhesion, unless true mating is not feasible. The evidence that Corynebacterium renale has pili might be an interesting reference, but we could not find pili in the bacteria used here.


Regular character of chromatin degradation in lymphoid tissues after treatment with biological alkylating agents in vivo.

The aim of the present study was to reassume the chromatin changes occurring in lymphoid tissues of mice treated with alkylating agents of the nitrogen-mustard type in relation to recent evidence on the nucleosomal organization of chromatin and to our new data on the regular character of chromatin degradation in lymphoid tissues of irradiated mice. DNA was isolated from nuclei at various intervals (1-18 h) after treatment of mice and subjected to gel electrophoresis in polyacrylamide gels. Thymus chromatin from treated mice has been shown to degrade in a regular fashion and to yield discrete DNA fragments, resembling those that originate in lymphoid tissues of irradiated mice or in thymus nuclei digested with micrococcal nuclease in vitro. With increasing interval after treatment higher amounts of smaller DNA fragments appear. Chromatin in spleen cells responds to treatment in a similar way, whilst no degradation in vivo takes place in liver chromatin. Chromatin of LS/BL lymphosarcoma cells in mice treated with alkylating agents or with irradiation suffers from a similar regular degradation. The results stress the significance of the action of liberated or activated endogenous nuclease(s) in the development of chromatin damage in lymphoid cells after treatment with alkylating agents.


[Surgical results of stapedectomy or stapedotomy (author's transl)].

468 stapes operations have been performed at the ENT-Department of the University of Zurich between 1970 and 1978. In one half of the cases, a total or partial removal of the footplate with introduction of a wire connective tissue prosthesis has been used. In the other half, the operation consisted in a limited fenestration of the footplate, which was large enough to accept a wire teflon piston of 0.6 mm diameter. Statistical analysis of the results of both methods shows a better bone conduction threshold for the speech frequencies (500, 1,000 and 2,000 Hz) as well as for air conduction at 4,000 cps after stapedotomy. Complete postoperative deafness occurred in one case following stapedectomy (0.3% of patients with primary operation). The advantages of stapedotomy over stapedectomy are the following: 1. Less trauma to the inner ear, 2. better stability of the position of the prosthesis and 3. better adaptation of the length of the prosthesis. The surgical steps used for stapedotomy are described.


Pulmonary surface film stability and composition.

Stability of pulmonary alveoli at end expiration requires a very low air-water surface tension (e.g., less than 10 mN.m-1). Another important requirement is that the surface film maintain this low surface tension for a sufficiently long time at fixed lung volume. We measured monolayer collapse rates at 37 degrees C of lung surface-active material (SAM) and certain lipids found in this material and compared them with alveolar monolayer collapse rates calculated from published lung compliance changes. We found collapse rates for purified SAM or a mixture of dipalmitoyl lecithin (DPPC):monoenoic lecithin (PC):cholesterol (CHOL) (3.03:1.65:1 molar ratios) to be much greater than collapse rates of alveolar films estimated from indirect measurements. Monolayers of pure DPPC or DPPC with 10 mol% monoenoic PC and/or CHOL had collapse rates equal to or less than those estimated from lungs. We conclude that the alveolar monolayer is enriched in DPPC to the extent of 90 mol% or greater. Enrichment may exclude more mobile components from the monolayer during expiration when surface tension reaches verry low values.


A nutrition policy for Britain.

The first comprehensive nutrition policy was put into action during the Second World War, 1939-1945. Basic foodstuffs were shared fairly in the light of what was known about physiological needs. The policy was highly successful and nutritional status improved. From the mid 1940s onwards, a nutrition policy, based on physiological needs, was pursued in the context of the welfare state and the National Health Service. The end of rationing in 1954 was followed by a free choice of foods in a period of affluence. The choice was evidently not always nutritionally sound, since this diet appears to be at least in part related to the increased incidence of certain diseases. In a democratic society, a nutrition policy must be one of sound education so that individuals make a wise choice of foods. Their choice creates demand and indirectly influences food production both from agricultural production and from the food industry. The education which underlies choice should be based on scientific fact and sound physiological principles rather than on fashionable hypotheses.


A critical assessment of the Wilhelmy method in studying lung surfactants.

1. The surface properties of over 250 films of diplamitoyl lecithin (DPL) and Tween 20 on distilled water have been investigated using two different surface balances simultaneously, the Wilhelmy balance, popular in physiological studies, and the Du Nuoy ring method whose readings are independent of contact angle. 2. Using concentrations of DPL ranging from 0.08 to 1.90 microgram cm-2 on a Langmuir trough where the pool area was cycled from 100 to 27.5% of maximum, the Wilhelmy balance registered virtually the same force per wetted perimeter as the ring method for both pure water and Tween 20, but appreciably lower values for DPL over the whole cycle. 3. The above differences can be explained on the basis of a significant (45-70 degrees) contact angle, a surface property also demonstrated photographically and by direct measurement. 4. Contact angle was shown to vary with pool area, a relationship exhibiting hysteresis. 5. This study indicates that the Wilhelmy balance has been an unfortunate choice of instrument for studying DPL films whose surface tensions are appreciably higher than previously estimated.


[Scleroderma with traces of disseminated lupus erythematosus associated with Hashimoto's thyroiditis and papillary carcinoma of the thyroid gland (author's transl)].

The coexistence of organ-specific and nonorgan-specific autoimmune diseases is an interesting phenomenon. A 52-year-old woman was admitted with fever, general discomfort, polyarthritis, and Raynaud's phenomenon. Physical examination revealed a goiter of stony consistency, hardening, paleness, and atrophy of the skin on the face and upper limbs, and blood hypertension (180/110 mmHg). The biological data included leukopenia, moderate anemia, and a very high sedimentation rate. The latex test was positive (+++); LE cells positive (+); hypergammaglobulinemia (3.5 g); antinuclear antibodies, 1/1280 with an immunofluorescence granular pattern; antithyroid antibodies, 1/160. There was pulmonary, renal, and gastrointestinal involvement compatible with scleroderma, which was confirmed by skin biopsy. A thyroidectomy revealed the existence of a papillary carcinoma with thyroiditis. Responde to treatment with immunosuppressive agents, hypotensive drugs, and thyroid substitution therapy was initially good. The patient was readmitted 8 months later with general discomfort and a severe hyperproteinemia (10 g/100 ml), including 65 percent gammaglobulin and requiring various sessions of plasmapheresis. The patient was discharged, but died suddenly 4 months later. The association of lupus and scleroderma in this patient is discussed and the possibility of its being a mixed connective tissue disease is discarded. The association of this condition with Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and the latter with papillary carcinoma of the thyroid are analyzed. The peculiar features of this case are pointed out. The authors postulate that the cause of the sudden death was a vascular cerebral complication induced by the extreme hyperproteinemia.


Changes in hemopoiesis of mice of the C3H strain following transplantation of Gardner lymphosarcoma and infection with LDH-virus. I. Circulating blood.

The values of red and white blood count, of spleen and liver weight were determined in mice of the C3H strain after transplantation of Gardner solid lymphosarcoma contaminated with LDH-virus and after infection of LDH-virus, and compared with those found in normal intact mice. Special attention was devoted to early post-transplantation period and the final stage of tumor growth. The second day after infection of mice with LDH-virus, leukopenia with marked lymphopenia was observed, together with a reduced number of reticulocytes and spleen enlargement. The same changes became more pronounced in tumorous mice on the second posttransplantation day. The changes--with the exception of spleen enlargement--following LDH-virus infection became normalized within the period of the final stage of tumor growth. Contrarily, in mice with tumors in the final stage of the disease besides spleen enlargement also the reduced erythrocyte counts, leukopenia with pronounced lymphopenia and thrombocytopenia were found.


[Urbach-Wiethe syndrome: hyalinosis and lipoidosis of the skin and mucous membranes as a neuroectodermosis].

The author reports a case of Wiethe-Urbach syndrome (dermal and mucosal hyalinosis). The diagnosis was based on characteristic clinical findings in the skin and mucosal membranes and microscopic examination of the skin. Coexistent central nervous system dysplasia was characterized by brain atrophy, especially atrophy of the subcortical layers and two horn-like calcifications on the floor of the middle cranial fossa derived, most likely, from the dura.


Thyroid orbitopathy: an update.

Two typical findings in thyroid orbitopathy have traditional explanations which are not wholly acceptable in many cases of the disease. Eyelid retraction is attributed to superstimulation of Mueller's palpebral muscle, while vertical muscle imbalances are attributed to preferential involvement of the vertically acting muscles in the myositic process. Clinical and experimental ultrasonographic evidence recently gathered indicates that endocrine orbitopathy is panmyositis involving all of the muscles of the orbit simultaneously. In light of this improved understanding of the muscular involvement in this disease, we propose alternate explanations for the signs and symptoms of thyroid orbitopathy which are based upon physiologic, anatomic, and pathologic facts.


A comparison of computed tomographic techniques in the diagnosis of Graves' ophthalmopathy.

We performed CT scans on 24 patients with clinically typical Graves' ophthalmopathy to compare the advantages of various scanning techniques. Scans were performed before and after intravenous contrast material infusion, and the contrast-enhancement of abnormal muscles was compared with that of known orbital tumors. Images were also obtained using 5-mm and 8-mm collimators, and the diagnostic value of these collimators was compared. Sagittal and coronal scans were performed in some of the cases, using a new direct technique for the sagittal plane. In general, the 5-mm collimators provided sharper definition of the ocular muscles and optic nerves. Contrast-enhancement alone was not helpful in differentiating enlarged muscles from orbital tumors because of the great overlap of attenuation coefficients. Sagittal and coronal images were helpful in confirming muscle enlargement suspected from axial scans, and were most useful in showing enlarged superior and/or inferior recti in cases with normal medial and lateral recti. The advantages of our method of obtaining sagittal scans through the long axis of the orbit and the potential application of this technique to orbital CT scanning are discussed.


Anterior orbitotomy.

A simple, safe method of treatment of the sequelae of Graves' disease involving the orbit is presented. The results in 17 cases would indicate removal of orbital fat via anterior orbitotomy is a useful adjunct in the rehabilitation of the patient with chronic ophthalmopathy. Thirty-eight cases not included in the study required additional procedures to complete their rehabilitation.


Enhancement of fetal lung surfactant production by aminophylline.

Antepartum administration of aminophylline to pregnant rabbits resulted in accelerated formation of phospholipids regarded to be important components of pulmonary surfactant. Increases in the tissue content and synthesis of saturated phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylinositol were found in lung slice preparations obtained from fetuses previously treated with aminophylline. Synthesis of phospholipids was measured using labeled palmitate, oleate, and glucose as precursors. The results showed increased de novo production of these lipids, and that glucose and glycogen may serve as important precursors. There was a significant reduction in triglyceride content while free fatty acids increased suggesting increased lipolysis in the aminophylline-treated groups, but this did not measurably affect the rate of labeled palmitate incorporation into total phospholipids.


Azidocillin levels in tracheobronchial secretions.

Concentrations of azidocillin in serum and tracheobronchial secretions were followed in 20 patients after an oral dose of 0.75 g of the drug. Serum concentrations were followed for 4 h and the concentration in tracheobronchial secretion was determined in samples taken through a fibreoptic bronchoscope 1--2 h after administration. The concentration in secretions varied between hardly measurable levels and 1.1 micrograms/ml. No correlation between levels in serum and tracheobronchial secretion was found. A slight tendency to higher secretion levels was found when the bronchoscopy showed signs of tracheobronchitis.


Percutaneous connections in man.

Neuroprostheses research provides on application of percutaneous access. We have investigated a number of clinical situations requiring chronic percutaneous transmission of either fluid or electricity in man to explore other uses. Selection criteria for new models include the following considerations: 1) it should allow use of a skull mounted pedestal; 2) it should offer the potential of benefit to the patient with minimal extra risks; 3) it should be a common enough problem to provide sufficient clinical material; and 4) it should not require major new developments of technology. Other potential uses include the artifical pancreas, artificial heart, and hyperalimentation. With some modification, it might be possible to provide access to devices located in the chest via the jugular vein. Similarly, other uses for this percutaneous device warrant investigation. Our twenty man-years of experience with the device indicates that it provides successful chronic access when used with appropriate skill.


[Present status of retrolental fibroplasia in France].

A national survey showed that retrolental fibroplasia still exists in France, as it does in other countries of the world. Retrolental fibroplasia is a condition that principally affects low birth weight premature babies in whom oxygen therapy has not been adequately controlled. The premature babies who have apnaeic attacks are most risk. Strict control of all oxygen therapy, preferably using continuous monitoring techniques together with other changes in the methods of treatment should reduce the incidence of this condition.


Fluorometric determination of xanthine and hypoxanthine in tissue.

A method was developed to determine the total content of the oxypurines, xanthine and hypoxanthine, in animal tissues. The developed method was constructed mainly from the following successive steps: (1) conversion of the oxypurines to uric acid and hydrogen peroxidase by xanthine oxidase; (2) decomposition of the hydrogen peroxide by catalase and subsequent inactivation of this enzyme; (3) fluorometric measurement of the uric acid based on the coupled enzyme reaction of uricase and peroxidase. In applying this method to a sample containing uric acid, preliminary removal of this uric acid was necessary and this was carried out by treating the sample with uricase, followed by subsequent inactivation of this enzyme. The present method was more specific than the existing fluorometric method and permitted to measure the total content of the oxypurines (as low as 1 nmol) without mutual separation of them. The actual application of this method to the rat liver was demonstrated together with the method to prepare the tissue sample for the assay.


Comparative bioavailability of a microcrystalline theophylline tablet and uncoated aminophylline tablets.

The bioavailability of a rapidly dissolving tablet of theophylline and three brands of standard aminophylline tablets was estimated in a four way cross-over study involving 8 healthy adult volunteers. The relative extent of bioavailability as assessed by the measurement of the total area under the plasma concentration time curves showed no difference between the products (P greater than 0.05). Computed estimates of the rate of drug absorption were similar for all 4 products tested. The results indicate that the rapidly dissolving tablet offers no advantage in respect to rate and extent of absorption over conventional aminophylline tablets.


Action of intracerebrally injected beta-endorphin on the rat's core temperature.

Microinjected directly into the preoptic anterior hypothalamus (POAH), beta-endorphin (0.74--7.4 nmol) induced an increase in rectal temperature (RT) in the free-moving rat. Whereas the initial phase of the endorphin-induced rise in RT was partially attenuated by naloxone (5 or 20 mg/kg i.p.) or naltrexone (3 mg/kg i.p.), the late phase was completely blocked by the prostaglandin synthetase inhibitor, indomethacin (15 mg/kg i.p.). Pretreatment with a combination of indomethacin and naloxone resulted in an almost total block of the endorphin-induced increase in RT. Furthermore, the central serotonin antagonist, methergoline (1 mg/kg i.p.) antagonized the endorphin-evoked fever indicating serotonin may mediate the rise in RT. In contrast to the fever evoked in the POAH, beta-endorphin (7.4 nmol), given into the lateral cerebral ventricle (LCV), elicited a marked drop in RT, catalepsy, and analgesia which were completely blocked by naloxone (5 mg/kg). Similar to morphine, beta-endorphin elicited a naloxone-reversible hyperthermia when administered into the subarachnoid space surrounding the spinal cord. The similarities between beta-endorphin and morphine in their actions on RT as well as the possible role of serotonin or prostaglandins in beta-endorphin's thermogenic action are discussed.


Is the pressor response to strychnine centrally mediated?

Intravenous administration of strychnine (0.003-0.300 mg . kg-1) to curarized, chloralosed dogs induced hypertension and tachycardia. In spinal cord-transected dogs, intravenous administration of strychnine no longer elicited a rise in blood pressure and heart rate. Intracisternal injections of strychnine also produced hypertension and tachycardia but at lower doses. Similar results were obtained after intrathecal administration of strychnine in doses significantly different from those effective on intravenous and intracisternal administration. These findings suggest that the central nervous system may be involved in the haemodynamic changes induced by strychnine, but did not allow the site of action to be located.


Relationship between the antitrichinellous effect of seven derivates of benzimidazolecarbamates and their chemical structure.

The efficacy of seven more recently developed anthelmintics of the benzimidazolecarbamate group, i. e., parbendazole, mebendazole, fenbendazole, oxibendazole, cambendazole, oxfendazole and albendazole, has been tested in a series of experiments on white mice artifically infected with Trichinella spiralis. Our results disclosed a relationship between their anthelmintic effect and their chemical structure. This finding might be of importance in a targeted synthesis of new, effective, derivates of benzimidazole, e. g., in the therapy of trichinellosis and in the choice of the most effective drug.


Mechanism of adriamycin resistance in a subline of mouse lymphoblastoma L5178Y cells.

The biochemical mechanism of anthracycline resistance was studied with an adriamycin-resistant subline of mouse lymphoblastoma L5178Y cells. Both uridine and thymidine uptakes in the resistant cells were observed more resistant to adriamycin and daunorubicin than those in the parental cells. Aclacinomycin A exhibited the same degree of inhibition of nucleic acid syntheses in the sensitive cells and in the resistant cells. The resistance pattern observed by the inhibition of RNA and DNA syntheses seemed to parallel that by growth inhibition. No significant difference was demonstrated between the parental and resistant cells in the inhibition of RNA and DNA polymerase reactions with isolated nuclei. The uptake and retention of [3H]adriamycin was observed significantly less in the resistant cells than in the sensitive cells. The results suggested that the adriamycin resistance may be due to alteration of the cytoplasmic membrane and/or cytoplasm, resulting in decreased uptake and retention of the antibiotic in the resistant cells.


Interaction of myosin subfragment-1 with actin. I. Effect of actin binding on the susceptibility of subfragment-1 to trypsin.

The heavy chain of myosin subfragment-1 prepared by chymotrypsin treatment had a molecular weight of about 96 K. It was split into 26 K, 50K, and 21 K fragments on trypsin treatment. The effect of actin binding on the susceptibilities of the junctions between 26 K and 50 K and between 50 K and 21 K, and on that of alkali light chain 1 to trypsin was studied. The addition of actin increased the viscosity of the solution, and the apparent activity of trypsin decreased. We estimated this decrease as 35% by measuring the degradation of gamma-globin heavy chain, which is known not to interact with actin and subfragment-1 but is known to be susceptible to trypsin, in actin-subfragment-1 solution. Taking this value into consideration, we concluded that the 26 K-50 K junction became 5 times more and the 50 K-21 K junction became 3 times less susceptible to tryptic attack upon the binding of actin. We also observed that alkali light chain 1 became resistant to trypsin upon the binding of actin to subfragment-1. The relation between this conformational change in subfragment-1 and the cyclic interaction of subfragment-1 with actin and ATP is discussed.


Interaction of myosin subfragment-1 with actin. II. Location of the actin binding site in a fragment of subfragment-1 heavy chain.

The heavy chain of subfragment-1 prepared by chymotrypsin treatment had a molecular weight of about 96K. The heavy chain was split into 26 K, 50 K, and 21 K fragments by trypsin. When the trypsin-treated subfragment-1 was cross-linked with dimethyl suberimidate, cross-linked products of 26 K, 50 K, and 21 K fragments and of 50 K and 21 K fragments appeared, but there was little cross-linked product of 26 K and 50 K fragments or of 26 K and 21 K fragments. When the cross-linking experiments were carried out in the presence of actin, a new band appeared and the amount of cross-linked product of 26 K, 50 K, and 21 K fragments decreased by about 50%. The molecular weight of the new band was lower than that of the cross-linked product of 26 K, 50 K, and 21 K fragments, and higher than that of the dimer of actin. Based on this and some other results, we suggest that this band represented a cross-linked product of actin and the 50 K fragment. We also suggest that the decrease in the amount of cross-linked product of 26 K, 50 K, and 21 K fragments reflected the conformational change in subfragment-1 due to the binding of actin.


Biliary excretion of iodipamide and iodoxamate in dogs with hepatic dysfunction induced by oral administration of dimethylnitrosamine.

Iodipamide and iodoxamate were compared in equimolar clinical dosages in five cholecystectomized chronic bile fistula dogs in which hepatic dysfunction was produced by oral administration of a total dose of 480 and 960 microliters dimethylnitrosamine  (DMNA), respectively. After both DMNA dosages, the peak biliary excretion rate for iodoxamate was significantly higher than for iodipamide (p less than 0.01). The peak bile iodine concentration was not significantly different for the two agents (480 microliter DMNA: p less than 0.1; 960 microliter DMNA: p = 0.07). On the basis of this investigation, it is suggested that iodoxamate should not significantly improve the opacification of the biliary system in patients with hepatic dysfunction.


Three-dimensional image analysis of the complex of thin filaments and myosin molecules from skeletal muscle. I. Tilt angle of myosin subfragment-1 in the rigor complex.

A three-dimensional image of the "rigor" complex of actin and chymotryptic myosin subfragment-1 was reconstituted from electron micrographs of negatively stained specimens. Data went out to 20 A radially and 26 A axially. The reconstituted images allowed us to deduce the angle between the major axis of the main part of myosin subfragment-1 and the axis of the actin helix. The subfragment-1 molecules were attached to the actin filament in a configuration in which they were tilted by only about 15 degrees from the plane perpendicular to the axis of the actin helix. The implication of the smaller tilt angle than the commonly accepted value is discussed.


The New York City-HIP contract.

With the signing of a contract not to exceed $25 million, the Health Insurance Plan of New York (HIP) and the City of New York applied the concept of the Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) on a scale never before attempted. Beginning in January 1978, as many as 100,000 Medicaid eligible individuals and families were enrolled in a prepaid group medical plan as participants in an experiment whose success or failure depended largely upon the City health system's ability to adapt to change. It also depended upon the support of the major health interests in this unique effort at rational, systemwide health planning.


In vitro production of thyroid-binding antibodies by peripheral blood lymphocytes from patients with Graves' disease: nonspecific responses associated with culture supernatant proteins.

Peripheral blood lymphocytes from patients with Graves' disease were cultured for 7 days with mitogens (phytohemagglutinin, Concanavalin A, protein A), or specific antigen (thyroid membranes), in an attempt to produce thyroid-binding antibodies (TBAb) in vitro. TBAb was measured in culture supernatants using a sensitive radioreceptor assay. Mean TBAb indices of mitogen or antigen-stimulated cultures did not differ significantly from those of unstimulated cultures for either patients or normal subjects. Although TBAb indices of less than 0.70, which are generally considered positive for serum TBAb, were demonstrated in a small proportion of individual tests of supernatants from patients with Graves' disease, low indices were also found in tests from normal subjects. One cause of such nonspecific responses was found to be culture infection. The factor associated with positive responses in infected cultures was unlikely to be an immunoglobulin since TBAb-like activity was not detected in globulins isolated by DEAE + -Sephadex chromatography, which isolates only IgG and IgA, and the activity was not neutralized by anti-IgG serum. The possible ways of improving the culture system for in vitro TBAb production and the significance of nonspecific responses in the radioreceptor assay are discussed.


Impaired fertility in the jaundiced female (Gunn) rat.

The hyperbilirubinemic female Gunn rat has been reported to have impaired fertility. A total of 267 jaundiced (j/j) and 91 nonjaundiced (+/j) female Gunn rats were used in a series of experiments to characterize the nature of this reduced fertility. Sixteen percent of the jaundiced females mated and delivered litters which were characteristically small in number (4.5 pups). A comparison of the gross observations at necropsy of jaundiced and nonjaundiced pregnant rats indicated that the number of implantation sites and live fetuses were significantly lower in the jaundiced females. The number of fetal resorptions in these rats were significantly higher; whereas, the number of corpra lutea was similar for both genotypes. The significantly lower plasma bilirubin levels in the pregnant jaundiced rats compared to the nonpregnant suggested that the observed effect on fertility was related to the concentration of plasma bilirubin.


Synchronized breeding of cycling ewes to produce fetuses of known gestational age.

A treatment regime involving a subcutaneous ear implant containing 3 mg of 17 alpha-acetoxy-11 beta-methyl-19-nor-preg-4-ene-3,20,dione (norgestomet) accompanied by an intramuscular injection of 1.5 mg norgestomet and 0.5 mg estradiol valerate proved effective for synchronizing estrus in the cycling ewe. Pregnancy rates were equivalent to those of control ewes mated concurrently. Sixty-two percent of all treated ewes became pregnant at the synchronized estrus. The initiation of the treatment regime was scheduled to allow delivery of fetuses of a specified age on the date requested by the investigator.


A histological examination of the uterovaginal sperm storage glands in the domestic hen following an insemination with variable semen dosages.

The uterovaginal sperm storage glands of the domestic hen were examined histologically and scored for filling rates 24 hr after an insemination. Two semen dosages (.023 and .047 ml) were employed and a comparison was made between the large and small semen dose. No significant differences were found between the two groups, suggesting that only a specific number of spermatozoa are capable of entering the uterovaginal sperm storage glands during a given time interval.


Effects of tribenoside (Glyvenol) on experimental osteoarthrosis.

An experimental model of chemically induced osteoarthrosis in the knee joint of adult hens was used to investigate the possible anti-arthrotic potency of the D-glucofuranose derivative tribenoside (Glyvenol). Development and intensity of progressing degenerative processes in the articular tissue were controlled and quantitatively determined by radiographic and macroscopic methods. Tribenoside was given in daily oral doses of 50 and 150 mg/kg by cannulation into the crop. Control of the knee joints by X-ray using mammography film as well as joint space measurements were performed at the beginning and 6, 8, 10, and 12 weeks after induction of osteoarthrosis. The results clearly demonstrate that the higher dose (150 mg/kg) of tribenoside had a significant inhibitory influence on the degenerative processes in the knee joints. The obvious anti-arthrotic potency of tribenoside may be explained by the various chondrotropic and vasotropic activities of this drug. The mode of action of tribenoside on connective tissue is discussed in relation and contrast to the inhibitory effect of most anti-inflammatory antirheumatics on anabolic cartilage metabolism.


[Respiratory insufficiency in surgery].

Acute respiratory insufficiency (ARI) (reduced PaO2 and/or increased PaCO2) in surgical patients is mostly caused by atelectasis or bronchopneumonia. These complications may develop if functional residual capacity (FRC) is reduced. Even in surgical patients with normal lungs the supine position, some pulmonary disorders after any general anaesthesia, pain, and atonic intestine cause reduced FRC in the postoperative phase. Successful prophylaxis is based on these mechanisms, which are described. The adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS, termed "shock lung" a few years ago) is the most dangerous pulmonary complication leading to ARI. The evaluation of clinical data sugggests that noxious factors only active for a short time (so called "triggers") may start the development of ARDS when some physiological conditions (so called "constellations"), such as low flow syndrome, reduced FRC and overhydration, pave the way for this. In the early state prognosis is good if the patient is ventilated (CPPV) and kept on the dry side, and if cardiac output is elevated compared to the normal value at rest. Once fully established, ARDS has such a poor prognosis that the need for earliest possible commencement of therapy must be stressed emphatically. The following values may be taken as clear and simple symptoms for early diagnosis: vital capacity below 15 ml/kg (reflects decreased FRC), PaO2 breathing spontaneously room air below 60 mm Hg or 8 kPa (reflects increased intrapulmonary right to left shunt or regional hypoventilation), and respiratory rate above 25/min (reflects loss of compliance).


Therapeutic trial of intracisternal human tetanus immunoglobulin in clinical tetanus.

A trial has been conducted of the efficacy of human tetanus immunoglobulin (250 I U) administered intrathecally (intracisternally) in addition to standard treatment (equine antitoxin intravenously, penicillin, anticonvulsants). The trial was analysed sequentially and was stopped for 120 patients when there was no longer any chance of achieving a statistically significant difference in favour of intrathecal administration. The sequential plan was modified during the trial. A prognostic correlation was found between onset of the first symptom and admission to hospital.


[Ultrastructural semiology of lesions of striated muscle].

Basic changes of the striated muscle fiber are described after the electron microscopy study of 200 surgical muscle biopsies from the Montevideo Neurological Institute. The inventory of these changes--true ultrastructural "signs" of muscle derangement--is presented according to the involved organelle. The value of these data is considerably enhanced by a systematic approach to the study of a muscle biopsy that should begin with the in situ examination of the muscle territory before the excision of the tissue. A throroughful histopathological study and a careful screening of semithin sections previous to the selection of areas for E.M. are also of paramount importance. The description of individual fiber lesions and that of the topography of the lesions should be accompanied by the study of vessels. nerves and muscle spindles. We stress that most of the ultrastructural findings are nonspecific. They will however acquire diagnostic value and greater interest when grouped and related to the clinical data and to the results of other diagnostic methods, besides morphology.


L-dopa induced dyskinesias in asymmetrical parkinsonism.

Four patients with predominantly unilateral Parkinsonism are reported in whom involuntary movements in the affected limbs developed while on levodopa. Based on the known pathological and biochemical abnormalities underlying Parkinson's disease, it is suggested that these observations support the concept of denervation supersensitivity as the pathogenetic mechanism in the development of levodopa dyskinesias.


[Verbal comprehension with objects and its comparison with the token test in children].

This study analyzes the results obtained in the child from an application of the Token Test of the De Renzi and Vignolo and compares them with those obtained from the application of a similar Test, in which objects of more familiar semantic field were employed. Normal children ranking from 4 years 0 month to 8 years 11 months were studied for this purpose.


[Hallgren's syndrome in one family: retinitis pigmentosa, congenital deafness and ataxia].

A family of 6 siblings, 4 of which have Hallgren's syndrome, i.e., retinitis pigmentosa, congenital deafness and ataxia is described. Hallgren's series in Sweden is referred to. This affection was ascribed by Hallgren to a single gene with almost complete penetrance. However, 3 brothers of the present series show neurological anomalies not present in the Swedish cases.


Disturbances of motor reaching behavior. Clinical note.

Disturbance of motor reaching behavior was found in a patient submitted to a partial lobectomy including the posterior regions of the parietal cortex. The altered function could be objectivated by means of a battery of tests designed to detect visuo-spatial appreciation following which the subject has to point out to the center of figures with different configurations. Likewise, the damaged motor function could also be detected when the patient intended to reproduce, by copying, models of a figure as well as of straight lines of different lengths. Difficulties to reach -on first attempt- the proper point on the sheet with the point of the pencil, brought the performance of these tests to a high degree of inexactness and showed clearly the inaccuracy in production of voluntary motor responses within concretely definable visuo-spatial limits. These findings can be considered to be similar to those described in monkeys after removal of parieto-occipital cortex. It might be that a lesion in this part of the brain disrupt the high level of elaboration of different kind of stimuli (tactile, proprioceptive, visual, etc.) indispensable to attain normal reaching motor functions.


[Anterior sacral meningocele. Radiological study].

The authors review the literature and report a case that illustrate the large spectrum of clinical presentation of the anterior-sacral meningocele. It is analized the presently available diagnostic procedures and it is emphasized the importance of the plain film and mielography in the correct diagnosis of this lesion.


[Dysplastic gangliocytoma of the cerebellum or Lhermittee-Duclos disease].

Lhermitte-Duclós disease is an infrequent condition of which there are only 37 cases described in the literature. Although presently considered as a displasic process, its clinical presentation is of a typical posterior fossa tumour and should be treated as such. Even though it is a benign growth there are only 7 cases described with postoperative survival. The uniform pathological anatomy in all the cases presented makes the definitive diagnosis. The authors present a new case with postoperative survival and discuss its clinical presentation, treatment and origin of the disease.


Meniscectomy in children.

The results of 42 meniscectomies in 41 children were evaluated 1 to 13 years (mean 5.6 years) after the operation. At the follow-up 11 patients (12 operated knees) had complaints. In four of these patients, all having had removel of the lateral meniscus, roentgenological examination revealed degenerative changes. The results of the clinical and roentgenological follow-up examination showed that insufficiently rigorous appraisal of the indications for surgery had led, in some cases, to unnecessary meniscectomies. The results of operations had not always been satisfactory. The reliability of arthrographic findings alone as an indication for surgery are discussed and the indications for operative treatment are presented.


[Intestinal intussusception in a newborn (author's transl)].

A case of intestinal intussusception (I.I.) is described in a newborn and 42 cases in the literature revised. I.I. is not a frequent entity in the neonate and has special clinical and radiological characteristics. Symptomatology of patients is unspecific and makes diagnosis difficult. The elevated incidence of necrosis and intestinal perforation, possibly related with the delay with which diagnosis is effected, is without doubt the determing factor in the high incidence of mortality in these patients. The finding of a conditioning organic lesion is much more frequent in the neonatal period than later ages.


Lamellar body phospholipid content of amniotic fluid: a possible index of fetal lung maturity.

Lamellar bodies, produced by secretory cells in the alveolar epithelium, are the major source of surfactant phospholipid. As the fetal lung matures, the membranous content of the lamellar bodies is secreted into the alveolar spaces and passes into the amniotic fluid, from which it can be isolated in a morphologically recognisable form. A method is described for the rapid isolation of a lamellar body fraction from amniotic fluid using a small air-driven clinical ultracentrifuge. The lamellar body phospholipid content of amniotic fluid increases towards the end of gestation, but the time of onset and the rate of this increase show wide individual variation. Preliminary results suggest that the lamellar body phospholipid content of amniotic fluid may be a useful index of fetal lung maturity.


[Multiple intracranial mycotic aneurysms. Case report].

The case of a 31 years old woman with multiple intracranial mycotic aneurysms in association with subacute bacterial endocarditis is reported. The authors discuss the clinical and pathological aspects of such lesions. The complete regression of all the aneurysms after antibiotic therapy favours an approach aiming at adequate control of the infection prior to any consideration of surgical treatment.


[Pathogenesis of the preauricular appendages, melotia, and poliotia (author's transl)].

Preauricular appendages are usually considered deriving from excessively growing or supernumerary auricular hillocks at the border of the first cleft. However, the hypothesis being presented here deduces their origin from hyoidal ectodermal cells which differ from their mandibular host-tissue by a specific genetic potency, effecting the formation of extodermal proliferations. The separation of these germs from the hyoidal ectoderm and their fastening to the mandibular ectoderm happen during the closure of the first cleft, when the hyo-mandibular connecting lamina is regressing during the first half of the 6th week of pregnancy. Their transfer away from the hyo-mandibular boundary, which is situated right in front of the auricle, happens during the developmental movement of the mandibular ectoderm of the embryonal face. Thus the preauricular appendages are characterized as a new kind of choristomas: their germs derive from ectodermal cells and also develop in ectodermal tissue. There is also the embryological evidence, that melotia and poliotia are likewise representing extraordinary big preauricular appendages.


Therapeutic monitoring of anticonvulsant drugs in psychiatric patients: rapid, simultaneous gas-chromatographic determination of six commonly used anticonvulsants without interference from other drugs.

A simple, sensitive  and precise gas-chromatographic method for simultaneous extraction, derivatization and determination of methsuximide, ethosuximide, diphenylhydantoin, carbamazepine, phenobarbital and primidone in the presence of other drugs has been described. The method is especially useful for drug monitoring in patients on multiple anticonvulsant therapy while also on combination therapy with psychotropic drugs. It overcomes the analytical interferences between mephenytoin and phenobarbital; methsuximide and primidone; kemadrin and primidone; cholesterol and primidone; prolixin, haldol and other drugs; encountered in other methods using underivatized, trimethylsilylated or methylated drugs. As little as 0.5 microgram/ml of a drug can be determined and if needed the method can be scaled down to 0.3 ml plasma. The method yielded recoveries of 97-103% with standard deviations of 0.7-1.8. For a constant check of the precision, an internal quality control using daily analysis of a sample from a frozen plasma pool supplemented with known concentrations of the anticonvulsants was used. The method is suitable for use in routine clinical laboratory.


Initial studies of the molecular organization of the cell-substrate adhesion site.

Using selective extraction reagents and non-penetrating probes, studies have been initiated on the molecular organization of substrate-attached material, adhesion sites which pinch off from the cell surface of normal Balb/c 3T3 or SV40-transformed Balb/c 3T3 (SVT2) cells and which remain bound to the serum-coated substrate during EGTA-mediated detachment of cells. Extraction of SVT2 adhesion sites with non-ionic detergents resulted in (a) only small amounts of leucine-radiolabeled protein and glucosamine-radiolabeled polysaccharide being solubilized; (b) selective solubilization of 80% of the adhesion site actin, and (c) solubilization of 95% of the phospholipid from these membranous pools. ATP in combination with potassium chloride extracted 60% of the actin. The 3T3 and SVT2 adhesion site proteins which are accessible to lactoperoxidase-catalyzed iodination were also determined. Many of the serum-derived proteins, bound to the substrate, were iodinated during iodination treatment of serum-coated or substrate-attached material-coated substrates, whereas the cellular proteins in the adhesion sites were not iodinated even though they were present in larger quantity as revealed by Coomassie blue staining. Iodination of cells, followed by their EGTA-mediated detachment and reattachment to fresh serum-coated substrates, indicated that the principal iodinated cell surface component deposited in new adhesion sites is the large external transformation-sensitive glycoprotein (even though large external transformation-sensitive glycoprotein is not the only principal iodinated cell surface component of these cells). These studies further establish the selective enrichment in this adhesive material of specific cell surface components and indicate that they are tenaciously bound at the interface between the serum coating and the undersurface of the adhesion site membranous pools.


Biosynthesis of chloramphenicol in Streptomyces species 3022a: the nature of the arylamine synthetase system.

The arylamine synthetase which catalyses the conversion of chorismic acid to p-aminophenylalanine in Streptomyces species 3022a was separated from aminotransferase by DEAE-cellulose chromatography. Recovered activity was further fragmented into three separate components by passage through a Sephadex G-100 column. Only one component produced p-aminophenylalanine but in combination the three stimulated each other activity. Although the products of the other two components were unstable, an infrared spectrum of one of them was obtained and confirmed the presence of an aromatic amine, but other functional groups could not be ascertained. This product was not recognized as a substrate by the arylamine synthetase complex and it was suggested that it may be a degradation product of an intermediate of p-aminophenylalanine biosynthesis or an unknown intermediate of later biosynthetic steps of the chloramphenicol pathway. It is further suggested that acrylamine compounds produced by this organism are the result of interaction of a core protein with other macromolecules and small molecular weight effect or molecules.


Simultaneous occurrence of xanthine oxidase and sulfite oxidase deficiency. A molybdenum dependent inborn error of metabolism?

In a 3-week old female child with clinical features including neurologic abnormalities and lens dislocation, xanthinuria co-existed with increased excretion of sulfur compounds (sulfite, S-sulfocysteine, taurine and thio-sulfate). Low xanthine oxidase and absent sulfite oxidase activities were found on liver biopsy. No abnormality was detected in either parent. Both the above enzymes are molybdenum-flavoproteins. Normal serum molybdenum concentration seemed to rule out dietary deficiency or impaired absorption. A defect in the incorporation of the metal into flavoproteins is postulated in this case.


Lymphocyte blastogenic response to human thyroglobulin in Graves' disease, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and metastatic thyroid cancer.

In view of the past contradictory reports concerning in vitro lymphocyte transformation induced by human thyroglobulin (Tg) in thyroid diseases, the present study was undertaken to re-examine the response using improved methods in cell separation, culture, and cell harvesting. It has been found that the optimal dose level of Tg for maximal blastogenesis in culture differs from patient to patient. Consequently, it is inappropriate to use a single dose level of Tg for evaluation of the blastogenesis in study groups. By using serial Tg dose levels of 0.5 through 30 micrograms/ml in cultures, it was found that that incidence of positive responders in Graves' disease was 69.2%, in Hashimoto's thyroiditis 71.4%, and in healthy controls 9.1%. Metastatic thyroid cancer patients responded in a 50% incidence. All of the positive responders in the cancer group had elevated Tg levels, but no anti-Tg antibody in their sera.


Nuclear actin and histones from the myxomycete Physarum flavicomum.

A method was established for the isolation and purification of nuclei in high yield from the microplasmodia of Physarum flavicomum. Purified nuclei was resistant to breakage by methods commonly employed for isolated plant and animal nuclei. Incubation of nuclei with 5 mM dithiothreitol at pH 9.2 was found to be the simplest and most effective method for breaking the nuclei. Several methods for the extraction of nuclear protein were compared. Incubation of nuclear lysates with either 2 M NaCl, with or without 5 M urea, or 1 M CaCl2 resulted in the extraction of nuclear actin together with histones. The histones were chemically fractionated into the five basic groups common to other eucaryotic tissue. Amino acid analyses of the total histone were also performed. Nuclear actin was found to have a molecular weight of 41,000 +/- 4,000 daltons as determined by SDS polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The amino acid composition of the nuclear actin was established.


Effects of long-acting testosterone administration on testes in free living pied flycatchers Ficedula hypoleuca.

Male pied flycatchers Ficedula hypoleuca given injections of long-acting testosterone, when in full breeding condition, maintained spermatogenesis. In males given vehicle only and in untreated males the testes collapsed at the time of hatching of the brood. The number and secretory activity of the Leydig cells, as indicated by enzymic activities, were markedly lowered after testosterone administration. The results make it unlikely that testosterone is responsible for testicular regression in this species, but it may affect the mechanism regulating the number and activity of the Leydig cells.


[Primary "mycotic" aneurysm of the common carotid artery. Report of one case (author's transl)].

Primary mycotic aneurysm of the common carotid artery is exceptional. The clinical characteristics are dominated by the absence of a detectable infectious cause, by the macroscopic, nonsuppurative aspect and the sudden increase in volume requiring emergency operation. The treatment of these aneurysms is surgical, but little known owing to the rareness of these cases. Reconstructive surgery gives satisfactory results. Its details are discussed in relation to the operative appearance.


Prevention of in vitro fertilization of canine oocytes by anti-ovary antisera: a potential approach to fertility control in the bitch.

Antisera raised against canine ovaries were found to induce light scattering of the surface of the egg zona pellucida even when diluted 10,000 times, and to delay digestion of the zona by pronase. High concentrations of antiserum were required, however, to inhibit in vitro fertilization of the oocytes. Absorption of the antisera with canine ovaries removed these effects, whereas absorption with liver, uterus and serum did not. These results demonstrate the antigenicity of the canine ovary and suggest the plausibility of an anti-zona pellucida vaccine for bith control in the bitch.


Scanning electron microscopy of the surface of normal and implantation-delayed mouse blastocysts during development in vitro.

Mouse blastocysts undergo developmental steps in culture analogous to those occurring during implantation in utero. We examined cultured blastocysts by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) as they passed through these stages. From the time of hatching to the acquisition of adhesiveness, most blastocysts were exhanded, with flattened cells possessing relatively small numbers of microvilli, centrally raised areas (presumably reflecting the location of the nuclei) and intercellular ridges often possessing microvilli. At, or shortly before, the trophoblast outgrowth stage, blastocysts appeared to contract; the cells bulged noticeably, microvilli covered the entire surface of most cells and intercellular ridges were no longer observable. Blastocysts removed from uteri on the seventh day of ovariectomy delay possessed a variety of morphologies and shapes. The blastocoel was frequently collapsed and cell outlines were difficult to discern. These blastocysts were initially adhesive in vitro, but subsequently disengaged from the substratum before becoming permanently adherent several hours later. During the initial phase of adhesiveness, blastocysts were elongated and had prominent intercellular ridges, particularly in the equatorial region. Detached blastocysts contained bulging cells with contours which obscured the intercellular ridges. Surface ultrastructure during subsequent phases resembled non-delayed blastocysts during attachment and outgrowth. On the basis of our studies, we propose that intercellular ridges play some role in blastocyst adhesiveness. However, we must conclude that there are other factors involved in the acquisition of adhesiveness by the blastocyst which are at least equally important but of a nature too subtle to be identified by our SEM analyses. Insofar as delayed blastocysts are concerned, we find that, within limits, the surface alterations that take place when blastocysts are activated in culture mirror those observed following reversal of delay in vivo by administration of hormones. Since delayed blastocysts placed in saline also undergo morphological changes resembling those seen at the onset of activation in utero, we suggest that reversal of implantation delay requires initially neither direct contact with steroid or macromolecular inducers nor an exogenous supply of metabolites.


Surface tension induced by dipalmitoyl lecithin in vitro under physiological conditions.

1. The surface tension of 161 films of DPL have been measured on a Langmuir trough using a Wilhelmy balance under conditions controlled to simulate the state of the alveolar lining in vivo.2. The parameters controlled were temperature (maintained at 37 degrees C), humidity (100% at 37 degrees C), surfactant concentrations (encompassing the best available estimates), area changes (consistent with normal respiration), frequency adaptation to continuous cycling and composition and pH of the aqueous hypophase.3. Simultaneously maintaining all of these parameters within the best estimates of physiological limits, the relationships between surface tension and surface area showed appreciable differences from previous studies, our results showing higher minimum values of surface tension, appreciably less change in surface tension with compression and far less hysteresis between surface tension and surface area.4. The higher minimum values are consistent with original estimates of alveolar surface tension made by von Neergaard, namely 35-41 dyne cm(-1).5. Although appreciably smaller than hitherto reported, the change in surface tension with change in area is still adequate to impart alveolar stability.6. The reversibility between surface tension and surface area under physiological conditions is discussed in connection with compliance hysteresis which is considered to be more dependent upon geometric irreversibility of the alveolar surface than upon any intrinsic property of the surfactant.


Luekocyte adherence inhibition in response to human orbital and lacrimal extracts in patients with Graves' ophthalmopathy.

Leukocyte adherence inhibition (LAI) may be a test for cell-mediated immunity or cytophilic antibodies. LAI tests were carried out on patients with Graves' ophthalmopathy, using normal human lacrimal gland, orbital fat, and eye muscle extracts as antigens. The results were expressed as % LAI. The percentage leukocyte adherence inhibition in tests from patients and normal subjects were not significantly different for any preparation (Mann-Whitney tests). Taking the upper limit of normal as the mean % LAI + 2SD for normal subjects, tests were positive, to eye muscle extract, in only one patient whilst borderline inhibition, in response to eye muscle and fat extracts respectively, was demonstrated in two patients. All three had active disease. LAI tests may be positive only during the acute stage of Graves' ophthalmopathy. The significance of these findings in respect to the pathogenesis of Graves' ophthalmopathy is discussed.


Anticoccidial derivatives of 6-azauracil. 2. High potency and long plasma life of N1-phenyl structures.

Attachment of substituted phenyl side chains at N1 of 6-azauracil caused striking increases in plasma life and anticoccidial potency. The increases were related in part to the acidity of the imide hydrogen. Maximum effects were shown by phenyl rings substituted in both meta positions by compact, electron-withdrawing, lipophilic substituents, as in 1-(3',5'-dichlorophenyl)-6-azauracil, which had plasma half-life of 160 h and a potency 250-fold greater than that of 6-azauracil.


Primary hypothyroidism preceding thyrotoxicosis: a report of 2 cases and a review of the literature.

Two cases are reported in whom primary hypothyroidism preceded thyrotoxic Graves' disease. The hypothesis is advanced that this sequence of events was mediated by spontaneous changes in the patient's autoimmune reactions to thyroid. In particular, it may reflect a spontaneous alteration in the balance between blocking antibodies reactive at or near the TSH receptor or cytotoxic thyroid autoimmune mechanisms on the one hand, and thyroid stimulating autoantibodies on the other.


Neonatal EEG and computerized tomography.

The correlation between EEG and CT scan was studied in 57 full-term newborn infants with various neurological abnormalities, in order to clarify pathological processes underlying EEG abnormalities during the neonatal period. The relation between EEG and CT findings changes with the time elapsing after the acute phase of the perinatal brain insult. The same EEG pattern was associated with different CT findings of perinatal brain injury were usually associated with complete obliteration of cerebrospinal fluid spaces, a phenomenon considered to reflect severe brain swelling. Milkdly and minimally depressed EEGs in the acute phase were usually associated with localized decreased brain density, which is thought to represent localized edema. Moderately depressed background EEGs in the first week were associated with normal CT scans in most cases, although mild localized edema did not produce significant changes in the background EEG in some cases. In contrast to perinatal brain lesions, CT scans were not always well correlated with background EEGs in congenital cerebral dysplasia and intracranial hemorrhage, although the EEG was an useful adjunct to the CT scan in the diagnosis and prognostication of these disorders.


Respiratory variability according to sleep states during mechanical ventilation: a polygraphic study in a baby with bilateral diaphragmatic paralysis.

Polygraphic recordings were performed at 1 and 2 months of age in mechanically ventilated baby (25-27 insufflations per min) with bilateral diaphragmatic paralysis. The EEG and the sleep organisation were normal for the given age. The breathing patterns were state dependent. Autonomous breathing movements and phasic inspiratory intercostal EMG were present during both wakefulness and active sleep (AS). In quiet sleep (QS) the respiration was usually passive, completly dependent on the respirator. Small autonomous breathings can occur in some periods of QS, simultaneously with the appearance of numerous skin potential responses. These results are probably related to the differences between the respiratory control in QS and in AS.


Pesticides and other chemical residues in infant and toddler total diet samples-(I)-August 1974-July 1975.

Since 1964, the Food and Drug Administration, U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare, has reported residues of pesticides and other chemicals present in the average diet of the young adult male. The present report is the first in a series of market baskets whose purpose is to monitor the average diet of infants and toddlers for the same residues. Ten market baskets were collected in 10 cities which ranged in population from less than 50,000 to 1,000,000 or more. Averages and ranges of residues found are reported by food class. Results of recovery studies of known residues and chemicals within various food classes are also presented.


A fatal case of Legionnaires' disease originating in Scotland.

A 21-year-old female died in May 1976 from a pneumonic illness presenting with a right pleural effusion. Histopathology showed florid hyaline membrane disease of the left lung only, and focal pneumonitis in the lower lobe. Further investigations carried out by the Center for Disease Control, Atlanta, Georgia, showed that this patient had Legionnaires' disease infection, the first indigenous case diagnosed in Scotland. Post-mortem examination showed features differing from those in other published cases.


Additional evidence that small amounts of a peptide can cross the blood-brain barrier.

It was determined that an antiserum against delta-sleep inducing peptide (DSIP) required eight of the nine constituent amino acids for antigenic activity. Measurement by this radioimmunoassay (RIA) or DSIP-like material in the rat brain, therefore, would necessarily involve almost the entire molecule present in essentially intact form. Injection of 200 microgram DSIP into the carotid artery of rats resulted in a doubling of brain levels of peptide as measured shortly afterwards by RIA. The brain tissue to plasma ratio of radioactivity in rats injected with labeled DSIP was much higher than that in rats injected with labeled inulin; this suggests that the increased amount of material measured by RIA was not merely trapped in the blood vessels. Thus, the results indicate that a small amount of essentially intact peptide can cross the blood-brain barrier. This could represent one of the mechanisms by which central effects of peripherally injected peptides can be exerted.


[To the controversy of the priority about the conservation of mother's milk in the german-speaking territory (author's transl)].

The differing opinions of Prof. Dr. med. E. Mayerhofer (Vienna-Zagreb) and Dr. M.-E. Kayser (Magdeburg-Erfurt) on the conservation of mother's milk and the characteristics of a mother's milk bank are discussed and the relevant achievements of the two physicians are evaluated.


[Endocrine and metabolic myocarditis in a young female diabetic with hyperthyroidism (author's transl)].

A 31-year-old female diabetic in hyperthyroidism, after ketoacidosis leading to a hypoglycaemic coma showed diffuse and persistent abnormalities of ventricular repolarization. Arguments are given for myocardial ischemia of metabolic origin by hypersecretion of catecholamines.


18 month skin painting study of a mercapto-functional silicone oil in mice.

Thrice weekly application of lambda-mercapto-polydimethylsiloxane to the shaven backs of Swiss mice over an 18 month period did not have an obvious effect on weight gain nor did this material produce systemic toxicity. Lung adenomas and lymphosarcomas were observed upon histopathological examination in both untreated and treated group. Other lesions observed were not thought to be treatment related.


Effects of ergocornine and reserpine on metamorphosis in Bufo bufo japonicus tadpoles.

Effects of ergocornine and reserpine on tail resorption during metamorphosis in Bufo bufo japonicus tadpoles were studied. At prometamorphosis, ergocornine induced precocious tail resorption, while reserpine scarcely affected the tail size. At the climax of metamorphosis, ergocornine was almost ineffective in accelerating tail resorption, while reserpine was effective in inhibiting tail resorption. Since prolactin-like hormone is known to block the tail resorption induced by thyroid hormones, it was postulated that the release of the hormone is blocked by ergocornine during prometamorphosis and stimulated by reserpine during climax.


Protein-coated agarose surfaces for attachment of cells.

Plastic dishes were coated with an agarose layer. The layer was modified by covalently binding proteins to it, using the CNBr-method. Cells were seeded on the dishes and the number of attached cells was evaluated. The specificity of the attachment was demonstrated by showing that cells, carrying specific membrane-bound immunoglobulins, attached only to the corresponding anti-immunoglobulins. This indicated that the method could be used for cell sorting. The attachment of cells to proteins was influenced by the amount of bound protein, incubation time, temperature and the degree of trypsinization. Most attached cells were viable for several days and when dying they detached. Detailed morphological and cytochemical analyses of the dynamics of attachment and cytoplasmic spreading on the chemically well-defined surfaces were possible using the new method.


Iodine-131: optimal therapy for hyperthyroidism in children and adolescents?

To assess the medium- to long-term effects of I-131 therapy of hyperthyroidism in children and adolescents, we studied 51 patients (age range 6--18; boys, 43 girls) treated with I-131 for Graves' disease with hyperthyroidism at the University of Michigan Medical Center (1951--1972). Patients received total doses ranging from 3 to 81.6 mCi. The mean followup period was 14.6 +/- 7.9 yr. Hyperthyroidism was effectively treated in 49 within 1 to 12 mo. One patient failed to respond to three treatment doses, and hyperthyroidism recurred in two patients: 2 and 11 yr after initial therapy. Of these three patients, two were treated by thyroidectomy and one was retreated successfully with I-131. There were no cases of thyroid cancer, other malignancies or leukemia. The patients' reproductive histories and the health of their offspring were as in the general population. At the time of study, the prevalence of hypothyroidism was 92%, with no recurrent goiters or thyroid nodules. Iodine-131 is found to be safe and effective treatment of hyperthyroidism in children and adolescents and should be the preferred mode of therapy.


Interaction of 1 alpha, 24-dihydroxyvitamin D3 with the chick intestinal 1 alpha, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 receptor system.

The interaction of 1 alpha, 24-dihydroxyvitamin D3 with the 1 alpha, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 receptor system was studied in chick intestinal mucosa. The competitive receptor binding assay indicated that 1 alpha, 24-dihydroxyvitamin D3 bound to a cytosol 1 alpha, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 receptor with a relatively high affinity compared with other vitamin D3 analogs. The R-isomer of 1 alpha, 24-dihydroxyvitamin D3 revealed higher affinity for the receptor than the S-isomer. In the reconstituted cytosol-chromatin system, bith 1 alpha, 24(R)-dihydroxy[3H]-vitamin D3 and 1 alpha, 24(S)-dihydroxy-[3H]-vitamin D3 specifically associated with chromatin via a temperature-dependent process. The association of 1 alpha, 24-dihydroxy-[3H]-vitamin D3 with chromatin was reduced in the presence of competing unlabeled 1 alpha, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. Furthermore, the chromatin-associated 1 alpha, 24-dihydroxy-[3H]-vitamin D3 was dissociated by a high concentration of KCl, likewise 1 alpha, 25-dihydroxy-[3H]-vitamin D3. From these results, it is strongly indicated that 1 alpha, 24-dihydroxyvitaim D3 is recognized by cytosol 1 alpha, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 receptor as an analog of 1 alpha, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 and associates with chromatin by the same mechanism as 1 alpha, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D3.


[Comparative experimental animal studies of the effects of various nuclear pharmaceuticals on the EEG].

Some of the radiopharmaceuticals presently recommended for cisternoscintigraphy were compared, in experiments on animals, for their effects upon bioelectric activity. On relaxed cats, electroencephalography did not show any effects upon bioelectric activity for 198 Au and 169 Yb Ca DTPA. One test animal each of seven and six cats examined using 169 Yb DTPA and 131 J HSA showed changes in the electroencephalogram subsequent to suboccipital application.


Comprehensive medicine at the South African Railways and Harbour Ambulance Room in Table Bay Harbour.

The medical services provided at the South African Railways and Harbour Ambulance Room in Table Bay Harbour are described. The excellent human relations that have developed in this service are stressed, and the use of selective employment to minimize loss of manpower and wages through sickness and accidents is also emphasized.


Characterization of a naturally occurring R plasmid in Salmonella isangi conferring unusually high resistance to ampicillin.

A strain of Salmonella isangi was isolated from HUMANA milk, used a baby food in Bulgarian hospitals. It harbours two stable plasmids, distinguishable by their molecular weight of 21 Mdal for the transfer factor (rRB 1) and 9,3 Mdal for R-factor rRB 2, confering resistance to ampicillin, cephalothin, streptomycin and sulfonamides. Both plasmids are maintained in different copy numbers per chromosome genome equivalent, 8 copies for rRB 1 and 158 copies for rRB 2, associated with an unusual high level of resistance to ampicillin (MIC 65 mg/ml).


[Comparative study of the absolute bioavailability of four oral digoxin preparations (author's transl)].

In a randomized cross over study on 19 normal subjects the absolute bioavailability of four oral digoxin preparations (Digacin containing a silica gel matrix as preparation A and three other commercial digoxin tablet preparations, B, C and D) were investigated applying digoxin in a daily dose of 0.25 mg for 10 consecutive days. On day 8, 9 and 10, the serum digoxin concentration and the amount of digoxin excreted with 24-h urine were measured radioimmunologically. After i.v. administration the mean serum digoxin concentration amounted to 0.58 ng/ml. With oral administration preparation A achieved the highest concentration (0.51 ng/ml) and preparation C the lowest (0.42 ng/ml). Accordingly, after i.v. administration 118 microgram digoxin were excreted with the 24-h urine and 95 microgram after the oral preparation A and 73 microgram after preparation C, respectively. From the serum concentrations and the amount excreted with the urine the absolute bioavailability was calculated: 88.0 and 80.4%, respectively, for preparation A, 82.5 and 67.2% for preparation B, 72.7 and 61.8% for preparation C, 76.2 and 67.3% for preparation D.


Urinary excretion of methylated purines in man and in the rat after the administration of theophylline.

Chromatographic characteristics of urinary metabolites of theophylline were studied by two-dimensional thin-layer chromatography, high-performance liquid chromatography and gas chromatography--mass spectrometry. Quantitative date for the urinary metabolites of theophylline in asthmatic children are given. It was shown that 1,3-dimethyluric acid is the predominant excretory product. In addition, smaller amounts of 1-methyluric acid, 3-methylxanthine and unchanged theophylline were found. Excretory patterns after theophylline ingestion before and during the administration of allopurinol in asthma patients and in rats suggest the existence of three metabolic pathways of theophylline. The administration of this drug to a patient with xanthine oxidase of theophylline. The administration of this drug to a patient with xanthine oxidase deficiency resulted in the excretion of 1-methyluric acid in addition to 1,3-dimethyluric acid, 3-methylxanthine, 1-methylxanthine and unchanged theophylline. It was concluded that in man the oxidation of theophylline is not catalysed by xanthine oxidase.


Specific interaction of cytochalasins with muscle and platelet actin filaments in vitro.

The cytochalasins (CE, CD, CB and H2CB) inhibit numerous cellular processes which require the interaction of actin with other structural and contractile proteins. In this report we describe the effects of the cytochalasins on the viscosity and morphology of muscle and platelet actin. The cytochalasins decreased the viscosity of F-actin solutions. The effect of H2CB, CB and CD ON F-actin viscosity was maximal at concentrations of 20-50 micro M and did not increase with time. In contrast, CE caused a progressive decrease in the viscosity of F-actin solutions which was dependent upon the concentration of CE and the duration of incubation of the CE-actin mixture. After two hours of incubation of drug-actin mixtures, the relative effectiveness of the cytochalasins in reducing the viscosity of F-actin was CE greater than CD greater than CB=H2CB. The effects of CD and CE were paralleled by morphologic changes in negatively stained actin filaments. The effects of the cytochalasins on the viscosity and morphology of muscle and platelet actin were the same whether the drugs were added before or after the polymerization of the protein. These studies show that the interaction of the cytochalasins with actin is highly specific. Because the relative potencies of these drugs for affecting motile processes and the relative affinities of the drugs for binding sites within a variety of cells are CE greater than CD greater than CB=H2CB, the effects of cytochalasins on actin described here may contribute to some of the biological effects of the drugs on motile processes.


Anterior segment abnormalities in cicatricial retinopathy of prematurity.

Abnormalities that occur in the anterior segments of patients with retinopathy of prematurity have been studied in 72 eyes of 36 patients. The anterior chamber depth, the placido disc image on the cornea, the distortion of polarized light by corneal stress, and keratometry readings were recorded. There was a highly significant correlation between anterior chamber depth, retinopathy of prematurity, and keratometry readings (p less than .001). These findings emphasize the importance of careful follow-up examinations of the anterior segment in retinopathy of prematurity because cataracts, band keratopathy, acute hydrops, and angle-closure glaucoma can progressively occur as complications.


Scleral buckling in 2 1/2- to 11-month-old premature infants with retinal detachment associated with acute retrolental fibroplasia.

The authors' experience over the past five years in the cryosurgical management of retinal detachment in ten eyes of eight premature infants with retrolental fibroplasia, whose ages at the time of detachment surgery ranged from 2 1/2 months to 11 months with an average of 5 1/2 months, is reported. Postoperative follow-up, ranging from eight to 61 months, has revealed that scleral buckling was successful in six eyes (60%). The ERG responses are slow to become established postoperatively, and VER testing is of questionable value in these cases.


Computed tomography of the orbit.

Computerized tomography (CT) has revolutionized the analysis of patients with orbital tumors. A new CT scanner devised by the author resolves structures less than 1 mm with an image section as thin as 2 mm. This improved resolution shows all the extraocular muscles, including the obliques; enlargement of the optic nerve to the orbital end of the optic canal; and the sclera, crystalline lens, aqueous, and vitreous. Experience with 700 orbital studies shows that CT scanning now identifies pathologic changes in the orbital soft tissues with the same diagnostic accuracy as bone pathology.


Simulataneous occlusion of the central retinal artery and vein.

Combined CRAO/CRVO in our patients occurred with rapid visual loss, usually over a few hours, associated with evidence of inflammation and/or cellular infiltration of the retrobulbar portion of the optic nerve. The ophthalmoscopic appearance was characteristic, with papilledema and hemorrhages of various types in the posterior pole. The retina also showed ischemic changes, with a milky-white color and cherry-red macula. Fluorescein angiography, when possible, showed no retinal vascular flow, and normal choroidal flow. After six to eight weeks, optic atrophy was evident and the retinal vessels were markedly narrowed or obliterated. The macula showed typical cystic changes. Neovascularization often developed, leading to neovascular glaucoma as the end result.


Thyroid ocular myopathy.

Based upon the ultrasonographic evidence of extraocular muscle abnormalities in all patients with orbitopathy and proven thyroid disease, we conclude that the basic abnormality of thyroid orbitopathy is a panmyositis and that all of the classes described by Werner are expressions of different degrees and manifestations of the same pathologic process. This thesis is supported by presentation of cases of varying severity who have in common extraocular muscle abnormalities. We believe that the process we describe acceptably explains all of the eye signs of this common orbitopathy.


Anticomplementary activity in diffuse and nodular goiters.

The occurrence of anticomplementary activity and its correlation to serum thyroglobulin was investigated in 71 patients with thyroid diseases and 63 age and sex matched control subjects. The patients which were subgrouped according to thyroid function and characteristics of the goiter, were examined at the time of diagnosis. The anticomplementary activity was measured by a complement consumption (CC) assay. Sera from patients with Graves' disease and nontoxic diffuse goiter, showed stronger activity than sera from patients with nontoxic goiter. Seventeen of the patients and one of the controls were positive in the CC-assay. The percentage hemoglobin release in this assay was normally distributed using control sera but not for the patient group. There was no correlation either between CC-activity and serum concentrations of thyroglobulin or CC-activity and antibodies to the O-antigen of Yersinia enterocolitica serotype 3, thyroid cytoplasma, thyroglobulin, nuclear factors, streptolysin O, streptococ hyaluronidase, and parietal cells, respectively. However, correlation between the levels of thyroid stimulating immunoglobulins and CC-activity, was noted (Rho = 0.511, P less than 0.05), which suggests that these immunoglobulins also are present as immune complexes. Thyroglobulin--antithyroglobulin complexes preformed in vitro at high thyroglobulin concentration, gave negative results in the CC-assay.


Late results of meniscectomy of the knee. A follow-up study of 41 patients.

A follow-up study was undertaken to study the late results and complications of meniscectomy of the knee. The material consisted of 43 operations, with an observation period of 5 to 20 years. The purpose of the study was to investigate the appearance of osteoarthrosis after the operation, correlating the degree of osteoarthrosis with the physical findings and subjective complaints of the patient. 14 patients showed osteoarthrotic changes, which may have been caused by the operation and/or by a pre-existing menisceal trauma. The osteoarthrotic changes were related to clinical pathological findings, but not necessarily to subjective complaints.


Comparative pharmacokinetics and relative bioavailability for different preparations of nitrofurantoin.

In a single-dose study three different dosage forms of nitrofurantoin tablets are compared in order to attain a longer duration of efficacy by means of sustained-release dosage forms. In particular, bioavailability and the rate constants are estimated and show for one dosage form significant advantages. The measured serum and urine concentration levels are evaluated with a two-compartment model of first order which assumed the sustained release of the drug in an exponential manner.


Dynamic changes of horse serum T-globulin immunization with snake venoms, tetanus and diphtheria toxoids.

In course of immunizing horses with snake venoms, tetanus and diphtheria toxoids, a new serum component, T-globulin, was formed and migrated between the beta- and gamma-globulins. The T-globulin content was parallel with the antibody titre after the middle course of immunization. There were many components in snake antivenin and T-globulin was composed of most of those components. The components of diphtheria T-globulin were the same as those of crude antitoxin and tetanus T-globulin except one precipitin.


Malignant lymphomas involving the salivary glands.

Malignant lymphomas involving the salivary glands are probably more common than has been previously recognized. They must be differentiated from the benign lymphoepithelial lesion, although there may be an association between the two. The entire histologic spectrum of malignant lymphomas found at other sites can be seen in the salivary gland. In this study of 59 patients with lymphoma affecting the salivary gland, a large percentage were found to have disseminated disease. We recommend the same rigorous clinical evaluation and staging procedures as used in patients who present with primary lymph node involvement.


Intra- thecal antitetanus serum in the management of tetanus neonatorum.

Eleven neonates have treated with intra-thecal antitetanus serum in addition to other standard measures. Five survived. The results were judged promising.


Insufficiency of the anterior cruciate ligament. Review of our 118 cases.

Recurrent anterior and interal rotatory subluxation of the tibial plateau is a disabling symptom in patients with insufficiency of the anterior cruciate ligament. Since 1970 we have used the N-test, a special jolt test to detect the characteristic instability. One hundred eighteen cases with anterior-internal rotatory instability of the knee seen at the Kanto Rosai Hospital and the University of Tokyo Hospital and diagnosed by arthroscopy and arthrotomy from 1973 to 1978 were reviewed. Most of the patients were athletes or sportsmen and the injuries commonly occurred in deceleration-injury mechanism and 81% of the cases were associated with meniscal tear. Thirty-two cases were reconstructed by iliotibial tract transfer, twenty of whom had been evaluated from 1-5 years after operation. Postoperatively, giving-way incidents disappeared in eleven, markedly decreased in five, and were unchanged in four patients. The anterior and internal rotatory subluxation of the tibial plateau disappeared or decreased in seventeen and was unchanged in two cases. Some type of defective anterior cruciate ligament was recognized in all our 118 cases and the capsular lesions were considered to play only a secondary role in exhibiting the instability.


Plasmatic heparinic activity following lipid load.

Changes of hemocoagulability and of plasmatic fibrinolysis have induced us to study PHA following the administration of the lipid load. We have studied the effects induced by the administration of a lipid load, constituted by 1/2 g of olive oil and by 1/2 g of butter dissolved in 200 ml of vaccine milk. PHA has been estimated in all our subjects under basal conditions and after 4 1/2 hours from the lipid load. The statistical analysis of the results we have obtained shows a significant PHA reduction following the lipid load. Concluding, our results indicates that the lipid load very frequently causes a reduction of PHA which is due to a consumption of heparin. This consumption is more probably due to the activation of lipoprotein-lipase by heparin.


Scleral buckling in 2 1/2 to 11-month-old premature infants with retinal detachment associated with acute retrolental fibroplasia.

The authors report their experience over the past 5 years in the cryosurgical management of retinal detachment in 10 eyes of 8 premature infants with retrolental fibroplasia, whose ages at the time of detachment surgery ranged from 2 1/2 months to 11 months, with an average of 5 1/2 months. Postoperative follow-up, ranging from 8 to 61 months, has revealed that scleral buckling was successful in 6 eyes (60%). The authors have found that ERG responses are slow to become established postoperatively, and have concluded that VER testing is of questionable value in these cases.


Methaemoglobin and erythrocyte reducing systems in high-altitude natives.

The stress of chronic hypobaric hypoxia present at high altitudes induces a series of adaptive changes in the intermediate metabolism in erythrocytes of high-altitude natives. Aymaras of the high Andean Plateau are shown to have within erythrocytes: (a) increased activity of NADH2 (GAPDH) generating stages, (b) decreased activity of NADH2 (LDH) consuming steps, (c) significantly increased methaemoglobin content, and (d) a large increase in the level of reduced glutathione. These alterations occur also in persons of the same ethnic group residing at low altitude. There is, however, only a moderate elevation of classic haematological parameters (erythrocyte count, haemoglobin and haematocrit) in highland natives. The functional implications of these metabolite changes are discussed with respect to regulation of erythrocyte metabolism.


Lactose intolerance in protein-energy malnutrition: a clinical case study and family study using a hydrogen (H2) breath-analysis test for carbohydrate malabsorption.

A non-invasive, interval sampling hydrogen (H2) breath-analysis test for carbohydrate malabsorption was used in a 3 year-old Guatemalan child with severe protein-energy malnutrition (kwashiorkor) and in this relatives: mother half-sister and step-father to examine genetic and nutritional factors in lactose intolerance in young children. Clinical lactose intolerance was present in the patient on admission, and lactose malabsorption, even of 0.88 g per kg of weight, persisted after complete nutritional recobly due to gastric retention of the substrate. Malabsorption of a physiological dose of lactose, 12.5 g, was detected in the mother and step-father while their daughter exhibited normal growth and development and normal lactose absorption at 8 months of age. The H2 breath test proved to be a sensitive, well-tolerated procedure for both adults and young children. Pitfalls, such as delayed gastric emptying, absence of normal bacterial flora, prior use of antibiotics, must be considered in interpreting H2 breath test results in children.


A study of triplets with Hashimoto's thyroiditis.

Genetic predisposition to Hashimoto's thyroiditis is suggested by its striking aggregation in families and its occurrence in twins. The manifestations range from overt clinical and biochemical hypothyroidism to the detection of thyroid autoantibodies in healthy, symptom-free individuals and their relatives. So far as the authors are aware, the finding of Hashimoto's thyroiditis in identical triplets has not previously been reported and they therefore present the cases of Faith, Hope and Charity, 63-year-old triplet sisters.


[Polymorphic histological changes in a case of angio-immunoblastic adenopathy (author's transl)].

A patient aged 65 years was observed to have successive adenomegalic syndromes over a period of 4 years, with variable histological appearances. A right cervical adenopathy had the histological appearance of a simple antigenic-stimulation lesion. Three years later, a right inguinal adenomegaly presented all the histological criteria of angioimmunoblastic adenopathies, without, however, any humoral immunity disturbance. Two months later, a biopsy of a palatine tumour confirmed the diagnosis of an immunoblastic sarcoma. The condition then became generalized as a lymphoblastic type of diffuse lymphosarcoma, and autopsy one year later showed the presence of a pleomorphic lymphosarcoma in several lymphoid formations. This case serves as a basis for discussing the concept of angio-immunoblastic adenopathy; the result of various antigenic aggressions or the early stage of a haematosarcoma. It also clearly demonstrates the sometimes contingent characteristics and difficulties in classification of haematosarcomas.


Interaction of phospholipid membranes with poly(ethylene glycol)s.

1. The water-soluble polymer, poly(ethylene glycol), causes concentration-dependent increases in the temperature of the gel--liquid crystalline phase transitions of aqueous dispersions of dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine and of dipalmitoyl phosphatidylethanolamine. 2. For dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine it has been further demonstrated that poly(ethylene glycol) increases the transition enthalpy and entropy while decreasing the cooperativity of the transition. 3. These results are discussed in relation to the possible modes of action of poly(ethylene glycol) in promoting cell fusion.


Physicochemical properties of dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine after interaction with an apolipoprotein of pulmonary surfactant.

We studied the interaction between an apolipoprotein of pulmonary surfactant and the principal lipid found in this material, dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine. The apolipoprotein was extracted from canine surfactant and purified to greater than 90% homogeneity. The apolipoprotein was mixed for 16 h at room temperature with dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine dispersed in a buffer containing 0.1 M NaCl and 3mM CaCl2. Unbound lipid, unbound protein, and recombinants of lipid and protein were separated by density gradient centrifugation. 71% of the apolipoprotein was found associated with dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine. In comparable experiments using bovine plasma albumin about 13% of the albumin was recovered with the lipid. The physicochemical state of the lipid in the apolipoprotein-lipid complex was modified after binding of the protein. A distinct phase transition at 42 degrees C could no longer be detected, and the rate of adsorption to an air-liquid interface of the apolipoprotein-lipid complex was greater than that of the lipid alone. Surface tension vs. surface area isotherms of the dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine-apolipoprotein materials, however, were similar to those exhibited by pure dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine. The results suggest a physiological role for this apolipoprotein. It may bind to dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine under conditions expected in vivo, and may modify the physical properties of the aggregated dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine to form domains of lipid in a liquid-crystalline array. The complex dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine and apolipoprotein would have the physical properties necessary for its physiological function, allowing it to absorb to the alveolar interface and reduce its surface tension to less than 10 dynes/cm. Dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine, by itself, is in a gel-crystalline array below its phase transition temperature (42 degrees C) and would be incapable of effecting these actions.


Detergent-induced oviposition is mediated by prostaglandins.

Local administration of small volumes of dilute detergents into the avian uterus (shell gland) induced premature oviposition within a few minutes with a success rate of over 90 percent. Indomethacin and cortisol blocked the action of detergents. Exogenous prostaglandins counteracted the inhibitory effect of indomethacin. It is suggested that detergents promote endogenous prostaglandin production which in turn induces oviposition. The possible significance of these observations in mammalian parturition is discussed.


Prostaglandins E2, F2 alpha, 6-keto-F1 alpha and thromboxane B2 levels in carrageenin-induced inflammatory exudates in the rat air-pouch granuloma.

Levels of PGE2, PGF2 alpha, PGI2 (measured as 6-keto-PGF1 alpha), and thromboxane B2 were determined in rat inflammatory excuates induced 1, 3, and 7 days after carrageenin injection into air-pouch granuloma. The PGE2 and 6-keto-PGF1 alpha levels found in the exudate could not account for the differences in PGE2-like activity as measured by biologic and serologic methods.


19-Hydroxy-prostaglandin E and infertility in human males.

We measured the content of 19-hydroxy-prostaglandin E (19-OH-PGE) and prostaglandin E (PGE) in the semen of 10 infertile males by alkaline dehydration, thin layer chromatographic separation and ultraviolet spectrophotometry. 7 fertile males were also studied. In both groups the content of seminal 6-keto-prostaglandin F1 alpha (6-keto-PGF1 alpha) also was measured by thin layer chromatographic separation and highly specific radioimmunoassay. The amounts of 19-OH-PGE and PGE were significantly lower (p < .02, p < .05) in the infertile group than the fertile group. Differences in mean seminal 6-keto-F1 alpha were not significant. The uterine stimulatory actions of 19-OH-PGE demonstrable in the monkey may apply to fertility in man.


The labelling of pulmonary surfactant phosphatidylcholine in 19-31-days-old lambs.

The labelling of surfactant phosphatidylcholine and disaturated phosphatidylcholine was studied in 19-31-days-old lambs. Following the placement of small bore tracheal catheters, the animals were given radioactively labelled palmitic acid and/or choline by intravenous injection and multiple samples were recovered from the distal airways of each animal via a small catheter. The specific activities of the phosphatidylcholine and/or disaturated phosphatidylcholine were measured in these samples of surfactant. The labelled phospholipids accumulated in the samples of surfactant in a linear fashion; the mean time required to reach maximal specific activities in phosphatidylcholine and saturated phosphatidylcholine with either palmitic acid or choline as precursor was 28 h. Subsequently the specific activities of the labelled phospholipids from the surfactant samples decreased semi-logarithmically. The mean t1/2 for phosphatidylcholine and disaturated phosphatidylcholine labelled with radioactive palmitic acid was 35 h. The saturated phosphatidylcholine labelled with radioactive choline had a t1/2 of 251 h. The results demonstrate that surfactant labelling studies can be done by multiple sampling of single large animals.


Effects of cortisol or starvation on the activities of four enzymes in small intestine and liver of the rat during development.

The small intestine of the rat, like the liver, is a tissue with high activities of arginase, ornithine aminotransferase, and pyrroline-5-carbozylate reductase. These enzymes are thought to catalyse sequential steps in the synthesis of proline. We have compared the effect of cortisol or brief starvation on the activities of these enzymes and of soluble alanine aminotransrerase in the small intestine and liver during development. In the intestine, cortisol accelerated the increase in arginase activity, reversed the normal 2-week-long post-natal decline in that of pyrroline-5-carboxylate reductase, and delayed the normal decrease, in the third week, of ornithine aminotransferase activity. Starvation of neonates for 18 h raised the activity of arginase slightly, that of pyrroline-5-carboxylate reductase significantly, and had no effect on ornithine aminotransferase activity. Cortisol did not alter the hepatic activities of pyrroline-5-carboxylate reductase in neonates but induced premature rises in the activities of arginase and ornithine aminotransferase. Short starvation did not affect the hepatic activities of any of these enzymes. Alanine aminotransferase activity in both tissues was enhanced by cortisol but not by starvation. Thus in intestine, cortisol elicited some changes in the activity of three functionally related and one unrelated enzyme while starvation evoked changes only in pyrroline-5-carboxylate reductase. Neither stimulus appears to be specific for a metabolic pathway or to trigger a coordinated onset of proline synthesis from arginine.


The application of fourier transform infrared transmission spectroscopy to the study of model and natural membranes.

Fourier transform infrared transmission spectroscopy is presented as a technique with great potential for the study of aqueous membrane preparations. The methodology of sample preparation, spectra recording and data reduction is outlined. Spectral parameters are derived from FT-IR difference spectra which provide an extremely sensitive means to monitor the temperature-dependent behavior of individual vibrational modes in model and natural membranes.


[Study of some African toxic euphobiacees containing cucurbitacins (author's transl)].

The authors present a cucurbitacins' review (distribution in plants, structure and pharmacologic activity). They relate the isolation of these tetracyclic triterpens from Euphorbiacées (Maprounea and Spondianthus genus) for the first time, and their toxicity and cytotoxicity (Hela, Allium, and Lepidium tests).


Clinical and radiological features of anterior mediastinal lymphosarcoma in the cat: a reveiw of 30 cases.

The clinical and radiological features of 30 cases of anterior mediastinal lymphosarcoma in the cat are described; they represented 48 per cent of all cases of lymphosarcoma recorded at the University of Bristol Veterinary School between 1972 and 1977. The condition principally affected young cats and there was a predisposition in oriental breeds. Dyspnoea and regurgitation were the two most common major presenting signs. Diagnosis was made in most cases on the basis of radiological examination, but in some cytological examination of the thoracic fluid was necessary for confirmation.