The relation between audition and vision in the human newborn.

Four studies were conducted to investigate the relation between audition and vision in the human newborn. In all four studies visual activity was recorded with infrared corneal-reflection technqiues in 1- to 4-day-old infants. Study 1 concerned the effects of sound at midline on scanning in darkness and in a lit but formless field. In the dark compared to light, newborns maintained better eye control, centralized fixations, scanned with smaller eye movements, scanned less dispersely, and were wider-eyed. In a blank field, sound caused newborns to maintain better eye control, centralize fixations, scan with small eye movements, constrain fixations, and be wider-eyed than in silence. Sound had little effect on scanning in the dark beyond constraining fixations. Study 2 concerned the effects of sound at midline on scanning vertical and horizontal edges. Visual activity was different for the two visual stimuli. While viewing a vertical rather than a horizontal edge, newborns maintained better eye control and fixated closer to the position of the vertical edge. Newborns crossed the position of the horizontal edge when that edge was present. Sound affected scanning in general, centralizing fixations for newborns not already looking centrally, but sound did not affect the frequency of edge crossing. Study 3 concerned the effects of laterally presented sound on scanning spatially consonant or dissonant vertical bars. The major finding was that infants were sensitive to the spatial property of sound. Infants shifted fixations first toward and then gradually away from sound. Study 4 was an attempt to determine whether there is an effort constraint on the simultaneous functioning of auditory and visual systems. The effects of two differentially salient sounds on scanning two differentially salient visual stimuli were examined. Although the results appeared to support the idea of an effort constraint, the data were accounted for parsimoniously in terms of the spatial influence of sound of scanning. The data on visual activity were discussed in terms of the presence of inherent information-acquisition routines in the newborn. It was concluded that sound influences visual epistemic behavior even at birth.


Acid-soluble purine and pyrimidine derivatives in cow's milk produced on normal feed and almost protein-free-feed with urea as the main nitrogen source.

In two groups of Ayrshire cows (group I normal feeding with protein, group II got mostly urea as N-source), the TCA-soluble purine and pyrimidine derivatives of the milk were determined quantitatively. The O.D. [U/I] at pH 7-5 and 260 nm was higher in group II than in group I. The difference in N-nutrition of the animals has no influence on the composition of the purine and pyrimidine fractions investigated, especially with regard to orotic acid, uric acid, and CMP. At early stages of lactation the contents of CMP and uric acid were relatively high, but decreased with longer time of lactation. In opposition to this the orotic acid content increased in the same period. These tendencies could be registered in both groups. Besides CMP, uric acid, and orotic acid the minor nucleotides, NAD, AMP, GMP, UMP and others have been determined quantitatively. Their maximum has been found at the beginning of the lactation period and, in general, their contents were higher in group II than in group I.


[Residue retention of ethephon on stone fruits and berries. 2. Ethephon residues in currants and gooseberries].

Studies on the residual behaviour of Ethephon on black and red currants showed that the fruits contained on an average 0.39, 0.81, 2.2 and 0.64, 1.14, 1.04 p.p.m. of Ethephon, respectively, after application of 0.04, 0.06 and 0.08%. Flordimex mixture. When a concentration of 0.08% was applied to gooseberries, the fruits contained on an average 0.31 p.p.m. of Ethephon. The juice of black currants contained relatively larger residues.


Pharmacologic aspects of pentamidine.

Pentamidine is an aromatic diamidino compound synthesized originally for the therapy of trypanosomiasis. The pharmacologic effects of pentamidine vary, depending on its route of administration. In animals, the dominant effects have been a precipitous, transitory drop in blood pressure after injection and renal toxicity following repeated administration. To avoid the possibility of immediate toxic reactions associated with iv administration, we now usually give the drug im to humans. Further interest in pentamidine has been stimulated by its usefulness in the treatment of interstitial pneumonia caused by Pneumocystis carinii. In some patients receiving antineoplastic or immunosuppressive therapy who have superimposed P. carinii pneumonia, pentamidine may cause serious renal toxicity. Distribution and excretion studies in animals indicate pentamidine is deposited in tissues, with the greatest concentration in the kidneys, and gradually eliminated over a prolonged period. The mechanism of action of pentamidine against P. carinii or the means whereby fixation in tissues and subsequent toxicity occur have not been elucidated. Recent investigations to help clarify these points indicate that pentamidine inhibits dihydrofolate reductase in all tissues studied both in vitro and in vivo. In addition, pentamidine interacts and forms water-insoluble products with specific nucleotides and nucleic acids.


[Value of rhizotomy in the treatment of pelvic pain syndromes].

In 18 Patients with symptomatic coccygodynia due to malignant diseases 7 sacral rhizotomies and 11 intrathecal injections of Phenol had been effected. The high percentage of good results and the low rate of complications indicates in the opinion of the author that these methods are worth a trial in such cases, where otherwise only bilateral cordotomy with a much higher incidence of complications may be able to obtain pain relief.


[Percutaneous thermocoagulation of the spinal nerves for analgesia].

The authors present percutaneous technic treatment of some pain syndrom by thermocoagulation of rachidian nerves with radiofrequency generator. This method had been employed on 60 patients in various indications (cervico-occipital neuralgias, low back pain, stage syndrom, painful scar etc...). After anatomic justification one literature analysis precede personal results of this therapeutic method. This one is easy to realise and seems to deserve a good place in the actual possibility of functional neurosurgery.


[Sodium dantrolene (dantrium) in the treatment of neurogenic muscular spasm].

Forty patients, whose ages varied from 4 to 65 years, presenting skeletal muscle spascitiy as sequel of cerebral palsy, spinovertebral trauma and cerebral vascular diseases were treated with Dantrium (dantrolene sodium), a drug muscle relaxing. Laboratory data included: electromiography, chronaximetry, EEG and blood and urine tests. Clinical followup revealed subjective improvement in the patients and also objective decrease of spasticity in a satisfactory number. Patients who had improvement with this therapy also had no beneficial results with other drugs.


[5 years of experience in the treatment of parkinsonism with L-dopa and its combination with Ro4-4602].

Eighty-one Parkinsonic patients were treated with L-dopa alone and/or combined with Ro4-4602, during 27 to 60 months. The results are reported. 7.2% of the patients, who are still being treated, showed good, very good or excellent results. There was a relation between the duration of the illness and the degree of improvement, the most prolonged Parkinsonisms showed the least improvement. The 4:1 proportion of L-dopa and Ro4-4602 was more effective than the 3:2. Adding small amounts of L-dopa to the combinations improvement and secondary effects increased. No advantages were found using high combined dosages. The main secondary effects at the end of treatment were abnormal movements (45% of cases) and distonic attitudes (53%). Patients who stoped the medication showed less sustained improvement and a high degree of Parkinsonism. This reveals that Parkinson's disease continues to envolve in spite of the medication. The "long-term syndrome" includes the late decrease of effectiveness of the drugs and/or the increase of secondary effects.


Postural hypotension in idiopathic Parkinson's disease. Etiopathology.

Postural changes in blood pressure were recorded in all 391 patients suffering from Parkinson's syndrome over a period of six years. Intraarterial blood pressure studies were carried out in those with significant postural hypotension. Histological examination of the entire central nervous system and the sympathetic ganglia was performed in six patients suffering from idiopathic Parksinson's disease. Five of the six patients had Lewy bodies in the sympathetic ganglia. Loss of nerve cells was noted in the sympathetic ganglia in those patients that demonstrated postural hypotension. The severity of the lesions in the ganglia correlated with the severity of postural hypotension in idiopathic Parkinson's disease, One case of Shy-Drager syndrome was similarly studied to demonstrate the differences in spinal cord and sympathetic ganglia lesions in the two conditions.


[Carotid-cavernous fistulas by tearing or rupture of the meningo-hypophysial trunk or of one of its branches. Anatomo-radiologic study of 4 cases. Pathogenic hypotheses].

Thr authors report observations relative to four cases of traumatic carotid-cavernous fistulas for which angiographic pictures were similar. Autopsy examination permitted in two cases to establish that the tentorial branch of the meningo-hypophyseal trunk was involved in the genesis of both fistulas. One case was from a rupture, the other from tearing of that branch. Further examination of these two cases showed an absence of sphenoid bone fracture which suggested that any arterial perforation or shearing process could be excluded. Thus the pathogenic hypothesis of PARKINSON is further sustained. The authors suggest that the observed arterial lesions may be due to tensions occuring at the proximal part of branches of the meningo-hypophyseal trunk. Such tensions may be carried out through tractions on the posterior meningeal walls of the cavernous sinus when trauma occur on the posterior temporal area and the petrous bone. Such traction forces were shown to be real in one case where a fracture of the dorsum sellae and a bilateral caroti-cavernous fistula were caused by a bilateral temporo-petrous trauma.


[Treatment of Parkinson's disease with levodopa and a dopa decarboxylase inhibitor].

The combination of L-dopa with carbidopa was administered to 18 patients with ediopathic Parkinson's disease and the dose needed to control the manifestations, either partially or completely, with the least number of side effects, was established.


[Giant aneurysm of the basilar trunk presenting as essential facial neuralgia].

One case of trigeminal neuralgia and operative giant basilar aneurism is reported. This feature is quite rare, this case however emphasizes the importance of further investigations before surgery, especially if a direct approach is considered.


Dynamic studies of growth hormone and prolactin secretion in the female rat.

Blood samples were removed via chronic intra-atrial cannulae every 15 min in female rats during the estrous cycle, the last week of pregnancy, parturition and suckling. Growth hormone (GH) secretion during the estrous cycle is characterized by episodic release, occurring approximately once hourly. The surges in GH increase during the last 3-4 days of gestation, and rise to high levels during delivery and with suckling. Prolactin (PRL) shows minimal fluctuations during the estrous cycle, except for a prominent pulsatile surge during proestrus. PRL rises 4-6 h prior to parturition and declines during delivery. These studies provide a basis for further studies on the dynamics of GH and PRL secretion in the female rat.


Changes in the nuclear volume of rat hypothalamic neurons in old age.

Nuclear volumes (NV) of neurons in the preoptic are (POA), suprachiasmatic nucleus (SC), paraventricular nucleus (PVN), supraoptic nucleus (SO), anterior hypothalamic area (AHA), arcuate nucleus (ARN), ventromedial nucleus (VMN), dorsomedial nucleus (DMN) and lateral mammillary nucleus (ML) were measured in 3.5- to 5-month-old female and male rats and in old female and male rats over 22 months of age. Young adult female rats had larger NV than males in the neurons of all measured areas except for the SC during estrus and the ARN. NV of the hypothalamic neurons of female rats decreased in old age in all measured areas except for the VMN of rats exhibiting prolonged vaginal cornification (PVC). Old male rats showed decreased NV only in the neurons of the SC, SO and ML. The extent of NV decrease of the hypothalamic neurons was not similar in different areas. The sexual difference in neuronal NV in most of the areas disappeared in old age. Only the POA of rats with PVC and the ML of old female rats had larger NV than those of old male rats.


[Extra-intracranial anastomosis: radio-clinical correlations].

25 patients have been operated on by means of extra-intracranial anastomosis (22 with STA-MCA anastomosis, 3 with occipital-MCA anastomosis). 23 patients underwent an angiographic study early after surgery (two weeks). The patency rate is 14 out of 23 (13 STA, 1 occipital anastomosis). In comparison of its pre-operative size, the afferent artery has enlarged in the most cases, particularly in patients with complete obliteration, either of the carotid artery, or of the middle cerebral artery. In every case, only a limited part of the MCA territory is visualized through the anastomosis. In no case was the complete MCA field visualized; the frontal branches, particularly, are not supplied through a temporal anastomosis. In the case of occipital anastomosis, both upper and lower branches of MCA are supplied through the new channel. 11 patients underwent a second angiographic study, from one year through 28 months after the first one. In three patients with no patency on the first angiography the anastomosis remained non patent. So, in this series, no anastomosis was seen to became patent secondarily. In 8 patients with patency on the first control, the anastomosis remained patent on the second angiography. In patients with a pre-operative stenosis, no increasing of the size of the vessel could be noticed. The filling of the MCA branches is difficult to be discussed, for in these cases, the angiographies were not performed selectively through the external carotid artery. In patients with a pre-operative thrombosis, an enlarging of the vessels was seen, as well as an extension of the intra-cranial filling through the anastomosis. Clinical correlations are the following ones: the most patients with TIA's had a stenosis. They presented no increasing of the size of the vessels. They were doing well after operation, as if a little more of blood supply was sufficient to improve the general blood perfusion. Every patient with stroke had a pre-operative thrombosis and presented an enlarging of the vessels with a better filling on the second angiography, as if a great deal of additional blood supply was required; the clinical improvement is slow (3 out of 5) and remains often incomplete.


Effect of sulpiride on plasma prolactin in rats.

I.v. injection of sulpiride (S; 0.5-20 mug/100 g b.w.) caused a significant and dose-related increase in plasma prolactin (Prl) levels in urethane-anesthetized rats, with peak values occuring 10 min after the injection. L-dopa administration (2 mg/100 g b.w., i.v.) significantly blunted plasma Prl response to S(1 mug/100 g b.w., i.v.). S injection (1 mug/rat) into a lateral ventricle also raised plasma Prl significantly. Hypothalamic destruction resulted in a prominent increase of basal plasma Prl, which increased further following the injection of S. These results suggest that S stimulates Prl secretion by its possible direct action on the anterior pituitary.


Vasopressin and oxytocin content of microdissected hypothalamic areas in rats with hereditary diabetes insipidus.

Vasopressin was virtually absent from 5 microdissected hypothalamic areas and from the posterior pituitary glands of homozygous Brattleboro rats. The oxytocin concentration was normal in all these areas except for the arcuate nucleus, where it was absent. These results support the concept that Brattleboro rats have a specific defect in biosynthesis of vasopressin. The significance of the absence of oxytocin from the arcuate nucleus in these rats remains to be determined.


Hypothalamic region and pathways responsible for adrenocortical response to surgical stress in rats.

Surgical stress produced no increase in the plasma corticosterone level in rats with complete deafferentation of the medial basal hypothalamus (MBH). 30 min after surgical stress, the adrenocortical response depended on the integrity of a well-circumscribed region of the hypothalamus: the lateral-basal region of the retroachiasmatic area (RCAL) that lies not more than 0.5 mm caudally from the optic chiasma and is about 0.2 mm high. One week after transsection of this region, surgical stress produced no elevation of plasma corticosterone; the effect of the operation was independent of whether various combinations of other regions and pathways to the MBH were left intact. In contrast, high plasma corticosterone levels were found after surgical stress with all kinds of hypothalamic deafferentation when the basal region of the RCAL was not transected. The possible origin of neuronal fibres running through the RCAL is discussed.


[Complementary procedures to the Sjoqvist operation in cancerous cervico-facial pain].

The trigeminal spinal tractotomy of Sjoqvist can be enlarged and give a very good result on cancer pain of face and throat. When pain is also cervical, it is usefull to associate with the Sjoqvist operation two important procedures: 1 degree--Instead of a simple posterior cervical radicotomy it seems best to practise a selective posterior radicellotomy. This technic has the advantage to preserve the sensory proprioceptive capacity of the superior limb, while being perform even until C6 and C7 roots. Also in case of recurrence of cervico brachial pain, it remains easy to apply a posterior spinal stimulation. 2--The spinal nerve has not only a motor function but also a sensory one. The sensory fibers travelling through small anastomosis between "LARUELLE Ganglion" and cervical roots must be separated to obtain a more complete analgesia.


[Notes on the embryology and anatomy of the diaphragm].

The main steps in the embryogenesis of the diaphragm are summarised, with particular reference to details of major importance in the formation of congenital hernias. Morphogenetic abnormalities of the diaphragm are described. Malformations occurring during the different stages of embryonal development (agenesia, total or partial aplasia or eventratio, restructuring defects) and their incidence are also illustrated. A personal view concerning the topography of congenital hernias of the diaphragm is expressed, with particular reference to those proceeding through incostant foramina.


[Acute complications of hernias caused by congenital defects of the diaphragm].

Following a classification of the various types of congenital hernia of the diaphragm, the acute complications that may be caused by such defects of diaphragmatic morphogenesis are reviewed. Relative physiopathology is considered, particularly as regards the thoracic dimension of large hernias of the cupola. As regards visceral hernia, the most typical pictures of the two commonest complications, volvulus and strangulation, are described among other aspects. The clinical situation is outlined bearing in mind the diversity of anatomoclinical pictures in relation to the age of the patient, the type of hernia involved, and the period in which the observation was made. The surgical problems involved in acute complications concern the approach--although agreement is almost unanimous depending on the type of hernia--viscous reduction modalities and the type of plastic surgery which is required on each occasion. Postoperative complications and the prognosis for these hernias are reviewed briefly.


[Surgical treatment of postoperative peptic ulcer].

The literature on postoperative peptic ulcer is reviewed and cases observed in the Department of Surgical Anatomy and Operations Course of Turin University in the period 1-I-1968 - 31-III-1975 are presented. 183 operations for primary gastro-duodenal ulcer were carried out. A variety of techniques was employed, including 138 gastric resections using a modified Billroth II technique, with a recurrence of 1.3% encountered only in patients in the specified group. 15 reoperations for postoperative peptic ulcer were performed with the following result: very good in 7 cases, good in 6, and 2 postoperative deaths. The two deaths concerned a simple gastric reconversion and a gastric re-resection with gastro-jejuno-anastomosis. The personal series confirms the statistics presented by numerous foreign workers.


[Role of the duodenum in the digestive function. I. Notes on its physiology].

A full account is given of recent advances in knowledge of the physiology of the duodenum. Modern means of diagnosis have shown that this organ, far from having a secondary role in digestive performance, carries out fundamental activities. These are described and it is made clear that the duodenum, on its own account, is the organ of choice for the digestion and absorption of some important nutritive substances. In addition, its motor and, above all, endocrine activity serves to direct the functions of the stomach, the intestine, and the glands attached to the gastroenteric tract (pancreas and bile ducts).


[Possibilities and limitations of cryohemorrhoidectomy].

The cryonecrosis process of haemorrhoids and cryonecrosis of living organic tissues follow the same laws. On the basis of these observations and of personal experience, the cryohaemorrhoidectomy technique is described and its most important practical aspects underlined.


[Early operation in acute hemorrhagic necrotizing pancreatitis].

Between 1973 and 1975, the "early" operation was carried out in 15 patients suffering from acute haemorrhagic-necrotizing pancreatitis to eliminate necrotic parts. Partially necrotizing pancreatitis was identified in 10 patients: 7 survived. All patients with total pancreatic necrosis died. Surgery consisted of digital removal of the necrosis (digitoclasia) and in left resection with adequate drainage. Patients with partially necrotizing acute pancreatitis can be saved by "early" surgery while in patients with total necrosis surgery must be undertaken even earlier, namely before fatal complications set in.


[The role of the duodenum in digestive function. II. Notes on physiopathology].

On the basis of the concepts presented in Note I, the effects of excluding the duodenum from the digestive circuit are examined. In practice, the effects are reflected in disturbances to intestinal canalization with consequent post-prandial syndromes, and to the digestion and absorption of foods (deficiency syndromes). Over and above histological, biological and biochemical findings, the severe pathology affecting the entire digestive function brought on by the elimination of the manifold, complex activities of the "duodenal laboratory" were confirmed clinically.


[Liposarcoma of the mesentery. Considerations on its development].

A case of liposarcoma of the mesentery is presented. The succession of morphological pictures observed during its protracted (15 years') course are described. Attention is drawn to the need to revise diagnositc criteria and make them more consonant with the need for a more careful assessment of the prognosis in such cases.


[Unusual localization of an abdominal dermoid cyst].

A case of epidermoid cyst with rather unusual localization is reported. The cyst ran from the rear cavity of the omentum, penetrating between the leaves of the mesentery rott as far as the angle formed by the caecum and the final ansa before returning along the last ansa for about 20 cm, and compressing it to the point of creating an acute occlusive syndrome. Photographs and radiographs of the case are presented.


[Oxygen therapy in pneumology].

Circumstances under which the use of oxygen-therapy in lung disease can be effective and harmless, depend upon a careful evaluation of its indications: they are suggested by the clinical need of correction of hypoxaemia as well as by the awareness of factors determining respiratory failure and of problems concerning O(2) transport and supply to tissues in health and disease. Blood gases monitoring enables to control the effects of treatment on arterial O2 and CO2 tensions thus giving all the useful data for oxygen administering particularly as far as components of hyperoxygenated mixtures, flow rate, duration, use of very effective low-risk devices (Venturi masks) are concerned. Correction of hypoxaemia involves the reduction of hypertension of the pulmonary circulation and hyperglobulia, improvement of tolerance of exertion, and attention to the metabolic compensation of respiratory acidosis. These results are influenced by the nature of the pathogenetic factors behind broncho-obstructive disease, which may lead to either a primarily "bronchitis" or a primarily "emphysematous" syndrome. An interesting feature relates to prognosis in the case of patients making home use of hyperoxygenated mixtures as part of a rehabilitation program, or to improve their quality of life. The cost and benifits of such treatment should be carefully weighed. Lastly, in the event of protracted treatment, attention must be paid to the possibility of toxicity and the means to be adopted for its prevention.


[Gas exchange and acid-base equilibrium in chronic bronchitis and in emphysema].

Blood gas data for HbO2% and PaCO2 and determination of acid-base balance enable the biochemical features of bronchial obstruction to be related to primarily "intrinsic" or "extrinsic" factors. Long-term gas studies and ventilation mechanics data (lung elastic recoil pressure, maximum expiratory flow at different volumes and the corresponding recoil pressures) are also of assistance in this respect. Each type of bronchial obstruction thus has its own peculiarities, and these are also reflected in the level of metabolic compensation for respiratory acidosis.


[Immunotherapy with BCG in pulmonary tumors].

Results obtained with immunotherapy in 318 cases of lung cancer showed that an initial Tine test is useful prognostically (initial negativity is equivalent to poor survival), and survival increases and decreases in function of positivity and negativity respectively. The soundness of immunotherapy is borne out by the survival data.


[Illustration and results of antineoplastic chronopharmacology in pulmonary tumors].

Reference is made to a series of cases of lung tumour treated with antiblastic drugs over long periods. This method gives the best results in terms of survival and tolerance. Encouraging results were also obtained with coadjuvant chronobiological corticoid management.


[Our experience with the treatment of cavitary and external biliary fistulas following surgical operations for hepatic echinococcosis].

Successful treatment of five personal cases of external cavitary and biliary fistulae following radical liver hydatid surgery is reported. Stress is laid on the fact that complications may still occur, even when the latest techniques are employed. These can be avoided if the pathological anatomy and biliary physiopathology associated with the disease are fully understood, so that techniques can be adjusted to the different situations revealed by pre- and intraoperative exploration. Medical or surgical management must be preceded by precise knowledge of the reasons for persistence of the fistula.


[Study of various aspects of hepatic function and histomprphology in obesity].

Data regarding the commonest biohumoral tests of liver function obtained in 53 highly obese women of more or less young age, non-diabetic, non alcolist and without cardiovascular complications are reported. Liver biopsy was carried out in 23 of these patients for the purpose of studying the liver histologically. On the whole, liver function tests gave normal results: specifically, B.S.F. clearance was normal in 91% of the cases and retention at 45' was normal in 77%. Histologically, only 9% showed normal liver parenchyma. The vast majority showed a varying extent of fat infiltration and in 30% this was also fibrosis. No relationship was found to exist between the extent of histological changes and B.S.F clearance and retention values.


[Stenocardia caused by gallbladder disease. Physiopathological and clinical findings].

10 elderly patients suffering from chronic lithiasic cholecystitis presented sporadic attacks of angor during the digestion of rather abundant meals, associated or otherwise with biliary colic. A clinical study was carried out in order to throw light on the close dependence of pain attacks with cholecystic stress. Observations confirmed the possibility that the onset of angor is due to reflex coronary vasoconstriction induced through the sympathetic system by stimuli arising in the gall bladder. The hypothesis is advanced that coronary impairment, however slight, is necessary for such vasoconstriction to be possible. Attention is called to the syndromes insofar as removal of the irritation in the gall bladder is almost always followed by complete remission of the coronary phenomenology.


[Progression of coronary sclerosis demonstrated by repeated coronarography. Experience with 80 cases].

Coronary and left ventricular angiography repeated after an interval of 19 months in 84 patients showed progression of coronary sclerosis in 42 and of ventricular lesions in 7. No relation between the morphology and seriousness of the initial coronary lesions and their progression was noted. No significant differences were observed between patients with and without progression as far as the clinical data and risk factors (angina pectoris, prior myocardial infarct, cholesterol, arterial hypertension, and diabetes) were concerned, though there was a significantly higher percentage in obese subjects.


[The effect of physical exercise on arterial pressure in healthy subjects and in cardiopathic patients (coronary and valvular diseases)].

An optimal working capacity exists for the heart, whether this is healty or sclerotic, and this corresponds to an optimal relationship between arterial pressure and frequency; in other words, a constant value exists to which arterial pressure and pulse rate are correlated.


[Transitory malfunction of an L-Kaster mitral prosthesis. Echocardiographic and polygraphic study].

An unusual instance of transient prosthesis breakdown in a 29-yr-old woman with two L-Kaster disk prostheses for mitro-aortic defect is reported. The ECHO and polygraphic traces observed during and after breakdown are examined. It is considered that the breakdown which occurred in one prostheis only, was attributable to a small, internal thrombosis with embolism of the right lower extremity.


Lipids of human and equine smegma.

The lipids of human and equine smegma pools were saponified and the total fatty acids submitted to temperature programmed gas chromatography (GC) analysis. In contrast to the human products, the horse smegma fatty acids contained very low odd saturated as well as olefinic branched chain acid contents. The cyclopropane fatty acid, 9,10-methyleneoctadecanoic acid, occurred in smegma sampled from men over 35 years of age but could not be detected in the pool from persons of 17-20 years of age nor in any of the equine mixtures. The alcoholic fraction from horse smegma contained about 85% sterol, the remainder constituting alcohols of C12 to C28 and of which 43.5% were branched chain components. The corresponding product from human smegma was primarily sterol. Squalene comprised the main hydrocarbon present in smegma of either species.


The ultrastructure of a poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma of the human tuba uterina.

A poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma of the human oviduct was studied by light and transmission electron microscopy. Cells contained abundant mitochondria, bound and free ribosomes, prominent Golgi's bodies and aggregates of membrane-bound dense bodies. The small glandular lumina with numerous microvilli were generally devoid of cilia and contained secretory material. The neoplasm was ultrastructurally similar to poorly differentiated ovarian serous carcinomas.


Pharmacokinetic studies in the chemotherapy of neuroblastoma using the C1300 murine system.

The transplantable C1300 murine neuroblastoma has been characterized biochemically and an in vivo model for the screening of new therapeutic approaches to the treatment of neuroblastoma developed. Subcutaneous inoculation of A/J mice with 10)6) C1300 cells results in predictable tumor growth and animal death in 25 +/- 4 days. Tumor growth is Gompertzian, correlates with increases in tumor RNA and DNA content and with the rate of tumor DNA synthesis as measured by [3H] thymidine incorporation. The model proposed is based on the degree to which various therapeutic options are able to inhibit tumor DNA synthesis, and these observations have been confirmed autoradiographically. A single course of either cyclophosphamide (25, 50, 100 or 200 mg/kg), BCNU (2, 7.5, 15, or 30 mg/kg) or cytosine arabinoside (15, 30, 60, 90 mg/kg) resulted in dose-related inhibition of tumor DNA synthesis. The maximum decline in DNA synthesis that was produced by the highest dose of each agent was by 81%, 77% and 68% of untreated tumor values respectively. Adriamycin, however, even at lethal levels (10 mg/kg), did not elicit significant inhibition of tumor DNA synthesis. Radiotherapy (200 R, 500 R or 1000 R) also produced graded inhibition of tumor DNA synthesis. This model is potentially useful for the preclinical screening of therapuetic options in the treatment of neuroblastoma. Thus, single agent therapy, combination chemotherapy and combined radiotherapy and chemotherapy may be rapidly evaluated for possible clinical use.


Survival data from a multiphasic mobile cancer detection unit.

Individuals with early cancer rarely have symptoms, through it is at this state that the best prognosis can be afforded. 22 out of 5,232-patients screened in a Mobile Cancer Detection Unit (MCDU) received cancer diagnosis (exclusive of skin cancer). These patients have enjoyed much greater survival than expected. For instance, only three have died versus and expected 7.5. Calculations show that if all cancer patients in the United States had a similar increase in survival, then the lives of at least 120,000-persons could be extended each year. These limited data must be interpreted cautiously. Nevertheless, they do hold promise since only a few percentage points increase in survival when measured against the full impact of the cancer problem will show significant patient benefit.


Immunization of mice and calves against Salmonella dublin with attenuated live and inactivated vaccines.

Previous findings, viz. that mice can be successfully immunized against infection with Salmonella dublin with either live or inactivated vaccine, were confirmed. Immunity lasted for at least 12 weeks in mice which had been immunized with inactivated alum-precipitated vaccine. The immunogenicity of inactivated vaccine gradually decreased on storage at 4 degrees C, but this was only detectable if a single injection was used for immunization: 2 injections virtually eliminated this phenomenon. The immunogenicity of live vaccine in mice was not enhanced by levamizole or the simultaneous injection of inactivated organisms. Both live and inactivated vaccines provided immunity in calves. A single injection of lyophilized vaccine, prepared from live rough Salmonella dublin strain (HB 1/17),protected 3 out of 6 calves, while 2 injections of a formalin-inactivated, alum-precipated vaccine, containing 1% packed cells of S. dublin strain 2652 V, protected 5 out of 6 calves against intraduodenal challenge with 2 x 10(9), S. dublin strain 2652 V. Two calves which had been immunized with an inactivated oil adjuvant vaccine were also solidly immune to this challenge. Serum antibody response in calves was poor when measured by the tube agglutination and the haemagglutination tests. Similarly, the sera had only marginal protective values when tested by means of a passive protection test in mice. Antibody titres alone are not a valid measure therefore, for the immune status of immunized animals.


The isolation of Mycoplasms synoviae from chickens with infectious synovitis and air-sacculitis in the Republic of South Africa.

Mycoplasma synoviae was isolated from the trachea of chickens showing either typical infectious synovitis lesions or air-sacculitis. M. synoviae was identified by means of the direct plate fluorescent antibody technique and its growth-dependence on nicotine-amide-adenine dinucleotide. This is the first documented report on the isolation and identification of M. synoviae in the Republic of South Africa.


Studies on schistosomiasis. 8. The influence of age on the susceptibility of sheep to infestation with Schistosoma mattheei.

Twenty-eight Dorper wethers, allocated according to age into 4 groups of 7 animals each, and 1 group of 7 Merino wethers, were compared for susceptibility to Schistosoma mattheei infestation. The group mean ages of the Dorper sheep varied from 5-61 months and their live mass from 25-66 kg, while the Merinos were 8 months old and had a mean mass of 19 kg. Despite the marked differences in the age and live mass of the Dorper sheep and the inclusion of 2 breeds in the experiment, no statistically significant differences were found in cercariae which failed to penetrate the sheep the mean percentage development of cercariae to adult worms, worm distribution in the mesenteric and gastric radicles of the portal vein and the pulmonary arterial system, and worms not removed by perfusion. Significant differences between groups (5% significance level) were found, however, in the number of worms recovered from the hepatic portal system, and in the worm sex ratio. On 3 occasions the total number of eggs excreted per female schistosome in the mesentery per 24 hours differed significantly between groups, but each time a different group or groups of sheep were responsible for the variation which was probably due, therefore, not to the age or breed of the sheep, but to daily variations in individuals. Highly significant differences occurred in the infectivity of the 6 cercarial pools used for infestation in spite of standardized collection and handling of the cercariae. Possible reasons for this are discussed and a solution suggested. Frequent egg counts (5 per sheep per week) were done during the first 25 days of patency, until the sheep were slaughtered. Schistosome ova were detected in the faeces of only 1/18 sheep examined on Day +43 after infestation, and 3/17 on Day +44, whereafter this increased rapidly to 15/34 on Day +45, 25/33 on Day +46, etc. A highly significant correlation was found between the total worm egg excretion in the faeces of the sheep per day and the numbers of female schistosomes in the mesentery, especially shortly after the onset of egg production.


Observations on the transmission, immunology, clinical signs and chemotherapy of dourine (Trypanosoma equiperdum infection) in horses, with special reference to cerebro-spinal fluid.

This paper is a record of observations on the transmission and clinical signs of dourine in naturally infected cases of known duration, and of temporal and quantitative aspects of the immune response in blood and cerebro-spinal fluid. Included in the record are observations on the presence of Trypanosoma equiperdum parasites in these body fluids and methods for their detection. There is evidence that the occurrence of nervous symptoms and lesions in infected horses is associated with the presence of Trypanosoma equiperdum parasites in cerebro-spinal fluid. The suitability of cerebro-spinal fluid as an environment for the parasite and its relationship with nervous manifestations of the disease are discussed. Observations support the previously reported lesions of peripheral polyneuritis and suggest a possible correltation between the consitstent position of the nervous lesions and the drainage of cerebro-spinal fluid containing the parasite. Chemotherapy with an experimental drug MSbE was used with varying results in 4 horses at different stages of infection.


Maldronksiekte in cattle: a neuronopathy caused by Solanum kwebense N.E. Br.

A neurological disease of cattle (maldronksiekte), occurring in a localized area of the Northern Transvaal, was experimentally reproduced by feeding Solanum kwebense plants to cattle. The disease is characterized by temporary loss of balance and transient epileptiform seizures precipitated by a variety of stimuli, such as exercise, handling (dipping, loading, etc) and fright. When not disturbed, most affected animals appear to be completely normal. The most conspicuous histopathological lesion is a neuronopathy manifested by vacuolar degeneration and eventual necrosis of neurones, particularly of the Purkinje cells in the cerebellum. An atrophy of the cerebellar cortex is seen grossly. The history, clinical signs and experimental reproduction of the disease, as well as the pathology of 4 experimental and 18 natural cases, are described.


Cerebral babesiosis in a new-born calf.

A case of intra-uterine transmission of Babesia bovis is reported. The calf was born normally but showed signs of intravascular haemolysis and nervous involvement 24 h after birth. It died shortly afterwards from cerebral babesiosis. The dam was not clinically affected.


[Main achievements in the study of immunology of helminthiasis].

Analysis of available literature has shown a considerable progress in the research of the immunology of helminthoses during recent years. In the Soviet Union the study of this problem is carried out, though to a lesser extent, in the same directions as in other countries. They are as follows: 1. study of manifestation, degree of intensity and mechanisms of immunity; 2. study of antigenic structure of helminths as a basis for a purposeful search of methods of cleaning antigenes from ballast matters and criterium of taxonomy; 3. elaboration of methods for immunodiagnostics of helminthoses; 4. use of immunological methods for a study of epidemiology of helminthoses (seroepidemiology); 5. study of immunopathology.


[Distance orientation of the tick Ixodes persulcatus to the attractant factors of the prey].

The laboratory and field tests have shown that the odour is the main factor which activates ticks (Ixodes persulcatus) attraction to the host. Ticks have a sensation of a man on 15 metres distance; the number of activated ticks increases with the distance to the host and depends on the wind direction. The infrared radiation source excites only a short time activation of the ticks on 0.5-1.0 metres distance. Mechanic and sound stimulations were found to be uneffective for the ticks in the experiment.


The cardiac conduction system in sudden infant death syndrome: a report on three cases.

The cardiac conduction systems in three cases of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) were compared with those in children dying from known causes. Foci of inflammatory cells and areas of necrosis were found in SIDS. Lymphocytes and eosinophils were counted in the adjacent myocardium and significantly larger numbers were present in SIDS. These parhological changes in the conduction systems may be capable of producing cardiac arrhythmia and sudden death.


Routine freezing of red blood cells for transfusion in Western Australia.

Experience with preservation of red cells for transfusion since 1971 has shown that refrigeration with liquid nitrogen is simple and reliable. It allows the use of a concentration of glycerol (20%) which can reasonably be removed by batch-washing if automated washing is not possible. It is possible to transport cells frozen in liquid nitrogen over long distances. This appears the method of choice for preserving rare blood, and once adopted for this purpose it is logical to use it for storage of red cells for other patients. Red cells so stored are similar in many respects to fresh cells, and more than 600 units have been transfused since 1971 without any adverse reaction.


[Developmental periods and adaptation of parthenites of Eurytrema pancreaticum (Dicrocoeliidae, Trematoda) to environmental conditions].

Data are given on the developmental periods of parthenites of E. pancreaticum (Janson, 1889) from the Far East of the USSR. The growth and formation of parthenites were found to take place from May to October and to coincide with the active period of the intermediate host's life cycle. With the decrease of autumn temperatures to 8 degrees the growth of parthenites slows down and ceases completely in October. The pause in the development of parthenites from October to April causes longer developmental periods of parthenites as compared to those in the regions of tropical and subtropical climate. Under laboratory conditions at a temperature of 8 to 22 degrees the development of parthenites proceeds without any intervals within 6.5 months.


Mycobacterium fortuitum spinal infection: case report.

Acute paraplegia followed a vertebral infection with Mycobacterium fortuitum. There was a satisfactory response to surgery and antibiotics. No predisposing factors for this primary bone infection could be found.


[Life cycles of the Hymenolepis, Aploparaksis birulai Linstow, 1905 and Aploparaksis brachyphallos (Krabbe, 1869)].

Larvae of A. birulai from Lumbriculus variegatus and A. brachyphallos from Stylodrilus sp. from the Chauna lowland (Chukotka) are described. The species belonging of the larvae was proved experimentally. It was shown that Cysticercus sp. Hrabe, 1958 is a larvacyst of A. birulai. For larvacysts of A. birulai type the name of "floricerk" was suggested and for those of A. brachyphallos type--the name "tailed diplocyst". It is noted that A. uelcal Spassky et Jurpalova, 1968 is a synonym of A. brachyphallos (Krabbe, 1869) nec A. brachyphallos sensu Davies, 1938.


Cerebrospinal fluid fructose-biphosphate aldolase (aldolase) activity in infectious diseases of the central nervous system.

Aldolase levels were estimated in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients with infectious diseases of the central nervous system. A significant rise was found in bacterial and cryptococcal meningitis but the investigation failed to elucidate the source and clinical significance of the elevated activity.


[Density and distribution of pasture Ixodes in the Central Sikhote-Alin].

Data are given on the density of active ticks in different landscapes in the central part of Sikhote-Alin. The character of the ticks distribution (regular, even, contagious) in dependence on the relief and vegetation is analysed.


[Peritrophic membrane of the 2d type in females of the genus Aedes].

In the females of bloodsucking mosquitoes of the genus Aedes there was recognised a secretory activity of the cells of the external wall of the cardial portion of the intestine. The secretion excreted according to the macroapocrine type forms in the cardial cavity a peritrophic membrane of the 2-nd type. A difference in the development rate of the membrane in the species studied was noted.


[Polytypical species of mosquitoes. 1. Anopheles hyrcanus (Passas, 1771)].

An. hyrcanus differs from close An. sinensis Wied. from south-eastern Asia in the following characters: colour of palps and wings, scales of hind abdominal sternites (Table 1). Populations of An. hyrcanus from various regions of the Soviet Union display great variability of systematic characters. The comparison of specimens from the western and eastern parts of the distribution area has shown that the difference between them is negligible and unstable (Table 2). We have no reason to assign An. hyrcanus from the Far East of the USSR to a distinct subspecies.


Antibody detection and identification in a hospital blood bank.

A six-year serological survey has demonstrated that an average of 2.2% per annum of individuals requiring compatibility testing possessed antibodies de novo and that the frequency for individuals forming antibodies following transfusion is 4.1%. The increased detection rate from 1.5% (1969) to 4.1% (1971-5) was almost entirely due to the sensitivity of the two-stage papain technique; a total of 124 antibodies were detected only in this test. Three of these enzyme-active antibodies were found to be the cause of mild haemolytic transfusion reactions. Since 60% of the listed 332 alloantibodies were Rh-specific, the transfusion of appropriately Rh phenotyped blood is strongly recommended.


Hereditary elliptical stomatocytosis: a case report.

The case described demonstrates the development of elliptical stomatocytosis in a neonate and the appearance of elliptical stomatocytes in her mother whose blood film, before delivery, showed elliptocytosis. Further investigations on both individuals indicated a mild haemolytic anaemia. To our knowledge this is the second reported case of elliptical stomatocytosis.


[Revision of certain holarctic species and subspecies of mosquitoes of the genus Culiseta felt. 1. Culiseta (Culiseta) kanayamensis Yamada as a synonym of C. (C.) bergrothi Edwards].

The arguments are given in favour of the identity of two mosquito species, Culiseta bergrothi Edwards, 1921 and C. kanayamensis Yamada, 1932; the latter name should be considered as a synonym of the former according to the author's priority. A map of the geographic distribution of C. bergrothi (= C. kanayamensis) is given in which the association of this mosquito with the taiga zone of the Palaerctic is shown.


The detection of myoglobin in urine and its application to the diagnosis of myocardial infarction.

An indirect haemaglutination method was developed for the immunochemical detection of myoglobin in human urine. Myoglobin was found in the urine of 84% of 44 patients with acute myocardial infarction. In contrast, it was detected in the urine of 2.7% of 147 control subjects and in none of a control group of 15 patients who had received intramuscular injections. In patients with myocardial infarction, myoglobin was detected in most but not all urine specimens collected between 10 and 50 hours after the onset of chest pain. The results suggest that the detection of myoglobin in urine may be a valuable addition to present tests for the diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction.


[New species of the tick, Haemoganasus (Parasitiformes, Gamasoidea)].

The female of the new species Haemogamasus bujakovi sp. n. is described from the Tungokochen region of the Chita district. Two females of the mite were taken from Apodemus speciosus and one from Clethrionomys rutilus.


Bone marrow metastases in disseminated alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma: case report with ultrastructural study and review.

A case of desseminated alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma in an 18-year-old male with leuco-erythroblastic anaemia is described. Numerous bizarre malignant cells, including frequent multinucleated giant cells, were seen in bone marrow aspirates, and osteolytic lesions appeared late in the clinical course. The primary site of the neoplasm remained undertermined during life and also at necropsy, which revealed minute pulmonary metastases and extensive lymph nodal, pleural and skeletal deposits. The diagnosis was confirmed on necropsy tissue by ultrastructural examination which demonstrated numerous thin (5 nm) and thick (15 nm) intracytoplasmic filaments in tumour cells, sometimes organized in bundles; scattered dense Z-band-like bodies, and rod-shaped structures were also seen. The fine structure of the rhabdomyosarcoma in the present case is compared with previous ultrastructural studies. Elongated, thick intracytoplasmic filaments whose diameter corresponds to that of myosin myofilaments are strong evidence for rhabdomyoblastic differentiation and are considered to be the sine qua non of a positive electron microscopic diagnosis of rhabdomyosarcoma. Orgaized bundles of filaments and Z-band-like dense bodies are usually present, and rod-shaped structures are found infrequently, but none of these are necessary for the ultrastructural diagnosis.


[Gonotrophic cycle of Leptoconops borealis (Diptera, Ceratopogonidae)].

Data are given concerning the gonotrophic cycle in fully engorged specimens of Leptoconops borealis, a mass blood sucker from the coast of the sea of Azov. In fully engorged females the repetition of gonotrophic cycles and degeneration of ovaries take place under the effect of Mermitoidea parasitism.


Management of thyroid disease: with particular reference to thyroid nodules.

A host of expensive thyroid tests and operations could be avoided if aspiration biopsy of thyroid nodules were more widely accepted by American physicians. The procedure is both an accurate diagnostic tool and an effective treatment of many thyroid nodules.


Congenital hip dislocation: before and after walking age.

Residual morbidity from congenital dislocation of the hip is for the most part preventable. Prevention is possible, however, only by establishing the diagnosis early and undertaking treatment which leads to stable reduction and avoids complications. To attain these goals, hip examination whould be a routine part of all newborn care. When dislocation is found in a newborn and early treatment initiated, the anatomic abnormalities are minimal, the dislocation is rasily reduced, and the treatment is simple. When diagnosis and treatment are delayed, the soft-tissue and bony abnormalities  become established and therapy becomes more complicated.


Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease.

Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease affects children, mostly boys, in the age range of 3 to 12 years. Severity and duration are quite variable. Catterall's classification of disease according to degree of femoral head involvement is of real prognostic value. Other factors of prognostic importance are loss of motion, metaphyseal cysts, subluxation and extrusion, and involvement of the epiphyseal plate, all of which are associated with poor results. Patients with Catterall group I involvement require no specific treatment as long as motion is normal. For patients under 6 years of age with group II involvement, specific efforts to contain the femoral head do not appear to bb indicated. In all other patients, maximum effort should be made to achieve containment of the femoral head and maintain full range of motion. Surgery has been used for reconstruction and as an alternative method of containment.


Rotational problems of the lower extremity.

Rotational abnormalities in the lower extremities are common in the growing child, but they seldom represent any serious handicap in adult life. When confronted with such a problem, the physician should carefully rule out any underlying pathologic abnormality and should approach the problem in a step-wise fashion. The component parts of the lower extremity should be examined carefully and individually to assess their role in the rotational problem.  The usual causes of internal rotation problems, or toeing in, are metatarsus adductus, internal tibial torsion, and femoral anteversion. External rotation problems are infrequent and pose fewer problems. These include calcaneovalgus, external rotation of the tibia, and external rotatory contractures of the lower extremity. The natural history of these conditions favors improvement with time. However, some patients may require conservative treatment, such as stretching and splints. Rarely, a patient may require surgical intervention.


Menstrual problems of the adolescent.

Pubertal changes occur at a constant rate and in a particular sequence; deviations are indicative of possible menstrual problems. Such problems include precocious puberty, amenorrhea, menstrual irregularity, cramps, and premenstrual tension. Of those patients with menstrual irregularity, 10% to 15% will have chronic conditions requiring lifelong treatment.


Causes of sexual dysfunction.

Sexual problems can be classified as related to (1) desire, (2) arousal and penetration, (3) orgasm, and (4) subjective assessment. The usual cause of sexual dysfunction is psychosocial, eg, past conditioning, inadequate communication and cooperation between sexual partners. Possible organic or psychiatric causes should be ruled out, however.


Vitamin preparations: proper use in medical practice.

The prescription of vitamin preparations as dietary supplements should be limited to specific instances of need and should be accompanied by appropriate measures to correct poor diets. Similarly, specific vitamins in therapeutic amounts should be prescribed only in the presence of vitamin deficiencies or increased requirements.


The general internist: an academic viewpoint.

The general internist is more than a physician possessing the sum of knowledge of the medical subspecialities. He or she must have distinct personal attributes and management skills as well as the traditional diagnostic and treatment capabilities.


Traumatic injuries: office treatment of eye injury. 1. Injury due to foreign materials.

Patients with eye injuries caused by foreign materials are often seen by the primary physician. The causative agents may be foreign objects, noxious liquids or vapors, ultraviolet irradiation, or contact lenses. Injuries caused by foreign bodies that do not penetrate the outer coats of the eye can be treated by the nonspecialist; the intraocular presence of an object requires prompt referral to an ophthalmologist. Ultraviolet light irradiation and contact lenses worn for a prolonged period cause a great deal of pain to the eye but injury is not serious and the eye heals well. Injury from chemicals may be moderate or severe; if pain and functional impairment persist after copious irrigation of the eye with sterile saline solution, the patient should be referred to an ophthalmologist.


Community medicine. Triage-a new look at an old French concept.

Triage involves making judgments as to type and extent of injury. It is begun at the scene of any injury or whenever a patient enters into a health care system. Subsequently, each patient is reevaluated at different stages of care. In recent years a number of mathematical models have been developed to describe patients with multiple injuries, to evaluate emergency care, and to predict the outcome of trauma. While these grading indexes clearly are not flawless, they are helpful tools in determining priority of care.


Immunization practice: some important guidelines.

The right of patients (parents) to know, in detail, the risks inherent in immunization procedures is an important issue. There is legal precedent for holding a physician or drug manufacturer liable for hazards inherent in immunizing materials even if no negligence is involved.


The spectrum of chronic lymphocytic leukemia.

The state of differentiation of the lymphocytes in chronic lymphocytic leukemia is a factor that appears to correlate with the presence and severity of clinical manifestations of the disease and with the incidence of complications. Among drug regimens proposed to date, the most efficacious in poorly differentiated disease appear to be the three- and four-drug combinations.


Response of laying hens to a low salt diet.

Two experiments were conducted with commercial Leghorn-type hens in advance state of production (16 months of age) to determine response to a 16% protein, corn-soy diet with no added salt. There was an immediate and significant decline in feed consumption. Body weight decreased significantly. After 14 days, there were no ova in the rapidly maturing stage. The ovary may have been reduced in size but apparently was not regressed. Egg specific gravity was significantly reduced but egg weight was unaffected. Egg production dropped to 0% in 17-21 days. On the return of 0.25% salt to the diet, recovery as measured by production rate was initiated immediately with production reaching 79% in 16 days compared to a pre-experimental production of 68%.


Variable rachitogenic effects of grain and alleviation by extraction or supplementation with vitamin D, fat and antibiotics.

Three experiments were conducted using day-old broiler type chicks to determine the effect of different cereal grains on vitamin D3 utilization and to investigate the effects of rye, corn, wheat and triticale as the cereal grain component of the diets on the development of a rachitic condition in chicks. Rye was submitted to acid treatment and water extraction in an attempt to destroy or isolate the rachitogenic factor. Results showed that with chicks fed a diet containing 200 I.U. of vitamin D3 with corn as the grain, mineralization of their bones was normal. Growth and bone ash were depressed when rye replaced corn in the diet. These effects were partially reversed when either fat or procaine penicillin was added to the diet, and comppletely prevented with a high level of vitamin D3 (2,000 I.U./kg.). In another experiment, triticale depressed bone ash even though it did not affect body growth to the same extent as rye. Our results indicate that the factor responsible for the rachitogenic condition of rye-fed chicks can be removed by water extraction of this grain or partially destroyed by acid autoclaved treatment. A combination of acid autoclaved treatment and penicillin supplementation prevented the depression in bone ash.


A cephalic influence on gastric motility upon seeing food in domestic turkeys (Melagris gallopavo), great-horned owls (Bubo virginianus) and red-tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis).

Strain gage transducers were permanently implanted on the muscular stomachs of 13 turkeys, 3 great-horned owls and 2 red-tailed hawks to monitor gastric motility before, during and after eating. Following fasting, the sight of food resulted in significant increases in gastric contractile activity in all three species. Gastric motility further increased when the birds were allowed to eat. In raptors, however, a brief interruption in gastric motility occurred immediately after eating. This is apparently analogous to receptive relaxation which occurs in the stomach of mammals.


The use of bile salts to improve absorption of tallow in chicks, one to three weeks of age.

Apparent fat absorption was 39.6 and 68.2% in chicks 4-7 and 14-19 days of age, respectively, fed purified-type diets with 8.2% tallow (TLW). Cholic acid (C.A.), chenodesoxycholic acid (Ch.A.) and taurocholate, sodium salt (T.A.) at .025 and .05% increased significantly the apparent absorption of fat by 8.4 percentage units in chicks 4-7 days of age, and as much as 10 percentage units in chicks 14-19 days of age. No significant increase in metabolized energy of diets was detected. C.A. was fed to S.C.W.L. hens at graded levels up to .2% in corn-soy diets containing either 4 or 8% TLW or hydrogenated soybean oil. No improvement in fat absorption or M.E. was detected in these hens which absorbed 86-89% of the fat. The data indicate that bile salts appear to be effective in improving the absorption of saturated-type fats only in young chicks whose absorptive mechanism for fat is not fully developed.


Fertility of frozen chicken semen after intravaginal and intrauterine inseminations using various concentrations and equilibration times of dimethylsulfoxide and a range of freezing and thawing rates.

The use of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as a cryoprotective agent for freezing chicken semen was examined with respect to intravaginal (I.V.) and intrauterine(I.U.) inseminations. Semen diluted in DMSO was subjected to various freeze rates, equilibration times and thawing rates. Various concentrations of DMSO were examined as was the effect of diluting DMSO with phosphate buffer and Lake's solution. There was no significant (p greater than 0.05) effect of rate of freeze (ranging from 1.3 degrees C to 7.2 degrees C. per min) on fertility. However, rapid thawing in an ice bath resulted in a longer (p less than 0.05) duration of fertility than thawing at 1 degree C. per min., but had no effect on percent fertility during duration or percent hens fertile. Equilibration time and concentration of DMSO had no significant (p greater than 0.05) effects on fertility. There was no interaction between insemination route and Lake's solution vs. phosphate buffer with respect to duration of fertility. It was concluded that intrauterine (I.U.) insemination resulted in superior fertility to intravaginal (I.V.) inseminations with semen frozen in DMSO.


Calcium balance in the quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica). 1, Influence of sex and diethylstilbestrol.

Young adult male and laying female quail, fed with a diet containing 2.64% Ca and 0.70% P, were used to study nutritive utilization, corporal calcium retention and endogenous excretion, calcemia, laying and properties of the egg (including the shell structure), mineralization of the femur bone, as well as the influence of diethylstilbestrol upon these parameters. The coefficient of nutritive utilization (C.N.U.) in the female was high and logically superior to that of the male, while the corporal retention was quite similar for both sexes. Most of the Ca absorbed (81.8%) and not excreted in urine, went to the egg and only 18.2% remained in the body. The diethylstilbestrol caused a big reduction of the C.N.U. in the female, but not in the male, parallel to an inhibition of laying, and an increase of corporal retention of used calcium. In both sexes the calcemia surprisingly increased, and the calcium level of the femur bone was higher, and even though the cortical osseous zone was slightly wider, the effect of treatment was noticeable, particularly in the medular tissue, which incremented in the female and appeared in the male. When quail were fed a calcium-restricted diet, the endogenous excretion of this mineral was small in the case of the female and significantly smaller in the male. This situation suppressed egg laying and resulted in a clearly decreased bone mineralization. The ingestion of diethylstilbestrol before feeding a diet poor in calcium provoked an increase of the endogenous excretion of calcium in both female and male quail.


The responses of chicks to ammonium, calcium, magnesium, potassium and sodium sulphates and to ammonium and potassium carbonates.

The responses of chicks of 14 days of age to increasing levels of dietary anions and cations were investigated in two experiments. Major reductions in weight gains per chick and in gain:feed ratios were observed in chicks as levels of dietary sulphate, with ammonium or potassium cations, were increased from 0 through 5 g. per 100 g. diet. Sodium sulphate had a similar but smaller effect. Calcium and magnesium sulphates  increased weight gains and gain:feed ratios at low levels of dietary inclusion. The relative effect of anion and cation were studied in the second experiment. Potassium carbonate  reduced weight gains  and gain:feed ratio to a greater degree than potassium sulphate; however the higher dietary levels of ammonium carbonate had little effect on chick growth responses in contrast to the major reductions obtained in  response to ammonium sulphate. There were no differences between responses of strains of chicks within experiments. None of the salts were lethal at the levels fed.


Effect of DDE, DDT and calcium on the performance of adult Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica).

Two experiments were conducted to determine the effects of DDE, DDT and calcium on performance of quail. The quail received diets containing 0 or 100 p.p.m. of DDE for eight 28-day periods in Exp. 1 and 0, 100 or 300 p.p.m. of DDE or 100 p.p.m of DDT for six periods in Exp. 2. Diets containing either 0.5 or 3% calcium were used with each pesticide level. No differences in egg shell thickness, cracked eggs, egg production, feed consumption, egg weights, female body weights, fertility or hatchability were obtained from DDE or DDT up to 100 p.p.m.  Three hundred p.p.m. of DDE did result in a decrease in female body weights and in fertility on the low calcium diet. Egg shell thickness, cracked eggs, egg production and hatchability were affected by the lower calcium level. Male body weights were adversely affected from 100 p.p.m. or more of DDE. Mortality increased as the level of DDE increased for females, while no effect was observed with DDT. Males appeared more sensitive to 100 p.p.m. of DDE in Exp. 1 and 300 p.p.m of DDE and 100 p.p.m. of DDT in Exp. 2. Livability and growth of chicks from hens receiving rations containing DDE AND DDT were unaffected by maternal treatment. In summary, DDE and DDT were without effect on egg shell quality or most other reproductive factors, but DDE at 300 p.p.m. did exert a detrimental effect on adult body weights, fertility and mortality.


Behavioral and physiological studies of seizures induced by systemic injection of metrazol in chickens.

The influence of systemically administered Metrazol on behavior, electroencephalogram and body temperature has been studied in young and adult chickens. Distinct convulsions were induced by 30--50 mg./kg. Metrazol administered intravenously in adults: they consisted of an initial excited state, a tonic convulsion accompanied with opisthotonos, and finally, convulsive movements. During recovery from these convulsions, three distinct behaviors were observed: violent peck-like movement, watchful state and finally panting behavior. All of the birds receiving higher intravenous doses (60--100 mg./kg.) exhibited vigorous convulsions immediately after injection and death occurred in 100% of the birds receiving these doses. An intraperitoneal injection of 75--100 mg./kg. Metrazol produced typical convulsions in young and adult chickens. At these doses, convulsions consisted of an initial excited state, a tonic convulsion accompanied with opisthotonos, and convulsive movements which involved clonic and tonic phases. The threshold for evoking typical convulsions with intraperitoneal injection ranges between 50 and 60 mg./kg. Metrazol in young chickens. The intravenous threshold doses for evoking high amplitude (1--2 mV.) in the EEG of adult chickens was 60 mg./kg. Metrazol. High intraperitoneal doses of Metrazol(75-100 mg./kg.) produced typical spikes with large amplitude which were synchronous in the two hemispheres in both young and adult chickens. There was a marked increase in body temperature within 10 minutes after injection in all cases of 50 mg./kg. intravenous dose: maximum increase (at 40 min.) was 1.5 degrees C. as compared with controls, however, it decreased rapidly with panting behavior. The highest does (100 mg./kg.) produced a maximum increase in body temperature of 3 degrees C. Discussion of epileptic seizure susceptibility to Metrazol in aves, in the light of phylogenesis, is discussed.


Body temperature and blood chemistry responses in broiler cockerels given a single intravenous injection of Na+ or Ca++ before an acute heating episode.

Eight-week-old broiler cockerels were injected intravenously with avian saline containing additional Na+ as NaCl or Ca++ as CaCl2. After the injections half of the chickens were heated at 45 degrees C. and the others were maintained at 24 degrees C. Cloacal body temperatures were determined and blood samples were collected before heat exposure and at 30 minute intervals until the chickens had been heated for 120 minutes. Na+ did not affect body temperature of chickens in the 24 degrees C. environment, but Na+-treated chickens in the 45 degrees C. environment had significantly elevated body temperatures compared to the heated controls. Ca++ caused a significant decrease in body temperature of the non-heated chickens, but it was without effect in heated chickens. Neither Na" nor Ca++ altered the responses of plasma glucose, cholesterol, and calcium during the heating episode. However, Ca++ caused a significant rise in plasma inorganic phosphate in non-heated chickens and prevented the rapid decline in the heated chickens. Na+ caused a significant fall in plasma inorganic phosphate in non-heated chickens, but it did not alter the plasma phosphate response to acute heat stress. The present experimental resultn chickens in a moderate temperature environment, and suggests that Ca++ initially exerts a peripheral rather than a central effect in decreasing the body temperature.


Thy hydrolysis of phytate phosphorus by chicks and laying hens.

The chromic oxide balance method was used to determine the amount of natural phytate phosphorus hydrolyzed by chicks and laying hens. Broiler chicks 4 and 9 weeks old and Single Comb White Leghorn hens were fed diets containing corn as the only grain source or diets in which wheat replaced one half of the corn. Feces were collected twice daily during the 7-day test period. The phytate phosphorus recovered in the feces of the 4 and 9 week old chicks and the laying hens fed the diet containing corn was 100, 98, and 92%. When wheat replaced one half of the corn the recovery was 92, 87 and 87%. The phytase activity in wheat was minimal in vivo; whereas, in vitro tests indicated enzyme activity.


Studies on the enteric absorption of selenium in the chick using localized coccidial infections.

Studies were conducted to determine the primary loci of gastrointestinal absorption of inorganic selenium in the chick using radiotracer techniques and Eimeria sp. infections of known site specificity for the gastrointestinal tract. Results showed that coccidial infections in the anterior regions of the small intestine reduced selenium absorption and potentiated selenium deficiency among chicks fed critical levels of the mineral. Absorption experiments showed that selenium absorption was greatest in the duodenum and anterior ileum, although selenium was bound at least transiently to tissues in the gizzard and crop. It is concluded from these experiments that dietary inorganic selenium is absorbed primarily in the duodenum and anterior ileum. Factors such as enteric disease which disrupt the integrity of the anterior intestinal mucosa can, therefore, reduce the absorption of selenium and other nutrients absorbed in that region, resulting in a potentiation of nutritional deficiencies.


Effects of 1,3-butanediol and 1,2-propanediol on growth, blood metabolites, and liver glycogen broiler chickens.

Control diets, and diets containing 4% 1,3-butanediol (BD), 8% BD, 4% 1,2-propanediol (PD) and 8% PD were offered ad libitum to broilers from 1 to 28 days of age. Body weight gain and feed intake were recorded, and plasma metabolites and liver glycogen were measured. When compared to the control diet, the synthetic compounds depressed (p less than 0.01) growth at the 4% level, but the effect was more pronounced (p less than 0.01) at the  8% level. The test compounds had no effect (p less than 0.05) on the efficiency of feed utilization. Four percent BD elevated (p less than 0.01) plasma beta-hydroxybutyrate and acetoacetate concentrations, and the ratio of beta-hydroxybutyrate to acetoacetate. The influence was more pronounced at the 8% level; PD did not affect (p greater than or equal to 0.05) ketone body concentrations. Neither BD, nor PD caused changes (p greater than or equal to) in plasma glucose, free fatty acids, cholesterol, or liver glycogen. Results are discussed with reference to feeding these compounds to monogastric and ruminant animals.


Accumulation and depletion of dieldrin in visceral fatty tissue of broilers.

White rock chicks were fed a commercial crumbles ration with approximately 1.0 p.p.m. of the active ingreient of technical grade dieldrin added to it. The treated feed was replaced by uncontaminated feed at various times from two to eight weeks of age. Equations were computed to describe the accumulation and depletion of the insecticide in visceral adipose tissue. Accumulations in females were described by polynomial equations with significant quadratic coefficients which indicated that the rate of accumulation leveled off between six and eight weeks. Accumulation rates in males were essentially linear through ten weeks. After removal of dieldrin from the feed, insecticide depletion from fat could be described in both sexes by equations for power curves. Replacement of contaminated feed with uncontaminated feed by two or three weeks of age resulted in concentrations at control or background levels by eight weeks of age. Replacement of contaminated feed with non-contaminated feed at ages later than three weeks did not bring concentrations below those acceptable as non-hazardous for human consumption.


Studies on the daily protein and amino acid needs of broiler breeder hens.

Feeding trials were conducted with broiler breeder hens to determine optimum daily intake of protein for maximum performance. Pullets were grown to 24 weeks of age on limited feed intake to maintain the body weight within the limits suggested by the breeder. A controlled-feeding system was used during the laying period with step-wise increase in calorie intakes. In the first study corn-soybean type diets were used to supply 14 to 22 grams of protein/day in 2 gram increments. In the second study daily protein intakes of 14.5 to 24 grams were compared. In addition, diets supplying 14.5 and 16 grams of protein daily were also fed with an additional 200 mg/day of lysine and methionine. The results of these studies suggest that the protein requirement of broiler breeder hens fed corn-soybean meal diets without supplemental amino acids is 20-22 grams per day.


Lysine requirement of hens fed diets with corn as the major cereal grain.

Two experiments were conducted to determine the lysine requirement of laying hens. Corn was used as the cereal grain, and cottonseed meal, peanut meal, and corn gluten meal supplied supplemental protein. In Experiment 1 a daily lysine intake of 607 mg. per hen per day was adequate for maximum egg production and egg weight. In Experiment 2 basal diets were calculated to contain 2880 M.E. kcal/kg. or 3110 M.E. kcal/kg. The lysine requirement for the lower energy diet was 657 mg. per hen per day and for the higher energy diet was 636 mg. per hen per day. A lysine requirement of 650 mg. per hen per day is recommended.


Simplified hypophysectomy technique for young birds.

The present work introduces a modified oral approach to the pituitary gland of the immature bird with improved localization and visualization of the organ in situ. The hypophysectomy procedure is based on simplified instrumentation readily available or constructed with materials present in most, if not all, laboratories. The technique has the added advantage of minimal exsanguination, virtually no operative trauma, and allows for a rapid post operative animal recovery.


Selection for increased semen yield in the turkey.

Selection was effective in greatly increasing semen yield in the turkey. After five generations of selection semen yield in the selected line was more than double that of the randombred control line from which the semen line was developed. The realized heritability of semen yield was .35 +/- .20. There was no consistent change in sperm concentration or frequency of bent sperm associated with the increased yield. Egg production was increased in the semen line. The increase occurred in the first generation of selection and was maintained throughout the remaining generations of selection. Body weight during the growing period exhibited an initial increase in the semen line but declined to randombred control levels in later generations. There was no consistent change in percent fertility, percent hatchability of fertile eggs or number of poults produced per hen which was associated with the genetic increases in semen yield.


The arginine requirement of the 4-7 week old broiler.

Two floor pen studies were conducted to determine the minimum arginine level needed to support maximum weight gain and optimum feed conversion during the 4-7 week period of growth for both males and females. Floor feather counts were used as an additional criteria for determining the arginine requirement. The basal diets were calculated to contain 0.74 and 0.80% arginine based on the analyzed values for corn, corn gluten meal, skimmilk and soybean meal. Regression equations were calculated from the data obtained for the males only. Based on the regression equations, the calculated requirement for maximum weight gain, optimum feed conversion, and floor feathers is 1.09, 1.10, and 1.13% arginine, respectively. When expressed as a function of energy, the requirements would be 0.329, 0.332, and 0.341% arginine per megacalorie of metabolizable energy per kg. of diet, respectively. The differences in rate of gain data for the females were non-significant, indicating the requirement of the females to be less than the males. The female requirement, based on floor feathers, would appear to be 0.98% dietary arginine.


Studies on the accessory reproductive organs in the drake.

The effects of the fluid from the ejaculatory groove region (EGR-fluid) on the survival and fertilizing ability of spermatozoa of the drake were examined. Semen was collected from the ductus deferens and divided into three parts; one remained undiluted (control 1) and other two were diluted with EGR-fluid and phosphate buffer (control 2) respectively. The survival of spermatozoa stored in the EGR-fluid was similar to that of controls but many spermatozoa were deformed during storage, the rate of which reached 57% in the samples stored for 24 hours. The fertilizing ability of the fresh (unstored) spermatozoa was not adversely affected by the addition of EGR-fluid but a rather favourable effect of the fluid was recognized. In contrast, when the spermatozoa were stored in vitro, the EGR-fluid exerted an adverse effect on the fertilizing ability of spermatozoa.


Effect of selenium and mercury on gross morphology and histopathology of chick embryos.

Gross lesions of selenium toxicity in chick embryos included webbed, fused, and curled toes; cracked, crooked, and shortened beaks and gastroschisis. Mercury injection on day 3 of incubation caused leg defects but older embryos were much less susceptible. Histopathological studies showed that injection of selenium as selenite caused dissociation of hepatic cells, particularly around the central veins. Glomeruli of affected kidneys were enlarged, and in each glomerulus the lumen of the capillary tuft was dilated and the space of Bowman widened. Epithelial cells of the proximal convoluted tubules were detached from the basement membranes. Injection of mercury as chloride resulted in liver pathology in the late dead embryos which included dilated central veins and sinusoids. The cytoplasm of many hepatic cells was vacuolated. Foci of hemorrhages were observed in all liver lobes. In the kidneys, the renal corpuscles showed either shrinkage or enlargement. They seemed to be in the process of degeneration and disintegration. Sclerotic glomeruli were characterized by disappearance of Bowman's space and clumping of the glomerular tuft. Combined treatment with selenium and mercury resulted in liver pathology similar to that observed in mercury toxicity. The hepatic cell dissociation seen in selenium treated embryos was not observed following the combined treatment. In the kidneys the combined treatment resulted in typical lesions of both selenium and mercury toxicity.


Stability of immune potency of tylosin 1-killed, broth-propagated Hemophilus gallinarum bacterin.

Immunizing potency of broth-propagated Hemophilus gallinarum (HG)bacterin was compared with tylosin and thimerosal treatment as the HG-inactivation agent and preservative. The immunizing potency of a tylosin-treated HG bacterin was as stable as a thimerosal-treated bacterin after 53 months storage at 2 to 5 degrees C.


Effect of vasoligation on the reproductive organs of immature cockerels of the domestic fowl (Gallus domesticus).

Fifteen sexually immature, 12-week-old cockerels were unilaterally vasoligated. Eight of these were killed at 4 weeks post-ligation and the remaining 7 at 10 weeks post-ligation. Granulomatous lesions in the ductus deferens were observed in 2 cockerels of the first and in 1 cockerel of the second group. Cysts showing intense granulomatous reactions were present in the epididymis in 1 cockerel of the first group and 4 cockerels of the second group. The seminiferous tubules were not seriously affected. The contralateral organs acted as controls and were grossly and histologically normal.


Anticoccidial action of monensin in turkey poults.

Monensin was effective within the range 60-100 p.p.m. in control of coccidiosis in turkey poults in a series of laboratory experiments. Under conditions of heavy infections with Eimeria meleagrimitis and E. adenoides, 100 p.p.m. of monesin was significantly more effective than 60 p.p.m. in protecting weight gains. When light or moderate infections with E. meleagrimitis, E. adenoides and E. gallopavonis were used, there were no significant differences among monesin-medicated treatments. In all instances the monensin-medicated treatments gained significantly more weight than noninfected, nonmedicated controls, when measured at 7 days post-inoculation. Similarly, oocyst, passage was reduced, feed conversion was protected and mortality was controlled in monensin-treated poults.


Assessment of the quantity of biologically available phosphorus in yeast RNA and single-cell protein.

Two assays were conducted with chicks fed a phosphorus-deficient crystalline amino acid diet from day 8 to 17 posthatching to evaluate the phosphorus availability of purified torula yeast RNA and single-cell protein (Torula yeast). Tibia bone ash of the chicks was the criterion used in both assays, and regression analysis was used to evaluate bone ash as a function of phosphorus intake. A standard curve was established by feeding graded levels of KH2PO4 in each assay. Weight gain, tibia weight and tibia ash all responded to phosphorus supplementation whether provided by KH2PO4, RNA or single-cell protein. Weight of tibia ash provided the best linear fit when evaluated as a function of phosphorus intake. Availability in both assays estimated using the slope-ratio technique wherein milligrams of available phosphorus per gram of RNA or single-cell protein was calculated. In assay 1 the available phosphorus in RNA was found to be 93.2 mg/. In assay 2 the available phorphorus in single-cell protein was found to be 14.1 mg./g.


Sexual maturity and persistency of lay in the Chukar partridge given stimulatory light at different ages.

In two separate trials, age at sexual maturity (lay of 1st egg) and total eggs laid in a 13-week production period were determined for the Chukar partridge given stimulatory light at 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 or 30 weeks. The best responses occurred with hens given stimulatory light when 26 weeks of age or older. More than 85 percent of these hens laid, and production ranged from 15 to 25 eggs per hen. The youngest age at 1st egg was 161 days, required by one hen given stimulatory light at 16 weeks. Many hens given stimulatory light at 24 weeks or younger failed to lay, and egg production was extremely poor in those that did lay. Based on our results, best egg production can be attained when birds are given stimulatory light at 28 weeks, allowed to lay for 13 weeks, then cycled to lay again when 50 weeks of age. Hens of superior laying ability can be detected in the first cycle of lay, thus reducing the time that would be required to identify these same birds if allowed to lay under natural daylight conditions.


Legless--a lethal condition in the domestic fowl.

The abnormality resulting in legless condition which appeared in one pedigree mating in the R.I.R. stock is reported. The condition was lethal to the affected embryos between five and seven days of the incubation period. The matings carried out suggested that the condition was not hereditary but since only two males were raised from the original mating it cannot be stated with certainty.


Persistence of semen quality during the reproductive period in two strains of turkeys differing in semen yield.

Semen yield, sperm concentration and frequency of bent sperm were measured during the ninth week following stimulatory lighting (in January) and correlated with similar measurements obtained 1-1/2 and 4-1/2 months later in the reproduction period for two strains of medium bodied turkeys differing in semen yield. These correlations, based on measurements made early in the reproductive period, were not large enough so that the male's subsequent performance could accurately be predicted. Strain differences were also apparent in correlation coefficients for semen yield. The correlation coefficients were larger for the strain having the smallest yeild. In general, the significant correlation coefficients between semen yield and sperm concentration were positive and those between semen yield and percent bent sperm and between sperm concentration and percent bent sperm were negative. However, the correlation coefficients tended to be low in magnitude.


Light alterated changes in the embroynic age versus incubation age of White Leghorn embryos.

White Leghorn eggs were incubated in the dark or under two 20-Watt cool white flourescent tubes. The embryos were collected and staged according to somite number and other anatomical observations. Embryos from lighted eggs were significantly more advanced in embryonic age within 24 hours than embryos from the dark. By the end of 10 days no further acceleration of development by light was significant.


The association of semen traits and fertility in the turkey.

There were no significant correlation coefficients between semen traits (yield, concentration and frequency of bent sperm) measured prior to the first insemination and fertility over a 12-week hatching period when the amount of semen inseminated per female was greater than the minimum (.025 cc.) usually recommended. Although there were some statistically significant correlations between semen measurements made later in the reproduction period and fertility for the entire period, they were very small ranging from -- .29 to +.20.


Relationship of biotin to reproductive performance of Leghorn-type hens.

Five floor pens with 14 Leghorn-type breeder hens each, in their 4th month of production, and 2 males per pen were fed a practical-type breeder diet composed largely of soybean meal and milo supplemented with unidentified hatchability factor sources and adequate levels of vitamins and minerals. Five additional pens were fed an identical ration supplemented with biotin at a level of 550 mcg./kg. of diet. Treatment was for a period of 7 months. A 3% improvement in production was obtained by biotin (550 mcg./kg.) supplementation, which was found to be highly significant (P less than or equal to .005) by chi-square analysis. A slight improvement was noted for feed efficiency. Biotin supplementation had no effect on egg size or adult livability. Fertility and hatchability were both significantly improved by biotin supplementation. Fertility and hatchability differences were found to be highly significant by chi-square analyses. Increased hatchability was due to a decreased number of early dead, late dead, and pipped embryos that failed to hatch.


[Effect of certain antibiotics of tetracycline series on the level of blood sugar and the role of insulin in the mechanism of its regulation].

Experiments on male rats showed enterally administered tetracycline and chlortetracycline to promote an elevation of the blood sugar level. These antibiotics administered once together with glucose retarded the normalization of the blood sugar concentration. After 7-day administration of tetracycline and chlortetracycline glucose load caused a stable hyperglycemia. Special experiments with depancreatization and insulin injection to the animals and also the intravenous injection of glucose and the antibiotic demonstrated that the changes in the blood sugar concentration under the effect of tetracycline were associated both with its inhibitory action on the absorbing function of the intestine and with the retarded glucose utilization in the tissues. Insulin injected intramuscularly eliminated the hyperglycemic effect caused by the antibiotics.


[Main causes of death of patients with diabetes mellitus].

Among the causes of death in the patients with diabetes mellitus in Ukraine there prevailed cardiovascular disease (73.1 +/- 0.19%); malignant neoplasms ranked second (12.1 +/- 1.2%); tuberculosis constituted 1.6 +/- 1.2%, and all the rest of the diseases - 13.1 +/- +/- 1.2%, including coma - 0.5%. The frequency of death, particularly from cardiovascular diseases, is influenced by the patients' age, the severity and the duration of metabolic disturbances. The methods of treatment, particularly the saccharolytic sulphanilamide preparations, produce no effect on the death incidence.


[Testicular feminization syndrome in children].

The paper is devoted to the clinical picture and the diagnosis of the syndrome of testicular feminization in children. Problems of the pathogenesis, treatment of this pathology and the choice of sex for their upbringing are given.


[Effectiveness of clomiphene treatment in anovulatory conditions].

The paper presents, the data on the treatment of 74 patients with anovular conditions varying by the pathogenesis, with klomiphen. Three groups of patients were distinguished depending on the therapeutic efficacy: the 1st group with a complete clinical effect, the 2nd group with a partial clinical effect, and the 3rd group - without any effect. In comparing the therapeutic efficacy with the data of gonadotropin examination it was revealed that the outcome of the therapy failed to depend on the initial LH and FSH level. However, there was revealed a reliable dependence of the therapeutic efficacy on the LH/FSH ratio: the nearer the LH/FSH ratio approached 1, the more effective was klomiphen therapy. Thus the LH/FSH ratio could be regarded as the criterion of choice of the patients for the klomiphen therapy, and could also be used for the prognostication of the results of treatment.


[Morphology of the ovaries in congenital virilization of the external genitalia in persons with genetic and gonadal female sex].

A study was made of the resected ovarian tissue in 7 patients with congenital virilization of the external genitalia (CVEG). In patients with CVEG there occurred not very pronounced changes in the ovaries seen in diencephalic syndromes with the involvement of the ovaries into the pathological process (hypertrophy of the theca interna cells of the cystically changed follicles, hyperplasia of the intestinal tissue of the cortical layer with the transformation of individual cells into epithelioid, etc.). There were clinical signs indicating an acceleration of maturation of the diencephalic structures (some tendency to the acceleration of sexual development, and distinct signs of diencephalic pathology on the EEG). A conclusion was drawn that in the patients with CVEG the ovaries do not serve as the source of andronization of the organism. It is supposed that in these patients the source of hyperandronization existed at the period of formation of the external genitalia of the fetus and that the adrenal cortex of the fetus could serve as this source.


[Clinico-electroencephalographic study of familial (genetic) forms of nanism].

Genetic nanism is a widespread phenomenon. Only familial forms constituted 22.8% of the cases of hypophysial and cerebral nanism. A total of 32 patients belonging to 15 families with repeated cases of the disease were examined clinically and electroencephalographically. In genetic hypophysial nanism clinical peculiarities of the disease and the EEG indices were similar within the limits of the same family and showed distinct differences in the patients belonging to different families. The differences are determined chiefly by the level of sex maturation. The EEG in genetic hypophysial nanism was identical to that in the total group of patients with the hypophysial nanism without any organic cerebral pathology. The EEG of the sexually immature patients suffering from nanism was characterized by the immaturity features both in the prepubertal period and in the course of the whole following life, whereas in the patients with a spontaneous sexual development the EEG corresponded to the age criteria at any age. The EEG examination of the patients with hypophysial nanism at the prepubertal period permits to prognosticate their subsequent sexual development.


[Distribution of mineralocorticoid receptors in the kidney cells of rats with different levels of aldosterone in their bodies].

A metabolic method was applied to the study of the distribution of mineralocorticoid receptors in the kidney cells of rats at various aldosterone levels in the organism. A great number of binding sites of aldosterone in the cytoplasm and a low aldosterone-H3 binding by the nuclei of kidney cells was revealed in adrenalectomized rats, as well as in the animals kept under conditions of sodium load, when endogenous aldosterone was absent in the organism. A reduction of the number of binding sites in the cytoplasm and an increase of aldosterone-H3 binding in the nuclei was noted in the animals with a high content of the given hormone in the organism (sodium deficiency in food or aldosterone administration to the adrenalectomized animals). The difference in the hormone binding by the nuclei of the kidney cells of rats kept under conditions of sodium loading or deficiency corresponded to an even greater difference in the aldosterone binding by the chromatin proteins of such nuclei. It is supposed that an increased aldosterone concentration in the organism intensified the change from the cytoplasm and the accumulation of specific aldosterone-receptor complexes in the nuclei.


[Role of the pituitary gland in calcium and magnesium metabolism in dogs and rats].

Epiphysectomy in dogs and rats was accompanied by a reduction of urinary excretion of calcium and magnesium, by an increase in the magnesium concentration in the blood plasma of dogs. Administration of epiphysial extracts induced an increase of diuresis in dogs on account of a greater rate of glomerular filtration and a fall of the tubular water reabsorption. Calcium and magnesium urinary excretion increased in dogs and rats as well; this was due both to an increase of their ultrafiltration and a reduction of reabsorption in the renal tubules. Consequently, the epiphysis took part in the regulation of metabolism of bivalent cations.