[Reliability of the ECG analyzer EAK-2 in screening tests].

In the last years the number of derivated electrocardiograms with several approaches to the problem has permanently increased. Therefore, the computer analysis seems to be obvious. The reliability of the analogo-digital-computer Express Analyzer Cardiograph EAC-2, Medexport Moscow, was for the employment for occupational medical examinations investigated on 252 experimental persons and compared with the independent manual analysis, which was carried out by two physicians. 80 per cent of the available ECGs were automatically correctly arranged into groups and all the inconspicuous electrocardiograms were sorted out, since it occurs on no account that an electrocardiogram which was recognized as pathological by means of manual analyses, was analysed as falsely normal by the computer EAC-2. Consequently, EAC-2 at low technical interference susceptibility may be very useful for the ECG-diagnosis by means of the computer during the screening investigations.


[Light and electron microscopy studies of the organization of experimental arterial thrombosis in dwarf swine].

Thrombosis by deposition of platelets was induced in the femoral artery of minipigs by continuous current from an intravascular electrode. Six weeks later, ensuing from organization of this thrombosis a massive proliferation of the intima was found, consisting almost exclusively of cells of smooth muscle. Although no additional atherogenic diet was given single myogenic foam cells were found.


[Light and electron microscopy studies on experimental arterial thrombosis in dwarf swine].

In light and electron microscopic investigations on electrically induced thrombosis in the femoral artery of the minipig thrombi by deposition of platelets were found. Thrombosis was induced by means of an intravascular electrode with constant current intensity of 1 mA and different induction periods. Injury of the vascular wall was found in every case of thrombosis, ranging from minimal lesion of endothelium to almost total necrosis of the vascular wall. Aside from direct impact by the current on the vascular wall and the blood, mechanical, rheological and hypoxemic causes can not be excluded.


[Comparative immunological and morphological studies following transplantation of fresh and preserved allogeneic vein and artery segments in rat experiments].

Immunological and morphological investigations were carried out on immunogenetically different strain combinations of inbred rats following transplantation of fresh allogeneic and implantation of formalin preserved vein segments. In contrast to vital allogeneic transplants, which evoke an immunological response depending on immunogenetic difference between donor and recipient, there is neither humoral nor cellular immunological response after implantation of formalin fixed vein segments. Therefore, from an immunological standpoint, strongly allogeneic vein implants preserved by formalin can be used for replacement of arteries.


[Evaluation of skeletal properties with ultrasonics. I. Clinical and experimental design].

Early detection of a pathological skeletal process and control of fracture healing are sometimes difficult when conventional x-ray methods are employed, since stability of bones depends not only on calcigerous tissue but also on the organic matrix. Therefore the ultrasonic procedure shall be tested as to its usefulness. The authors present a test device for clinical trial.


[Evaluation of skeletal properties with ultrasonics. II. Parameters in bone echography].

Broad clinical use of ultrasonics for diagnosis is possible by means of the efficient gear developed during the last ten years. Physical reasons suggest that a frequency around 1 MHz should be used for diagnosis on bones. Typical index values are registered from the echogram, which are still to be checked as to their reliability.


[Swine liver ultrastructure following hypothermia and hyperbaric oxygenation preservation].

The livers of 20 pigs were preserved for up to 16 hours, applying hypothermia (4 degrees C) and hyperbaric oxygenation (3 ata). As a preparation solvent we used in one group the solution by Lie (17) which is rich in potassium and glucose, and in the other group the cryoprecipitated serum by Belzer (5). After 8 and 16 hours of preservation, the fine structure was examined light- and electronmicroscopically. After 8 hours of preservation, there were only little reversible changes in both groups. After 16 hours, both groups showed distinct changes of the endoplasmatic reticulum e. g. desorganisation, vesicular dilatation, and dissociation of the mural ribosomes. In addition, there were swellings of mitochondriae and Kupffer's cells. These changes were particularly distinct after preservation in cryoprecipitated serum. In this group a cellular depletion of glucogen was noticeable.


[Ultrastructural-morphometric analysis of polyenylphosphatidylcholine [PPC] treated cholestatic rat liver (author's transl)].

Essential phospholipid PPC was administered to male rats over 24 and 72 hours after operation on bile duct ligation. The subsequent alterations were studied by ultrastructural morphometry and correlated with serum enzyme changes. By the results evidence is accrued that hepatocellular mitochondria are prevented by phospholipid treatment to develop alterations as seen after bile duct ligation alone. This occurred although serum GLDH activity was significantly increased. The smooth endoplasmic reticulum exhibited a normotrophic behavior after PPC treatment of animals in which bile duct ligation was done. The surface of the rough membranes was found increased at hours 24 and 72 after bile duct ligation. The bile canaliculi were markedly dilated. However, this alteration was not accompanied by a marked loss of microvilli. Administration of the phospholipid induced a numerical increase of hepatocellular nuclei in both sham-operated and cholestatic animals independantly from the bile duct ligation. It is suggested by the results that the administration of the phospholipid PPC is of value in influencing the fine structural hepatic alterations as seen in cholestatis.


[Clearance of antigens by the liver (author's transl)].

The liver is not only a metabolic organ, but has also immunological properties provided by the Kupffer cells which represent the major part of the body phagocytizing capacity. In case of an impairment of this function intestinal antigens, e.g. endotoxins, may reach the systemic circulation and thus exhibit their biological properties. The function of Kupffer cells obviously depends on a slow sinusoidal blood stream which latter is provided by blood flowing to the liver via the portal venous tract. This fact may be of consequence in porto-caval shunt surgery in order to use methods by which a rest flow through the portal vein to the liver is maintained. Thus, the organism is prevented from the biological consequences of an altered phagocytic function of the liver.


[The effect of acute liver damage on inactivation of renin and aldosterone (author's transl)].

Plasma renin activity was measured in 5 surgical patients with hydatoid disease of the liver before and after partial hepatectomy. Plasma renin activity rose statistically significantly after surgical operation and remained virtually constant thereafter. This rise was accompanied by a statistically significant rise of plasma aldosterone while urinary excretion of aldo-18oxo-glucuronid remained unchanged. No change of urinary excretion of electrolytes was observed. It is concluded that besides stress after surgical operation decreased hepatic inactivation of renin and aldosterone were the main causes which led to elevation of plasma aldosterone concentration.


[Micromucosal pattern in the stomach and colon--comparative study (author's transl)].

The various findings of the mucosal pattern in the stomach and in the colon are systematically presented and compared. It is remarkable that there are similar findings in the two different organs of the gastrointestinal tract. Five different relief patterns are described. Regarding the differential diagnosis and the possible therapeutical application, two forms are of special interest: one is the erosion-like pattern in the early stages of granulomatous colitis and secondly the granular mucosal pattern in the early ulcerative colitis.


[Gastric and exocrine pancreatic function in patients with medullary thyroid carcinoma and with bone diseases under treatment with calcitonin (author's transl)].

Calcitonin (CT) inhibits gastric acid and pancreatic enzyme secretion when infused intravenously. Therefore, in two patients showing excessively elevated CT-blood levels due to medullary thyroid carcinoma and in two patients with bone diseases before and under CT-treatment, gastric and pancreatic secretion were measured. Spontaneous (BAO) and pentagastrin stimulated acid as well as hormonally stimulated pancreatic enzyme secretion revealed normal in all subjects and tests. The findings are in favour of adaptation mechanisms of gastric parietal and pancreatic acinar cells against the inhibitory action of chronically elevated CT. Therefore, long term treatment with CT is no likely to induce impaired acidity or exocrine pancreatic insufficiency.


[The influence of chenodeoxycholic acid on the concentrations of nonsulfated bile acids in the small and large intestinal mucosa of rats (author's transl)].

In male Wistar rats nonsulfated bile acids of small and large intestinal wall and feces are analysed after 2, 5, 9 and 14 days of oral administration of 20 or 90 mg chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA)/kg. Development of body, intestinal, and fecal weights is assessed. A transient reduction of daily body weight gain and small and large intestinal weights is compensated after 14 days. Fecal weights are above controls under 20 mg/kg, below controls under 90 mg/kg. Containing about 2 mg, i.e. nearly 4% of the bile acid pool, the intestinal wall holds four times more bile acids than the liver. Under CDCA administration bile acid concentrations in the small intestinal wall and feces rise, and remain almost unchanged in the colonic wall. Changes after CDCA administration suggest that bile acid absorption is accompanied by an increase in mucosal bile concentration. In the colonic wall the increase in bile acid concentration after CDCA administration correlates with the passive permeability coefficient.


[Fibrinogen and fibrin structure in patients with cirrhosis of the liver (author's transl)].

The question is still open, whether a pathologic formation of fibrinogen or an insufficient stabilized fibrin are causative factors within the complex disorders in hemostasis in patients with liver cirrhosis. Thus, 45 patients with liver cirrhosis, which was proven by liver biopsy, were investigated by means of sodium-dodecyl-sulfate (SDS) polyacrylamidgel-electrophoresis in order to evaluate, whether the liver produces a pathological fibrinogen or whether the formation of fibrin from fibrinogen is defect. The fibrin stabilizing factor (factor XIII) was measured by immunological methods. In order to have a mean of the stage of the disease, 37 patients were subdivided by the extend or their porto-caval collateral circulation and further 8 patients were investigated having bleeding from esophageal varices. By the results evidence accrued that in advanced stages of liver cirrhosis and a marked porto-caval collateral circulation polymerization of fibrinogen was insufficiently, especially, the formation of alpha-chains was altered, whereas the formation of gamma-dimers, the separation of fibrinopeptides from fibrinogen, and the aggregation of fibrinmonomers were normal. This defect in fibrin structure was positive correlated with the stage of liver cirrhosis, which correlated negative with the plasma activity of factor XIII. In vitro, the defect in fibrin formation, from fibrinogen was abolished by adding factor XIII to the assay. Thus, in liver cirrhosis fibrin formation is altered because of factor XIII deficiency, but a normal fibrinogen is synthesized by the liver. In consequence, the administration of factor XIII preparations is suggested as one clinical action among others to benefit the hemostatic disorders, especially in patients with bleeding from esophageal varices.


[Differing results of direct and indirect solid phase radioimmunoassay for HBsAg in acute hepatitis (author's transl)].

In 54 patients suffering from acute viral hepatitis the indirect solid phase radioimmunoassay (ind-SPRIA) for HBsAg was positive in 9 cases the direct solid phase radioimmunoassay (d-SPRIA) being negative. In 2 further cases ind-SPRIA was positive during several weeks but d-SPRIA only once. AntiHBc could be detected in 9 of these patients. In 7 patients the usual decrease of the transaminase activity was followed by a second elevation with prolongation of disease. The unknown factor detected by ind-SPRIA suggests a special form of acute hepatitis.


[A fast endoscopic test of pancreatic secretion (endoscopic secretin-caerulein-test) (author's transl)].

Measurement of the pancreatic exocrine secretion was performed for 20 minutes using a gastrofiberscope. The exocrine pancreas was stimulated by 1 clin. U./kg secretin and 40 ng/kg caerulein as a bolus injection. Aspiration of duodenal juice was performed by a polyaethylen-tube through the biopsy-channel of the endoscope while duodenum distal of the papilla was shut by a baloon-tube, fixed on the distal end of the gastrofiberscope. In 84 patients the investigation was done 87 times. In 11 cases of proved chronic pancreatitis the endoscopic secretin-caerulein-test (SCKT) was pathologic in each case. --Normal values obtained by SCKT were in the range of those obtained by standard secretin-pancreozymin-test with correction of the volume of duodenal juice. Maximal enzyme output was always found in the first five-minute fraction of duodenal juice. Maximal bicarbonate output was found later between 15 and 20 minutes after stimulation. There was a good correlation between maximal enzyme output and maximal bicarbonate output in SCKT on one side and the results of a standard secretin-pancreozymin-test later performed in the same 10 patients. The SCKT is an easy and fast practicable method to be done after routine gastroscopy.


[Fetoscopy (author's transl)].

It is the aim of fetoscopy to recognise or exclude malformations which are visible in the fetal stage and which are not associated with chromosomal damage. The requisite endoscope can be inserted practically without any problems into the amniotic cavity under local anaesthesia and in the manner of an "extended amniocentesis". If pregnancy is continued, the risk involed in fetoscopy must be assessed as similarly low as that of simple aminocentesis, as the clinical experience collected so far has shown. The clinical use of fetoscopy requires close co-operation with the geneticist and the parents concerned. The decision that fetoscopy is indicated lies mainly with the geneticist on account of the required expert genetic knowledge. Fetoscopy appears justified if there is an increased risk of malformation of the fetus which is manifest in the foetal stage and which is sufficiently serious to initiate therapeutic abortion if necessary, and, furthermore, if the risk involved in fetoscopy is in reasonable proportion to the risk of teh malformation. Over and above this, fetoscopy can also be justified if it is necessary to obtain fetal blood for examination. Satisfactory technical and endoscopic experience is the most important prerequisite for success and for reduced risk. Up to now, indication of fetoscopy was exclusively coupled to existing pregnancy and enhanced genetic risk. On the other hand, the question whether pregnancy should be permitted despite a known risk, simply because subsequent fetoscopy is envisaged, should be treated with reserve.


[Measuring the turbidity of amniotic fluid, a possibility to assess fetal maturity before birth (author's transl)].

At the end of gestation, depending on maturation of the fetus and especially of its skin, vernix caseosa is detached into amniotic fluid. The changes of amniotic fluid turbidity can be quantitatively verified with a fotometer (filter for 578 nm, 10 mm disposable cuvettes). The turbidity of amniotic fluid was measured in 125 cases. No correlation was found between turbidity and length of gestation from day 261 to day 287 after last menstruation. In contrast, there is strong and significant contingency between turbidity of amniotic fluid and maturity of fetal skin (quantity of vernix caseosa) or clinical maturity assessed according to Farr et al. Finding a turbidity below 0.5 U on extinction scale of the fotometer, the fetus is not fully mature in 50% of these cases; placental dysfunction can be excluded with high probability. In contrast, two thirds of the children with high turbidity of amniotic fluid (more than 1.0 U on extinction scale) had clinical signs of placental dysfunction.


[Value of the abdominal electrocardiogram for cardiotocography (author's transl)].

The value of abdominal Electrocardiogram (abd. ECG) for cardiotocography has been studied prospectively in 183 ante- and 93 subpartum patients. The indications for using abd. ECG have been worked out and the influence of various factors on the quality of registration were tested. It was found that neither location of the placenta nor obesity nor the state of the membranes influenced the quality of abd. ECG-records. Furthermore abd. ECG was used successfully in cases with advanced labor.


Significance of the transient bradycardic pattern in prepathological oxytocin stress test.

The perinatal prognostic significance of a type of Prepathological Oxytocin Stress Test, namely Transient Bradycardia coincident with a period of hyperdynamia in otherwise normal test, is analyzed. The 43 studied cases are compared to a group of 492 patients responding normally. The significantly higher incidence of intrapartum meconium and fetal distress, low Apgar Score and neurologically affected newborns seems to demonstrate that the Prepathological Test is a real entity. The possible fetal risk and the usefulness of the Oxytocin Test are discussed.


Local immunity in pregnant women.

Immunoglobulins IgA and IgG levels and Lysozyme-activity were examined in the vaginal fluid of 70 pregnant women and 30 non-pregnant women where microbiological examinations did not detect any pathological microorganisms. To confirm the local character of immune factors produced in the female genital tract, these factors were also examined in the sera. An increase of class A immunoglobulins was noted in the vaginal fluid and examined sera. IgA/IgG ratio as well as statistical calculations confirmed the local origin of antibodies within the classes. The lysozyme activity was 10 times greater in the vaginal fluid than in the sera. Both factors are relatively simple to determine and in women with recurrent inflammatory conditions of the vaginal tract can be used as indicators of the local immunity state.


[Physiology of uterine contractions (author's transl)].

The number of contractions was recorded in 26 healthy primiparae and 28 multiparae from the 25th to 41st week of pregnancy. A remarkable incidence peak was seen around the 32nd week. The number of pregnancy contractions is not sufficient as the only parameter for recognising an impending premature delivery. However, it does represent a valuable aid when taking the anamnesis and portio findings into consideration. The authors consider tocolysis indicated if more than two contractions per hour are recorded as mean value over a period of one week in conjunction with a tendency of the portio to open up, or if more than three contractions are recorded independent of this sign. Taking individual daily into consideration, the relevant limit is three contractions per hour between the 25th and 28th week, and five contractions per hour between the 29th and 32nd week of pregnancy.


A practical method for quantitation of antibody responses to tetanus and diphtheria toxoids in normal young children.

Antibodies to diphtheria and tetanus toxoids were assayed in 46 children from 16 to 33 months of age following vaccination. A reversed rocket immunoelectrophoretic technique was used for antibody determination. This method is simple and consistent, and although the limit of detection for antibodies of both types (about 1 U/ml) is above the normal range for primary immune responses, antibody levels in immunized children five weeks after a second injection of vaccine were within measureable range in all but two of the children studied. Levels more than one standard deviation above the mean were found in one child for both antitetanus and anti-diphtheria and in four children for anti-tetanus toxoid antibody only. All four of the high responders to tetanus toxoid were Black, carrying both Black and Caucasian Gm haplotypes. The two apparent nonresponders were Caucasian. All children had normal immunoglobulin levels, except for one with low IgA, who showed normal antibody responses to both toxoids. The results suggest that measurements of precipitating antibodies to diphtheria and tetanus toxoids provide a practical index of humoral immune function in small children.


Immunoadjuvant effects of the synthetic muramyl-dipeptide (MDP) N-acetylmuramyl-L-alanyl-D-isoglutamine.

The adjuvant activity of the synthetic muramyl-dipeptide (MDP) N-acetyl-muramyl-L-alanyl-D-isoglutamine upon immunization of mice with BSA or SRBC was studied. MDP was found to significantly increase BSA-antibody formation and to favour the induction of anaphylactic reactions to BSA. In contrast, under the conditions employed, MDP only weakly stimulated the immune response to SRBC.


The helminths in the gut of perch (Perca fluviatilis L.) in a small oligotrophic lake in southern Norway.

A total of 311 perch were examined for gut parasites during the period from April 1972 to December 1973. Four different metazoan parasites were found; Proteocephalus percae (Müller, 1780), Bunodera luciopercae (Müller, 1776), Acanthocephalus lucii Müller, 1776 and Camallanus lacustris Zoega, 1776. B. luciopercae and P. percae exhibited similar seasonal cycles in appearance and abundance. They were both absent from the fish population during June/July. A. lucii and C. lacustris on the other hand had a peak in infection intensity and incidence during the summer and autumn months. From September/October one year to May/June the following year B. luciopercae was the dominating parasite species showing the highest incidence (approximately 95%) and intensity (a mean of about 25 parasites per infected fish). When 2 times 2 contingency tests were applied on the material from this period a significant negative correlation between the presence of P. percae and A. lucii could be pointed out while there was no correlation between the presence of any of the other 3 parasite species.


Serial passages of larval Echinococcus granulosus from equine origin in mice. II. Infections with sterile cysts.

Sterile secondary E. granulosus cysts less than or equal to 1 mm in diameter, collected from mice 6-13 months after experimental infection were transferred to helminth-free mice. They developed into larger cysts showing fertility and daughter cyst formation at autopsy 9--14 months p.i. Average growth of the largest cyst per mouse, expressed in log volume (microliter), amounted to 0.30 +/- 0.03 per month; average growth of all cysts per mouse, expressed in log weight (mg) amounted to 0.27 +/- 0.02 per month. An inversed ratio was found between total parasite weight and number of cysts injected. The practical importance of these observations is discussed.


[Notes to the hare-whipworm Trichuris leporis (Zeder, 1803) (author's transl)].

In this study of the whipworm Trichuris leporis (Zeder, 1803) mistakes, which were made in the literature of this kind in the course of time, have been pointed out and put right. The first that gave this species its name was Zeder and not Froehlich. Trichuris sylvilagi Tiner, 1950 is a synonym of Trichuris leporis (Zeder, 1803). The description of the species Trichuris leporis which was given by Tiner (1905) refers to another species for which the name Trichuris tineri is suggested.


The first record of Angiostrongylus cantonensis from Egypt.

In this paper the first record of the medically important nematode parasite, Angiostrongylus cantonensis, is made from Egypt. A survey of eight species of freshwater gastropods collected from natural water courses and of three species of wild rats caught from the same areas revealed respectively, that the ampullarid snail Lanistes carinatus acts as the intermediate host transmitting this parasite, and that the rat Rattus norvegicus is its definitive host. The life cycle of the parasite was successfully completed through experimental infection of laboratory bred albino rats with third-stage larvae, obtained from the above mentioned snail intermediate host. A morphological description of the adult worms and of all larval stages of the parasite is given.


Effect of praziquantel on the free living stages of Schistosoma mansoni.

The effect of the new schistosomicide praziquantel (2-cyclohexyl-carbonyl-1,2,3,6,7,11 b-hexahydro-2H-pyrazino[2,1a]isoquinolin-4-one) on the miracidia and cercariae of Schistosoma mansoni was investigated. In vivo praziquantel inhibits hatching of miracidia for 24 h after administration of 500 mg/kg to infected mice. In vitro a concentration of 10 microgram/ml inhibits subsequent hatching in drug-free water. Free swimming miracidia are rapidly killed by 1 microgram/ml. Even 0.01 microgram/ml is still partially effective. In a solution of 0.03 microgram/ml cercariae lose their ability to swim within 10 min. This effect is reversible in drug-free water. Morphological damage to cercariae incubated in 0.1 microgram/ml is clearly evident. However, cercariae are fully infective when given subcutaneously to mice after a 3-h incubation period. Incubation in 1 microgram/ml reduces the infection rate by 80%. A 2-h incubation in 0.1 microgram/ml almost completely inhibits the percutaneous infection through the abdominal skin. The number of cercariae that develop to schistosomules is reduced by more than 90%. After a 2-h incubation in a concentration of 0.01 microgram/ml the swimming ability of cercariae is impaired in such a way that the number of cercariae penetrating in the tail immersion test and developing to schistosomules is reduced by half. Praziquantel is a more potent protective agent than the molluscicides copper sulphate, sodium pentachlorophenate and Bayluscide or cadmium and zinc ions.


Foreseeable trends in health care delivery.

"These trends represent the obvious call from society for health change: enlarged access to the system; reduction in the rate of rise in cost; equity in care; and increased quality in care. All of these elements except the cost objective requires not lessened but additional and redistributed resources. If this is pleasing, exert influence to reinforce the trends toward it. If not, speak now to modify the otherwise inevitable."


Northern Virginia Mental Health Institute: a decade of success.

"In some ways the Institute probably has been too efficient for its own good. It has had none of the serious problems that seem, these days, to be the key to funding and support, and the cost per patient day in the year 1977 dropped from $64 to $54."


Emergency service admissions to a state mental hospital.

The Northern Virginia Mental Health Institute assigns ten beds to the emergency referrals of a Fairfax County mental health center. The authors analyze these admissions over a 15-month period.


EEG changes in old age: normal and pathological.

A review of the literature reveals that most of the marked EEG changes in the aged are found in conjunction with disease, and the author's experience confirms this observation.


British general practice and the National Health Service.

Three weeks of observing a general practice group in Edinburgh, Scotland, affords the author a study in contrasts between British and American practice today.


Treatment of open fractures: a review.

The history, etiology, initial management, and definitive treatment of open fractures is comprehensively reviewed. The author explores with particular care the crucial problem of preventing infection.


Regional neonatal intensive care: its benefits can now be measured.

Region III was the first are in Virginia to develop neonatal transport and education to rural locations, as reported previously in this journal. There appears to be a growing acceptance of RNIC services in Region III with a simultaneous drop in neonatal mortality rates below national and state levels; however, until regional neonatal mortality rate is more equal to the mortality rates in the central hospital, RNIC cannot be said to have made its full impact.


Criteria for keeping quality in Golden Delicious apples.

Apples harvested in October 1975, from several regions of the Netherlands, were stored in air or under a controlled atmosphere (CA), at 3--4 degrees C in 11 batches. They were analysed for L-malate and sucrose, and their acceptability was assessed by pilot test. The decrease of L-malate during storage (0.1 g in 37.5 days in air and in 75 days under CA) was confirmed. Thus one can predict (at the start of the trial) the L-malate content at a later stage of the storage. It had been proposed previously that 0.39--0.45% of L-malate corresponds to similar proportions of acceptable and unacceptable fruits, as determined by a laboratory panel. This hypothesis was not corroborated by the pilot test. Based on the data of this test, the original criteria were adapted as follows. In most batches, the percentage of unacceptable apples is low (0--15%) as long as the content of L-malate is greater than or equal to 0.55%. If L-malate has already decreased to 0.54--0.50%, then sucrose should be greater than or equal to 2%.


[Application HTST-heating of the mash and its influence on the aroma composition during the production of apple brandy (author's transl)].

The influence of HTST-heating of the mash aroma composition during production of apply brandy has been investigated by means of gas chromatography and coupled gas chromatography--mass spectrometry. Starting from the apple aroma the changes in aroma components were studied quantitatively during the conventional production (without enzyme inhibition) as well as after HTST-heating (enzyme inactivation) of the mash. For this purpose 98 aroma compounds were determined in the course of mash production, fermentation and distillation. When employing HTST-heating the original aroma components of the apple particularly the fruit esters were present in appreciably higher concentrations in the mash as well as in the distillate than with the conventional production method. Simultaneously HTST-heating reduced the secondary aroma substances in mash and distillate which are formed with the conventional method by enzymatic-oxidative processes. In the unaged apple brandy obtained from HTST-treated mash lower amounts of lactates and higher concentrations of acetals were found compared with the conventionally produced distillate.


[On the iron contamination in cocoa and chocolate products (author's transl)].

The investigation in question deals with the iron contamination in cocoa and chocolate products. Semi finished goods as well as finished products were examined. An average of 29 mg/kg total iron (i.e. ionic + metallic iron) was found in cocoabeans. The iron content of cocoa shells was approximately 10 fold higher. The process of grinding roasted nibs to cocoa-mass (liquor) resulted in a noticeable increase of the quantity of iron to an average amount of 150 mg/kg mass. This process thus produced an increase of the iron content of approximately 75 to as much as 200%. The cocoa powders contained more iron (238 mg/kg) than the cocoa mass, which linked to a reduction of the fat content by pressing and by grinding of the presscake. The quantities of iron observed in commercial samples of cocoa powder from different countries did not show appreciable differences.


[A potentiometric determination of iodide in milk by use of the iron--selective electrode (author's transl)].

A method for quantitative determination of iodide in milk by use of the ion-selective electrode is described. The proposed method is rapid and simple. No sample pretreatment is required exept for sample ionic strength adjustment. It was possible to determine iodide concentrations down to 40 microgram/l with average relative standard deviation of 3,4%. The concentration of iodide in milk samples determined by this method ranged from 61,5 microgram J-/l to 190,8 microgram J-/l.


[Simultaneous determination of the anabolic angent zeranol and its metabolite zearalanon by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) (author's transl)].

The anabolic agent Zeranol and its metabolite Zearalanon can be determined in meat by High-Performance-Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) down to a limit of about 0.01 ppm.


[Flavonol glycosides of leaves and fruits of dill (Anethum graveolens L.). II. Phenolics of spices (author's transl)].

From the leaves of dill (Anethum graveolens L.) ten flavonol glycosides have been isolated by means of polyamide, paper and thin-layer chromatography and could be identified by the usual procedures. The two major flavonoids, quercetin 3-O-beta-D-glucuronide and isorhamnetin 3-O-beta-D-glucuronide, were obtained crystalline. The minor components were found to be the 3-glucosides, 3-galactosides and 3-rhamnoglucosides of quercetin and isorhamnetin. Two other 3-glycosides of quercetin and isorhamnetin occur with the component sugars galactose, xylose, and arabinose. Besides these there are probably other two flavonoids present in trace amounts. In addition, the fruits of dill contain kaempferol 3-glucuronide as main component thought this component is completely absent in leaves.--This is probably the first time that isorhamnetin 3-O-beta-D-glucuronide has been obtained crystalline from a plant.


[Determination of diterpene glycosides in coffee (author's transl)].

The determination of 3'O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-2'-O-isovaleroyl-2beta-(2-desoxy-atractyligenin)-beta-D-glucopyranoside (KA 1) and 2-O-beta-d-glucopyranosyl-atractyligenin (KA II) in coffee was carried out by liquid/liquid-partition, column chromatography, thin layer chromatography, and photometry. In robusta and arabusta green coffees KA I levels were below the limit of detection, in arabica green coffees between 170 and 460 mg/kg. KA II was present in robusta green coffees between 10 and 45 mg/kg, in arabusta green coffee at about 60 mg/kg, in arabica green coffees between 290 and 340 mg/kg. During roasting these values are reduced, but not during commercial extraction.


[Phenols in roasted coffees of different varieties. I. (author's transl)].

Thirty phenols were isolated from roasted coffee by distillation-extraction, separated from other constituents by absorption-chromatography, and characterized by means of GC-MS. Robusta coffee contained the largest amount of phenols, followed by Arabusta (Côte d'Ivoire) and Arabica. Quantity and type of phenols depends on variety as well as on the roasting conditions.


[Diphenols and caramel compounds in roasted coffees of different varieties. II. (author's transl)].

Eleven diphenols and seven caramel compounds were extracted from roasted coffee with pentane/ether (1 + 1), silylated with BSTFA, characterized, and semiquantified by GC-MS. Seven phenols and five caramel components were identified for the first time in roasted coffee. Robusta coffee contained the highest amounts of phenols and maltol. Arabica showed higher amounts of furaneol (2.5-dimethyl-4-hydroxy-3(2H)-furanone), isomaltol, 5-hydroxymaltol, and 5-hydroxy-5.6-dihydromaltol.


[Introduction in mycotoxin problems (author's transl)].

In Part I the occurrence of mycotoxins is discussed in general terms with emphasis on how they originate in the food, taking full account of presence as secondary contaminants. Further discussions emphasize the occurrence of aflatoxin in foods with a detailed table containing 106 references. Finally, the discussion goes into the factors which influence the formation of mycotoxins and the consequences for the consumer. Part II is concerned with problems in sampling foods with aflatoxin. Difficulties in sampling arise from the different levels of aflatoxins present and from their instability in foods. Based on proposals of different investigators, sample quantities of more than 1 kg are recommended. Regulatory agencies expect concrete plans for statistical evaluation similar to those used for determination of salmonellae. It is particularly important that a solution should be found for the sampling of packaged foods so that a fair and reliable control is possible.


[High frequency pyrolysis of selected carbohydrates (author's transl)].

Glucose, amylose, amylopectin, cellulose, fructose, inulin, saccharose, celluloseacetate and methyl-cellulose were treated by High Frequency Pyrolysis (Curie Point Pyrolysis) at 700 degrees C. Volatile compounds formed by this process were separated by gas chromatography and the structures determined by GC/MS.


[Solubility of phospholipids in oilseeds depending on the extraction conditions (author's transl)].

The results of the determination of oil content depend on the method and on the solvent used. Extractions by the Twisselmann method give increasing yields in the order n-pentane, hexane, and n-heptane. Using the Soxhlet extraction, much lower yields were obtained with n-heptane than with the other two solvents. In both methods, the phospholipid content in the extracts depends only on the solvent and not on the method used. The yield and composition of the mixture of phospholipids vary in the different methods of extraction.


[Determination of reduced and oxidised glutathione in wheat flours and doughs (author's transl)].

A quantitative method for the analysis of reduced (GSH) and oxidised (GSSG) glutathione in cereals has been developed. The steps are: Extraction of the flour or dough and carboxymethylation of GSH, gel filtration on Sephadex G-50, chromatography on Dowex 50 WX8 and after basic cleavage determination of the separated GSSG with 5,5'-dithiobis(2-nitrobenzoic acid), separation of carboxymethylated GSH on Dowex 1X8 and determination with 2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid. When analysing for the amount of GSH and GSSG in flours of three varieties of wheat the former ranged from 0.27 to 0.46 mumol/g and the latter from 0.26 to 0.38 mumol/g. After kneading for 5 min to a dough the GSH disappeared with a corresponding increase in GSSG.


Model studies on the heating of food proteins--heat-induced oligomerisation of ribonuclease.

Commercial ribonuclease was heated at temperatures between 80 degrees C and 180 degrees C for 1--24 h. A stoichiometric oligomerisation was observed. Dimeric ribonuclease appeared after 1 h at 80 degrees C. With increasing time and/or temperature the number of oligomers formed rose at first. The highest oligomer that could be detected was the hexamer (140 degrees C, 8 and 16 h). A further increase in time and/or temperature resulted in a decrease of the number of oligomers and a rise in the polymer fraction. The importance of this reaction in the changes produced by heating food proteins and various reaction mechanisms are discussed.


Studies on enzymic browning of potatoes (Solanum tuberosum). IV. Relationship between tyrosine turnover and rate of browning.

Using analytical data from the literature the tyrosine turnover was calculated by a method published previously by us for 72 potato samples with different rates of browning. The samples included 9 varieties grown at three locations in 1969, which were analysed after harvest and after different times of storage at three temperatures. For 58 samples (81%) this calculation led to the same classification of the varieties as did visual observation of the rate of discolouration. It is concluded that enzymic browning of potatoes is correlated rather with tyrosine turnover, which depends on the concentrations of phenol oxidase, tyrosine, chlorogenic acid, and ascorbic acid, than with any single parameter.


[Methods for the determination of vitamins by means of HPLC. IV. Determination of vitamin K3 in vitamin premixes and mineral supplements (author's transl)].

A method is described for rapid determination of vitamin K3 (menadione) in vitamin premixes and mineral supplements. The menadione is extracted in the form of the bisulphite compound. After conversion into menadione the vitamin is taken up in n-hexane and is determined by HPLC without further clean-up.


[The effectiveness of an (Aspergillus) differential medium in the course of the mycological examination of foods].

The effectiveness of Aspergillus differential medium (ADM) for the identification of Aspergillus strains was tested. The bright yellow-orange pigment was produced by 205 (88,7%) of 231 strains and resp. 97 (61,3%) of 158 strains, which during routine mycologic diagnostic as A.flavus and A.oryzae, respectively. Strains of the groups A.clavatus (76), A.glacus (100), A.fumigatus-(9), A.niger-(6), A.candidus-(3), A.wentii-(1), A.versicolor (23), A.nidulans (6), A.ustus (1) and A.terreus (1) gave negative results. Positive results were shown by 9 strains of the A.ochraceus group. It was shown that for the mycological examination of certain foods the ADM medium can make an important contribution to the identification of potential aflatoxin producers. However it is better not to use the ADM medium only alone but also together with other customary mycological nutrient media.


[The activity of sorbic acid against mycotoxin forming microorganisms (author's transl)].

Potassium sorbate at a concentration of 200-400 ppm inhibits mycotoxin forming Aspergillus versicolor at a pH of 5.7-5.9 in culture media and fermented sausages.


[Determination of MCPA and TERBACIL in apples (author's transl)].

Analytical methods for the determination of MCPA (2-methyl-4-chlorophenoxyacetic acid) and TERBACIL (3-tert. butyl-5-chloro-6-methyluracil) in apples are described. The detection limits of the methods are 0.04 mg/kg for TERBACIL and 0.1 mg/kg for MCPA. With additions between 0.05--0.1 mg TERBACIL/kg apples the recovery rates lie between 95--105%. With additions between 0.1--0.5 mg MCPA/kg apples the recovery is between 103--114%.


[Deaths caused by poisoining in Switzerland].

In order to assess the mortality from poisoning in Switzerland, the medical certificates of death from the years 1972 to 1976 were analyzed. A comparison with earlier work shows that the overall mortality remains constant, with an increase of suicidal and a decrease of accidental and chronic poisoning. Most suicides are committed with drugs (especially hypnotics) and, mainly by men, with carbon monoxide (exhaust gas). Chronic fatal poisoning from the abuse of analgesics is lessening, at length, whereas death from hard drugs is on the increase. Fatal accidental poisoining is relatively rare in Switzerland. Among the victims are children, but adults as well, and particularly old people. Involved agents (carbon monoxide, drugs and medicines, technical and agricultural poisons, mushrooms) are pointed out with regard to prevention.


[Migration and behavioral pecularities of nursery-school children in Basel].

The Basle Kindergarten Study is looking at the effects of migration on health and development. Local, social and cultural relationships are broken up through migration. We call this break of relationship "up-rooting". Deviant behaviour can be understood as indicator of disturbed psychosocial development. Two hypotheses are examined: 1. Signs of up-rooting are concentrated in migrant-families. 2. The children in these families show more deviant behaviour. Both hypotheses are not supported by our preliminary data.


[Influencing factors related to narcotic consumption and leisure sports in juveniles].

This report presents some results of a survey of 2872 men and women of 17 to 18 years of age. A multivariate analysis shows a strong association of consumption of illegal drugs with that of tobacco and alcohol, as well as with absence of spare time sports activities (men) and excessive use of medicaments (women). The results favour a multifactorial model of prevention of drug abuse.


[Estimation of food intake by adolescents through subject interviews and questionnaires addressed to parents].

The adolescents' interview refers to his/her usual weekly food intake, except for fats which are estimated from the parents' answers. Replies given to questions introduced as a check revealed important differences between the answers given by the parents and those of the adolescents.


[Tricipital and subscapular skinfold thickness: normal values for boys and girls between 4 and 19 1/2 years of age from Western Switzerland].

Application of profile analysis (4) to skinfold thickness (tricipital ; subscapular) experimentally shows that when data are collected under strict control of the measuring technique, the fluctuations ascribale to observers, to left or right body sides, and to replications may be almost entirely eliminated.


[Consumption of sweets by schoolchildren in Basel].

In September 1977 a 24 hour recall interview on nutritional habits, especially on the consumption of oligosacchrides was performed on 2'563 school children of Basel, aged 7 to 15 years after having attended a dental examination. 80,4% did consume sugar containing sweets between the 5 regular meals. The higher the degree of education among the three intermediate schooltypes, the less consumers were found (p less than 0,05). Factors which may influence the different consumption patterns are social status and knowledge on nutritional diseases (e.g. diabetes), but not pocket money. A link between data of the nutritional study and those of the dental examination will follow.


[Early recognition of lung changes in young smokers].

To assess small airway obstruction in teenagers with a habit of smoking maximal expiratory flow-volume where obtained while the children were breathing first air and then a helium-air-mixture. The point of identical flow (PIF), the volume in which flow was the same with air and with helium was for the smokers significantly higher than the mean PIF in the nonsmokers-controls.


[Passive smoking under experimental conditions and in field studies].

The degree of annoyance and irritations has been investigated on subjects exposed for 1 hour to constant concentrations of cigarette smoke as well as in 3 restaurants of Zurich.


[Effect of the school environment on the smoking and drinking behavior of students].

It is confirmed that young adolescents tend to consume alcohol and tobacco as tension releaser as well as symbolic participation in adult values.


[Smoking behavior in 2 rural communities near Zurich].

In the course of a community intervention study smoking prevalence was shown to increase and age of onset to decrease successively with decreasing age in both sexes; about half of the smokers tried at some time to stop. The educational programme had some effect in preventing extension of the habit.


[Utilization of hospitalization for the modification of smoking behavior].

Advantages and methods of treating smoking addiction during hospitalisation are described briefly.


[Self-treatment among employees of the Swiss railroad and postal systems].

In this paper some initial results of a study of self-treatment in case of light illness are reported. The average number of reported measures taken is 3,5 in general infections and infections of the respiratory tract, 2,6 in digestive disorders, and 2,5 in disorders of the musculo-skeletal system. In all three groups of disorders, the most frequent single measures was bed rest, the second most frequent was measuring body temperature in the first diagnostic group, drinking tea in the second, and massage in the third. In the first diagnostic group, an average of 2,2 pharmacologic agents are taken, in the second 1,1, and in the third 1,3. Analgesic drugs play an important role in all three groups, pointing to the primordial role of pain relief in self-medication. 84,5% of the interviewed sample indicate use of folk medicines. 90% of the applied drugs come from the stock of the home pharmacy.


[Morphologic distribution of tumors occuring in the canton of Vaud].

After a short presentation of the methodological aspects of cancer registration and morphological coding, the results concerning cancer of the upper digestive tract, lung, testis and ovary were discussed. Some distributions of the main histological types are analysed by age, sex, site and multiple primaries. Known statistical associations are described between morphology and sex for lung cancer and between morphology and controlateral tumor for ovary.


[Health profile of employed men and women--representative study].

Representative studies on 1260 men and 980 women working in Swiss factories showed, that 21% of the men and 27% of the women (5% gynecological diseases) were in medical care in the moment of our examination.


[Chest pain and cardiac morbidity in two rural communities near Zurich. Survey results 1974/75].

The prevalence of coronary heart disease in predisposing symptoms in 2 entire communities was estimated by means of the standardized WHO questionnaire, yielding rates around 10% and 25% at ages 20--49 and 50--64, respectively.


[Causes of accidents in Swiss forestry].

In Swiss public forests about 3600 work accidents occur yearly. These accident rates are higher than in any other branch of industry in Switzerland. Statistical evaluation and investigation of near accidents established great risks for power saw work. The results show that the accident causes are lack of concentration, time pressure, bad weather and general fatigue.


[Demonstration of a control lever for a simulator of visual aptitudes].

In this paper, the design and testing of the control of a new visual screener are described. The equipment is composed of a push-pull lever, an electronic digitalizer and a display on which Landolt rings are presented. The problem to be solved was to check whether the eight directions in which the lever could be oriented were equally reliable. For this purpose, 24 untrained subjects were required to respond to 108 by-chance oriented optotypes. This experiment demonstrated that the device was reliable in this respect that it produced very few errors; however, fiability was unequally distributed over the eight orientations. Suggestions for improvement were made.


[Ocular fatigue induced due to work on visual screens].

It appears that visual complaints, as they are expressed by numerous TV screen operators, are associated with common eye defects. Our results based on a survey with questionnaires and visual testing sustain such an hypothesis. As a consequence, solving eye problems at TV screens requires both the improvement of visual displays and the visual adaptation of users. If impossible working-time should be reduced.


[Repetitive work and psychosomatic complaints].

200 workers of the Swiss watch industry were examined in an interdisciplinary study on the effect of repetitive work on the wellbeing of the worker. Women doing repetitive work with little autonomy complained more often about psychosomatic problems than the male workers doing non-repetitive work. This difference is interpreted as a difference of sexe rather than one of the work situation. However, there is a significant difference in the complaint about nervosity between women being paid monthly and women who were paid by piece or by hour with a premium.


[Comparison of various sampling devices for airborn dust].

Measuring particulate matter, rather not well-defined term, consists of two basic steps: samling and analysis. In a comparative study, three types of samples viz. Hi-Vol Sampler, LIB Sampler, and Dichotomous Sampler were operated side by side for ten 24-hour samples. Results of their gravimetric and elemental analysis are reported.


[Size distribution of PAH and of lead in atmospheric particles].

An analysis of an atmospheric urban aerosol with regard to the nature and particle size distribution for different locations has been undertaken. Results indicate that 67% of total suspended matter, 87% of lead, and 70--80 % of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) penetrate the respiratory tracts.


[Noise protection at the Autobahn N 3--case study].

This study deals with the actual and the future noise situation along a highway over a distance of 3,5 km. Three alternatives for noise protection measures, their efficiency and their costs are proposed.


[Panorama change in alcohol-criminality. Analysis of blood alcohol findings evaluated in the year 1965 and 1975 (author's transl)].

Evaluation of 8834 blood alcohol findings from individuals in police custody and suspect of criminal actions (3434 relate to the year 1965, 5400 to 1975). Classification of the findings according to the following aspects: blood alcohol concentrations in general and with regard to sex, profession, age and nature of the suspected offense--the findings of the two years (1965 and 1975) are compared and the individual results presented. The analysis suggests that: In young people of any age-group the absolute number of alcohol delicts shows a considerable increase during the last 10 years (1965--1975). In adults, with the exception of the 31--40 year age-group, there was no significant increase in these offences. Comparing the results of the individual delicts in 1965 and 1975 there was no significant difference in the level of the blood alcohol-concentration-groups. Unskilled workers were more frequently involved in nearly all alcohol-related crimes. In 1965 6,6% and in 1975 7,9% of alcohol-related offenses were committed by females. Compared with other districts in 1975 alcohol-criminality has increased significantly in the new suburban colonies of Hamburg (built since 1965) (public housing, high-rise housing).


Effects of reserpine and propranolol on urinary excretion of histamine and 5-hydroxytryptamine in severe cold exposure in normal and cold-acclimated Guinea-pigs.

The effects of cold-acclimation, reserpine and propranolol were investigated on the survival time, rectal temperature and urinary excretion of histamine and 5-HT in guinea-pigs at -20 degrees C. Both reserpine and propranolol shortened survival time by 3 hours and 1.5 hours respectively, the shortest time being in the cold-acclimated reserpine-treated animals. There was a trend in severe cold exposure to increased excretion of histamine both in the non-acclimated and in cold-acclimated animals. Reserpine did not change the excretion but increased the concentration of histamine from 0.08 to 0.25 microgram/ml. Propranolol proved to be a histamine liberator by increasing the excretion in non-acclimated from 0.10 to 1.40 microgram/h and concentration from 0.10 to 4.52 microgram/ml and in cold-acclimated animals the excretion from 0.20 to 2.85 microgram/h and the concentration from 0.08 to 3.23 microgram/ml. Severe cold increased the excretion of 5-HT in the non-acclimated animals from 0.08 to 0.21 microgram/h and cold acclimation increased this to 0.17 microgram/h. Reserpine diminished the excretion from 0.08 to 0.03 microgram/h in the non-acclimated animals, but propranolol had no effect. The results showed that the excretion of histamine and 5-HT into urine are changed in cold and can be modified with drugs. The application of the findings in proving a cold stress deserves further study.


[On the detection of clomethiazole in urine (author's transl)].

It may become necessary to prove that clomethiazole (Distraneurin) has been taken when supervising addicts, with traffic accidents under the influence of drugs and when the cause of death is unclear. Since the compound is almost completely metabolized in the body, a method has been developed to detect its main metabolite, 4-methyl-5-thiazole acetic acid in the urine. The acid can be precisely identified and determined by a combination of selective extractions, high-voltage electrophoresis and UV measurements.


[Fractures and dislocations of the cervical spine caused by hanging (author's transl)].

In comparison to the pattern of lesions of the soft tissue of the neck and the CVC in case of suicidal hanging 17 postmortal fracture-dislocations of the neck are investigated. It could be demonstrated that on principle in case of hanging the dens-fracture can occur. With respect to the hangman's fracture (Wood-Jones) a differentiation into 3 types is proposed.


[The influence of acids and bases on the development of morphological and biochemical wound reactions (author's transl)].

1) The influence of acids and bases on the development of the early wound reactions in the intact and the mechanically injured skin of guinea pigs was investigated. The cellular and the enzymohistochemical reactions showed to be different: the tissue leucocytosis after mechanical trauma is less restrained by chemical effects than the reactive increase of enzymic activity in the border of wounds, which proved to be affected by acids more than by bases. Changes in activity of structure bound enzymes could not be demonstrated in the skin after mere action of acids and bases, but only after mechanical trauma. The cellular reaction is in the border of the base necrosis more compact, in case of the acid necrosis broader and more diffuse. Characteristic changes in the nucleus were preferentially found after basic reaction. 2) In the mechanically unhurt skin a significant excess of histamine was found after the action of acids, while the liberation of serotonin was distinctly decreased. After incision and addition of acid the histamine level was decreased and the serotonin concentration significantly increased. After exposition of guinea pig skin to chemicals, the concentrations of the so-called tissue hormones showed a contrary course. 3) After postmortal incision and following cauterization a distinct increase of histamine was found in the wound area. Generally the excess of free histamine in comparison to the unhurt skin is considered to be a vital reaction. But because degranulation of mast cells and liberation of histamine can also be caused by chemical influence in the postmortal period, a critical interpretation in cases of skin exposition to acids or bases is necessary.


[Combination of visceral surgical procedures with reconstructive artery surgery (author's transl)].

The combination of visceral surgery procedures together with reconstructive artery surgery is recommended on the basis of the experiences with 16 simultaneous operations of this kind. An increasing risk of infection during such simultaneous operations may be prohibited by special surgical techniques. The good cooperation between general surgeons and vascular surgeons and a very restrictive indication for such simultaneous operations are of greatest importance.


[Early detection and results of therapy of malignant tumours of the rectum and sigmoid colon (author's transl)].

An analysis of statistical data indicates 0 growth of incidence and high percentage of advanced cases of rectum and colon cancer. The mean duration of preoperative history of rectum cancer comprises 8,9 months. The main causes of late diagnosis included the patients' unawareness of the symptoms of the lesion, and the defects of examinations performed in out-patient clinics. The efficacy of medical services rendered to this group of patients can be improved by extending the system of proctological services, establishing a practice of specialized out-patient examinations, screening procedures by proctologists, as well as developing modern diagnostic and operative measures for oncological lesions.


[Blunt injuries of the abdomen in children (author's transl)].

Out of 8 different hospitals 298 children suffering from blunt injuries of the abdomen were reported. 115 children had 141 different intra and/or retroperitoneal injuries of their viscera. Urgency and sequence of diagnostic measures being of highest importance for the destiny of the patient are evaluated.


[Blunt abdominal injuries in childhood (author's transl)].

Traffic accidents are among the most important causes of child death. It is sometimes quite difficult to diagnose blunt abdominal traumata due to traffic accidents. 35 blunt hepatic and splenic injuries treated in our clinic during the period of 1971 to 1976 have been evaluated and pertinent references reviewed.


[Abortive duplication of the gut (author's transl)].

Presentation of a case of intestinal duplication sited in the rectosigmoid colon. Rectosigmoid colon and duplication were coated with gastric mucosa. Diagnosis of heterotopic gastric mucosa was done by biopsy and 99mTc-pertechnetate scintigraphy. The diseased colon was removed by Rehbein pull-through procedure. Complete removal was proved by clinical course and scintigraphy.


[Efficiency after radical surgery for bronchectasis (author's transl)].

The maximally possible efficiency as well as the O2-supply (VO2 max) necessary for this purpose comes in patients with resection of 1 to 5 segments to 25 to 30% less than in healthy persons. The loss of 6 to 10 segments lowers the capacity of compensation by 40%. Persisting bronchitis decreases this mechanism for 10 to 12% more.


[Endocrine aspects of ovarian cancer. I. Clinical and pathological-anatomical examinations].

A group of 131 patients with carcinoma of the ovary developed in 16% irregular bleedings. In 9,2% bleeding was caused dysfunctional. 9 of 42 cases (= 21%) showed a significant prolife-ration of the endometrium. The findings are compared with the results of other authors and discussed.


[Endocrine aspects of ovarian concer. II. Biochemical and histochemical examinations].

In the values of estradiol estimated radioimmunologically in the serum in a group of 12 patients with carcinoma of the ovary there were no significant differences to a control group. The histochemical reaction for the visualiztion of steroid-3beta-ol-dehydrogenase was in 3 of 10 cases only slightly positive.


[Search for cytological traces of cancer in pregnancy].

Between 1970 and 1976 a total of 8254 gravidae were screened by smears of the cervix for carcinoma. The results regarded to doubtful (classification III) and positive (classification IV) smears were compaired with the frequency in not-pregnant women. In pregnant women doubtful or positive smears were found in 5.2%, in not-pregnant women in 12.0%. In the reported period a decrease of these smears were to observed: from 7.5% to 3.0%. The mean age of gravidae with doubtful smears is about 6 years beyond the mean age of gravidae with positive smears. Doubtful smears (classification III) in pregnant women are of less value but of same importance than in not-pregnant women; positive smears are of the same value and importance. Altogether there were 5 preinvasive and 5 invasive carcinomas of the cervix and 1  carcinoma of the vagina. The classification and consequences of carcinoma screening during gestation were discussed.


[Case report on fistula cervico-laqueatica].

It is reported on the fistula cervico-laqueatica as a special form of female genital fistula. Symptoms, reasons, and effects as well as possibilities for avoiding and treating of these fistulas are represented.


[Surgical therapy of cervix cancer and its compications. (Experience report from 1970-1976 at the Gynecologic Clinic of the Cottbus District Hospital].

Clinical report on the carcinoma of the uterine cervix in 263 patients seen between January 1, 1970 and December 31, 1976 are reported. 190 patients were operated. 73 cases were assigned to irradiation treatment. This corresponds to an operation frequency of 72,5 per cent. The vaginal radical operation according to Schauta-Stoeckel was prefered (69,5%). The most patients were operated in FIGO-stage I b (43,2%). In 4,15 per cent  wounded neighbour-organs, most the bladder (2,97%) Frequency of fistula was 1,78%. In all instances the fistula can be corrected. 5-year recovery is 83,95%.


[Histological-lymphographic findings in stage I A cervix cancer].

In 150 patients suffering from carcinoma cervicis uteri stage I A preoperative lymphographias and in 99 patients clinical and lymphographical follow-up controls were carried out. The histological proved metastases of the lymphonodes were less than 1%. Indications for preoperative lymphographias only are to be seen in carcinoma cervicis uteri stage I A2 for which histological criteria are presented.


[Therapy and prognosis of female genital sarcomas].

A report is given about 75 genital sarcomas treated at the 1 st university clinic of obstetrics and gynaecology in vienna during the period 1960--1972. This number consists of 60 sarcomas of the corpus uteri, 3 cervical sarcomas, 8 ovarian sarcomas and 4 sarcomas of the vagina. Their therapy and prognosis is discussed. The importance of radical operative therapy with postoperative radio therapeutic treatment is emphasized and the necessity of a central documentation and a uniform classification of clinical and histological stages is pointed out.


[Clinical-pathological relationships of potenially malignant cystadenomas of the ovaries].

A retrospective analysis of selected cases with ovarian tumours accumulated in our institute over a period of 20 years was done. Eight serous and 5 mucinous cystadenomas of borderline malignancy were reviewed. Out of the serous cystadenomas two led to death through recurrence, in other two instances the fatal outcome was caused by the transformation of the tumour to carcinoma. One of the mucinous cystadenomas was recurring. The progression of these tumours was relatively slow, manifesting 5 years after the first intervention. The relative favourable prognosis of ovarian cystadenomas with borderline malignancy seems to be supported by the observation that in the remaining 8 cases, radical surgery can ensure a 9 to 16 years survival time. The analysis of certain cases demonstrates that partial surgery can be performed only under adequate condition.


[Results of combined surgical-radiological therapy of ovarian carcinoma from the radiological viewpoint].

Based on a material of 90 patients with malignant ovarian tumours the results of a chirurgical-radiological combination therapy are discussed. The radiotherapy with telecobalt in the area of small pelvis and regional lymphatic drainage represented achieves good results with justifiable secondary effects. The 5-year survival rate is 36,1%.


[Age and clinico-pathogenetic correlations in acute cerebrovascular lesions].

A clinico-pathological analysis of 390 cases demonstrated that the clinico-pathogenetical traits of acute cerebrovascular lesions in individuals of different age groups permitted to distinguish in the group of acute cerebral dyshemia 2 nosological variants: acute disorders of cerebral circulation in the young and acute disorders of cerebral circulation in the elderly. In the young age group there is a prevalence of hemorrhagic processes, in the elderly-- ischemic lesions. An aggravating factor influencing the outcome in the younger group is the development of secondary liquid and cerebral hemocirculatory disorders, while in the other group--early appearing somatic disturbances. The important pathophysiological links due to which there may be clinical differences in the studied 2 groups are different types of the cerebral vasomotor function and the reactivity of the sino-aortal reflexogenic system.


[Functional state of the kidneys in patients with acute cerebrovascular disorders].

A clinico-laboratorial study of the functional state of the kidneys in 54 patients with severe hemorrhagical and ischemic brain strokes established intensified glomerular filtration in a relatively preserved water excretional, concentrational, Na and K uretical kidney function. The detected azotemia is considered as a result of excessive production of residual blood over the increased function of the kidneys to their elimination. Classical acute kidney insufficiency developed in 3 patients with severe disturbances of hemocirculation.


[Tabular method of evaluation in the diagnosis of complicated brain infarct].

On the basis of a clinico-anatomical comparison in 70 cases of complicated infarctions and 77 observations of white infarctions the author elaborated computing tables. It was established that the following signs have certain diagnostic significance: the degree of changed consciousness, meningeal symptoms, symptoms indicating a secondary lesion of the brain stem and symptoms characterizing the degree of focal neurological disturbances. Among the supplementary methods of special significance is CSF analysis.


[Experience with mathematical analysis of regional arterial pressure in occupational pathology of the hypothalamus].

The authors performed a mathematical analysis of systemic and regional (temporal and retinal) arterial pressure in 193 patients with lesions of the hypothalamic are of professional etiology and in the control group of 280 individuals. There was dissociation between the figures of sytemic and cerebral arterial pressure a high degree of variability in the bronchial, temporal, retinal arteries. A correlation between the character of disturbances and clinical forms of pathology was established. Any connection between the indices of AD and the form of professional factor, service with noxious factors and duration of the disease was not found. The authors discuss questions of pathogenesis in the changes of arterial pressure and possible approaches in therapy.


[Difficulties and errors in the diagnosis of intracranial venous thromboses].

On the basis of a study of 192 cases with cerebral venous thrombosis (mainly thrombophlebites), including 135 verified cases, and analysis of literature data, the author indicate the character and causes of difficulties and errors in the diagnosis of such conditions. An objective ground for diagnostical difficulties is a significant polymorphism in the clinical picture. Diagnostical errors may also be due to insufficient knowledge of physicians of this form of pathology, a tendency to make "usual" clinical diagnoses. The paper contains a description of the clinical picture of cerebral venous thrombophlebitis with clinical examples promoting differential diagnosis.


[Visual disorders in circulatory disorders of the area served by the posterior cerebral artery].

A neuroophthalmological examination of 89 patients with disorders of circulation in the basin of the posterior cerebral arteries demonstrated different variants of changes in the visual field and a drop of visual acuity. The visual disturbances in most of the cases were stable, sometimes with positive dynamics and only in 15% of the cases they were transient. The traits of visual disturbances, their combination with other neurological changes (visual-gnostical, visual-spacial impairment of memory) were connected with lesions of separate vessels of the vertebro-basillar and carotid systems. With the aid of functional tests in some cases hardly perceptible, insignificant disturbances in the system of the visual analyzer, permitting to correctly evaluate the visual changes and to establish their relation to certain vascular bains, were revealed.


[Blood glycolipids of patients with cerebral circulatory disorders].

The paper is concerned with a study of the glycolipid content in the blood of 70 patients with acute disorders of brain circulation and in 14 patients with the initial signs of insufficiency of circulation. It was established that in the plasma and blood cells in patients with ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes the amount of gangliosides and cerebrosides were considerably higher than in normals (35 cases). In patients with transient disorders of brain circulation and initial signs of insufficiency of brain circulation the content of glycolipids is increased to a lesser degree. A conclusion has been made that there is a possible involvement of oligosaccharidceramides (mono- and asyalgangliosides, galactocerebrosides) in the occurrence of disorders in cerebral hemodynamics.


[Sulfur-containing substances in the urine and blood of patients with cerebral circulatory disorders].

In 138 patients (87 males and 51 females) with hypertensive disease (90 cases) and atherosclerosis (48 cases) the authors studied the content of sulfur and its fractions in the blood and the level of excretion with urine in disturbances of cerebral circulation. In hypertensive disease and cerebral atherosclerosis, complicated by disturbances of cerebral circulation, there were quantitative changes in the level of sulfur-containing substances both in the blood serum and urine. Disorders in the sulfur metabolism indicate a drop of the autotoxic function in the liver, quite possibly related to the influence of pathological changes proceeding in the central nervous system.


[Comparative study of stroke morbidity in Tartu (Estonian SSR) and in Espoo and Kauniainen (Finland)].

The incidence of strokes was studied in Tartu (Estonian SSR) during 1970-1973 and in Espoo-Kauniainen (Finland) during 1972-1973. The study involves only cases of first strokes. According to the standardized data (the population of Finland for 1970 was accepted as a standard) the incidence for strokes in Tartu was 160 cases per year. The incidence in Espoo-Kauniainen was higher mainly among females younger than 50 years due to more frequent subarachnoidal hemorrhages in Finland. In both cities the incidence was somewhat higher in males, rather than in females. Lethality during the first 3 months was higher in Tartu (51%), than in Espoo-Kaunianen (39%) due to an older population.


[Latent endogenous depressions. III. 4 components and 4 stages of latent enogenous depression].

The united somatopsychic structure of larvated depressions consists of asthenia, pathological sensations (cenesthopathy), vegeto-visceral and effective disorders due to a central disturbance of general sensibility. The development of the endo-thymopatical process is expressed in the following stages: 1) vital-asthenic; 2) cenesthopathic-dysthymic; 3) anxious-hypochondriac; 4) delusional-hypochondriac. The second and third stages are larvated depressions in the narrow sense of the word, since the pseudosomatical changes are the main disturbances.


[Decrease in the thrombocyte monoamine oxidase activity of schizophrenic patients].

The authors measured the monoaminoxidase activity in thrombocytes of 28 schizophrenic patients and in 36 normal donors. The monoamine oxidase activity in schizophrenic patients was decreased by 14% and in the subgroup of patients with continuous schizophrenia by 19.5% as compared to that of normals. The monoamine oxidase activity in schizophrenic female patients did not significantly differ from the norm, while the male patients differed highly significantly from the normal. The decrease of monoamine oxidase activity correlated with the level of negative disorders (r = 0,71; P less than 0,01). A correlation with positive disorders was not noted.


[So-called series of attacks in the course of schizophrenia (clinico-epidemiologic study)].

The author performed an overall study of schizophrenic patients with series of attacks, the amount of which was equal to 120 of the general population, living on the territory of 3 districts of Moscow. The study demonstrated the degree of prevalence of this contingent in the general population. Groups with a relatively favourable and severe development of the disease with serial attacks were distinguished. There was correlation between some clinical signs and favourable development of the disease, permitting to speak of a favourable prognosis in most cases of schizophrenia with serial attacks.


[Terminal states of schizophrenia in old age].

On the basis of a study of 217 patients with terminal schizophrenic states in old age the author found it possible to distinguish 2 forms of such conditions: psychotic and deficient. The psychotic forms were expressed in syndromological polymorphic psychoses, which most frequently reflected the form of the process development and which is senescence often enough undergone pathoplastical changes. The deficiency forms were presented by apathic dementia, while the connection with the previous form of development was lost. In many cases in old age there was worsening of the states with a senile-like change of the clinical picture.


[Alcoholic psychoses in patients with sluggish schizophrenia].

Among the 36 patients with sluggish schizophrenia in combination with alcoholism there were 6 cases of psychoses appearing against the background of chronic alcoholic intoxication. On the basis of the clinical picture the conclusion is made that the atypicity of clinical signs depends upon the double influence of alcohol on the endogenous process. The described psychoses, in the opinion of the author, are of transient nature changing the development of sluggish schizophrenia under the influence of alcoholism.


[Incidence and several features of chronic alcoholic patient detection].

The paper deals with epidemiological data, concerning the indices and dynamics in the prevalence and incidence of chronic alcoholism and alcoholic psychoses in different contingents of an urban population. The population amounted to approximately 500 000 and was studied during a period of 5 years. The authors note a positive influence of legislative measures, directed against alcoholism and the influence of some social factors (the existence of a family, profession, etc.), on the fullness of the patients detection out of the population. The report contains data on the effectiveness of various approaches in screening patients from different population contingents.


[Mental disorders in chronic alcoholic patients with severe cranio-cerebral injury].

The influence of acute brain trauma on the one hand and chronic alcoholism on the other, traced in 119 patients, leads to an appearance of special forms of psychopathological syndromes, which may occur in certain periods in the development of the disease. The developing state named as "acute traumatical psychosis" may be assessed as an alcohol delirium. Eventually the alcoholic pathoplastics continues to exert an influence on the posttraumatic mental disorders. That is why the tactics of therapeutical-rehabilitative measures are determine by this condition and are directed towards their abolishment.


[Sanatorium-rehabilitation department--new organizational form of department for rehabilitation therapy of mental patients].

The author describes his personal experience in the joint treatment of patients with chronic forms of schizophrenia and patients who were registered in neuropsychiatric dispensaries (for endogenous psychoses in the past, organic brain lesions of a different etiology, etc) in one department and referred during the phase of an unstable remission for the so-called sanatorial treatment. The author comes to the conclusion that departments organized according to this new principle have a possibility of creating an effective system of rehabilitative therapy for mental patients and considers it feasible to organize in mental hospitals sanatorium-rehabilitative departments.


[Analysis of the quaternary structure of the 11S plant globulins by means of small-angle X-ray scattering].

It is demonstrated by means of small-angle X-ray scattering that 11 S globulin of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) consists of six subunits. The point group symmetry of the quaternary structure is 23 (D3). It is postulated that this symmetry is typical for the group of 11 S seed proteins.


Transcriptional capacity of rat liver nuclei and of isolated chromatin at different ammonium sulphate concentrations.

The transcription of freshly prepared nuclei and lysates from rat liver is stimulated by exogenous RNA polymerase B from calf thymus to an insignificant extent only. This also holds for chromatin isolated from nuclei lysates by separation on a Sepharose 4 B column. After removal of histone H1 by pretreatment with 0.2 M ammonium sulphate no further stimulation by added RNA polymerase has been found. If, however, the incubation time was extended, or the nuclei had been kept frozen at -20 degrees C for some time before use, a significant increase in RNA synthesis by the added RNA polymerase was obtained. In the freshly prepared nuclei as well as in the undamaged chromatin the template capacity was highly restricted. This can be seen from the fact that after pretreatment of the chromatin with 0.4 M ammonium sulphate the RNA synthesis was stimulated about 13fold.


[Separation of bone marrow cells of normal and anemic rabbits using isopycnic dextran density gradient].

Bone-marrow cells of normal and anemic (phenylhydrazine) rabbits were separated in the isopyknotic continuous 50-ml dextran density gradient. The separated cells were divided into 3 groups according the benzidine-peroxide-Giemsa staining after Brosook: nucleated, nonerythroid (A), nucleated, erythroid (B), and nonnucleated, erythroid (C). The highest proportion of erythroid, nucleated cells was found in fractions of medium density: in normal animals 20%, in anemic ones 45%. The group B/A ratio in the unseparated suspension is 0.7 in normal animals and 1.7 in anemic ones; and in the most favourable density fraction 0.3 and 1.9 respectively. Thus an unimportant accumulation of erythroid bone-marrow cells of rabbit is observed. In constrast, an accumulation of nucleated leukocytes of 80--90% can be reached in the low-density fractions.


Incorporation of [14C]-L-leucine in splenic and hepatic tissue of rats "chemically splenectomized" by ethyl palmitate.

In experiments with "chemically splenectomized" rats by an i.v. application of ethyl palmitate (EP) emulsion and using [14C]-L-leucine, the protein synthesis in spleen and liver was followed. Two hours following EP application protein synthesis in the spleen was significantly decreased; after 24 hrs and 4 days the incorporation increased moderately above normal values, and in the subsequent intervals protein synthesis was again lowered. In the liver a significant increase of protein synthesis 24 hrs and 4 days after EP injection was observed. Changes of proteins synthesis in the spleen are evidently related to damage of the tissue and its subsequent regeneration. Changes in the liver are manifestations rather of an increased metabolic load during EP degradation.


[Effect of phenobarbital and chlorpromazine on bile flow and bile acid excretion in male Wistar rats].

Bile flow and excretion of monohydroxy-, dihydroxy- and trihydroxy-bile acids (MBA, DBA and TBA) were estimated after acute and subacute phenobarbital and chlorpromazine pretreatment in 60-day-old male Wistar rats. Bile was collected in bile-fistula rats in three 1-hour periods. MBA were not detected. Neither single nor repeated ip. administration of different amounts of saline before bile sampling nor oral water supply within the bile collection period influenced the bile flow and excretion of DBA and TBA. Phenobarbital administration (60 mg/kg b.w. ip.) 2 hrs before bile sampling did not influence bile flow and bile acid (BA) excretion. After 3 days pretreatment with phenobarbital (3 X 60 mg/kg b.w. ip.) the bile flow was somewhat increased, BA-excretion was unchanged and the relation TBA/DBA diminished. Chlorpromazine administration (40 mg/kg b.w. ip.) 1,5 hrs before bile sampling decreased bile flow and BA excretion within the first collection period, whereas bile flow and BA excretion increased in the thrid collection period. No signs of cholestasis were observed after chlorpromazine pretreatment once a day for 3 days. Bile flow and BA excretion were increased and the relation TBA/DBA was unchanged.


Influence of Mg2+-ions on the properties of rat heart mitochondria in dependence on the preparation.

1. The preparation of rat heart mitochondria with Potter-Elvehjem homogenizer results in mitochondria showing stimualtion of respiration induced by Mg2+. This stimualtion is neither caused by adherent hexokinase nor by energy-dependent magnesium accumulation (Mg2+ content in the presence of 10 mM glutamate: 22 nmoles/mg protein; in the presence of glutamate plus antimycin A 21 nmoles/mg protein). 2. The effect of added magnesium is excluded by addition of carboxyatractyloside. This demonstrates the activity of an ATPase outside of the mitochondrial inner membrane. 3. A simple and rapid method for the preparation of Mg2+-insensitive rat heart mitochondria is presented. The minced heart is pressed through a normal syringe and then treated with trypsin. 4. A comparison of mitochondria of both preparations shows that there is no difference in magnesium content and no energy-dependent magnesium influx.


[Importance of binding of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate and ATP to hemoglobin for erythrocyte glycolysis: activation by 2,3-diphosphoglycerate of hexokinase at intracellular conditions].

In a theoretical study the influence of hemoglobin and Mg-ions as binding partners of red cell 2,3-diphosphoglycerate and ATP was investigated. Free hemoglobin may be an efficient competitor of Mg2+ for the ligand ATP. At conditions which favour hemoglobin as binding partner (i.e. desoxygenation, low medium pH and incubation temperature, as in blood preservation) up to 95% of the whole cellular ATP (ca. 2mM in cell water) may be bound to hemoglobin (ca. 7 mM). This binding is largely prevented in the presence of physiological amounts of diphosphoglycerate (ca. 7 mM) which is in excess and has a higher binding affinity to hemoglobin. Therefore, diphosphoglycerate keeps ATP (MgATP) in cell water solution at conditions in which Hb would trop it in the presence of Mg2+ (ca. 3mM). It can be calculated that, by lack of free MgATP, the activity of hexokinase within the cell drops by a factor of greater than 10 when diphosphoglycerate is metabolized. This indirect activation by diphosphoglycerate of hexokinase is operative at free concentrations of DPG far below those which exert the well known excess inhibitory effect on hexokinase and phosphofructokinase. In a model study, the activation by diphosphoglycerate of the initial two-kinase stage was introduced into a simplified kinetic model of glycolysis. A pronounced hysteresis loop of the stationary concentrations of ATP and diphosphoglycerate was produced indicating the existence of several stationary states, one with high ATP and high diphosphoglycerate, the other one with low values. It is demonstrated that diphosphoglycerate, being a protector of glycolysis at physiological concentrations, triggers an autocatalytic breakdown of the energy state when permitted to drop to low values.


[Induction of mitochondrial volume changes by homologous O-acyl carnitines].

The volume changes of isolated rat liver mitochondria induced by O-acylcarnitines are dependent on the optical isomery and the length of the apolar hydrogen chain in the acyl residue. Within the homologous series of the straight-chain O-acyl carnitines the swelling-inducing effect increases from decanoyl carnitine to the palmitoyl carnitine. The contraction is observed only under the effect of O-acylL(--)carnitines, while isomers add up in their swelling-inducing effect. The surface activity of the O-acyl carnitines increases with increasing chain length, and the critical micellar concentration decreases logarithmically. The comparison of the tenside properties with the swelling- and contraction-inducing effects shows that the swelling is brought about by hydrophobic interactions with the membranes, while the contraction is the consequence of energy-dependent metabolic processes which are connected with the influx of acyl carnitines and the efflux of the ions from the mitochondria.


Mathematical model of regulation of oxidative phosphorylation in intact mitochondria.

1. A mathematical model of the regulation of mitochondrial ATP synthesis by the extramitochondrial ATP/ADP ratio is presented taking into account the transport processes of phosphate and of adenine nucleotides by their specific translocators. 2. In agreement with known experimental data the model describes the control of respiration by the extramitochondrial ATP/ADP ratio as well as the distribution of adenine nucleotides and of inorganic phosphate between the extramitochondrial and the intramitochondrial compartment. 3. In the extramitochondrial compartment the phosphorylation potential is predicted by the model to be higher than in the matrix space. 4. Despite the differences in the phosphorylation potentials no particular translocation energy is necessary. This has been achieved by postulating a charge compensation between the movement of adenine nucleotides and the uptake of phosphate during ATP synthesis. 5. The proton stoichiometry of the proton pump must be higher than stated by the chemiosmotic coupling hypothesis in its present form, otherwise sufficient results could not be obtained. 6. With increasing activities of non-phosphorylating energy requiring side reactions (as uncoupling) at first the difference of the respiration rates between the phosphorylating and the non-phosphorylating state disappears, at higher activities the ADP phosphorylation stops, but the membrane potential collapses at very high activities only.


[Synthesis and properties of immobilized enzymes. X. Covalent binding of polygalacturonase to insoluble carriers].

The pectinolytic enzymes are of practical interest for the clarification of fruit juice. In the present paper the covalent coupling of polygalacturonase (PG; E. C. 3.2.1.15) is reported. A commercially available enzyme (Rohament P; 5 U/mg) and purified Endo-PG (200 U/mg) are immobilized to the following carriers: BrCN-activated Sepharose, carbodiimide-activated CH-Sepharose, dialdehyde Sepharose, dialdehyde Sephadex, dialdehyde cellulose, CMC-azide, carbodiimide-activated CMC, macroporous glass (isothiocyanate and carbodiimide coupling) and glass beads. The implications of pore diameter (Sephadex- and Sepharose derivatives), of purity of the PG, of protein content of the PG-carrier-complexes as well as the presence of substrate during the coupling reaction, are discused in relation to the relative and specific activity of the bound protein and to the efficiency of the coupling reaction. From the carriers under study derivatives of Sepharose yield the best result (relative activity max. 88%, specific activity max. 5400 U/mg). The immobilization to isothiocyanate glass yields good results, too (relative activity 20%, specific activity 500 U/g). The mechanical instability of the PG-dialdehye Sephadex-complexes and the low relative activity of the bound enzyme are unsatisfactory. Due to their low affinity to PG, the derivatives of cellulose are also inappropriate for covalent coupling of this enzyme. All PG-carrier-complexes are largely stable both during storage at 4 degrees C and repeated activity assays.


[Cytochrome composition of Acinetobacter calcoaceticus].

The qualitative and quantitative composition of cytochromes in intact cells of Acinetobacter calcoaceticus and in particle fractions obtained from cells following ultrasonic treatment by differential centrifugation were studied using spectrophotometric methods. Acinetobacter calcoaceticus contains cytochrome b, cytochrome o and low amounts of cytochrome d. Both the absolute content of cytochrome b and o and the relative composition do not essentially vary with the carbon source used (hexadecane, acetate, succinate, malate, yeast extract). Only bacterial cultivated on yeast extract show, under simultaneous decrease of the content of cytochrome o, an increased formation of cytochrome d. In Acinetobacter, cytochromes appear not to be immediately involved in n-alkane hydroxylation.


[Distribution of 5'-nucleotidase in fractions of rat yolk-sac after differential centrifugation and isopycnic sucrose gradient centrifugation].

The 5'-nucleotidase considered as a marker enzyme of the plasma membranes shows a highly specific acitvity in both nuclear and mitochondrial-lysosomal fractions of the rat yolk-sac. In isopycnic sucrose gradient fractionation of the mitchondrial-lysosomal fraction a relative accumulation of this enzyme could be shown in the density level of the phagolysosomes (d = 1,16--1,20).


Quantitative evaluation of the fetal fatty acid oxidation in the rat.

The fetal fatty acid oxidation has been measured by [14C]-palmitate in vitro oxidation experiments. The fetal fatty acid oxidation was determined to be 0.12 +/- 0.03 mumoles fatty acids/min/litter. The conclusion can be drawn that approximately equal amounts of fetal fatty acids are synthesized, oxidized and transferred from the mother to the fetus.


Studies on the fatty acid synthesis in maternal and fetal rats.

The fatty acid synthesis as measured by in vitro incorporation of 1-[14C]-acetate and 3H2O into maternal and fetal tissues of the rat has been quantitatively determined. The results showed that because of the endogenous dilution the incorporation of [14C]-acetate does not provide a quantitative measure of fatty acid synthesis. The incorporation of tritium per g of tissue into the fatty acid fraction of maternal and fetal liver (day 21 of pregnancy) was found to be 260 and 130 nmoles per g per min, respectively. The incorporation was lesser in liver of female non-pregnant rats (31 nmoles per g per min) and placenta (4.0 nmoles per g per min). The calculated rates of synthesis of fatty acids were used to support the following views: At the end of gestation about 25% of all fatty acids synthesized within the fetus arise from fetal liver. From day 15 to 21 of pregnancy the fetal fatty acid synthesis supplies about half of the amount of fatty acids which are accumulated due to growth.


Quantitative evaluation of the fetal fatty acid synthesis in the rat.

The fetal fatty acid synthesis has been evaluated by 3H2O in vivo incorporation experiments. The results indicate that the fetus synthesizes 0,16 mumoles fatty acids/min/litter. From the results the conclusion can be drawn that the fetus gets fatty acids from the mother and from its own fetal fatty acid synthesis at equal amounts.


Studies on the paraplacental free fatty acid transport in rats.

Using the tracer method and a mathematical model the paraplacental transport of free fatty acids (FFA) (via uterine fluid--yolk sac--fetus) has been investigated in 21 days pregnant rats. The results show that only 0.3 nmoles FFA per min pass into the fetus via this paraplacental route. This accounts for less than 1% of FFA transported from the maternal plasma across the placenta into the fetus (0.14 mumoles FFA per min). From these results we would like to draw the conclusion that the paraplacental transport of FFA to the rat fetus is of minor importance from the quantitative point of view.


[Tracer kinetic studies on maternal-fetal amino acid transport in Wistar rats].

The experiments were designed to determine the amount of free amino acids which passes through the placenta from the maternal pool in plasma to the fetus. On day 19 of gestation we determined the growth rate of the rat fetus to be about 39 microgram amino nitrogen/minute/litter. Uniformly labelled [14 C]-L-leucine was used in our experiments. The specific radioactivity was measured in the maternal plasma amino acids and in fetal amino acids and proteins from zero to sixty minutes after pulse labelling. By means of compartmental analysis we calculated the transfer rate of amino nitrogen from the mother to the fetus to be 89 microgram/min/litter. The rate of amino nitrogen acccumulation in fetal carcass proteins was 39 microgram amino nitrogen/min/litter. The importance of our results in fetal metabolism is discussed.


Studies on the hypertriglyceridemia in the pregnant rat.

The in vivo tracer method and in vitro incorporation experiments were used to obtain information on the mechanism responsible for the hypertriglyceridemia found in 21 days pregnant rats. The results indicate that the uptake of plasma free fatty acids (FFA) by liver triglycerides of pregnant rats (2.0 mumoles FFA/min/300 g) did not differ from that of non-pregnant rats (2,1 mumoles FFA/min/300 g). The rate of liver fatty acid synthesis in pregnant rats (0,4 mumoles fatty acids/min/liver) is higher than that of non-pregnant rats (0,05 mumoles fatty acids/min/liver). In non-pregnant female and pregnant rats the turnover rates of plasma chylomicron and VLDL triglycerides were almost identical (about 2.8 mumoles triglyceride fatty acids/min/300 g, and about 2.3 mumoles triglyceride fatty acids/min/300 g, respectively). These various observations, when taken together, strongly suggest that increased hepatic triglyceride production cannot be the mechanism responsible for the hypertriglyceridemia in pregnant rats.


[Comparison of evoked potential changes from lateral geniculate body and visual cortex by stimulation of the medial septal nucleus and mesencephalic reticular formation in rabbits].

Evoked potentials to flash from visual cortex (VC) and corpus geniculatum laterale (Cgl) were observed in alert resting rabbits. The direction and volume of changes in the late negative complex (sn-) of the EP were investigated during repetition of light flashes only (habituation), during stimulation of septum and reticular stimulation (RFmes). Habituation showed an increase of amplitudes during the sn-complex, which was started first in Cgl, had its maximum earlier and lasted longer in the Cgl than in the visual cortex. Septal stimulation in the majority of experiments caused diminution of these EP-components almost synchronously in the VC and Cgl. Reticular stimulation gave rise to diminution of amplitudes during the sn-complex, which started first in the VC, where it had its maximum earlier and lasted longer than in the Cgl too. Our results show that all three influences under investigation caused typical but different changes of processes underlying EP of the visual cortex and lateral geniculate body.