A re-evaluation of the slide flocculation test for the diagnosis of schistosomiasis with adult worms as antigen.

The present study was conducted to determine whether extracts from adult Schistosoma mansoni could be coated onto cholesterol-lecithin crystals. Of particular interest was the use of stunted schistosomes (SS) recovered from rabbits. The reactions obtained with this antigen in this slide flocculation (SF) test were compared with those employing antigens from cercariae and mature adult worms. The stunted schistosome SF test (SFSS) showed a high sensitivity and specificity while cercarial antigen showed extensive cross reaction with Trichinella spiralis, Ascaris lumbricoides, and Echinococcus granulosus antisera. Both SS and cercarial antigens reacted with syphilitic sera, but the former only with high titer sera. The antigen from mature adult worms could not be coated onto cholesterol crystals, a finding which is in agreement with previous investigations. The relative simplicity of the SFSS test and its apparent high sensitivity and specificity indicates that the test may be an ideal epidemiological tool for schistosomiasis surveys. The results obtained should encourage additional study of the procedure involved and investigation into the role of lipids in flocculation tests. In addition, the findings should stimulate immunological studies of the stunted schistosomes.


Surgical treatment of facial nerve involvement caused by leprosy.

Complete and partial nerve paralysis can result from leprosy. The latter is more prevalent and results in lagophthalmos and corneal hypoesthesia. The former is characterized by loss of facial expression, deviation of the face to the nonparalyzed side, difficulty in chewing, and drooling, in addition to lagophthalmos and corneal hypoesthesia. Affected patients are at risk to develop blindness, as well as suffering social and economic deprivation because of the effects of facial nerve paralysis. Prevention of blindness and amelioration of the latter were successfully achieved by muscle transfer procedures, temporalis transfer to the eyelid, and masseter transfer to the mouth and nasolabial fold in small, minimally equipped hospitals in Africa.


Panamanian forest mammals as carriers of Salmonella.

Enteric bacteria pathogenic to man were sought in a total of 974 forest mammals collected from a variety of sites in rural and jungle areas of Panamá. The highest incidence of infection among the mammals was observed during the Panamanian dry season, which normally extends from January through April. A minimum of 10 Salmonella serotypes including, three of the Arizona group and Ewardsiella tarda, was isolated. Opossums of the genera Philander, 11 of 54 (20.1%), and Didelphis, 12 of 102 (11.8%) demonstrated high infection rates. One sloth of the genus Choloepus and specimens of two genera of rodents also were infected to varying degrees: 1(11.1%) of 9 Choloepus, 8 (1.1%) of 704 Proechimys and 1 (16.7%) of 6 Diplomys.


Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus: comparison of infectivity and virulence of strains V-38 and P676 in donkeys.

Two strains of Venezuelan equine encephalitis (VEE) virus were examined for the ability to replicate in, as well as to produce death among donkeys. One, a low passage strain known as strain P676 was originally isolated from mosquitos in Venezuela. The other, strain V-38 was isolated from a horse brain in 1938 and had undergone an unknown number of laboratory passages; it is used extensively for the preparation of inactivated VEE vaccine. Both strains were found to be approximately equal in their ability to infect donkeys. However, a quantity as small as 50% hamster intraperitoneal infectious units of strain V-38 resulted in fatal infection. On the other hand, as much as 631 million infectious units of strain P676 were nonfatal in one of two donkeys. It appears that strain V-38 is approximately 100 million times more virulent than strain P676 in equine species. One donkey which received strain P676 demonstrated a biphasic pattern of clinical illness and viremia, and there is suggestive evidence that another animal experienced a second and fatal clinical response 3 weeks after virus inoculation.


Isolation of a spotted fever group rickettsia from the Pacific Coast tick, Ixodes pacificus, in Oregon.

A rickettsia of the spotted fever group was isolated on three occasions from Ixodes pacificus in western Oregon. These isolations, and additional evidence furnished by complement fixation tests on guinea pigs inoculated with other Oregon ticks of this species, indicate that the association of this rickettsia with the Pacific Coast tick may be widespread. This is the first isolation of a spotted fever group rickettsia from I. pacificus. Because the Oregon isolates are mildly virulent for guinea pigs they resemble the Western U and Rickettsia montana strains of rickettsiae. However, preliminary evidence from cross-immunofluorescence tests of mouse antisera suggests the Tillamook and Grants Pass strains are antigenically different from all known spotted fever group agents.


South American blastomycosis of the ureter.

A case of disseminated South American blastomycosis with unilateral involvement of the ureter and hydronephrosis is described; it is the third such case to be reported.


Protective effect of allopurinol in renal ischemia.

We have confirmed earlier findings that treatment with allopurinol offers some protection to the kidney from ischemic damage caused by total interruption of renal circulation. With this evidence, a clinical trial is warranted, particularly when periods of warm ischemia are unavoidable.


Abdominal aortic aneurysm wiring: an alternative method.

Intraluminal wire reinforcement of symptomatic aortic aneurysms in extremely poor risk patients was performed. Hospital mortality was 12.5% with actuarial survival of 74 and 33% at one and five years, respectively. There was improved survival and decreased incidence of rupture compared with untreated patients. Thus, aneurysm wiring is a feasible alternative in treating poor risk patients with extensive aortic disease.


Pulmonary tuberculosis after gastric resection.

Reviewing the charts of tuberculosis patients during a span of seventeen years, we found a large number of gastrectomized patients. In our general hospital population, the incidence of tuberculosis was 3.2%. Among the gastrectomized patients, the percentage of tuberculosis was 6.3%. Of our tuberculosis patients 1.9% had gastrectomy, whereas of our general population 0.67% had gastrectomy. We were unable to arrive at any definite conclusions regarding the causative relationship between gastrectomy and tuberculosis. It is a retrospective study with all the fallacies, but the data does show an extremely significant difference between the incidence of gastrectomy in the general hospital population and the incidence of gastrectomy in histories of patients admitted with tuberculosis. It appears that a patient having gastrectomy runs a considerably greater risk of having tuberculosis in later life than a patient admitted for other reasons. Clinically, we were impressed with the widespread character of the disease in association with the poor nutritional status in the majority of the patients. We, therefore, could not avoid associating the loss of stomach substance with its nutritional function and the development of tuberculosis. As a consequence, we recommend a purified protein derivative test for all pateints undergoing gastric surgery. If the test proves to be positive, it is suggested the patient be given a course of isoniazid for one year. In the face of negative purified protein derivative test, we repeat the test at six month intervals. Should a conversion of the purified protein derivative occur, the patient is started on the course of isoniazid therapy. Our current belief is that more conservative methods of gastric surgery, that is, pyloroplasty, vagotomy, or antrectomy, should be substituted for gastrectomy in the treatment of duodenal ulcer disease to preserve a more normal gastric physiologic structure.


1,000 cholecystectomies, extraductal palpation, and operative cholangiography.

Operative cholangiography and extraductal palpation are both accurate means of demonstrating common duct stones. When used in combination, accuracy was 94.4%. Routine extraductal palpation and selective cholangiography will prevent excessive and fruitless common duct exploration.


Selective celiac angiography and surgical exploration for suspected liver cancer. A comparative study of 196 patients.

In 196 patients subjected to celiac angiography and exploratory laparotomy for suspected liver tumor, 81% of the tumors were diagnosed by angiography, 26% of patients had false-negative angiograms, and 16% had false-positive angiograms. Diangosis on laparotomy proved correct except in one patient. Of 22 patients with liver tumors not diagnosed on angiography, 10 could be specifically treated and 3 of them have survived more than one year. This gain is discussed in relation to the rather high number of unnecessary laparotomies.


Spontaneous biliary-enteric fistulas; some considerations on the management of gallstones.

During the past ten years a diagnosis of biliary-enteric fistula was made in thirty-five patients. Six were entirely asymptomatic and another seven patients had suffered only mild symptoms for a short period of time. This indicates that the gallbladder can undergo recurrent episodes of inflammation to the point of fistula formation, with little or no clinical signs of symptoms. An aggressive surgical approach is therefore warranted in patients with cholelithiasis, even when silent stones are involved.


Pancreatitis after cardiac surgery; a morphologic study.

Acute pancreatitis is a well known occurrence after upper gastrointestinal and biliary tract surgery when local trauma plays a major role in the pathogenesis of this complication. The incidence of pancreatitis after surgical procedures during which local trauma to the pancreas does not occur is extremely low (less than 0.1%). In the present study the incidence of unexplained pancreatitis in 182 patients who died after cardiac surgery was 16%. The role of ischemia in the pathogenesis of pancreatitis in this setting is evaluated.


Esophageal dilatation using the Eder Puestow dilators.

We have performed fifty-one dilatations in twenty-six patients using an end-viewing fiberoptic endoscope and Eder Puestow dilators. All (except two) were performed using intravenous diazepam, the majority on an outpatient basis. The only complication has been a single case of aspiration pneumonia. We have found this method of esophageal dilatation particularly useful in the preoperative dilatation of benign strictures, and in those elderly frail patients who are unsuitable for surgery. Transthoracic resection of the stricture is avoided and thus transabdominal repair of the hiatus hernia may be undertaken.


Aspiration pneumonia; incidence of aspiration with endotracheal tubes.

Aspiration has been suggested as a source of pulmonary complications seen in patients with tracheal intubation. A previous study demonstrated that the high incidence of aspiration in patients with tracheostomies can be decreased by modification of the tracheostomy tube cuff design. In the present protocol, 100 patients with endotracheal tubes in place were studied to document the incidence of aspiration and to attempt to decrease the incidence by modification of cuff design. Utilizing an Evans blue dye test to detect aspiration, 27 of the 48 patients (56%) with standard low volume, high pressure cuffed tubes had positive tests. In 17 patients with modified standard cuffed tubes, the incidence of aspiration was decreased to 29% (5 patients). Aspiration was further decreased to 20% (7 patients) in the 35 patients with high volume, low pressure cuffed tubes. These results demonstrate that the incidence of aspiration in patients with endotracheal tubes can be decreased by modification of endotracheal tube cuff design.


A primary axillary approach for the radical mastectomy operation.

A retrograde method for mastectomy that performs the axillary dissection first is described, and experience with eighty-six cases of infiltrating carcinomas of the breast treated in that manner is presented. The method has reduced the number of standard radical procedures by more than half, and a decrease in operative bleeding was noted.


Factors increasing the probability of malignancy in thyroid nodules.

A series of 348 patients undergoing operative intervention because of thyroid masses is reviewed. The incidence of primary malignancy among these patients is 16.4%. Male sex and the presence of cervical adenopathy significantly increase the probability of malignancy. The presence of multiple nodules or a functional nodule on radioiodine thyroid scan significantly reduces the probability of cancer. A rational approach to thyroid nodules is presented based on these findings and new modalities that have become available.


Post-thrombotic leg ulcer and its surgical treatment.

The post-thrombotic syndrome is a complex disease to whose development at least three factors contribute: (1) incompetence of the venous valvular system; (2) opening of the local arteriovenous shunts; and (3) disturbances in the lymphatic system. Our surgical treatment considers all three factors by providing: (1) stripping of the saphenous veins; (2) wide excision of the ulcerated region with the fascia, followed by immediate skin graft; and (3) large excision of subcutaneous tissue and fascia. Of fifty-one patients with chronic post-thrombic leg ulcers operated on according to these principles, only one had recurrence, a recurrence rate of only 0.5%. This compares favorably with other published results.


Central nervous system control of pulmonary vascular resistance; effect of anesthesia after unilateral denervation.

Seven beagles were subjected to left pulmonary denervation (autotransplantation) and allowed one to two months for complete recovery. The relative resistances of each dog's pair of lungs were determined by the distribution of 99mTc microspheres delivered intravenously while the subject was awake and then under barbiturate anesthesia. In each case, relative blood flow to the right lung increased at the expense of flow to the left. This is interpreted as a direct decrease in pulmonary vascular resistance on the right under the effects of anesthesia. The implications of such central nervous system control of pulmonary vascular resistance was discussed in relation to the pathophysiology of the respiratory distress syndrome.


Normoblastemia after thermal injury.

The peripheral blood smears of 214 thermally injured patients studied during a thirty month period revealed a 20% incidence of normoblastemia (51 patients). Nucleated red blood cells were most common in patients with the largest burns. The absolute number of normoblasts was not related to the hematocrit and was not correlated with other determinants of erythropoietic function.


A review of Spigelian hernias.

Although spigelian hernias are rare, they do not appear to be as uncommon as previously thought. Thirty-one cases, one a bilateral hernia, have been documented over the last ten years at a 350 bed community hospital. Spigelian hernias continue to be misdiagnosed preoperatively, often forgotten in the differential diagnosis, as physical examination is usually of little benefit. In this review younger individuals were more commonly affected than previously expected. Treatment continues to be surgical repair.


Congenital posterolateral diaphragmatic hernia past infancy.

Twenty-seven cases of congenital posterolateral diaphragmatic hernia past infancy are reviewed in tabular form and discussed as to presenting symptoms, physical and radiographic findings, operative treatment, and final outcome. A ten year old male treated by us is presented as a detailed case report. A great contrast is noted between the acute respiratory symptoms which threaten life in the infant hernia compared with the more chronic and recurrent gastrointestinal and respiratory symptoms in pateints past infancy. Onset of symptoms did not correlate with age or sex. Chest x-ray films and gastrointestinal contrast studies were most helpful in diagnosis. Abdominal and thoracic approaches were equally effective in reducing the herniated viscera and closing the diaphragmatic defect. We believe that long-term survival of patients with congenital posterolateral diaphragmatic hernia may be due to persistence of a confining pleuroperitoneal sac. Rupture of this sac in later life may coincide with onset of the characteristic symptoms which in turn prompt diagnostic studies. Congenital diaphragmatic hernia must be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients with both recurrent gastrointestinal and respiratory complaints. Plain radiographs of the chest and contrast studies of the gastrointestinal tract are necessary to confirm diagnosis preoperatively.


Surgical significance of extrahepatic biliary tree anomalies.

A patient with an anomalous insertion of the right hepatic duct into the cystic duct was noted during cholecystectomy and confirmed by operative cholangiography. This case and related anomalies of the bile ducts are of sufficient importance that, because of the technical difficulties and dangers incidental to their presence, no surgeon who operates on the gallbladder and bile ducts can afford to be unaware of their existence. Adequate exposure, careful dissection, and accurate knowledge of the regional anatomy plus a realization of the frequency and multiplicity of abnormalities of the extrahepatic biliary tree are requisites for safe biliary tract surgery. In addition, carefully performed operative cholangiography can be an indispensable aid in the clarification of anatomic variations. In case of recognized operative injury to the extrahepatic biliary tree, primary repair or biliary-intestinal anastomosis can usually be carried out with good results.


Adult intussusception; case report of recurrent intussusception and review of the literature.

An unusual case of lymphoma is presented in which small bowel intussusception due to a lymphomatous nodule caused an acute abdomen, requiring small bowel resection. Four weeks later a second intussusception caused intestinal obstruction, necessitating a second laparotomy and bowel resection. The high incidence of malignant tumor in adult cases leads us to recommend primary resection without manual reduction in all but rectosigmoid and selected small bowel cases.


Simplified revascularization of the celiac and superior mesenteric arteries.

A fifty-six year old female is presented with significant stenosis of both the celiac and superior mesenteric arteries at their origin. A simplified method of revascularizing both vessels utilizing a single length of saphenous vein with two anastomoses is described. Also, the rationale for revascularizing all significantly involved vessels is discussed.


Emergency tracheostomy.

On rare occasions, emergency tracheostomy is indicated to establish an airway. Using a large bore needle as a guide, tracheal intubation is assured with minimal damage to vital structures in the neck.


Facilitation of exchange transfusions with Scribner shunts in Reye's syndrome.

Scribner shunts were placed in nine patients, who had clinical and laboratory evidence of Reye's syndrome and ranged in age from four to fifteen years, to facilitate repeated, rapid exchanges of large volumes of blood. A method of inserting the Scribner shunt is described. Over a period of 30 to 90 minutes, 3 to 8 units of blood were easily exchanged without hemodynamic or mechanical difficulties. There were no infections; all shunts were removed from survivors after four to eight days without permanent sequelae.


Temperature control apparatus for thermodilution cardiac output syringes.

A portable means of temperature control for thermodilution injectate syringes is described. This approach is relatively simple to produce and maintains constant satisfactory temperature in the injectate.


Morbidity following dental extraction. A comparative survey of local analgesia and general anaesthesia.

A survey of morbidity following dental extraction has been carried out. No great differences were found between the morbidity experienced by those patients who had a general anaesthetic and those who had local analgesia. Comparison with the results of a survey conducted by other workers in 1961 shows that modern anaesthetic techniques have virtually eliminated cyanosis and that absenteeism following extractions has increased.


Day stay anaesthesia. A follow-up of day patients undergoing dental operations under general anaesthesia with tracheal intubation.

Ninety-five patients who had undergone extensive dental surgery as day-patients were followed-up by questionnaire. An unexpectedly high incidence of after-effects was found; 78% of the patients went home with at least one persistent symptom due to the anaesthetic. A particularly high incidence of headache was found. There appeared to be no correlation of the symptoms with age, sex or nature or duration of the operation.


General anaesthesia for the mentally handicapped. A study based on anaesthesia for dental surgery.

The establishment of a general anaesthetic unit for dental surgery in a hospital for the mentally subnormal is described. The problems encountered in sedating the mentally handicapped patient in such a way as to permit an unhindered induction of anaesthesia are described together with the evolution of a technique of premedication using nitrazepam and droperidol. The medical problems complicating anaesthesia found in this group of patients are enumerated and their effects on the development of a suitable anaesthetic technique are described.


Cardiovascular effects of Althesin. Changes in systolic time intervals and peripheral tissue blood flow.

Systolic time intervals were studied and peripheral blood flow measurements made in twelve healthy patients before and after intravenous induction of anaesthesia with Althesin 0.05 ml per kg. The changes in systolic time intervals observed were considered to reflect the cardio-depressive properties of the drug. The reduction in peripheral blood flow which occurs in Althesin anaesthesia was confirmed. Measurement of systolic time intervals and peripheral blood flow constitute a simple and sensitive method for the evaluation of the effects of drugs on the cardiovascular system.


Anticholinergic actions of steroid muscle relaxants.

The chronotropic effects of two new steroid muscle relaxants have been investigated. Each was compared individually with pancuronium bromide, using acetylcholine as an agonist on the isolated perfused rabbit heart. One of the drugs. Organon 6368, was very similar to pancuronium in its degree of antagonism to the bradycardia produced by acetylcholine and may therefore be a useful drug clinically. Dacuronium, on the other hand, would appear to have marked chronotropic effects at dose levels needed for adequate neuromuscular blockade and thus may be less useful.


Carcinoid syndrome: its relevance to the anaesthetist.

This paper presents the pathology, pharmacophysiology and therapy of the carcinoid syndrome. Forty reports from the literature are reviewed and the anaesthetic management of the patients is discussed. The carcinoid syndrome is a rare multihumoral endocrine disease. Secretions may be stimulated by certain anaesthetic and surgical manoeuvres and produce undesirable, and occasionally fatal, cardiovascular and respiratory complications. A radical surgical approach to the disease is current. Anaesthetists may therefore be involved in the management of these patients more frequently than before. The implication of both serotonin and bradykinin in the pharmacophysiology of this disease allows a more rational approach to the treatment of complications occurring during anaesthesia. However, other, as yet undiscovered vasoactive substances, may be involved.


Anaesthesia for a patient with carcinoid syndrome.

Anaesthesia for abdominal surgery in a patient with carcinoid syndrome is reported. Pre-operative symptomatic improvement was obtained using cyproheptadine hydrochloride. Handling of the tumour and liver metastases, during surgery, produced signs of excess serotonin secretion which responded to intravenous methotrimeprazine.


The Bain anaesthetic system. An assessment during controlled ventilation.

The Bain anaesthetic breathing system-a modified Mapleson 'D' circuit10-had been evaluated during anaesthesia using controlled ventilation. Results obtained from over 140 patients show that a highly predictable PaCO2 may be obtained by adjusting the fresh gas inflow according to body weight in patients weighing over 40 kg (mean PaCO2 at a fresh gas inflow of 70 ml/kg/minute=40.8 mmHg; mean PaCO2 at a fresh gas inflow of 100 ml/kg/minute=34.3 mmHg). The circuit is long enough to provide flexibility but may even be doubled in length without affecting performance. Simple lung ventilators delivering air or oxygen may be used satisfactorily as anaesthetic ventilators for patients of all ages. In addition, the circuit is lightweight, disposable but re-usable, facilitates pollution control and is easily used as an independent resuscitator. It is suggested that it may qualify as a universal breathing system.


Theatre pollution control.

Pollution control should be simple, cheap and effective. It should not introduce further hazards to the patient nor significantly complicate the practice of anaesthesia. These goals are attainable using a simple passive system. Convenience in use is enhanced by a concentric tubing system which allows effluent gases to be collected at the machine end and exhausted to the exterior. The additional expiratory resistance is minimal.


Apparatus for emergency intubation in laryngeal obstruction.

A cannula and conveniently arranged ancillary apparatus designed to assist endotracheal intubation of patients with upper respiratory tract obstruction prior to tracheostomy are described.


Valve control for venturi ventilation. A simple modification of a standard slide-valve.

A simple modification of a B.O.C. slide valve is presented, for controlling the injector flow in venturi ventilation.


The immediate treatment of heatstroke.

The nature, diagnosis and treatment of heatstroke has been discussed. The importance of prevention, recognition and active and early treatment has been emphasised.


Althesin infusion for cardiac catheterisation.

A trial of a continuous intravenous infusion of Althesin is described for sedation during cardiac catheterisation, both for children and adults. The conditions produced for the procedure were very satisfactory. The advantages and problems of its use are discussed. The technique justifies further trials.


Tracheal stenosis associated with a low pressure cuffed endotracheal tube.

A case of tracheal stenosis following a short period of intubation with a low pressure cuffed portex tube is described. The possible factors responsible for the tracheal damage are discussed.


Difficulty in intubation. Calcified stylohyoid ligament.

An intubation which was unexpectedly difficult is described. It is suggested that the cause of the difficulty was ossification and shortening of the stylohyoid ligament.


An indication for spontaneous respiration.

A case is reported of a patient with a facial defect and fixation of the jaw which caused ventilation and intubation problems.


A multipurpose rubber adaptor.

A multipurpose rubber right-angle adaptor has been described. Thic can connect the patient to both masks and endotracheal tubes in several anaesthetic systems.


The management of acute thoracic injuries.

The injuries resulting from blunt and penetrating injuries to the thoracic cage and its contents require prompt recognition and treatment. An outline of the major problems and recommendations for management is presented.


Eelectrocardiographic findings during bronchoscopy. Use of the Sanders' ventilating attachment.

The incidence of cardiac dysrhytmias was investigated in 50 patients during bronchoscopy performed under general anaesthesia using the bronchoscope with Sanders ventilating attachment. The results were compared with similar investigations utilising alternative methods of anesthesia. Sinus tachycardia occurred frequently, but was less severe than during previous investigation. The incidence of dysrhytmias 16% overall, was less than with earlier methods. Only 2 patients (4%) exhibited a dysrhythmia of any significance. It is concluded that use of the Sanders ventilating attachment represents a genuine advance during anaesthesia for bronchoscopy.


Ketamine and juvenile chronic polyarthritis (Still's disease). Anaesthetic problems in Still's disease and allied disorders.

The rationale for the use of ketamine anaesthesia in patients with juvenile chronic polyarthritis is presented. The method was used successfully in 70 patients. There were no deaths but one refused to have ketamine again.


Venous air embolism during neurosurgery. A comparison of various methods of detection in man.

A comparison of the various methods available for the detection of air embolus has been carried out in patients undergoing posterior fossa exploration in the sitting position. A group of 17 patients (Group A) was comprehensively monitored by a central venous catheter, an infra-red carbon dioxide analyser and a Doppler ultrasonic flow transducer in addition to more traditional clinical methods. Group B (19 patients) was monitored by commonly used clinical methods consisting of continuous palpation of the radial pulse, intermittent blood pressure measurement, the use of an oesophageal stethoscope and the electrocardiograph. In Group A the detection of air embolus varied from 6% using an oesophageal stethoscope to 58% by the Doppler method. In Group B air embolus was diagnosed in 10% of patients. One patient in each group died from air embolus; one patient had a paradoxical embolus to the coronary arteries. It is concluded that comprehensive monitoring for air embolus, including the use of Doppler ultrasound, is an essential part of the management of these patients, for both diagnosis and treatment.


Closed circuit halothane anaesthesia. Use of the Narkotest as an in-line monitor in a nonpolluting technique.

Theoretical considerations of closed circuit anaesthesia using oxygen and halothane are examined. Clinical experience has confirmed the value of the Narcotest as a reliable in-line monitor of inspired halothane concentration, while the use of an oxygen analyser is a desirable adjunct. The advantages of economy and elimination of theatre pollution are discussed.


Automatic physiotherapy instruction.

An automatic tape-recorder system constructed to provide intermittent physiotherapy instruction for postoperative patients is described. Eighty patients, who had been given nitrous oxide and relaxant anaesthesia, were observed during the first 4 postoperative hours. Those who had received pre-operative physiotherapy instruction, responded well. They followed the programme and blood-gas analysis demonstrated elevations of arterial blood oxygen tensions after they had followed the instructions. The system can be recommended as a supplement to physiotherapy in a busy post-operative ward. It also protects the patient from unpleasant noises in the environment.


Droperidol/fentanyl, diazepam/pentazocine: a comparison.

Anaesthesia with a combination of diazepam and pentazocine is compared with the well established technique of neuroleptanaesthesia using droperidol and fentanyl. The former compared favourably, producing similar cardiovascular stability, rapid recovery of conciousness and postoperative analgesia.


Pancuronium bromide in emergency surgery.

Pancuronium bromide, a steroid non-depolarising muscle relaxant has been used to assist intubation before emergency operations in 32 patients and has been found to be satisfactory for quick intubation in a dose of 0-1 mg per kg of body weight. There was no vomiting during induction.


Reactions to rapid infusion of stable plasma protein solution during large volume plasma exchange.

Five per cent heat treated stable plasma protein solution (SPPS) has been rapidly infused into 25 patients, as fluid replacement during large volume plasmapheresis. Reactions were produced in 20 patients. Subjective symptoms of flushing, nasal stuffiness, fullness and throbbing in the head, colicky abdominal pain, metallic taste or apprehension were observed in 16 patients, and 11 patients became hypotensive with an average systolic pressure of 70 mm Hg. These observations support earlier reports of hypotension due to rapid SPPS infusion, and document the occurrence of subjective symptoms which may be the harbingers of a hypotensive reaction. In view of the known presence of a bradykinin-like substance in some heat treated plasma protein solutions, hypotension during SPPS infusion should be interpreted with caution in the light of these findings.


Maternal complications of obstetric epidural analgesia.

The maternal complications associated with 1,000 consecutive obstetric epidurals are described. Although the analgesia provided was very satisfactory, complications were common. A dural puncture rate of 1-7 per cent resulted in 13 patients suffering from "spinal headache". Blood vessel puncture occurred in 45 patients, while the presence of unblocked segments and unilateral block was troublesome. There were no serious sequelae, but it is suggested that the provision of an epidural service for women in labour requires the immediate availability of an experienced anaesthetist to attend the labour ward.


The management of the retained tracheostomy tube.

A tracheostomy tube that has to be retained despite attempts to remove it, must de defined as a retained tube. The previous literature is reviewed. The consequences of establishing a tracheostomy are described and, based on these considerations, recommendations are made for a regime to allow decannulation to be performed.


Effect of diazepam on neuromuscular transmission and its interaction with non-depolarizing muscle relaxants.

Neuromuscular blocking actions of diazepam and its interaction with some myoneural blocking agents were studied in dogs and in humans undergoing surgery under general anaesthesia. Diazepam alone had no effect on the response of tibialis anterior muscle to indirect stimulation in dogs. Again, diazepam in a bolus dose of 5 mg did not influence a pre-existing partial block by d-tubocurarine, gallamine or pancuronium. But a significant increase in both the degree and duration of block was observed when diazepam and d-tubocurarine were given simultaneously, suggesting an agonist action in diazepam. On the contrary, simultaneous use of diazepam and gallamine caused a significantly less intense block of tibialis muscle twitch tension as compared to gallamine alone, suggesting an antagonistic action. The degree and duration of block by d-tubocurarine were not affected significantly by simultaneous administration of diazepam in human beings. It is, therefore, concluded that diazepam in clinical doses can be safely used with d-tubocurarine in humans.


The influence of duration of circulatory arrest at 20 degrees C on cerebral changes.

In infants and piglets subjected to periods of circulatory arrest at 20 degrees C there was close correlation between duration of arrest and delay in return of electroencephalographic activity. Post mortem studies demonstrated histological evidence of brain damage in patients after circulatory arrest at 20 degrees C. Similar histological changes were demonstrated in piglets, including some who had complete E.E.G. and clinical recovery from circulatory arrest.


The cardiovascular effects of pancuronium in the dog during pentobarbitone anaesthesia.

The effect of pancuronium on the cardiovascular system of the dog was studied in 12 greyhounds who were anaesthetized with pentobarbitone 30--40 mg/kg body weight. During the study, the animals were artificially ventilated to give an end-tidal carbon dioxide in the range 4-0--4-5 per cent. Duplicate cardiac output measurements were made before and ten minutes after the intravenous administration of pancuronium (0-18 mg/kg). There was a slight (but statistically insignificant) fall in cardiac output. Heart rate, aortic and pulmonary arterial pressures remained substantially unaltered. It is suggested that pancuronium should be used in the dog when muscle relaxation is required during pentobarbitone anaesthesia. In this way cardiovascular changes related to the drugs themselves will be minimized.


Use of physostigmine in tricyclic antidepressant poisoning.

The use of physotigmine in the treatment of tricyclic antidepressant overdose is discussed. The importance of continuous observation is emphasized and the method of preparation of physotigmine is outlined.


Awake tracheal intubation in anaesthesia.

Endotracheal intubation in the awake patient was used on 500 occasions. Indications and results are discussed and analysed.


A haemodynamic study of patients anaesthetized with enflurane and halothane.

The cardiovascular effects of equipotent concentrations of enflurane and halothane were studied and compared in two groups of patients. The agents were shown to have similar effects.


Case report: pheochromocytoma. Aspects of management.

The management of a patient with Pheochromocytoma is reported. Consideration of pre-operative preparation, hazards of beta-blocking agents in the absence of alpha blockade, potential hazards of butyrophenones, control of arterial blood pressure with sodium nitroprusside and the usefulness of continous pulmonary artery wedge pressure monitoring are discussed.


Intradermal testing after severe histamine reactions to intravenous drugs used in anaesthesia.

In a series of patients who suffered severe histamine mediated reactions to induction agents and muscle relaxants, intradermal testing enabled the drug involved to be distinguished. The correct use of intradermal testing to give reliable results is discussed and a protocol described. Prausnitz Kustner testing was of little help in confirming the results. A number of patients tested showed high levels of immunoglobulin G (IgG) and it is believed that IgG mediated anaphylaxis may be the mechanism responsible for reactions that have been previously described as anaphylactoid or direct chemical histamine release.


Anchoring device between Sertoli cells and late spermatids in rat seminiferous tubules.

Near the end of spermiogensis, the late spermatids remain attached to the superficial layer of the seminiferous epithelium for an appreciable period of time (i.e., 3 to 4 days). Ths sickle-shaped heads of the spermatids are embedded in an apical process of Sertoli cell cytoplasm which is connected to the rest of the cell by a narrow stalk. In the concavity of the head several long (2-3 mum) and very narrow (50 nm) tubular projections of the spermatid's plasma membrane invaginate the Sertoli cell cytoplasm. These tubular processes terminate by a bulbous swelling which may measure up to 1 mum in diameter. Along the process the plasma membrane of the Sertoli cell is closely apposed to the spermatid's membrane, the intracellular space being only 6-8 nm wide. In the Sertoli cytoplasm immediately surrounding the tubular portion of the structure there is an accumulation of filamentous material, while next to the bulbous extremity there are, at a shrot distance, smooth surfaced cisternae of endoplasmic reticulum. The whole structure was referred to as a tubulobulbar complex. These complexes, of which there are up to 24 per spermatid, appear as these cells complete their migration toward the apex of the Sertoli cells. They disappear just before the release of the spermatids in the lumen of the seminiferous tubule as a result of the fragmentation of the spermatid's plasma membrane followed by a resorption of the Sertoli plasma membrane. Morphological evidence suggests that the Tubulobulbar complexes serve as anchoring devices that retain the spermatids at the surface of the seminiferous epithelium while their dissolution contributes in part to the process of spermiation. Similar tubulobulbar complexes were also formed by the plasma membranes of two adjacent Sertoli cells close to the Sertoli-Sertoli tight junctions near the tubular limiting membrane.


The number of satellite cells in normal human muscle.

The satellite cell population in skeletal muscles of ten normal subjects aged 7 to 73 years was quantitated by electron microscopy. In all 1,414 nuclei were assessed. Satellite cell nuclei comprised 4% (standard deviation 2%) of all nuclei within the fibre basal lamina. The lowest incidence (0.6%) was found in a 73-year-old man. The study confirms, that satellite cells are regularly present in human skeletal muscle.


The biosynthesis and secretion of precursor enamel protein by ameloblasts as visualized by autoradiography after tryptophan administration.

The incorporation of 3H-tryptophan into the inner enamel epithelium of newborn mouse incisor tooth organs has been studied in situ by light and electron microscopic autoradiography to determine the sites and kinetics of biosynthesis, migration, and secretion of precursor enamel protein during newborn mouse incisor tooth formation maxillary and mandibular incisor tooth amelogenesis was studied 5, 30, 60, 120, 240 minutes and 24 hours following the intraperitoneal injection of 3H-tryptophan. By 5 minutes, 40% of the total silver grains associated with the secretory ameloblasts were localized over the rough endoplasmic reticulum and 50% of the silver grains were localized over the Golgi apparatus. By 30 minutes, silver grains were observed predominately over condensing vacuoles and secretory granules within the forming Tomes' processes, and were also localized over the extracellular "granular" pre-enamel matrix. The enamel proteins were synthesized on membrane-bound polysomes, transferred within the cisternae of the rough endoplasmic reticulum and then accumulated in the inner saccules of the Golgi apparatus. The enamel proteins were than packaged in condensing vacuoles which subsequently became secretory granules which migrated to the lateral and apical secretory regions of the forming Tomes' processes. It was concluded from these in vivo studies that enamel protein were synthesized and subsequently secreted within 30 minutes. The initially secreted precursor enamel protein was localized over a material which demonstrated a granular or stippled ultrastructure. The labeled protein then was localized over the amorphous enamel matrix per se which contained the forming calcium hydroxyapatite crystals. We assumed, therefore, that there are two different ultrastructural forms of 3H-tryptophan containing extracellular enamel proteins and suggest that the granular or "stippled" form represents newly secreted precursor enamel protein.


A light and electron microscopic investigation of the hepatic parenchyma of the adult newt, Notophthalmus viridescens.

This light and electron microscopic study demonstrates that the liver of the adult newt, Notophthalmus viridescens, consists of a mass of hepatocytes interrupted by blood sinusoids which allow blood to percolate through the parenchyma. The plates separating adjacent sinusoids are usually two or more cells thick and the bile canaliculi lie between 2-6 neighboring cells. Fine structural characteristics of hepatocytes include abundant lipid and glycogen inclusions. Melanophores with developing melanosomes are situated throughout the hepatic parenchyma.


The growth of the oocyte and follicle in the ovaries of monotremes and marsupials.

Oocyte growth in relation to follicular growth in marsupials conforms to the uniform biphasic pattern characteristic of eutherian mammals. However, the oocyte of the marsupial is larger and completes growth in a correspondingly larger follicle. At the completion of oocyte growth the follicle, like that of eutherians, shows no appreciable accumulation of follicular fluid. The ratio of oocyte/follicular diameter in marsupials at this stage is 0.59, a value close to that of 0.55 for eutherian mammals. The oocyte nucleus of the marsupial is also significantly larger than that of the eutherian, but the oocyte nucleolus is approximately the same diameter. By contrast, the growth of the oocyte in relation to the follicle in monotremes in linear throughout the whole period of follicular growth. However, like eutherians and marsupials oocyte nuclear and oocyte nucleolar growth are arrested in the early stages of follicular growth. The diameters of the oocyte nucleus and nucleolus at the completion of growth are approximately twice those found in marsupials. It is concluded that the growth patterns of the oocyte nucleus and nucleolus are common to all mammals but that the biphasic pattern of oocyte and follicular growth which is characteristic of eutherian and marsupial ovaries is not found in the monotremes.


Cell association and surface features in cultures of juvenile rat seminiferous tubules.

Short pieces of seminiferous tubules from juvenile rats were grown in tissue culture and studied by phase contrast light microscopy while living and by transmission and scanning electron microscopy after fixation and appropriate processing. The pieces of tubules remodeled in vitro, with the original explant becoming surrounded closely by a sheet of epithelioid cells and more peripherally by elongate cells. The epithelioid cells were identifiable as Sertoli cells because of the presence of characteristic Sertoli-Sertoli cell junctions near their upper surface. The elongate cells were derived from peritubular tissues, but could not be specifically identified as to cell type. Clusters of stellate cells and of round cells were present on the upper surface of the Sertoli cell sheets, but not on the elongate cells or the bare floor of the culture dish. The stellate cells were spermatogonia and the round cells were spermatocytes, as identified by fine structural features. Intercellular bridges were maintained between germ cells in culture without being surrounded by processes of Sertoli cells. Rudimentary junctions were present between germ cells and Sertoli cells in culture. The shape of germ cells in vitro was the same as the shape in situ, indicating that shape is an inherent feature of germ cells and is not determined by surrounding Sertoli cells.


Adrenergic and cholinergic innervation of the arteriovenous anastomosis in the rabbit's ear.

The distribution of adrenergic and cholinergic nerves in the arteriovenous anastomosis in the rabbit's ear was studied light microscopically using specific histochemical techniques for catecholamines and acetylcholinesterase. Histochemical observations was made with whole stretch preparations and cryostat or paraffin sections. Both kinds of nerves showed similar distribution, though the adrenergic innervation was denser than the cholinergic one. The intermediate segments of the anastomoses, which were characterized by a very thick wall, had the most dense innervation. The small arteries and arterial segments had a moderate innervation whereas most of the small veins and venous segments had few nerve fibers. The segmental variation in the vasomotor nerve supply clearly suggests that the intermediate segment has the most active contractility. An unusually rich innervation in the anastomosis, therefore, indicates the significance of the neurogenic mechanisms in the vasomotor control of the anastomosis.


Partial paralysis with d-tubocurarine and the ventilatory response to CO2: An example of respiratory sparing?

d-Tubocurarine (dTc) was administered intravenously to six healthy unanesthetized volunteers to assess the effects of partial paralysis on ventilatory response to CO2. Each subject received during a 40-minute period 0.2 mg/kg, consisting of five incremental doses at intervals 10 minutes apart. Isohypercapnia with PETCO2 6-7 torr above each subject's resting level was maintained throughout dTc administration. Ventilation at this level of stimulus was 23.8 +/- 1.1 1/min (mean +/- SE) before administration of dTc, about three times resting levels. Steady-state minute ventilation measured during the period 4-6 minutes after each dose of dTc failed to decrease significantly; the levels of ventilation were maintained principally by increased respiratory frequency, since tidal volumes declined significantly from an average of 1,550 ml to 1,050 ml (P less than 0.025). Changes in the slope of the CO2-response curve varied widely among subjects. Although the control slope of 2.65 +/- 0.76 1/min/torr (mean +/- SE) was reduced to 1.50 +/- 0.36 1/min/torr after partial curarization, the change was not significant (P greater than 0.10) Ventilation was maintained at a time when grip strength was 6 per cent of control, vital capacity was 52 per cent of control, and maximum static respiratory pressures were 35-40 per cent of control. Nevertheless, the results suggest significant impairment of vital respiratory functions such as coughing, deep breathing, and the ability to maintain a patent airway in the absence of endotracheal intubation.


Incidence of respiratory allergy not increased after anesthesia in infancy.

A 12-year follow-up study of children who had had operations with general anesthesia in infancy and of nonhospitalized children of the same age showed almost identical incidences of respiratory allergy in the test and control groups. General anesthesia in infacy does not predispose to respiratory allergies in childhood.


Pulmonary vasomotor tone during general anesthesia and deliberate hypotension in man.

Pulmonary and systemic hemodynamic responses to administration of pentolinium (0.3 mg/kg) were studied in eight patients undergoing total hip replacement during N2O-halothane anesthesia with PaCO2 maintained at 35-40 mm Hg. Measurements were made prior to induction of anesthesia; 20 minutes after induction; 45 minutes after induction but prior to pentolinium administration; 10, 20, and 60 minutes after administration of pentolinium; 15 minutes after AP recovered to within 10 per cent of baseline values. The reduction in AP produced by pentolinium was associated with significant decreases in both SVR and LVFP (estimated by measuring PA0 via a Swan-Ganz catheter). The profound and significant reductions in calculated PVR were more pronounced than those in SVR. Since PVR decreased in the face of reductions in both pulmonary arterial and left atrial pressures despite a significant increase (at 10 minutes) or no change (at 20 and 60 minutes) in pulmonary blood flow, the results suggest an active decrease in pulmonary vascular tone, presumably due to autonomic inhibition by pentolinium. Both LVSWI and RVSWI decreased significantly following injection of pentolinium. HR X SAP, an indirect index of MV02, decreased significantly following an initial increase at 10 minutes. Presumably these effects of pentolinium were conspicuous because N2O-halothane anesthesia altered the baseline of pulmonary vascular tone.


Halothane and calcium interaction in isolated pregnant and postpartum rat myometrium.

Isolated strips of mid-pregnant and postpartum rat myometrium were rendered functionally Ca2+-free by exposure to a Ca2+-free modified Krebs-bicarbonate solution containing 1 mM EGTA. The muscle strips were then exposed to 2.25 mM Ca2+ for periods of 15 to 600 seconds for the mid-pregnant tissues and one 120-second period for the postpartum tissues. At the end of each exposure, Ca2+ was removed and simultaneously each muscle was depolarized with 125 mM K2SO4. Isometric tension changes in the muscles were measured with and without 0.5 per cent halothane. In the mid-pregnant muscles, halothane diminished the initial tension development in response to Ca2+ by approximately 50 per cent, regardless of the duration of Ca2+ exposure. The contractile response of these muscles to depolarization with K2SO4 was reduced 10 per cent by 0.5 per cent halothane; this was probably due to reduction in transmembrane influx of Ca2+. In the postpartum muscles, the initial tension development in response to Ca2+ was threefold greater than in mid-pregnant muscles and was reduced 25 per cent by halothane. These tissues failed to develop by any tension in response to K2SO4. The most likely explanation for the effect of halothane is that it reduces the transmembrane influx of Ca2+ in both types of tissues, but that the postpartum sarcoplasmic reticulum present less competition for intracellular Ca2+ than pregnant sarcoplasmic reticulum.


Arterial and venous plasma levels of bupivacaine following epidural and intercostal nerve blocks.

Arterial and peripheral venous plasma levels of bupivacaine were determined in 30 patients following epidural anesthesia using 150 and 225 mg, as well as following intercostal nerve block with 400 mg. Arterial levels were consistently higher than levels in simultaneously sampled venous blood, and the highest levels occurred with bilateral intercostal nerve block. No evidence of systemic toxicity was observed. The results suggest that bupivacaine may have a wider margin of safety in man than is now stated.


Peripheral vascular versus direct cardiac effects of calcium.

Peripheral vascular and direct cardiac effects of calcium chloride were determined in a new animal model, the unanesthetized calf, before and after replacement of its natural heart (NH) with a pneumatically driven artificial heart (AH). Calcium (5 and 10 mg/kg) significantly increased cardiac output (Qt) and reduced systemic vascular resistance (SVR) before and after AH implantation. Increases in Qt in AH calves and reductions in SVR in both NH and AH calves were, however, transient, being present 5 minutes but not 15 minutes after both doses of calcium. Increases in Qt and reductions in SVR were significantly (P less than .05) greater after 10 mg/kg than after 5 mg/kg calcium in NH and AH calves. Both doses of calcium produced greater (P less than .05) increases of Qt in NH than in AH animals but similar reductions in SVR. Pulmonary vascular resitance, heart rate and pulmonary arterial and right atrial pressures were not significantly altered by either dose of calcium in NH or AH calves. Mean aortic pressure was influenced by 10 mg/kg calcium only, being transiently reduced in AH calves and increased in NH animals. Pulmonary shunt (QS/Qt) was increased by both doses of calcium in NH calves but only by 10 mg/kg in AH animals. Correlations of mean change in QS/Qt with mean change in Qt were high both before (r=.99) and after (r=.97) AH implantation. These data demonstrate that calcium significantly reduces SVR in a dose-related manner as well as exerting a positive inotropic effect on the myocardium.


Halothane depresses mucociliary flow in the trachea.

Tracheal mucociliary flow rates in dogs were measured with a radioactive droplet technique during thiopental anesthesia, and subseqently during halothane anesthesia. Body temperature and inspired gas temperature and humidity were held constant. Ventilation was controlled with 25 per cent oxygen in nitrogen to produce PaCO2 30 torr. Mucociliary flow rate remained constant when halothane concentration was held constant at 1.2 MAC halothane. Mucociliary flow rates at 0.6 MAC halothane were comparable to those after thiopental, 25 mg/kg. Increases in concentration from 0.6 to 1.2 to 1.8 to 2.4 MAC halothane progressively depressed mucociliary flow. Flow at 2.4 MAC halothane was 27 per cent of the control (thiopental) value. Flow returned to previous values as end-tidal halothane concentration was reduced. The depression produced by halothane may represent impairment of an important pulmonary defense mechanism.


Anesthetics and cerebral edema.

Localized edema follows the freezing of a small area of cerebral cortex. Effects of five subsequent hours of anesthesia on this edema were studied in six groups of six dogs each. Six anesthetic techniques were studied. In six additional "awake" dogs, anesthesia (halothane) was discontinued immediately after the lesion was made. Eight control dogs received neither anesthesia nor cryogenic injury. Control white matter contained 67.4 +/- .4 (mean +/- SE) per cent water by weight. Twenty-four hous after the cryogenic injury, water accounted for the following percentages of total weight of white matter adjacent to the lesion: 60 mg/kg pentobarbital, 73.2 +/-.9; 70 per cent N2O/Innovar, 73.6 +/- .9; "awake", 77.9 +/- .9; 1.95 per cent enflurane, 78.2 +/- .9; 1.33 per cent isoflurane, 78.6 +/- .8; 0.86 per cent halothane, 78.2 +/- .6; 1.89 per cent halothane, 79.7 +/- .6. Peak intracranial pressures (ICP) were 15.4 +/- 1.3 torr with pentobarbital, 21.6 +/- 1.8 torr with N2O/Innovar, and 31.1 +/- 2.6 to 38.3 +/- 4.5 torr with the halogenated anesthetics. The water content of white matter and ICP were significantly lower (P less than 0.05) in animals receiving pentobarbital or N2O/Innovar anesthesia than in animals receiving inhalation anesthetics. The authors conclude that pentobarbital and fentanyl-droperidol (Innovar) limit the extent of cerebral edema, but that inhaled anesthetics do not.


Cardiovascular and respiratory changes in response to change of posture in the very obese.

Circulatory and respiratory effects of change of posture from sitting to supine were studied in 11 obese patients scheduled for gastric bypass operations. Patients were studied on the morning of operation before any medication was given. Average weight was 138.8 kg, 108.6 per cent above ideal weight. Change of posture from sitting to supine was associated with 11 per cent increase in oxygen consumption (VO2), 35.5 per cent increase in cardiac output (CO), 35.8 per cent increase in cardiac index, 17.85 per cent decrease in arteriovenous oxygen difference, 31 per cent increase in mean pulmonary arterial pressure, 44 per cent increase in pulmonary-artery wedge pressure, 21.5 per cent decrease in peripheral resistance (PR), 6 per cent decrease in heart rate, and 17.7 per cent increase in venous admixture (QS/Qt). All these changes were significant. There was no change in mean arterial pressure, alveolo-arterial O2 difference and respiratory rate. The increase in CO was attributed to reduction in PR and to increased V02 probably due to increased work of breathing.


Clindamycin enhances a nondepolarizing neuromuscular blockade.

Neuromuscular blockades induced by clindamycin alone and with d-tubocurarine or pancuronium were examined in the in-vitro guinea pig lumbrical muscle-nerve preparation. Clindamycin, 80-240 mug/ml, initially increased twitch tension. With higher concentrations (180-240 mug/ml) twitch tension subsequently decreased. With 15 to 20 per cent depression of twitch tension by clindamycin, neostigmine (5-20 ng/ml) or calcium (81 mug/ml) slightly but not completely antagonized the blockade. Clindamycin, 40 mug/ml, a dose that did not depress twitch tension, potentiated d-tubocurarine- or pancuronium-induced neuromuscular bloackade. Plasma concentrations of clindamycin of 10-40 mug/ml were recommended for treating serious infections. The authors conclude that the administration of clindamycin may augment nondepolarizing blockade in man, and antagonism by neostigmine and calcium may be incomplete.


An analysis of sandbathing and grooming in the kangaroo rat (Dipodomys merriami).

The sandbathing and grooming behaviour of ten kangaroo rats (Dipodomys merriami) were recorded on sand and woodchip substrates after periods of 0, 1, 5 and 10 days without sand. Sandbathing is restricted to the sandy substrate. Grooming occurs on both, but with a higher frequency on sand. Increases in both grooming and sandbathing occur with increasing sand deprivation, but the temporal patterning does not change. D. merriami tends to alternate sandbathing components in contrast to other Dipodomys species. Lipid on the pelage increases noticeably with sand deprivation and decreases during a sandbathing bout; sand appears to be removed from the pelage by shaking and grooming. These findings suggest a three-process system for care of the body surface.


Effect of the post-weaning environment on the climbing behaviour of wild and domestic Norway rats.

The climbing behaviour of wild and domestic Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) was compared after early rearing in three post-weaning environments offering different climbing experiences. Wild rats climbed in the test apparatus even when denied early climbing experience; male domestic rats did not. Early climbing experience increased the climbing scores of both stocks but influenced the climbing proficiency of wild rats only. Treatment differences in climbing behaviour may be related to specific motor experiences gained during development and the effect of early experience on the response to a novel environment (test apparatus). Stock differences in climbing behaviour may reflect a general reduction in motor activity among domestic rats and their reduced sensitivity to stimulus change or novelty.


The effects of vision on the general locomotor behaviour of the goldfish, Carassius auratus.

Comparison of the locomotor behaviour of normal, unilaterally and bilaterally blinded goldfish (Carassius auratus) demonstrated the roles of perspective vision (depth perception), which requires binocular vision, and of vision provided by only one eye, in the control of locomotion. Because normal and bilaterally blinded fish exhibited similar size and direction of angles of turn, a similar number of consecutive turns in the same direction and the same turning frequency, normal, binocular vision plays no role in the control of turning behaviour. Unilaterally blinded fish exhibited a strong bias in turning behaviour which resulted in their displaying circus movements toward the blinded side, a direction opposite to that reported by others for both invertebrates and vertebrates with unilateral sensory elimination. The mean step length was significantly increased by both uni-and bilateral blinding, and its temporal relationship with turning frequency and distance swum was also changed. Perspective vision (binocular) therefore controls these parameters. The significantly lower velocity of bilaterally blinded fish and the similarity between the other two test groups, indicated that sight by one eye only was sufficient to mediate velocity control.


Prolonged interval immunotherapy of Hymenoptera sting allergy.

Sixty-six patients receiving hyposensitizing allergy injections for hymenoptera sting allergy had the interval between these injections prolonged to eight weeks or longer. Thirty of these patients received 67 subsequent stings without difficulty. The author concludes that this method of treatment is an effective safe method of managing insect sting allergy.


Congenital lymphangiectasia and atopy.

Intestinal lymphangiectasia, a disease characterized by excessive intestinal protein loss, asymmetrical peripheral edema, ascites, immunologic deficiencies, lymphocytopenia, hypoalbuminemia, imparied lymphocyte transformation, gastrointestinal symptoms and retarded growth, is the result of abnormal, distorted and obstructed lymph channels, causing rupture of intestinal lacteals from back-flow of lymph, with leakage of nutrient-laden lymph into the lumen of the bowel. A case of congenital intestinal lymphagiectasia is described, with the additional problems of allergic asthma, rhinitis, eczema and lactase deficiency. This patient, an 11-year-old child, was greatly benefited by proper allergy management (elimination diet, hyposensitization) plus restriction of fats and supplementing the diet with medium-chain triglycerides (MCT).


The atopen: a rehabilitation.

Consideration of the physicochemical and biological properties of the common inhalant, food and nematode allergens has led the author to propose reintroduction of the term atopen. Atopens are nonspecific activators of physiological enzyme systems in man and are indicators of the atopic status. Allergens are considered to be those substances, not necessarily immunogenic by themselves, capable of deliberately directing the immune response into IgE production. Ongoing IgE synthesis may eventually produce IgE antibodies reacting with nonallergenic antigens.


Q fever (Coxiella burnetii) investigations in dairy cattle: challenge of immunity after vaccination.

The immunity of Holstein-Friesian dairy cows vaccinated against Coxiella burnetii was challenged with 4 X 10(8) infective guinea pig doses of viable rickettsiae. Cows that were vaccinated had normal full-term calves, whereas 2 nonvaccinated cows aborted late in pregnancy. Intrauterine infection of the fetus was indicated by recovery of the organism from tissues of the fetus. Coxiella burnetii was recovered from milk, colostrum, and placenta of vaccinated and nonvaccinated cows after challenge inoculation, but the rickettsiae recovered were as many as 1,000 times more numerous in nonvacinated cows.


Suppression and control of experimentally induced procine coccidiosis with chlortetracycline combination, buquinolate, and lincomycin hydrochloride.

Weaned pigs were divided into nonmedicated control and medicated principal groups and 3 days later were exposed to infective oocysts comprised of mixed species of swine origin. In separate experiments, a chlortetracycline combination (plus sulfamethazine and penicilin), buquinolate, or lincomycin was administered prophylactically to the principals, starting 3 days before they were exposed to infection, and then was evaluated for efficacy against the experimental exposures. Comparisons between control and principal groups were made on the basis of fecal oocyst counts, fecal consistencies, and body weight gains. On the basis of oocyst counts, both chlortetracycline combination and buquinolate minimized the development of coccidial populations in groups given medicated feed; nonmedicated controls discharged substantial numbers of oocysts. Lincomycin medication was not effective in pigs given 111 mg/kg of feed; it was effective at dose levels of 330 mg/kg of feed and at 22 mg/kg body weight, intramuscularly. Medicated principals always gained more weight on the average than did their infected nonmedicated controls during the experiments. The data on oocyst production support the position that the 3 compounds can function as coccidiostats in swine.


Oxalate (Halogeton) poisoning of sheep: certain physiopathologic changes.

Certain clinical changes associated with acute oxalate (halogeton) poisoning were determined in sheep given (by stomach tube into the rumen) a lethal dose of Halogeton glomeratus. Plasma concentrations of calcium and calcium ion activity decreased over several hours to such low levels that tetany or coma occurred and death followed. Cerebrospinal fluid concentrations of calcium did not reflect the degree of hypocalcemia. In 2 pregnant sheep administered halogeton, the plasma concentration of calcium in the fetus did not decrease despite the appearance of severe maternal hypocalcemia. Increases in plasma total inorganic phosphate and magnesium concentrations occurred as the hypocalcemia progressed. Hyperglycemia was often marked as hypocalcemia became severe; however, as hyperglycemia increased, plasma immunoreactive insulin concentrations remained inappropriately low in relation to the plasma concentration of glucose. Intravenous infusion of a calcium solution at this time was associated with marked increase in immunoreactive insulin concentration and a decrease in glucose concentration. Ruminal activity, as measured by frequency and amplitude of contractions of the rumen, was greatly reduced as hypocalcemia progressed. Seemingly, body temperature became lowered as severity of the hypocalcemia progressed. Seemingly, body temperature became lowered as severity of the hypocalcemia increased, as determined by intramuscularly or intraperitoneally implanted temperature telemetry devices. However, the occurrence of tetany and the fleece covering could either modify or reverse this decrease in body temperature.


Induction of pulmonary edema and emphysema in goats by intraruminal administration of 3-methylindole.

The effects of intraruminal administration of 3-methylindole (3MI; skatole) were determined in goats. The 3MI was given to 4 goats at the dose level of 0.3 g/kg of body weight, to 2 goats at 0.2 g/kg, and to 2 goats at 0.1 g/kg; 3 nontreated goats were used as controls. Clinical signs of acute progressive respiratory tract disease were seen in all treated goats. Goats given the largest dose of 3MI (0.3 g/kg) died between 5 and 11 hours after treatment; those given smaller doses (0.2 and 0.1 g/kg) died between 79 and 92 hours. Increased plasma concentrations of 3MI were detected in goats give 0.1 or 0.2 g/kg within 3 hours after administration. By 24 and 36 hours, the concentrations of 3MI in the plasma decreased to low or nondetectable amounts and remained low for the duration of the experiment. Clinical signs of respiratory distress in the goats progressed after 3MI had been cleared from the plasma. Diffuse pulmonary edema and hydrothorax were extensive in goats which died early in the course of the experimentally induced disease. In goats which died at later stages, the lungs were firm and had less watery transudate. Temporal variations in the nature of pulmonic changes were even more obvious by microscopic examination. Diffuse pulmonary edema was the predominant early change. Small foci of emphysema were apparently caused by overdistention of some clusters of alveoli. Marked septal thickening and proliferation of alveolar cells were the prominent changes in goats which died between 79 and 92 hours after treatment. Incubation of L-tryptophan with caprine ruminal fluid resulted in formation of indoleacetic acid, indole, and 3MI. Similar incubations did not convert indoleacetic acid to 3MI. Control incubations showed 3MI as a fermentation metabolite, indicating it exists in caprine ruminal fluid in vivo. Results demonstrated that goats are susceptible to intraruminal administration of 3MI. The transitory appearance of 3MI in the plasma associated with progressive respiratory tract disease was similar to observations in cattle give 3MI. Clinical signs and lesions seen at necropsy were qualitatively similar to those reported in cattle given tryptophan and indoleacetic acid.


Effects of angiotensin and prostaglandin A2 in perfused isolated kidneys of dogs.

Simultaneous recordings of pressure and flow were made from the renal artery in perfused isolate canine kidneys. The system was perturbated by the administration of angiotensin and prostaglandin A2. The data were recorded on frequency-modulated analog tape and converted to digital form, and a Fast Fourier Transform program was used to calculate input impedance. Changes in total renal volume and renal arterial pressure data were used to determine compliance values. in compliance were found, along with changes in both magnitude of impedance and phase angle, as a result of the perturbations introduced. Seemingly, renal vascular compliance has an important role in the autoregulatory mechanisms of the kidney.


Detection of antiplatelet antibody in serum and on megakaryocytes of dogs with autoimmune thrombocytopenia.

Blood and bone marrow samples from 13 thrombocytopenic dogs were examined to determine whether immunologic thrombocytopenia existed. Antiplatelet antibody was detected in serum of 8 of the dogs by platelet factor 3 test or its modification. Moderate to strong immunofluorescence of megakaryocytes was noticed in bone marrow smears stained with rabbit anticanine globulin conjugated with fluorescin isothiocyanate. Negative results were obtained with serum and bone marrow samples collected from 6 of the dogs during therapy for autoimmune thrombocytopenia. Clinical and laboratory findings varied in individual patients with circulating antiplatelet antibodies. Thrombocytopenia was present in all the dogs, with platelet counts ranging from less than 3,000 to 20,000/mu1 of blood. Signs of bleeding in tissues and body cavities were present in all dogs, but anemia was evidenced in only 3 dogs. Differential leukocyte counts were variable. Morphologic abnormalities such as vacuolation and reduced or absence of granulation of the cytoplasm and nuclear fragmentation were seen in some megakaryocytes.


Critical tests of anthelmintic activity of a paste formulation of thiabendazole in horses.

Critical tests of the activity on large strongyles, ascarids, mature pinworms, and bots were carried out in 11 horses intraorally treated with a paste formulation of thiabendazole. The dose level of 44 mg/kg was administered to 3 horses, and the dose level of 88 mg/kg to 8 horses. Removals of Strongylus vulgaris and mature Oxyuris equi were 100% at the 2 dose levels, and efficacy against Strongylus edentatus varied from 95 to 99% and 89 to 100% for the 44- and the 88-mg/kg dose levels, respectively. Strongylus equinus was completely removed from the 1 infected horse treated at the dose level of 88 mg/kg. Activity of the smaller dose against Parascaris equorum was 46%, and that of the larger dose varied from 32 to 100%. The drug was inactive on Gasterophilus intestinalis and Gasterophilus nasalis.


Efficacy of coumaphos crumbles and naftalofos boluses against nematodes of cattle.

Coumaphos crumbles (0.32%) administered to cattle at the dose level of 2 mg of active ingredient per kilogram of body weight each day for 6 days reduced fecal egg counts by 98.4%. The compound was highly efficacious in removing adult worms of the genera Haemonchus, Ostertagia, Trichostrongylus, Cooperia, Oesophagostomum, and Trichuris, removing 99.8, 86.7, 95.9, 99.8, 74.8, and 90.9% of the worms, respectively. The overall efficacy of coumaphos crumbles against the adult forms of the 6 genera was 91.3%. Naftalofos boluses administered to cattle at the dose level of 50 mg of active ingredient per kilogram of body weight reduced fecal egg counts by 83.5%. The efficacies against adult nematodes were as follows: Haemonchus, 99.8%; Ostertagia, 86.9%; Trichostrongylus, 74.0%; Cooperia, 71.9%; Oesophagostomum, 40.1%; and Trichuris, 87.9%. The overall efficacy of naftalofos boluses against the nematodes was 76.8%.


Effects of sewage sludge-fertilized corn fed to growing swine.

Swine (2 groups) fed a ration containing 79% corn from sewage sludge-fertilized plots for 8 weeks may have had a modest performance advantage over swine fed corn from plots heavily fertilized with commercial nitrogen. Sludge-fertilized corn feeding-related deviations from population normals for electroencephalograms, electrocardiograms, clinical chemistry, or histopathology were not observed; however, swine fed sludge-fertilized corn differed significantly from the control swine for certain physiologic and biological characteristics, indicating possible interference with glucose metabolism and microsomal mixed-function oxidase activity. Control swine had mild microcytic anemia associated with parasitism, but swine in the principal groups were less adversely affected, probably due to higher iron intake. Corn heavily fertilized with sewage sludge from an urban-industrial complex can be safely fed to swine, based on these results, but it might be advantageous to feed on a short-term or intermittent schedule. Residues of heavy metals in the animal products must be examined.


Systolic time intervals for left and right ventricles of swine.

Because swine are used often in cardiovascular research, and because systolic time intervals (durations of preejection and ejection) are useful in evaluating the ventricular function in health and disease and the effects of drugs on ventricular function, systolic time intervals for left and right ventricles were obtained from 12 healthy anesthetized shoats. Catheter-tip micromamonmeters were placed just distal to the semilunar valves, and pressure pulses from these positions in the ascending aorta and pulmonary trunk were simultaneously recorded with an electrocardiograph at paper speed of 200 mm/second on a photographic oscillograph. Equations of regression relating preejection period (PEP) and ejection time (ET) for the left ventricle (L) to heart rate (HR) are as follows: PEPL = 53 + 0.56 HR ETL = 329 -- 0.94 HR Systolic time intervals for the right ventricle did not relate to heart rate.


Replication of feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus in cell and organ cultures.

Virus titers from feline herpesvirus-infected feline tracheal organ cultures were higher than those from feline kidney cell cultures. The time for the development of peak viral yields was longer in organ culture as compared to cell cultures. Feline tracheal organ cultures infected with feline calicivirus produced minimal viral titers.


Failure of vaccines to protect salmon from vibriosis enzootic in Puget Sound, Washington.

Juvenile chinook salmon in fresh water were vaccinated either orally or parenterally with heat- or formalin-killed bacterins prepared with Vibrio anguillarum. Subsequent exposure to naturally occuring vibriosis in the marine waters of Puget Sound (Washington State) indicated that no protection resulted. It was demonstrated, however, that protection could be achieved with the passive transfer of immune serum.


A comparison of cholinesterase activity of plasma, erythrocytes, and cerebrospinal fluid of sheep, calves, dogs, swine, and rabbits.

Cerebrospinal fluid cholinesterase activity was determined in 5 species of domestic animals. Suitable samples of cerebrospinal fluid could be obtained repeatedly from sheep, calves, and dogs without killing, but not from pigs and rabbits. The cholinesterase activity among erythrocytes, plasma, and cerebrospinal fluid of these species was also compared statistically.


Physiologic characteristics of 1,268 cultures of Pasteurella multocida.

Results of 29 physiologic tests are reported for 1,268 cultures of Pasteurella multocida from various hosts over a 10-year period. Of the cultures, 97 to 100% fermented galactose, glucose, mannitol, mannose, fructose, and sucrose, produced hydrogen sulfide and indole, and reduced nitrate; 6 to 91% fermented arabinose, glycerol, sorbitol, trehalose and xylose. Fermentation of dextrin, dulcitol, inositol, inulin, lactose, maltose, raffinose, rhamnose, and salicin, growth on MacConkey agar, change of litmus milk, production of urease and hemolysin, liquefaction of gelatin and motility were negative with 97 to 100% of the cultures. Of 200 cultures tested for catalase and oxidase, all were positive. Results of this study indicate that none of these tests will determine the host from which the culture was isolated.


Ronidazole in high concentrations in drinking water for treatment and prevention of diarrhea in swine dysentery.

Ronidazole administered in the drinking water at concentrations of 0.012, 0.006, and 0.003% was effective for the treatment of swine dysentery. All groups of medicated swine had more survivors, fewer days of hemorrhagic and nonhemorrhagic diarrhea, greater feed consumption, greater weight gain, and more favorable feed efficiency than did nonmedicated swine. The only adverse clinical sign and lesion observed in the medicated swine comprised the drug-delayed-augmented swine dysentery which affected 3 swine in a group given 0.003% ronidazole. Several of the swine given the 0.012% concentration developed nonhemorrhagic diarrhea while on medication, probably because of the high concentration of the drug. Diarrhea did not recur in swine after the withdrawal of medication in both of 2 groups given the 0.012% concentration, in 3 of 4 groups given the 0.006% concentration, or in 1 of 4 groups given the 0.003% concentration. One or more swine were susceptible to reexposure to swine dysentery in both groups given the 0.012% concentration, in 1 group given the 0.006% concentration and in 1 group given the 0.003% concentration. Large spirochetes were observed in fecal smears from all exposed swine which developed either hemorrhagic or nonhemorrhagic diarrhea.


Ronidazole in low concentrations in drinking water for treatment and development of immunity to swine dysentery.

The addition of ronidazole to the drinking water at the concentration of 0.003% was effective for the treatment of experimentally induced swine dysentery in swine. Ronidazole at concentrations of 0.0015% and 0.00075% aided in the treatment of swine dysentery and the development of immunity to the disease. In experiment I, in which swine were given concentrations of 0.003, 0.0015, and 0.00075%, there were more survivors, fewer days of hemorrhagic diarrhea, greater feed and water consumption and body weight gain, and more favorable feed efficiency in the medicated swine than in the nonmedicated swine. With the 0.003% concentration, there were no deaths, and the diarrhea receded during or after treatment with the 0.0015% and 0.00075% concentrations, the incidence of nonhemorrhagic diarrhea was greater in medicated than in nonmedicated swine, and the diarrhea did not subside during treatment. In experimetn II, there were more survivors in the groups of swine medicated with the 0.0015% concentration than in the nonmedicated groups of swine. All surviving nonmedicated swine in experiment I were immune to reexposure 3 months after initial exposure. More swine given to the 0.0015% and 0.00075% concentrations in the same experiment were immune to reexposure 3 months after initial exposure than were the swine given the 0.003% concentration. In experiment II, neither the swine previously medicated with the 0.0015% concentration nor the nonmedicated swine were immune to reexposure 5 weeks after initial expsoure. Large spirochetes were observed in fecal smears from all exposed swine which developed either hemorrhagic or nonhemorrhagic diarrhea.


Tuberculosis in brood sows and pigs slaughtered in Iowa.

Mycobacterium avium was isolated from 21 of 23 lymph nodes with lesions collected from 23 brood sows and from 17 lymph nodes with lesions of 17 pigs slaughtered at an abattoir in north central Iowa. Mycobacterium avium serotype 2 accounted for more than 65% of the isolations in sows and in pigs. Granulomas with acid-fast bacilli were found in 15 of 23 tissues from brood sows and in 13 of 17 lymph nodes from pigs. Similar microscopic lesions were observed in the sows and pigs.


Taenia saginata cysticerci in muscles of beef cattle.

Minute dissection of carcasses infected with Taenia saginata cysts revealed that heart and masticatory muscles were more heavily and more frequently infected with Taenia saginata cysts than were any other muscle groups. Increasing the number of inspection cuts in the heart and masseter muscles, while omitting cuts in such sites as the diaphragm, during meat inspection would increase the efficiency in detecting beef cysticercosis. Complete dissection of cattle found to have a single viable or dead cyst by routine inspection revealed dead or viable cysts in portions of the carcass not routinely examined. These findings justify the recent change in routine meat inspection procedures whereby all carcasses with a single cyst (whether viable or dead) are now cooked or refrigerated, instead of having the offending cysts excised.


Clinical, serologic, and pathologic changes in calves with experimentally induced Trypanosoma brucei infection.

In 7 calves inoculated with Trypanosoma brucei and observed for 105 days, the minimal clinical signs were occasional lethargic periods associated with parasitemia. Rectal temperatures increased by postinoculation day (pid), 10, remained moderately high until PID 50 to 60, and then returned to base line. Moderate anemia occurred between PID 15 and 25. Slightly increased lymphocyte count with relative decrease in neutrophil count was found in 3 calves. Monocytosis of minimal degree occurred 14 days after parasitemia. Trypanosome counts of low level and irregular frequency were found throughout the infection. The average number of trypanosomes in blood was approximately 1,000/ml. Antibody titers, as determined by the indirect immunofluorescent antibody method, appeared on PID 22 and stayed at moderate levels. The immunoglobulin M first increased at PID 5 and remained high (av 216% of base line value) throughout infection, but immunoglobulin G was never increased. Histopathologic study revealed proliferative changes in the lymph nodes and spleen characteristic of humoral antibody (B-cell) response. Mononuclear cell infiltration (lymphocytes and plasma cells), eosinophols, and edema were common in the lymph nodes, spleen, liver, heart, brain, hypophysis, testes, kidney, skeletal muscle, adrenal gland, pancreas, and uterus.


Bacteriologic and vaccination studies in a field epizootic of infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis in calves.

Infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis (IBK) was enzootic in the beef cattle herds at Dixon Springs Agricultural Center, University of Illinois. The development of nonhemolytic and hemolytic Moraxella bovis flora in the eyes of 48 calves in a closed cow-calf herd was monitored from late May to October, 1972. The incidence of clinical IBK was recorded each week. In late May, nonhemolytic M bovis was isolated from 26% of calf eyes. The peak incidence of IBK was observed in early September, with 26% of the eyes affected. At that time, nonhemolytic M bovis was isolated from 10% of the eyes, and hemolytic M bovis from 58%. By late October, nonhemolytic M bovis was isolated from 25% of the eyes, and hemolytic M bovis from only 4%. In an attempt to increase the resistance of ocular tissue, 19 calves were vaccinated in each third eyelid with 0.5 ml of an autogenous M bovis bacterin in late May. Vaccination did not provide practical protection against the establishment of hemolytic M bovis in the eyes nor the development of clinical IBK. However, at the peak incidence of IBK, hemolytic M bovis was isolated from the eyes of 48% of vaccinated calves and 73% of nonvaccinated calves; clinical IBK was present in 21% of the eyes of vaccinated calves and 29% of nonvaccinated calves. In evaluating the in vitro proteolytic potential of M bovis isolates, 83 hemolytic and 5 nonhemolytic isolates peptonized litmus milk; 176 nonhemolytic isolates did not peptonize litmus milk. Hemolytic M bovis isolates were more pathogenic for mice than were nonhemolytic isolates. Of 60 mice, 53 (88%) died in 1 to 3 hours after intraperitoneal inoculation of hemolytic isolates; 8 of 32 (25%) mice died in 5 to 15 hours after inoculation of nonhemolytic isolates. Hemolytic M bovis isolates produced testicular swelling and scrotal necrosis after inoculation into the scrotal sac of rabbits; nonhemolytic isolates produced only mild transient testicular swelling.


Cardiopulmonary effects of mechanical distension of the rumen in nonanesthetized sheep.

The cardiopulmonary effects of mechanical distension of the rumen were studied in nonanesthetized sheep. Results in group I ewes indicated that simply increasing intraruminal pressure by compressed air insufflation did not seriously affect cardiopulmonary hemodynamics. Changes were more serious in group II ewes when water injection was followed by ruminal insufflation with compressed air. Heart rate, total peripheral resistance, and total pulmonary resistance increased, with a concommitant increase in arterial and pulmonary blood pressure and decrease in stroke volume. Infusion of water alone increased heart rate and cardiac output. The blood gas data indicated a definite arterial hypoxemia and hypercapnia, suggesting impaired ventilation during ruminal distension. The increase in total pulmonary resistance was thought to be due to alveolar hypoxia caused by a significant decrease in ventilation.


Blood flow to the uterine tube (oviduct) of the early pregnant and pseudopregnant rabbit.

Blood flow to the uterus and uterine tube was measured in 46 rabbits in estrus and early pregnancy or pseudopregnancy. Uterine blood flow in estrus averaged 0.910 +/- 0.253 (SD) ml/g/minute and remained unchanged through postcoital day (PCD) 15. Blood flow to the uterine tube in estrus was 0.810 +/- 0.287 ml/g/minute. A peak blood flow of 1.323 +/- 0.424 ml/g/minute, was measured in the uterine tube on PCD 4, followed by a decrease of blood flow to estrous levels on PCD 8 to 15. The gross blood vasculature of the uterus uterine tube, and ovary was studied by intravascular silicone rubber injection in 17 rabbits. The architecture of the blood vascular system remained unchanged from estrus through early pregnancy or pseudopregnancy. The differences were vascularization of the corpus luteum, vascular accommodation of uterine distension, and enlargement of the lateral arcuate vein which spans the uterotubal junction.


Effects of locoweed toxin on rats.

Rats fed pellets containing locoweed developed typical microscopic lesions of locoweed poisoning. Rats fed a water extract of locoweed or urine from sheep given locoweed also developed microscopic lesions. This indicated that the locoweed toxin is water soluble and is excreted in the urine.


A unique intracellular aberration related to hexachlorobenzene ingestion.

Liver of rats fed hexachlorobenzene (HCB) at concentrations of 1, 5, 10 and 25 ppm for 3 to 12 months was studied by electron microscopy. A unique hepatic cellular change that seemed related to HCB ingestion occurred in more than half of the rats given 5 ppm or more HCB. The changes appeared as degeneration of lipid vesicles into a form of autophagic vacuole or storage vesicle. Degeneration of the lipid vesicles appeared to be by autodigestion, i.e., by endoplasmic reticulum encapsulation and partial digestion in the manner typical of other autophagic vacuoles. It is postulated that autodigestion may represent a way for the cell to eliminate fat-stored HCB.


Neoplasms of the nasal passages and paranasal sinuses in domesticated animals as reported by 13 veterinary colleges.

Three hundred cases of primary neoplasms involving the nasal cavity or paranasal sinuses were found among the reports of 12,300 microscopically confirmed neoplasms. The multispecies data were compiled from abstracts of medical records by 13 colleges of veterinary medicine in the United States and Canada from 1964 to 1973. Significant numbers of neoplasms were observed in dogs, horses, and cats. Intranasal neoplasms were more frequent than those of the paranasal sinuses in dogs and cats. Only cats had a sex difference in the occurrence of nasal neoplasms, with a male predilection. The frequency of neoplasms of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses increased with age in all species examined. A clear relationship could not be established between nose length and of intranasal neoplasms. Of the tumors, 80% were malignant in dogs, 68% in horses, and 91% in cats. Detailed review of medical records in a subset of 49 dogs with neoplasms of the nasal passage and paranasal sinuses revealed major clinical signs of nasal and ocular discharge, facial deformity, and stertorous breathing. Median duration of signs prior to diagnosis was 3 months and 95% of the dogs had been given treatment prior to definitive diagnosis. All 49 tumors were malignant; 27 were classified histologically as carcinomas and 22 were sarcomas. Nineteen dogs were treated, using surgery alone or in combination with radiation therapy. Median survival duration was 5 months (mean 6.7 mo).


Effects of temperature and time on the infectivity of Cryogenically preserved samples of Anaplasma marginale- infected erythrocytes.

The effects of temperature (25 C) and time (2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 24, 48, 72, 96 hours and 5, 13, and 19 days) were determined on thawed samples of Anaplasma marginale-infected erythrocytes cryogenically preserved with dimethyl sulfoxide and frozen in liquid nitrogen. Inoculation into splenectomized calves indicated that infectivity was not destroyed by either time or temperature from 2 to 72 hours, but was destroyed at 96 hours. The incubation periods of the disease in inoculated splenectomized calves increased in proportion to the length of time the samples were held at 25C.


Mammalian toxicity of helenalin, the toxic principle of Helenium microcephalum CD (smallhead sneezeweed).

Studies with smallhead sneezeweed (Helenium microcephalum DC) indicated that a sesquiterpene lactone, helenalin, is the only significant toxic constituent present. The oral median lethal dose of helenalin for 5 mammalian species was between 85 and 105 mg/kg.


Small airways in fibrosing alveolitis.

Pulmonary function, including lung elastic recoil, was measured in 9 subjects with fibrosing alveolitis. Closing volume and upstream conductance were studied to assess small airway function. Lung volumes, diffusing capacity, and transfer coefficient were decreased. Peak expiratory flow and the ratio of 1-sec forced expiratory volume to forced vital capacity were normal, whereas total lung resistance was low, suggesting that large airways were not narrowed. Lung elastic recoil was increased, but the changes could be accounted for by the loss of lung volume. Closing volume and closing capacity were increased when expressed as a percentage of vital capacity and total lung capacity, respectively; but again, this could be accounted for by the decrease in lung volume, because the absolute lung volume at which airway closure occurred was normal. Upstream conductance was not reduced. We conclude that there is no evidence of narrowing of functional small airways in ventilated parts of the lung. The mechanical findings are compatible with the patchy involvement seen pathologically in fibrosing alveolitis.


Computerized, noninvasive tests of lung function. A flexible approach using mass spectrometry.

The design, operation, and some applications of a computerized pulmonary function testing system built around a mass spectrometer are described. The test sequence, performed in 10 to 20 min, includes spirometry, a single-breath N2 washout, and measurement of the diffusing capacity of the lung for CO. Secondary tests, an integral part of the sequence, include rebreathing estimates of lung volume and cardiac output, and a breath-by-breath analysis of over-all gas exchange. These secondary tests lead to computer modeling of a one-compartment lung closely matched to the subject's lungs. Differences between alveolar plateau slopes in the model and real lung provide information about the degree of ventilation-perfusion mismatch in the subject. It is expected that the combination of tests will be useful in the early detection of lung disease.


Ear oximetry: accuracy and practicability in the assessment of arterial oxygenation.

The accuracy of three ear oximeters (Waters XP-350, Waters 0-1100, Hewlett-Packard 47201A) was evaluated on 52 subjects during acute progressive and steady-state hypoxia. Ear oximeter readings were compared with measured arterial saturation (SAO2) in arterial or "arterialized" capillary blood samples. Hewlett-Packard (HP) 47201A ear oximeter readings most closely approximated measured Sao2 (y=0.99x - 1.52, r=0.97), although both the HP 47201A and Waters 0-1100 oximeters provided similarly accurate estimates of SAO2 once the characteristics of the individual oximeters were known (standard error of estimate; 2.52 and 2.98 per cent SAO2, respectively). The HP 47201A ear oximeter was relatively insensitive to changes in ear-piece position and differences in skin pigmentation, and offered the added advantages of comfort, simplicity of operation, and stability of characteristics.


Respiratory response to tobacco dust exposure.

Results of a study of the respiratory responses of 318 nonsmoking female workers to long-term tobacco dust exposure are reported. The mean total tobacco dust concentrations ranged from 0.9 to 27.5 mg per m3; the respirable fraction, from 0.3 to 3.6 mg per m3. The mean length of exposure to tobacco dust was 14.9 years; 24 per cent of the workers had been exposed to tobacco dust for 20 years or more. Comparatively low prevalences of chronic respiratory symptoms were found, and only the prevalences of chest tightness and wheezing were significantly higher among workers exposed to tobacco dust than those of the control group (P less than 0.01). Calculating the expected 1-sec forced expiratory volume and forced vital capacity values by means of multiple linear regression equations, developed on the basis of data obtained in the 210 control subjects, revealed no significant differences between the measured and expected ventilatory capacity values among any of the groups of the workers observed. In contrast to negative findings with regard to chronic respiratory effects, significant acute decreases in ventilatory capacity during the work shift were recorded. No dose-response relationship was found between the level of exposure and the acute decreases in ventilatory capacity.


Hemorrhagic hypotension and the lung: in vitro respiration.

We examined the O2 consumption and respiratory quotient of lung slices from rats whose mean blood pressure was decreased to approximately 40 mm Hg for 1 hour by hemorrhage and from control rats that were handled in the same manner but were not bled. The in vitro O2 consumption of lung slices from the hypotensive rats was lower than the O2 consumption of slices from control rats; exogenous glucose did not alter these differences. In the absence of exogenous glucose, the (mean +/- SE) respiratory quotient of lungs from control rats was 0.75 +/- 0.01; from hypotensive rats 0.78 +/- 0.01 (P less than 0.05). Glucose increased the respiratory quotient of lung slices from control rats to 0.95 +/- 001 but increased the respiratory quotient of slices from hypotensive rats to only 0.86 +/- 0.01. We concluded that hemorrhagic hypotension decreases lung O2 consumption and alters substrate metabolism by the lung.


Isolation and characterization of two alpha1-protease inhibitors in rat serum.

Two alpha1-protease inhibitors were identified in rat serum. On polyacrylamide gels, one (R-I) appeared at the leading edge of the albumin, the other (R-2) at the trailing edge. The two inhibitors have differing molecular weights, differing inhibitory spectra toward proteases, and are immunologically distinct. The assays for antiprotease activity were performed on whole human and rat sera and inhibitor-enriched fractions of rat serum that had been electrophoresed on polyacrylamide gels. The more rapidly migrating antiprotease of rat serum, R-I, inhibited trypsin, chymotrypsin, and elastase. The more slowly migrating antiprotease, R-2, inhibited both trypsin and chymotrypsin but possessed only weak anti-elastase activity. When a comparison was made between human alpha1-antitrypsin and the more rapidly migrating rat inhibitor, it could be seen that they have similar molecular weights, similar inhibitory spectra, and similar electrophoretic mobilities. The relevance of the study of the R-I inhibitor in the pathogenesis of experimental emphysema is emphasized.