[Radioisotopic methods of studying the pelvic lymphatic system in patients with cancer of the cervix and corpus uteri].

An original method of studying the functional state of the lymphatic system-lymphotachoradiography, elaborated in the Institute of Experimental and Clinical Oncology of the USSR Acadeny of Medical Sciences, was found to be rather effective in estimating metastatic spread of the uterine cervix and body cancer. The coefficients of phagocytosis of colloid particles by lymphoid tissue are determined. Normal coefficients are equal for inguinal, iliac and paraaortic groups of lymph nodes to 1.60+/-0.05; 1.40+/-+/-0.04; 1.10+/-0.10 accordingly. In some pathological changes in lymph nodes these coefficients are changed: 0.41+/-0.01; 0.48+/-0.01; 0.24+/-0.05, correspondingly.


[Elastic fibers of the cervical stroma in precancer and cancer].

Along with the description of the architectonics of elastic fibres in normal cervicovaginal tissues the kinetics of their changes was followed in precancerous conditions and cancer of the cervix. It was found that during the process of growth and development of precancerous lesions and cancer elastic fibres would undergo a number of gradually increasing changes from surface, reversible to profound, irreversible with their ultimate total destruction.


[Ascorbic, keto and hydroxy acid metabolism in the cell nuclei of certain tumors].

The authors report the results of studies on the content of ascorbic acid, pyruvic acid and the activity of malate dehydrogenase decarboxylizing (MDHD) in cell nuclei of uterine fibromyoma, glandular hyperplasia of the endometrium with epithelial proliferation, common ovarian cyst and solid cancer. It was shown that due to the glycolysis inhibited respiration an oxidated form of ascorbic acid is absent in every case, whereas the MDHD activity is not manifested. The amount of a reduced form of ascorbic and pyruvic acid in benign tumors is at the control level, but in malignant growth these indices are markedly increased.


[Clinical morphological characteristics of the initial forms of cervical cancer].

An analysis of clinical and colposcopic findings in 107 patients with early forms of invasive cancer of the uterine cervix with deep invasion not more than 3 mm (st. 1-a) and their correlation with the results of histological assay enabled the authors to give the clinico-morphological characteristics of this stage of the lesion. It was found that 40% of patients had complaints pathognomonic for a malignant process; 91.6% of patients showed visually recognizable but nonspecific changes in the cervix; in 94% of cases colposcopy revealed cancer suspicious changes of the common and increased atypical epithelium type. In 53.3% cancer foci are so limited that these would be removed by primary biopsy. Metastases in regional lymph nodes were detected in 1.6%. Limited foci of the cancer and extremly rare metastases spread in regional lymph nodes justify the use of hysterectomy solely in treatment of such patients.


[Potentiation of the antitumor action of cyclophosphamide with a change in the cell population makeup and an increase in cellular permeability].

Cells of Ehrlich ascites tumor survived after cyclophosphamide injection showed no multiplication during 48 hours. As a result, vinblastine injection simultaneously with cyclophosphamide or following 24 hours produced no additional death of cells. The administration of cyclophosphamide 6 hours after vinblastine resulted in the death of cells 30 times as much as in the injection of both substances simultaneously. Synergism was due to the disappearance of cells in phase G from the population, which are resistant to cyclophosphamide. Tween 80 enhanced an antitumor effect of cyclophosphamide without increasing the toxicity.


[Method for the primary selection of active antitumor alkylating preparations in vitro and in vivo].

To reveal the cytotoxic activity of antitumor drugs the experiments were conducted in vitro-in vivo. Active substances in the dosage of 800 mg per 1 Kg of tumor were found to suppress sarcoma 45 transplantability during 1 hour in vitro. But inactive substances did it only in much larger doses. The result of the in vivo-in vitro experiments coincided with the results obtained by other investigators studying the antitumor activity in vivo. The experiments using the proposed method of selection required a much less amount of the substance (a biological experiment, repeated twice, can be carried out having 1--3 mg), animals, time and efforts of the researcher.


[Growth kinetics of transplantable mammary gland tumors in mice].

The function of: (see article), fits the tumors weight growth for all studied generations in both control and treated animals. Morphological studies show the transplantable tumors in A mice to lose their similarity to a spontaneous tumor--low differentiated adenocarcinoma. Meanwhile, the tumors in C3H mice have a high differentiation level which is typical for the original tumor. 1-nitroso-1-methylurea is very effective against the first generation of tumors in both strains of mice. The tumors response to the drug becomes weaker with further passages. 1-nitroso-1-methyl urea is superior to other nitrous derivatives when used in such tumor models as breast adenocarcinoma in C3H mice.


[Changes in the thoracic duct and lymphodynamics in neoplastic diseases].

X-ray contrast study of the thoracic duct was conducted in 35 patients with various neoplasms of the chest and upper abdomen, as well as in tumor involvement of lymph nodes, located proximally to the main lymphatic collector. Pathological changes in the thoracic Duct and central lymphodynamics, observed in neoplastic lesions concerned, are described.


[Biosynthesis of soluble proteins and pepsinogen of the mucus membrane and cancer of the stomach in man].

Thyrosine-I-C14 and serine-3-C14 show a higher level of incorporation into total soluble proteins of human gastric blastoma hemogenates than those of the mucous membrane. Moreover, a low radioactivity of pepsinogen was detected in the tumors. Also, there was a different rate of incorporation of these aminoacids both into separate fractions of soluble protein and pepsinogen of the mucous membrane and cancer of the stomach. These differences seem to be conditioned by alterations of the process of regulation of protein biosynthesis in the tumors. Simultaneously, there is a direct dependence of the proteolytic activity of pepsin isoforms on the rate of incorporation of the mucous membrane and cancer of human stomach.


[Conservative operations in malignant tumors of the rectum and the sigmoid colon].

The results of treatment in 230 patients with malignant transformation of polyps and villous tumors, carcinoid and cancer of the rectum and sigmoid are reported. The aforementioned tumors were removed by transanal excision, electrocoagulation adn posterior proctotomy. In 33 patients economic operations for rectal cancer were associated with radiotherapy. Late results indicated that after economic resections for rectal cancer in most cases a persistant cure is gained. In malignified polyps, villous tumors and rectal carcinoids electroexcision or electrocoagulation seems to be an adequate procedure. Patients subjected to economic resections need to be examined every month during the first postoperative year, and later once in six months.


[Detection of antigens containing benzidine groups in the blood of persons having contact with aniline dyes].

The paper is concerned with the study of a possibility to record 2-naphtylamine and benzidine in serum and formed blood elements of workers being in contact with dyes, which molecule contain radicals of carcinogens. The Ouchterlony method of precipitation in gel in micromodification and the method of a delay in the precipitation reaction have indicated the presence of benzidine as a haptene in blood serum of 25 among 103 workers and in blood clot extracts in 42 among 116 workers from a textile factory under examination. But 2-naphtylamine was not found in the same subjects.


[Antigens and molecular hybridization of the nucleic acids of milk in breast cancer].

Two test-systems: for oncornavirus of HEp2 cells and antigens in the milk of females with breast carcinoma were compared. Both test-systems proved to be not identical although they have common components. The first one reveals predominantly group-specific viral antigens, the second--does selectively two soluble antigens in "cancer" milk samples, homogenates of cancerous tumors in young females, and in the milk of some clinically healthy females, as well. Experiments on molecular hybridization allowed the detection of sequences homologous to nucleic acids of oncornavirus, type D in milk nucleic acids of breast cancer females and in some milk samples of clinically healthy females.


[Detection of adenovirus type-12 in sarcomas induced by this virus in hamster].

Cells of transplantable sarcomas primarily induced in hamsters with adenovirus, type 12, produced persistantly this virus in an infective form. In sera of sarcomabearing hamsters virus-neutrolizing antibodies and antibodies to T-antigen of tumors were revealed. The presence of T-antigen in cells of all types of sarcoma A-12 was demonstrated by means of immunofluorescence, as well as the absence of a specific luminescence of surface membranes of A-12 MML sarcoma cells, obtained from pulmonary micrometastases.


[Influence of fast electrons on the nucleic acid level and the biosynthsis of RNA in cells of the ascites tumor NK/Ly and the spleen of tumor-bearing mice].

The results of investigations on total nucleic acids content and RNA turnover in the cells of tumor NK/Ly and of the spleen in tumor-bearing mice after single exposure to fast electrons are described. In every case the irradiation results in reliable changes of parameters under study. The pattern of changes in nucleic acids content and turnover in the spleen after the exposure to fast electrons is in a good agreement with the available data concerning the influence of x- and y-radiation. The irradiation action on nucleic acids content and turnover in ascites tumor NK/Ly cells is qualitatively and quantitatively similar to that in splenic cells.


[Comparative study of the fate of fluorofur and 5-fluorouracil in the organism].

Fluorofur (FT) is slowly splitted in tissues releasing free 5-FU. The duration of stay in the organism of 5-FU formed from FT is longer than that of 5-FU administered solely. Moreover, FT does not result in the formation of such high 5-FU concentrations, as observed while using 5-FU itself. It seems to account for an insignificant toxicity of FT and its greater efficacy in treatment of malignant tumors.


[Simmonds-Sheehan syndrome].

A woman of 30 with Simmonds--Sheehan syndrome is described that developed after delivery by vacuum-extraction of the fetus, due to powerless labour. The clinical picture was dominated by suprarenal cortical insufficiency, manifested with pains in the abdomen, vomiting, hypotonia and severe asthenic-adynamic syndrome. The substitutional hormonal treatment completely restored the general state and the working capacity of the patient.


[Dipeptidase activity in the small intestine of patients with chronic nonspecific enteritis].

Dipeptidase activity in homogenate from small intestinal mucosa is determined according to the method of Josefsson (1965) in 45 patients with chronic non-specific enteritis. The majority of the enzymes are of the endopeptidase group, degrading the dipeptides of the neural aminoacids; glycyl-alanine, alanyl-l-valine, glycyl-l-isoleucine, analyl-glycine, leucyl-l-leucine, alanyl-l-leucine, alanyl-l-proline, glycyl-l-glutamic acid; only one enzyme-glycyl-l-leucine dipeptidase belongs to the enzymes of the brush-like zone of the enterocyte. The glycyl-l-alanine dipeptidase enzyme activity was established to be decreased with 49,2 per cent, glycyl-l-leucine--with 33,2 per cent, glycyl-l-valine with 19,6 per cent, glycyl-l-isoleucine--with 61 per cent, etc. The diminished enzyme activity corresponds, in the majority of the cases, to the severity of the disease and to the degree of the histological changes. It does not reach the decreased degree, found in the patients with coliac sprue. In a series of cases the enzymatic activity does not correspond to the morphological changes: "normal activity" and decreased peptidase activity were found in six cases and in two cases--"partial mucosal atrophy" and normal or elevated peptidase activity. Very likely, the pointed out enzymes, are of a substantial importance for the pathogenetic digestive and resorbtive disturbances in chronic non-specific enteritis, especially protein disturbances.


[Effect of alcohol and diet on some liver enzymes].

Liver is the main organ associated with alcohol oxidation. The definite liver enzymes role is not elucidated as yet, that participates in alcohol metabolism. The nutrient factors are of a great importance for the development of the alcoholic liver lesions and for the induction of liver enzymes under alcohol effect. Alcohol effect was studied in 80 male albino rats, Wistar strain, as well as some nutritional diets upon microsomal enzymes--cytochrome P-450, aniline-hydroxilase aminopyrine-demetilase., ADH and DALA-C. The changes, developed in the body weight are discussed as well as the liver weight and the microsomal protein under alcohol effect and the respective nutritional regimens. Alcohol, given in a dose of 4g/kg body weight, in the course of 60 days, induces but slightly the microsomal enzymes cytochrome P-450 and aniline-hydroxilase and does not induce aminopyrine-demetilase. ADH activity decrease with the chronic alcohol loading. Mitochondrial enzyme DALA-C is moderately induced by alcohol. Lipid and protein role is decisive in the induction process while the carbohydrate role is less.


[Deiodase deficiency--clinical significance and diagnosis].

Outlining briefly the essence and clinical manifestation of deiodase insufficiency, the author stresses upon the diagnostic difficulties of that disease and the need of available and reliable tests for the detection of that enzyme defect. The results of the modified, by the author, method of Jaffiol et al. applied on 15 patients with nodular sporadic goiter are reported. The modification gives distinct results and is with substantial practical advantages as compared with the original method. Deiodase insufficiency was established in three of the examined and the percentage of the excreted with the urine labelled diiodotyrosine exceeded two to five times that of the rest of the patients. The method is recommended for the diagnostic practice.


[Study of coagulation in patients with hypertension].

The coagulation process, on the background of humoral syndrome, were followed up in 73 patients with hypertonic disease in clinical conditions. The hypertonic disease develops with hyperlipemia, dysproteinemia and hypercoagulonemia and depression of the fibrinolytic system. During the first stage of the disease a tendency towards elevated susceptibility to coagulation was found, but with intensified fibrinolytic activity. With the development of the alterations, due to the hypertonic disease, the hypercoagulation is increased and the fibrinolytic system is depressed.


[Excretion of some metabolites of catecholamine, serotonin and steroid hormones following neurosensory loading].

The values of 17-ketosteroids (according toe Drekter, Pearson, Bartezak, modification of Kukuskina and Gurjeva), 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid (according to Sjoerdsma, Weisbach and Udenfriend) and 3-methoxy, 4-hydroxyvanillyl mandelic acid (according to Pisano et al, modification of Georges) were followed up in the 24-hour urine of 37 female-weavers (subdivided into two groups--healthy and neurotics) and 15 males--operators of control boards from the Chemical Combinate--Vratza. The urine was tested also according to the method of Wisser and Stamm, 1970, in mgr/2 hours. The comparison of the metabolite values before and after work revealed an increase of 17-ketosteroids and vanillyl-mandelic acid after neuro-sensory loading, especially in neurotics. Lower values, at the end of the working shift, were found for the 5-hydroyindole acetic acid, with the exception of those of the neurotics, that were elevated--an increased utilization of serotonin is relied on.


[Type of coronary circulation in myocardial infarct].

Coronary type is established in 300 non-selected postmortem cases at a preliminary investigation. In another 100 cases with myocardial infarction--the coronary type is established, its incidence checked up as well as the atherosclerotic lesions of the coronary vessels, the distribution of the coronary thrombosis and myocardial ruptures. Analysis is performed according to pathologooantomical indices for the lethal cases, taking in consideration the duration of the infarction changes in the coronary type.


[A uricular flutter in apparently healthy persons].

The authors report three patients, with chronic auricular fibrillation, the clinical examination not revealing reliable data for organic lesion of the cardio-vascular system. The rarity of that clinical phenomenon is stressed upon as well as the successful treatment of the auricular fibrillation with electric defrillation or with chinidine.


[Morphological study of the parathyroid glands in diabetes mellitus and its renal complications].

The parathyroid glands of 14 deceased diabetics were investigated as well as nine control non-diabetics. Various in character and degree histological alterations were observed during the morphological investigations of those glands: mild or better manifested hyperplastic alterations (six cases), microadenoma (one case), focal vasculary determined atrophia (two cases, total atrophia of involutive type (two cases), close to the control alterations (three cases). Hyperplastic alterations are established most frequently in the presence of diabetic nephropathia and azotemia. They could be explained with the development of a secondary hyperparathyroidism, associated with chronic renal insufficiency. In single cases, an effect of the disturbance of the calcium-phosphorus metabolism in diabetes is admitted. Changes in the parathyroid glands, from the type of generalized diabetic microangiopathy, is suspected in one of the deceased patients. Two microadenomas were found in another case, predominantly with dark basic cells. No dependence was established between the morphological alterations and the severity, diabetes form, nor with the presence of pyelonephritis. Certain dependence was established between the age of the deceased and the stage of the azotemia.


[Depression of cortisol secretion with dexamethasone in healthy persons].

1. Cortisol secretion inhibition in 70 healthy individuals was followed-up, after the peroral application of dexametason 2,5 mg/24. Plasma cortisol, with initial values of 18,8 +/- 0,64 mkg/100 ml was inhibited to 5,7 +/- 0,21 mkg/100 ml. The decrease is with 69,7 per cent of the basic level. 2. The indices for normal values were drawn as well as a positive hormonal response to dexametason: initial level between 6,3 and 29,4 mkg/100 ml, cortisol decrease at least with 4,8 mkg/100 ml plasma and the plasma cortisol level after 2,5 mg dexametason--under 9,9 mkg/100 ml. 3. In case of hormonal response absence to dexametason those three indices were not observed. The hormonal response is disturbed if the decrease is under 4,8 mkg/100 ml or the inhibitory level does not reach the values under 9,9 mkg/100 ml plasma.


[Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis with a preparation of Sanokrizin--intravenous administration].

Treatment with the preparation "Sanokrizin", applied i. v. has been carried out to 50 patients with rheumatoid polyarthritis--32 seropositive and 18 seronegative forms, being with a duration of the morbid process from one to 17 years. Therapeutic effect was obtained in 78 per cent of the cases, followed up from six months to one year while that therapy proved to be without effect in 22 per cent of the patients or only separate symptoms of the inflammatory process were partially affected. The preparation has a good tolerance and the side-effects, in the absence of controlled auremia, are overcome with discontinuation of the carried out treatment and only to two of the patients corticosteroids were given additionally. With an average dose, per course, of 1751,60 mg effect was also obtained upon single symptoms of the rheumatoid inflammation. The patients, effected at the earliest in the course of the therapeutic process, are with the best and most durable therapeutic effect and that might be used as a prognostic criterion for the favourable effect of the carried out treatment with the preparation "Sanokrizin".


[Total oesophageal resection with interposition of the left hemi-colon in a one-stage procedure (author's transl)].

Total oesophageal resection for cancer is a major procedure, involving surgery within the thoracic cage, the abdomen and the cervical mediastinum. Plastic restruction using a segment of colon which is placed retrosternally between the cervical oesophagus and the stomach, is an additional procedure of considerable difficulty. Most surgeons, therefore, prefer a two-stage operation. In order to spare patients the unpleasantness of a cervical fistula and a gastrostomy, the author describes a procedure of total resection of the oesophagus with interposition of the left hemi-colon in a one-stage procedure. Careful selection of patients is naturally imperative, but the immediate postoperative results enabling the patient to swallow again at once is most gratifying.


[The Surgical Management of Faecal Incontinence in Childhood (author's transl)].

A series of 13 cases is reported in which gracilis muscle transplantation according to Pickrell was carried out. In half of the cases a modification using bilateral gracilis muscle transplants was performed. 10 children were followed up; 8 of them showed an improvement in faecal continence. Preserved contractility of the transplanted gracilis muscle seemed to be responsible for this improvement. Since maturation of anorectal structures after surgical correction of high anorectal atresias and late development of anorectal mechanisms seems possible and might to be assisted by transplantation, early surgery -- about the fourth year of life -- is recommended.


[Results of thoracoscopic sympathectomy in hyperhidrosis of the upper extremities (author's transl)].

Thoracoscopic sympathectomy bei Kux's method was undertaken on 256 occasions for the treatment of 168 patients suffering from hyperhidrosis of the upper extremities. There were no operative fatalities. Thoracotomy was required in only 2 cases, the indication being intraoperative bleeding. 2 further patients developed a tension pneumothorax postoperatively necessitating drainage. The operation was successful in all but 2 cases. Division of the sympathetic chain between T1 and T2 suffices to achieve dryness of the hands; if underarm perspiration is to equally influenced then division of the sympathetic trunk must be extended caudally to the level of T5. On follow-up examination of 104 patients 2 and 10 years after the operation, a successful result was noted in 94% of cases. Unwanted side effects were vicarious and gustatory perspiration, which arose in 39% and 56% of cases respectively, but did not affect the successful outcome of the operation.


[Thrombolytic therapy in arteriosclerotic disease (authors transl)].

The treatment of acute arterial occulsion, especially emboli and also thromboses associated with a complete ischaemia is the domain of the surgeon. Subacute or chronic arterial occlusion -- uni- or myltilocular --are suited for a trial of thrombolytic therapy, with an approximate success rate of 40%. When thrombolysis is contraindicated, then transluminal dilatation according to Dotter can be attempted in cases of short stenosis. A new and successful indication for thrombolysis is in the therapy of cases of late reocclusion after vascular reconstructive operations. The preliminary results in this field are very good, especially in the aortoiliac region. The indications, the practical details, the results and complications of thrombolytic therapy with streptokinase are discussed.


[A contribution to the pathophysiology of post-traumatic brain oedema (author's transl)].

The aim of this paper is to contrast new results obtained on the activities of lysosomal proteases in the brain of traumatized animals with the previously held opinions concerning the development of post-traumatic brain oedema. Two hours after a standardized head injury in the cat, acid and neutral proteases were determined in the brain homogenate. Total as well as free activity, especially of the neutral proteases, were markedly increased after head injury, a circumstance indicating the important role of lysosomes in the development of post-traumatic brain oedema. It is postulated that not hypoxia alone, but primary or secondary disturbance of lysosomal function is the predominant factor in the development of brain oedema. Release of enzymes -- especially proteases -- causes irreversibility of initial vascular oedema by autolysis of cellular structures.


[The diagnostic value of the electroencephalogram in intracranial meningiomas (author's transl)].

The preoperative and postperative follow-up EEG findings in 129 patients with intracranial meningiomas treated in the Department of Neurosurgery, University of Graz, are reported. In 87.6% of these cases there were EEG abnormalities. The EEG showed localized abnormalities which corresponded with the side of the lesion in 90 patients. Focal convulsion potentials were recorded in 10.9% of cases. The clinical features were diagnositic of the site of the tumour in the case of temporal lobe lesions. In the postoperative follow-up, a positive correlation was found between the clinical course and the EEG findings.


Effect of diphenylhydantoin on the biotransformation and biliary excretion of imipramine in rats.

1. Rats with biliary fistula excrete 18% of an intraperitoneal dose of [14C]imipramine (80 mg/kg) in bile within 2-5 h. Diphenylhydantoin (46 mg/kg) simultaneously administered intravenously decreases the biliary excretion of imipramine plus metabolites to 7% dose. With or without diphenylhydantoin, the highest biliary concentration of imipramine plus metabolites occurs 30-60 min after dosage. 2. With or without administration of diphenylhydantoin, 83% of the bile radioactivity is present as the conjugated 2-hydroxylated metabolites of imipramine. With imipramine alone, more conjugated 2-hydroxydesmethyl-imipramine than conjugated 2-hydroxyimipramine is excreted in the bile. Diphenylhydantoin reverses this order. 3. Administration of diphenylhydantoin does not significantly alter the concentration of imipramine plus metabolites in plasma, liver, lung and brain measured at five consecutive 30 min periods after dosage.


Levels of piribedil and its active metabolite (S-584) in the rat striatum.

1. A gas chromatographic-mass fragmentographic method has been developed to determine piribedil and its metabolite S-584, using diazepam as internal standard. The metabolite was derivatized as a trimethylsilyl ether for gas chromatographic analysis. The minimum detectable amount of piribedil and the metabolite was 10 ng/g tissue. 2. Levels of piribedil and its metabolite in the striatum were determined by mass fragmentography.


Effects of chronic oral administration on the disposition of laevodopa and its major metabolites in the plasma of the rat.

1. Plasma levels of total radioactivity , unchanged laevodopa, catecholamines, 3-O-methyldopa and non-amino phenolic acids were measured in rats treated orally with [3H]laevodopa (100 mg/kg, 100 muCi/kg) for different periods of time. 2. Chronic oral administration of laevodopa for two months significantly delayed the appearance of peak plasma levels and decreased the overall plasma concentrations of the unchanged drug as compared to controls. The extent of absorption of an oral dose of [3H]laevodopa was not significantly impaired on chronic treatment and/or ageing. The decrease in the levels of unchanged laevodopa appeared to be due to an increase in the apparent volumes of distribution of the drug and its metabolites upon ageing. 3. The plasma levels of the catecholamine metabolite fraction, which included dopamine, noradrenaline, etc., were much higher in chronically dosed animals. 4. These findings may be relevant in the understanding of such clinical observations as decreasing therapeutic effects and increasing toxicity after long-term laevodopa treatment in human patients.


The metabolism of 2-ethylhexanol in rats.

1. 2-Ethylhexanol was efficiently absorbed following oral administration to rats. 14C associated with 2-ethyl[1-14C]hexanol was rapidly excreted in respiratory CO2 (6-7%), faeces (8-9%) and urine (80-82%), with essentially complete elimination by 28 h after administration. 2. The amount of label recovered in 14CO2 matched the amount of unlabelled 2-heptanone plus 4-heptanone recovered from urine, suggesting that both types of metabolite may have been derived form the major urinary metabolite, 2-ethylhexanoic acid, by decarboxylation following partial beta-oxidation. The 14CO2 appeared not to be derived from acetate (urinary acetic acid and liver and brain cholesterol were not labelled) or by reductive decarboxylation (heptane was not present.) 3. Other identified metabolites were 2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexanoic acid, 2-ethyl-5-ketohexanoic acid, and 2-ethyl-1,6-hexanedioic acid. Only about 3% of the ethylhexanol was excreted unchanged. 4. Ethylhexanol was a competitive inhibitor of yeast alcohol dehydrogenase, but a good substrate for horse alcohol dehydrogenase. 5. Other relationships between metabolism and toxicity of 2-ethylhexanol are discussed.


Species differences in the metabolism of palmotoxins B0 and G0 in vitro.

1. The metabolism of palmotoxins B0 and G0 has been studied using liver slices and liver microsomal-plus-soluble fractions from eleven animal species. 2. Neither slices nor microsomal-plus-soluble fractions of livers from goat and duck demethylated palmotoxins B0 and G0. No demethylation occurred with microsomal-plus-soluble fractions from lizard, toad, and guinea-pig although some was detected with the liver slices of these animals. 3. All species with the exception of duck and the white rock cock produced the fluorescent metabolite identical with the hydroxylation product from the rat. The rat metabolite with RF value 0 - 21 was absent in all other species studied. 4. In all species, the total amount of each toxin metabolized was far less than that obtained for aflatoxin B1 under identical conditions.


Enhancement of hepatic microsomal drug metabolism in vitro following ethanol administration.

1. Administration of ethanol intraperitoneally at low dosages (10-25 mg/kg) to rats stimulates hepatic microsomal mixed-function oxidase activity in vitro. 2. Pretreatment with ethanol administered orally has no effect on in vivo drug metabolism as measured by pentobarbitone plasma half-life and has no effect on the excretion of ascorbic acid. Ethanol administration does not enhance its own binding to cytochrome P-450. 3. These observations suggest that the administration of ethanol, at moderate dosage, does not give rise to induction of hepatic cytochrome P-450. 4. Unwashed hepatic microsomes are contaminated with alcohol dehydrogenase, but pretreatment with ethanol does not increase microsomal generation of NADH. 5. Pretreatment with ethanol has no stimulatory effect on NADH-NADP+ transhydrogenation. 6. The stimulation of hepatic drug metabolism in vitro following administration of ethanol is not due to increased cytochrome P-450 nor to increased NADPH, per se, but appears to result from an increase in the activity of NADPH-cytochrome c reductase.


Microsomal N-hydroxylation of dibenzylamine.

1. The properties of the rabbit liver microsomal enzyme system(s) catalysing the formation of N,N-dibenzylhydroxylamine as the major metabolite of dibenzylamine have been investigated. 2. The system consists of NADPH- and NADH-dependent components which are differentiated by their different pH optima and sensitivity towards cyanide. 3. The effect of various metabolic inhibitors on the N-oxidation process in vitro are investigated. 4. The N-oxidation of the parent amine was inhibited by CO, SKF 525-A, and  inhibitors known to interact with microsomal cytochrome P-450. Phenobarbitone pre-treatment stimulates further metabolism of the hydroxylamine.


Metabolism and urinary excretion of chlormethiazole in humans.

1. Chlormethiazole and five of its metabolites excreted in urine in man have been investigated by g.l.c.-mass spectrometry. 2. Four metabolites have been identified by comparison with authentic compounds as 5-acetyl-4-methylthiazole, 5-(1-hydroxyethyl)-4-methylthiazole, 5-(2-hydroxyethyl)-4-methylthiazole and 4-methyl-5-thiazoleacetic acid; 4-methyl-5-thiazoleacetaldehyde is proposed for the other metabolite. 3. The amounts of chlormethiazole and its identified metabolites excreted in urine have been quantitatively determined after a single oral dose in three healthy adults. Approximately 16% of the dose was excreted as chlormethiazole, 5-acetyl-4-methylthiazole, 5-(1-hydroxyethyx)-4-methylthiazole and 4-methyl-5-thiazoleacetic acid.


Detoxication and bioactivation of endrin in the rat.

1. Rats exhibit a sex difference in the rate of metabolism of endrin. 2. The major metabolite in both sexes is anti-12-hydroxyendrin which is excreted via the bile as the glucuronide. Male rats produce the metabolite at a higher rate than do females. 3. trans-4,5-Dihydroisodrin-4,5-diol is a minor metabolite. A mechanism for its formation is discussed. 4. There is a sex difference in the production and excretion of 12-ketoendrin which is observed as a urinary metabolite in male rat; the major urinary metabolite in female rats is anti-12-hydroxyendrin O-sulphate. 5. syn-12-Hydroxyendrin was not detected but may be an intermediate in the formation of 12-ketoendrin. 6. The formation of 12-ketoendrin is related to the acute toxicity of endrin.


The physiological disposition of ibuterol, terbutaline and isoproterenol after endotracheal instillation to rats.

1. The absorption from the respiratory tract and biotransformation of three bronchodilating drugs, terbutaline, ibuterol (diisobutyrate ester of terbutaline) and isoproterenol, have been studied in rats after endotracheal instillation. 2. At 2-15 min after dosage, ibuterol is more rapidly absorbed from the respiratory tract than terbutaline, but later (15-35 min), absorption of ibuterol is about the same as terbutaline. Absorption of isoproterenol is rapid throughout the experiment. Absorption rates have been related to the physical-chemical properties of the compounds. 3. No significant biotransformation of terbutaline was noted in the rat lung at any time after dosage, but ibuterol is extensively hydrolysed to terbutaline. Extensive biotransformation of isoproterenol to 3-methoxy-isoproterenol and an unidentified metabolite occurred. Metabolites of terbutaline and isoproterenol were found in serum and liver.


Metabolism of nicotine by the isolated perfused dog lung.

1. Metabolism of [14C]nicotine has been studied in the isolated perfused dog lung. [14C]Nicotine, 50 mug every 30 s for 10 min administered via the pulmonary artery, undergoes first pass metabolism to a small extent. [14C]Cotinine was detected in the venous blood. Of the injected activity, 6 percent was in the lung at the end of experiment; 60 percent being present as [14C]nicotine and 20 percent as [14C]nicotine-1'-oxide. 2. When [14C]nicotine was administered in cigarette smoke a greater degree of metabolism was observed at first pass. Pyrolysis products of [14C]nicotine also were present in the venous blood. Lungs after smoke exposure contained 30 percent of administered radioactivity, with a substantial proportion of [14C]nicotine-1'-oxide. 3. Administration of [14C]nicotine-labelled smoke to lung preparations, on closed circuit, gave significant amounts of [14C]cotinine and other metabolites over a 2 h period. Lung tissue contained approx. 40 percent of injected dose, of which 25 percent only was [14C]nicotine. Large proportions of [14C]cotinine and [14C]nicotine-1'-oxide were present but 45 percent of the activity was present as other unidentified pyrolysis products. [14C]Demethyl cotinine was detected.


The biodegradation of some anionic detergents in the rat. A common metabolic pathway.

1. The metabolism of the anionic detergents potassium decyl [35S]sulphate and potassium octadecyl [35S]sulphate was investigated in the rat. 2. The major route for elimination of radioactivity was urinary regardless of the route of administration. 3. Both surfactants were extensively degraded in vivo to yield a common metabolite, butyric acid 4-[35S]sulphate, the major urinary radioactive component. 4. Whole-body radioautography revealed the liver as the major site of cellular accumulation of radioactivity following administration of either compound indicating the liver as the major site of metabolism. 5. It is suggested that alkyl sulphates with even-numbered carbons are degraded by a common pathway involving omega-oxidation followed by beta-oxidation.


Comparative study of abiogenesis of cysteine and other amino acids catalyzed by various metal ions.

The present work pertains to the study of the influence of nickel, cobalt, thorium, vanadium, molybdate, ferrous ions on the formation of cysteine which is synthesized abiogenically together with other amino acids in sterilized aqueous mixtures of ammonium thiocyanate, formaldehyde, potassium dihydrogen phosphate, calcium acetate, and biological minerals after irradiating by artificial light. The effect of these catalysts on cysteine formation was of the order: Fe++ greater than Mo++ greater than Th++++ greater than V++ greater than Co++ greater than Ni.


[Ultrastructure of the fungal nucleus. III. Genesis of the nucleus-associated organelle (NAO equals "KCE")].

The nucleus-associated organelle (NAO) is a structure, significant for division and motion of the fungal nucleus. In the basidiomycete Polystictus (equals Trametes) versicolor it is composed during somatic interphase of two globular entities (GE) and the connecting middle plate (MP). Its genesis is followed electron optically by analysing serial sections of preselected stages. Genesis is strictly determined by time and space. It starts with synthesis of the new MP a few minutes upon karyokinesis has been completed. Synthesis is localized in the area of contact between old GE and outer membrane of the nuclear envelope. After growing of the MP to its maximal size both new GE's develop from swellings at its ends. Old Ge's are dissolved during this developmental process. The period of genesis takes 30--40 min and fills one third of the cell cycle. A GE-field exhibits characteristic alterations throughout the formation of the NAO. It is composed of GE, periglobular zone, microtubules, and both caps of endoplasmic reticulum and multivesicular bodies.


Reduction of cycloalkanones by Aspergillus niger.

The mould Aspergillus niger was grown in a carefully established culture medium containing one of the following test substrates: cyclopentanone, -hexanone, -heptanone, and their 2-substituted methyl derivatives. Growth curves, glucose consumption curves and curves showing the course of the oxido-reduction reaction are given.


[Mechanism of action of terrazol].

Higher concentrations of terrazol inhibit the growth of a large number of fungi, but oomycetes are most sensitive. At medium concentrations (ED50 = 10 ppm) in Mucor mucedor several alterations of ultrastructure are recognizable even after short incubation periods. Significant observations are vacuolization of the mitochondrial cristae, invagination of the cytoplasmic membrane, and thickening of the cell wall. Later on, numerous vacuoles in the cytoplasm are visible. Primary effects on the cell membrane (destructive effect), on O2-consumption, on fermentation, or on nucleic acid synthesis could not be demonstrated. Lipid synthesis under the influence of terrazol showed characteristic changes. The synthesis of triglycerides and sterolesters was inhibited while the synthesis of free fatty acids and phospholipids was stimulated. Addition of lipids, vitamines, amino acids, or nucleic acids did not counteract the effect of terrazol. Further investigations are necessary to elucidate the primary mechanism of action.


[Qualification of anamnestic data for cardiovascular screening].

The projecting of an anamnestic questionnaire concerning angiocardiopathies for purposes of screening for the 8 most important groups of angiocardiopathies was performed in two simultaneous stages--model experiments and population experiment. In the model stage, which is the topic of this paper, apart from investigations of reproducibility and controls of voluntary falsifications of answers above all an examination concerning the significance of the data was carried out. The methods used for this--analysis of the complaints of typical groups of patients (analysis of discriminancy) and analysis of experiences of recognized experts of angiocardiopathies (scale graduation of symptoms)--were discussed and first results described.


[Consequences of the daily rhythm of organ functions and of metabolic processes for screening].

The effects of the influencing factors such as age, sex, exposition to pharmaca, physical activity, alimentary load and endogenic daily rhythm on sensitivity and specifity of the parameters of screening are briefly described. It is reported on the results of examinations of one of these influencing factors and on the endogenic daily rhythm with the help of selected instances.


[Microcirculation index--screening parameter for the assessment of dynamics of the terminal vascular system].

In this paper a new diagnostic method for the judgment of the dynamics of the terminal vascular system is presented. The microcirculation index which is to be obtained by means of the special technique of the phlebembraxis plethysmography was developed in investigations lasting several years and it was tested on persons with normal blood pressure and on hypertonics in comparison to recognized reference methods. Age-specific normal values were established and the differences found between normo- and hypertonics as well as between different decenniums were statistically ascertained. One group of hypertonics which underwent an antihypertensive long-term therapy showed a significant improvement of the microcirculation index after 8 weeks. According to the hitherto got results this index is fully suited for the utilization as screening method for serial examinations within the X-ray mass examinations and the research of cardio-criculatory diseases. It especially allows the selection of hypertonics who need treatment and through the increasing use of the multi-channel-occlusion-plethysmograph developed by the author the application in routine work for the judgment of the microcirculation and its influence by an antihypertensive therapy. For further foundation of the findings comparative methods with additional reference methods, especially electron microscopy are provided.


[Diagnostic aspects of complex blood-protein analyses in screening].

During a screening at a testing of 5 different protein parameters (IgG, IgA, IgM, Hp, Tf) different types of distribution were found. While IgG, Hp and Tf have a normal distribution, IgG and IgM are not normally distributed in the uncleansed group. Measures of elimination of suggested sizes of influence ("liver parameters") remained without effect.


[Methods and specificity of internal medicine specialties in multiphasic screening].

Issuing from the classical definitions for the diagnostic sensitivity and specifity of examination methods in multiphasic screenings is deduced that out of the whole methodical spectre of internal specialities only limited parts are to be applied in multiphasic screenings. At the instance of a multiple multiphasic screenings (model study Sternberg '70) ways to the establishment of reduced optimal parameter combinations are demonstrated. With multivariate statistical methods (facotor analysis, discriminative methods) we succeeded in finding parameter combinations for special groups of diagnosis (liver diseases, hypertension and obesity), by means which these groups in multiphasic screenings are clearly to be differentiated from the healthy symptom-free residual population.


[Study on the effect of insulin on carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in obese subjects with normal glucose tolerance].

In altogether 32 test persons with normal weight and obese test persons glucose-insulin-tolerance-tests were carried out. In obese persons with normal carbohydrate tolerance -- characterized by 50 g oral glucose tolerance test -- by the decreased glucose assimilation coefficients and the significantly increased level of glycaemia after intravenous application of glucose a disturbance of the glucose-insulin-homoeostasis is already implied. Basal and glucose-stimulated concentrations of IRI in the peripheral venous blood were significantly increased in obese persons. The parameters of lipolysis glycerol and free fatty acids show after a glucose-stimulated insulin excretion and after exogenic insulin application a somewhat retarded decrease in obese persons compared with the control group. In connection with the significantly increased insulin levels in obese persons these findings might refer to a decreased antilipolytic effect of insulin. The two fundamental physiological effects of insulin in the carbohydrate and fat metabolism -- glucose utilization and inhibition of lipolysis -- seem to be distrubed in the same way in obesity.


[Clinico-pathological comparative studies in plasmacytoma].

A report is given on frequency investigations in the plasmocytoma in a dissection material of 36,985 cases of the years 1951 to 1971. 107 observations of multiple, nearly exclusively osseous plasmocytomas are evaluated concerning frequency of age and sex, affection of the skeleton as well as correlations between the degree of the histological maturity of the tumour cells and the produced para-proteins as well as the existence of the Bence-Jones-protein. The findings were compared with those of the literature.


[Problems in the use of cardiac glycosides in ischemic heart disease].

With the help of instances from literature and own experimental and clinical experiences is described that a schematic digitalisation in ischaemic heart diseases is not worth being advocated scientifically. Heart glycosides are indicated especially then, when a heart insufficiency stands in the foreground. In the acute phase of infarction, without manifest heart insufficiency, however, in individual cases they can deteriorate the myocardial oxygen balance and thus the clinical course. In myocardial infarction with severe heart insufficiency up to the cardiogenic shock all therapeutic possibilities should be utilized; to this belongs also the application of glycosides. As a rule in cardiogenic shock after myocardial infarction glycosides have no sufficient measurable influence on haemodynamics. Heart glycosides together with an individually adapted kinetotherapy are of importance for the metaphylaxis in patients with infarction.


[Early recognition of adverse effects, especially of kidney lesions, in patients with progressive chronic polyarthritis under D-Penicillamine therapy].

A report is given on the control of the course of 36 patients with progressive chronic polyarthritis under treatment of D-penicillamine. Despite the favourable therapeutic effect side effects of various kinds are observed. As the severest complication the development of renal disturbances with proteinuria is to be regarded. With the help of the disc electrophoresis of the urine it is possible to establish the beginning disturbances of the permeability of the basal membrane and to achieve a retrogression by reduction of the dose or finishing of the treatment with the medicament, respectively.


[Measurement of kidney function using combined PAH-inulin clearance before and after bactericide treatment of chronic pyelonephritis].

On account of the solution of the problem, whether already after a four weeks' therapy with antibiotics in chronic progressing pyelonephritis a measurable increase of function may develop, the combined PAH-inulin-clearance was performed 35 times. 9 patients did not show a clear restriction of the clearance, wherefore in these cases a control examination was not necessary. In 10 patients of 12 an increase was present, in 7 patients a significant increase of the renal function existed after the therapy carried out. Therefore already after antibiotic impact therapy in patients with chronic pyelonephritis without provable acute episode an improvement of the function can occur, which is to be increased or kept by means of the long-term treatment.


[Report on results of an intensive care unit at a district hospital].

The experiences of an internal intensive observation and therapy unit in a district hospital are reported. During 4 years 2,803 patients were admitted. 65% showed life-threatening disturbances of the heart and of the circulation. Arrangement of the rooms, personal staff as well as special diagnostic and therapeutic methods are described.


[Subclavian vein catheterization].

On the basis of experiences with more than 500 catherizations of the subclavian vein, which were performed partly infraclavicularly, partly supraclavicularly, the two methods were critically estimated and compared with regard to their effectivity and complications. The range of indications is enlarged from the access through the veins for taking blood samples and the infusion therapy over the measurement of the central venous blood pressure to the floating catheterization, temporary external pacemaker stimulation and emergency dialysis. The mastering of the two techniques of puncture provides a high measure of security for the emergency case. On the assumption of an approach secundum artem and knowing and taking into consideration the possibilities of complication, which are particularly referred to, the two ways seem to be approximately of the same value.


[Results of the myocardial infarct registers in the German Democratic Republic and their significance for the reduction of early mortality in myocardial infarce].

From preliminary results of the registers of myocardial infarction in the GDR follows that the definitive myocardial infarction (classification of the WHO) occurs in Berlin with an incidence rate of 17 cases per 10,000 inhabitants and annum, in Erfurt 10 and at Pasewalk 11 cases per 10,000 inhabitants and annum. More than three fourths of all cases of myocardial infarction appear outside the hospital. After three months the lethality is 60%, whereby the half of all cases of death appears already in the prehospital phase. More than 8 hours are passing before half of all patients with infarction are admitted into the hospital. The greatest retardation takes place between arrival of the physician and admission into the hospital. In the second place follows the interval onset of the infarction and demand of medical aid. An improvement of the early diagnostics and the transport of the patient as well as an adequate information and collaboration of the patient and his surroundings might contribute to a shortening of the prehospital phase and thus to a decrease of the early mortality in cases of myocardial infarction.


[Incidence and clinical aspects of aneurysm rupture in the abdominal aorta].

On the basis of the section material of 25 years in Tartu a significant increase of the frequency of arteriosclerotic aneurysms of the aorta, especially of the abdominal aorta and its ruptures, could be established. At the same time the appearance of luetic aortic aneurysms decreased. Due to its variable symptomatology the diagnosis of the rupture of an aneurysm of the abdominal aorta is often not exactly diagnosed by the physician who is first in charge of the case. On the basis of a clinical material of 21 post-mortem examinations the diagnostics of the rupture of the aneurysm of the abdominal aorta is discussed, and the most important symptoms are emphasized. It is emphasized that an aneurysms of the abdominal aorta shall be recognized in every case allready before its rupture as the prognosis of the operation is relatively good in this stage. Since it must be reckoned with a continuous increase of the frequency of the arteriosclerotic lesions of the aorta the physician shall, too, always think of an aneurysm of the abdominal aorta when uncertain complaints of the abdomen and the back are present.


[Antistreptolysin-titre under the use of traditional methods and after saturation with dextran sulfate].

1,700 blood samples of healthy test persons without clinically and paraclinically provable streptococcal diseases were examined for their content of antistreptolysin. Beside the usual method parallel determinations were carried out after addition of dextran sulfate. Thus increases of unspecific antistreptolysin titres shall be in most cases excluded, above all by the influence of the lipoproteins. The absorption of dextran sulfate led to the decrease of the antistreptolysin titre by 12.33%. Furthermore could be proved that the average antistreptolysin titre of female test persons is ca. 20 antistreptolysin units below the titre of male test persons, that seasonal variations of the antistreptolysin titre with the highest titres appear in the first and third quarter which may be explained by a bad unspecific defensive condition, that, furthermore, the antistreptolysin titres increase to the 14th year and then continuously decrease and that in new-born children the arithmetic mean value of the antistreptolysin units is significantly higher than in their mothers. Hereby an active influence of the placenta on the transmission of antibodies seems to be possible. Though a slightly increased financial expenditure is necessary for dextran sulfate, temporarily and concerning working technique, however, no larger loads appear, it is justifiable to perform the determination of antistreptolysin titres only by means of dextran sulfate-absorbed sera, since in this way a considerable number of unspecific and misleading reactions can be excluded.


[QKD-time in thyroid-gland function diagnosis].

In altogether 205 patients with euthyroidism, hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism the QKD-time was determined. With the help of this examination should be tested whether by means of this simple functional test of the cardiac circulation indirectly is possible also a judgment of the function of the thyroid gland. Essentially in the calculated mean values a differentiation between euthyroidism, hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism could be made statistically. Since between the individual groups considerable overlappings of the individual values occur the exactness of the test is very much restricted in the preliminary diagnostics of diseases of the thyroid gland. We are of the opinion that the QKD-time is insufficient for the judgment of the function of the thyroid gland.


[Hepatogenic ascites].

In the paper the intrahepatic (hydrostatic pressure and colloid-osmotic pressure) and extrahepatic (hepatogenic aldosterolism and portosystemic collateralisation) factors effective in the development of an ascites were described and the frequency was tested on own clinical material. The hydrostatic pressure relations are presented as the most essential genetic factor in the development of ascites for hepatogenic reason.


[Immunosuppressive treatment of progressive chronic polyarthritis].

After description of forms and possibilities of the immunsuppression the results of this therapy are discussed in 47 own patients with clinically and paraclinically ascertained rheumatoid arthritis. The patients received the sum of 4.0 mg trenimon in combination with altogether 4.0 mg cyclophosphamide by means of 20 infusions with physiological saline solution as carrier substance. Under this treatment in 93.6% of the cases the findings of the examination of joints or the clinical stage improved. As to side effects incompatibilities on the side of the gastro-intestinal tract as well as leucopenias were observed. 18 patients could be after-examined after 6 years. Whilst in every case the clinical stage deteriorated, in the majority the degree of activity remained unchanged. All the results are compared with the results reported in literature. The authors are of the opinion that, when other forms of treatment have no success and contraindication are strongly taken into consideration, the progressing of the rheumatoid arthritis can be retarded by means of immunsuppressives. The pathophysiological processes can, however, scarcely be influenced causally.


[Interpretation of the metopirone--midnight-short-test by means of simultaneous determination and evaluation of the increase of 11-deoxycortisol and decrease of plasma 11-hydroxycorticosteroids].

In this paper the clinical and laboratory-chemical methods of a metopiron short test at midnight are described. In addition to this the results after a conceptional metopiron longtime test and a metopiron short test are compared in 40 endocrinologically healthy persons. It was shown that, compared with the long-term test, in the metopiron short test at midnight no reduction of the informations and of the exactness of the results appears. Since the isolated determination of the increase of substance S after metopiron reveals a relatively broad area of distribution in literature the interpretation normal-pathological is problematic. Therefore it is tried to obtain an improved evidence in the test with the help of an interpretation quotient Q which establishes the variables measured in the regulating circle of the adrenocortico-pituitary system (decrease of the 11-hydrocorticosteroid and increase of the 11-desoxycorticosol in the plasma after application of metopiron, r = 0,96 shown a very good correlation of these two sizes). After utilization of the method of interpretation in persons with different diseases of endocrinological and nonendocrinological etiology the results were in every case good classifications into the areas normal, with limiting value and phathological. The classification of the individual clinical pictures with the help of the interpretation mode mentioned is discussed. Finally the advantages and disadvantages of the used method are compiled.


[Serum creatinine and endogenous creatinine clearance].

It is reported on the clinical evidence of the determination of creatinine and of the endogenic creatinine clearance. The determination of the serum creatinine gives a good parameter for the observation of the course in advanced renal insufficiency. The endogenic creatinine clearance which is often carried out in the clinical practice in the normal and moderately limited region allows in most cases sufficient measurement of the filtrate of the glomerulum. On 118 in-patients a method was tested which allows a nomographic estimation of the endogenic creatinine clearance on the basis of the actual serum creatinine level, taking into consideration age, sex, and bodyweight.


[Diagnosis of tricuspid valve insufficiency using the venous pulse curve].

On the basis of own experiences and critical evaluation of results of former investigators a survey is given on the characteristic changes of the curve of the venous pulse when an insufficiency of the tricuspid valve is present and the value of the registration of the venous pulse in this vitium is emphasized. Characteristic are the appearance of an I-wave, the loss of the systolic decrease, the development of the s-wave and the diastolic collapse. Figures of representative pulse curves supplement the description.


[Information value of 2 color tests in the determination of alanine and aspartate-aminotransferases in liver and biliary tract diseases].

On the basis of examinations of altogether 197 patients the results of the changes of GOT and GPT were compared with the old and new colour tests of the AWD Dresden in normal histology, virus hepatitis, fatty liver, liver cirrhosis and posthepatic occlusion. Though the new colour test reveals a higher sensitivity, the differential diagnosis between selected liver diseases, especially virus hepatitis and posthepatic occlusion syndrome have become more difficult. The cause for this is the less significant separability between the individual regions of reference.


[Liver damage due to N-propyl-ajmalin bitartrate (NPAB)].

The authors report on four cases of immediate hepatotoxic reaction following diagnostic re-exposure. In checking 27 patients who had received NPAB treatment for the first time, four were found to have a hepatotoxic reaction that developed within 13--20 days after beginning the treatment. In view of the significance of NPAB for the treatment of cardiac rhythm disorders, further such studies are required in order to define the actual risk involved in this procedure.


[Optimal monitoring in EPH gestosis and idiopathic placentar insufficiency (author's transl)].

EPH gestosis and placental insufficiency sui generis are cause of fetal hazards. Clinical symptomatology and anamnesis indicate different tests to detect pathological conditions for the fetus. HPL, HCG, urinary estriol, measuring the placental flow-rate, ultrasonic diagnosis as all other usual examinations during pregnancy were carried out. In EPH gestosis a reduction of all placental functions was found like as for thrombocytes and fibrinogen. Placental insufficiency showed an even greater reduction of placental function, only thrombocytes and fibrinogen remained constant. Weight and length of the newborn were according the pathological placental function reduced. Morphology of the placenta could proof the results of the previous done tests.


Uterine, maternal placental and ovarian blood flow throughout pregnancy in the guinea pig.

The blood flow to the placenta, uterus, ovaries, and vagina was measured with the aid of radioactive microspheres in thirty pregnant guinea pigs between 22 and 66 days of gestation. The rise in maternal placental blood flow during gestation was ascribable both to an increase in the extent of the vascular bed and to an improvement in relative blood flow from 0.77 ml X min-1 X g-1 at 26--35 days to 1.53 ml X min-1 X g-1 at 56--65 days. The relative rate of blood flow to the subplacenta was constant during the period studied (0.15 ml X min-1 X g-1), although its fraction of total placental blood flow decreased from 10% at 26--35 days to scarcely 1% at 56--65 days. The percentage of total placental weight attributable to the subplacenta during these intervals was 50% and 10% respectively. Perfusion of the uterine tissue decreased during gestation from 0.32 ml X min-1 X g-1 at 26--35 days to 0.18 ml X min-1 X g-1 at 56--65 days. A relation was observed between the weight of and blood flow to an uterine horn and the weight of its contents. Between 22 and 55 days of gestation, ovarian blood flow was related to the number of fetuses in the ipsilateral horn and, in seven unilateral pregnancies, there was a significant difference between the ovarian blood flows on the gravid and non-gravid sides. After day 55 no relation between the ovarian blood flows and the number of fetuses in the ipsilateral horn could be found.


[Differences in concentration of free amino-acids in fetal and maternal compartments at the end of normal and pathologic pregnancies (author's transl)].

Free amino-acids in the fetal and maternal compartments towards the end of normal and pathologic pregnancies were examined with gas chromatography. Blood was obtained from the cubital and uterine veins and the femoral artery of the mother, from the umbilical artery and vein and the amniotic fluid during Caesarean section. There were only minor differences of concentration of free amino-acid between normal and pathologic pregnancies. Since it is possible in principle that there is mutual balance between maternal and fetal compartments, assessment of changes in amino-acid concentration during dia- and paraplacentar exchanges is usable only with reservations.


[Critical analysis of a high percentage of caesarean section, particularly with regard to infantile morbidity (author's transl)].

In 354 Caesarean section deliveries during 1972 to 1974 the data of history, course of pregnancy, delivery and postoperative period including cardiotocography before and during birth and the condition of the newborn up to the 7th day were analyzed with a computer. In two thirds of the cases three or more risks determined the indication for Caesarean section. Identical combinations of risks were rare. After section the infantile morbidity is higher than after spontaneous delivery. Classification of Caesarean sections according to indication: preventive without fetal distress, with signs of chronic, subacute or acute fetal distress or emergency operation, showed the following distribution: Infantile morbidity is highest after emergency operations, less so in preventive operations with fetal distress, chronic, subacute or acute (38% of all sections). Where there was no fetal distress (62% of all sections), infantile morbidity is the same as after spontaneous delivery. A high percentage of the group with fetal distress and high infantile morbidity shows an increase in pre-or intrapartal risks and prepartal pathologic FHF changes. A reduction in the number of Caesarean sections would be possible only in the group without signs of fetal distress provided that this would not lead to a considerable increase in Caesarean section for fetal distress and infantile morbidity.


Studies of malformation syndromes in man XXXX: multiple congenital anomalies/mental retardation syndrome or variant familial developmental pattern; differential diagnosis and description of the McDonough syndrome (with XXY son from XY/XXY father).

The McDonough syndrome is a "new" MCA/MR syndrome which was found in 3 children (1 girl, 2 boys) of non-consanguineous parents. The affected children were mentally retarded (IQ 47--67) and had congenital heart defect, sternal deformity, kyphosis and craniofacila anomalies (anteverted auricles, upward slanted palpebral fissures, squint); cryptorchidism was present in the 2 boys. In addition a possible VFDP is postulated as the explanation for similar features in affected and unaffected siblings and parents. However, the McDonough syndrome may be an autosomal recessive trait with minor manifestations in heterozygotes. The klinefelter syndrome in one affected boy and a 46,XY/47,XXY chromosome constitution in the father was a coincidental finding.


[Differential diagnosis and follow-up studies in sucklings and infants with continuous cholestasis (author's transl)].

Among liver biopsies from 91 children between the age of 36  hrs and 2 years, puncture or excision was done for clarification in 64 cases. The morphological differential diagnosis between the various forms of intra- and extrahepatic bile duct dysplasias and their define characteristics related to hepatitis is presented. Morphological changes have given the basis for our grouping of diseases with cholestasis in early childhood. Our conclusions were summarized and proved in some schematic tables. Particular emphasis was given to comparative time observations for bioptic examined children over longer periods. Hereby results prognostic knowledge which should stimulate our therapeutic handling.


[Incidence of malignant tumors in childhood (author's transl)].

575 malignant tumors were treated in the Childrens Hospital of Freiburg University during the years 1957--1974. This means that 0.86% of all hospital admissions had a newly recognized malignant neoplasia. There was no increase in the relative frequency of tumor admissions throughout these years. The most frequent tumor groups were expectedly leukemias (41.8%), central nervous system tumors (25.6%), lymphosarcomas (6.3%), Hodgkin's disease (5%), and neuroblastomas (5%). In comparison to tumor statistics comprising whole populations instead of admissions to a single hospital the relative frequency of leukemias and CNS-tumors is higher in our series. This may due to selective admissions of patients with different tumors to different treatment centers rather than to a higher incidence of these neoplasias in this area.


[The syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone and the urinary excretion of aldosterone (author's transl)].

The syndrome of inappropriate ADH secretion was diagnosed on the basis of the cardinal features described by Bartter and Schwartz in 3 patients: one neonate with bacterial meningitis and two children respectively under Vincristin and Cyclophosphamide treatment. Treatment with fluid restriction and infusions of hypertonic saline led to a slow excretion of the water excess and to the restoration of both the body fluid volume and serum sodium concentration. The urinary excretion of aldosterone was found to be in the normal range or slightly increased during the development of the syndrome and at the beginning of the therapy. In the phase of recovery there was decreased urinary aldosterone.


[Ezymatic method for the automated determination of total serum cholesterol (author's transl)].

A simple kinetic method for the automated determination of total serum cholesterol was developed using cholesterol esterase, cholesterol oxidase, catalase and the color reaction according to Hantzsch. The procedure has been adapted to the Braun SysteMatik, Greiner GSA II, Eppendorf 5032, Lars Ljungberg Autolab, Perkin-Elmer C4 and Perkin-Elmer C4B analyzers. The variants of the method yielded satisfactory results with regard of precision, accuracy and sensitivity to interferences.


[A mechanized enzymic method for the determination of uric acid (author's transl)].

A continuous flow method is described for the determination of uric acid in serum using uricase and peroxidase, with omicron-dianisidine as the chromogen. The method can be used with single channel systems and with the multichannel system SMA 12/60 (Technicon). The new method was compared with six other manual and mechanized methods for the dosage of uric acid, and the results were analyzed statistically. The results from all the enzymic methods showed a good correlation, whereas the "chemical oxidation" methods showed systematic deviations.


Kinetic measurement of T4 following column chromatography.

A kinetic measurement of the eluates from the column purification of T4 is described. The choice of cation exchange chromatography to reduce interfering X-ray contrast substances, and the influence of protein in the reaction have been evaluated. Data for precision, inter and intra assay reproducibility, detection limit and normal values are reported. Using sample volumes of 0.5 ml and an analysis time of one minute, the proposed method compares favourably with published methods.


A review of radioimmunoassay for steroids.

This review, based on the current literature, considers the practical aspects of steroid radioimmunoassays. The problems associated with the raising of specific antisera and their characterization are discussed. Features of assay design, reliability criteria and practicability of radioimmunoassays for steroids are considered.


The mechanism of the increase in the activity of liver alkaline phosphatase in experimental cholestasis: measurement of an increased enzyme concentration by immunochemical titration.

Alkaline phosphatase (EC 3.1.3.1) activity increases 5-15 fold in the livers of rats, following bile duct ligation. The mechanism of this increase has been the subject of numerous investigations. In HeLa cells the synthesis of a different phosphatase enzyme protein with higher catalytic activity has been postulated. After preparing an antiserum against rat liver phosphatase, we compared the phosphatase protein concentration in normal and cholestatic livers by immunochemical titration. Our results clearly indicate that the elevation of enzyme activity is due to an increased accumulation of enzyme protein.


[A simplified method for the fluorometric determination of 5-hydroxy-indoleacetic acid in the human liquor cerebrospinalis (author's transl)].

The fluorometric analysis of 5-hydroxy-indoleacetic acid by condensation with o-phthaldialdehyde has been modified by substituting a HCl-H2SO4 mixture at room temperature for hot concentrated HCl. The sensitivity of the method was increased by a factor of 2.7.


A combined adsorption-gel filtration technique for the determination of the cortisol-binding capacity of transcortin.

A combined adsorption-gel filtration technique has been developed for the quantitation of the cortisol-binding capacity of transcortin: Endogenous steroids are removed from plasma by adsorption on uncoated charcoal. Saturation of the "stripped" binding sites of transcortin is accomplished by equilibrating the sample with a definite amount of labeled cortisol of low specific activity (0.1 muCi/mug). Transcortin-bound [4-14C]cortisol is isolated by gel filtration over Sephadex G-50 at 4 degrees C and measured by liquid scintillation counting. The cortisol-binding capacity of transcortin is calculated directly on the basis of the known specific activity of cortisol. The modification described eliminates methodological disadvantages associated with the original gel filtration procedures, i.e. the possible interference of various endogenous steroids with cortisol binding to transcortin, and the necessity of fluorometric or colorimetric determination of protein-bound cortisol. The values of the cortisol-binding capacity of transcortin in plasma obteined by this simplified assay are in close agreement with results reported in the literature (mean +/- S.D.): healthy males 261 +/- 23 mug/l) of transcortin-bound cortisol (n = 13), healthy nonpregnant females 255 +/- 31 mug/l (n = 15), and pregnant females prior to delivery 560 +/- 82 mug/l (n = 12).


Separation of the coprophorphyrin isomers I and III by thin-layer chromatography.

An improved, specific and sensitive method for the determination of the coproporphyrin isomers I and III is described. In this method, the hydrolysis of the coproporphyrin methyl esters takes place in the silica gel layer of acid-resistant pre-coated thin layer plates. After chromatography in the solvent system 2,6-dimethylpyridine/water, (volume ratio 20 ml + 6 ml), in an ammonia atmosphere, the isomers are measured, either directly in the silica gel layer by fluorimetry, or after elution in 1.0 mol/l hydrochloric acid. The technique makes analysis in the nanogram range possible. See article.


The diagnostic significance of liver cell inhomogeneity: serum enzymes in patients with central liver necrosis and the distribution of glutamate dehydrogenase in normal human liver.

16 Patients with acute right-sided cardiac failure associated with a high pressure of the central venous system, exhibited a marked increase in glutamate dehydrogenase activity in serum. This increase was 40-fold higher than in patients with acute viral hepatitis. Histological examination of seven deceased patients revealed central necrosis within the liver lobule. This observation led us to determine glutamate dehydrogenase activity in microdissected peripheral and central portions from the unchanged liver lobule. A 1.7-fold higher glutamate dehydrogenase activity was found in the central part of the liver lobule than in the peripheral portion. The diagnostic significance of the glutamate dehydrogenase activity distribution along the cords of liver cells is discussed in view of liver diseases with central necrosis.


The effect of fluorocarbon FC 43 on the metabolism of steroids during perfusion of the isolated rat liver.

The influence of fluorocarbon FC 43 on the metabolism of oestrogens in the isolated perfused rat liver was investigated. In comparative once-through perfusions with FC 43 emulsion or albumin solution as perfusion medium, the clearance rates of oestrone and its metabolites were determined. In perfusions with FC 43, the clearance of oestrone was lower, and the metabolites formed in the liver were more concentrated in the outflowing medium than in perfusions without fluorocarbon. This can be explained by the high affinity, even of conjugated oestrogens, to FC 43, which is established by equilibrium dialysis and partition coefficient. The results presented here show that the fluorocarbon has a strong influence of its own on the metabolism of steroids in the isolated perfused liver. Therefore, this solvent should be avoided as medium when the metabolism of steroids is studied in perfusion experiments.


[Studies on the effect of Melixetin (Kö 1173) on AV-conduction time and sinus pulse automation in persons with healthy hearts and in patients with disorders of the impulse-conduction system].

The influence of Mexiletine on the av-conduction time and sinus node recovery time of 24 patients with and without disturbance of impulse formation and conduction was examined. There was no change of conduction time proximal to the His-bundle.  Four patients developed block distal to the His-bundle, 3 of which had a conduction disturbance before application of the drug consisting in 2:1 av-block or bifascicular block. Two patients with WPW-syndrome showed no change of impulse conduction. Five out of 12 patients showed an increase of the effective recovery period.  Three out of 15 patients showed an increase of threshold potential from 0.35 to 0.7 volt with suppression of escape rhythm. The sinus node recovery time was prolonged in 2 out of 9 patients, one of which had a sick sinus syndrome. As there seems to be some influence of Mexiletine on sinus node impulse formation and the impulse conduction distal to the His-bundle, this drug probably should be used with caution in patients with disturbance of automaticity and distal av-conduction.


[Acute effect of lidoflazine on the electrocardiographic agitation discharge in atrial frequency stimulation (studies on patients with stress-induced coronary insufficiency)].

Electrocardiographic alterations and onset of angina pectoris during an acute treatment period with lidoflazine -3 to 4 mg/kg b.w. by oral application- was investigated in 20 patients with latent coronary insufficiency under increasing heart rate condition by atrial pacing.  Significant changes in the repolarisation phase mainly due to prolongation of the QTc-interval already appeared 90 to 120 min after oral administration. The onset of test-induced agina pectoris and ischaemic ST-segmental depression in the ECG were not influenced by lidoflazine.  Exceeding a rate of 140 min-1 produced a delay of atrioventricular conduction time under drug influence whereas significant changes of intraventricular conduction did not appear.  Under frequent heart rates bundle branch block developed in a few individuals that might be drug-induced. In addition, there were some signs of digitalis-potentiation by lidoflazine.


[Effect of Akrinor on cardiovascular-dynamics before and after blockade of adrenergic beta-receptors by propranolol].

On healthy volunteers it is tested whether the cardiovascular and central stimulating effect of Akrinor and the depressive effect of propranolol influence each other mutually. Akrinor causes an increase in arterial pressure, in cardiac stroke volume and cardiac output in connection with a decrease in peripheral vascular resistance and in heart rate.  These changes are abolished by propranolol whereas the central stimulating effect on the respiratory minute volume and the oxygen consumption is not influenced. After blocking of the beta-receptors, Akrinor exerts a diminished influence on the cardiovascular dynamics, a stimulation of the alpha-receptors cannot be evidenced. The findings are being discussed and compared with the effect of noradrenaline and adrenaline.


[Determination of cardiac output using impedance-cardiography in comparison with conventional methods during rest and under pharmacological stress].

A recording of the changes in the transthoracic resistance as a function of the cardiac cycle enables--in connection with the ejection time--a non-invasive determination of the cardiac output (impedance cardiography). On volunteers without heart diseases the cardiac output according to the Fick principle, the impedance-cardiographic and sphygmographic method at rest and under pharmacological influence is synchronously measured and statistically compared with the found cardiac output according to Fick. Especially under pharmacological influence the impedance-cardiographically determined values do not show a sufficient correlation. The range of error, is causes as well as the limited possibility of application of the method are being discussed.


[Course of pressure in isovolumetric relaxation of the left ventricle in man during rest and under acute pressure load].

Isovolumic relaxation of the left ventricle was investigated in man at rest and during pressure loading with methoxamine after blocking the autonomous nervous system with propranolol and atropine. Pressure course at rest and under methoxamine showed two distinct phases: first pressure fell steeply, then a gradual decrease of pressure course occurred without abrupt changes in slope. During pressure loading P and dP/dt increased markedly while the quotient (dP/dt)/P as a measure of contractile element velocity decreased. It was demonstrated that (dP/dt)/P during the second phase of relaxation did not show a plateau (no exponential pressure decay) but a "shoulder". If isovolumic ventricular pressure decay corresponds to isometric relaxation it can be stated that lengthening velocity of contractile elements increases gradually during the second phase of relaxation. The conclusions derived from isolated papillary muscle experiments would therefore not correspond to intact ventricle in man.


[Evaluation of the pulse-wave form by means of the harmonic Fourier-analysis in aortic valve insufficiency].

The most conspicious phenomenon in frequency spectra of pulse waves obtained in the lower extremity in aortal insufficiency is generally predominating decrease of amplitude in higher harmonic frequencies manifesting itself by progressively rising number of the harmonic. This suggests that the second harmonic is no longer the main energy bearer of the pulse wave as this is the case in healthy individuals. This is the case also, to a proportionate degree-measure, in third, fourth and fifth harmonic frequencies. Moreover, relative increase of the amplitude of each harmonic during the passage of the pulse wave across the artery distally is depressed. This may be considered as a weakening of the increase of impedance of arterial flow towards the periphery as compared with findings made in healthy individuals.


[Problem of circulation disorder in the inferior vena cava in newborn infants].

The authors present a case of congenital obliteration of the inferior vena cava in a newborn baby. The obliteration was distal to the confluence with the hepatic veins. In addition, there was obliteration of the renal and iliac veins as well. Pathogenesis, clinical manifestations and prognosis were discussed in more detail. The development of the venous system and diagnostic and therapeutic possibilities were shortly referred to.


Interactions between Encephalitozoon cuniculi and macrophages. Parasitophorous vacuole growth and the absence of lysosomal fusion.

Encephalitozoon cuniculi grow within ever-increasing parasitophorous vacuoles (PV) in peritoneal macrophages. The PV boundary membrane conforms to a rich arrangement of blebs; similar, but free vesicles were observed within the PV space. An iron dextran-concanavalin A marker was used to express visually clustered distributions of Con A receptors on the PV boundary blebs and free vesicles; no marker was observed on other membrane surfaces within the PV. These results, combined with the observation that the PV grows while the host cytoplasm decreases in mass, implicate the PV boundary blebs of interiorizing into vesicles by a pinocytic mechanism. Phagocytic vacuoles, secondary lysosomes and pinocytic vesicles were labeled by incubating infected macrophages in minimum essential medium with ferritin. Ferritin readily accumulated in secondary lysosomes and phagocytic vacuoles; however, ferritin was excluded from parasitophorous vacuoles containing E. cuniculi. Acid phosphatase cytochemical reaction product was observed in lysosomes and phagocytic vacuoles; however, parasitophorous vacuoles with vegetative E. cuniculi were always negative.


In vitro development from sporozoites to first-generation merozoites in Eimeria contorta Haberkorn, 1971. A fine structural study.

The asexual development of Eimeria contorta from sporozoites to first-generation merozoites in tissue culture was investigated with the electron microscope. Sporozoites with a three-layered pellicle, 26 subpellicular microtubules, a conoid, 4-7 rhoptries, and an abundance of micronemes actively entered host cells and showed direct contact to the host cell's cytoplasm. Shortly after penetration, small vacuoles surrounding the parasite merged into a parasitophorous vacuole. Inside this vacuole, sporozoites assumed a definite U-shape before transformation into schizonts took place. This process was characterised by the occurrence of subpellicular microtubules exclusively in the anterior half of the sporozoite, by a degeneration of the 2 inner pellicular membranes, by an outpocketing of the parasite's surface, and by the arrangement of microtubules in clusters. About 25 merozoites were formed at the surface of mature schizonts, to which they remained attached at their posterior pole. A polar ring was present at that area. Anterior and posterior refractile bodies were conspicuous in merozoites and showed close association with mitochondria. The significance of a fibrillar substructure in rhoptries and micronemes is discussed, and special attention is drawn to the pathway of nutrient transport from host cell mitochondria and dictyosomes through intravacuolar folds, parasitophorous vacuole and crescent body into the parasite's food vacuoles.


A histochemical study of the rediae and cercariae of Fasciola hepatica.

Histochemical studies have revealed hydrolytic enzyme activity in the redial tegument and caecal epithelium of Fasciola hepatica. A number of the hydrolases are known to be lysosomal marker enzymes and it is thought that they may be involved in intracellular digestion. The larval stages have also been shown to be reactive for succinate dehydrogenase and phosphorylase, but not for glucose-6-phosphatase.


[On the organogenesis of Seuratum cadarachense Desportes, 1947 (Nematoda Seuratoidea) and the cellular reactions of the intermediate insect host Locusta migratoria (author's transl)].

The adaptation of primitive heteroxenous nematodes, parasites of vertebrates, to the intermediate host, is detailed by studying the organogenesis of the first larval stages of the Seuratoid nematode Seuratum cadarachense and an histological approach of the cellular reactions caused by the penetration and the development of the parasite in the insect Locusta migratoria. The larval organization of Seuratum at hatching is similar to that of Subuluridae and characterized by a large number of initial cells: among them, eight cells alined in a row forming the intestinal primordia, and two mesenchymal cells. In Seuratum, as in Subulurid in general, the first larval stage has a slow development. The larval migration occurs in the wall of the mesenteron. Hemocytic capsules are observed in the hemocoel in contact with the muscle fibers of the mesenteron. Some of them show necrotic features which bear witness to an imperfect adaptation of the nematode to the intermediate host.


The structure and cytochemistry of the neurosecretory cells of Fasciola gigantica Cobbold and Fasciola hepatica L.

Histochemical studies of the nervous system of Fasciola gigantica and Fasciola hepatica were undertaken. Neurosecretory cells were detected by Gomori's aldehydefuchsin, Bargmann's chrome hematoxylin-phloxin, Mallory's triple stain, periodic acid-Schiff, Heidenhain's Azan and alcian blue after potassium permanganate oxidation. Two types of neurosecretory cells were recognized and designated as "A" and "B". Type "A" cells occurred in small numbers in the brain and subesophageal mass and type "B" cells ubiquitous in distribution. The reactions of these cells to the standard stains for neurosecretory substance generally, were less intense than the neurosecretory cells of other animals such as crustaceans and insects. The structure, organisation, distribution and cytochemistry of neurosecretory cells in Fasciola gigantica and Fasciola hepatica is discussed.


Carbohydrate cytochemistry of the intestinal epithelium of Ascaris suum. Nature of the microvilli glycocalyx and basal lamella.

Results of various cytochemical tests demonstrate large deposits of glycogen within the intestinal absorptive cells of Ascaris suum. Carbohydrate material is also associated with the microvilli surface and basal lamella. Staining produced by the periodate-thiocarbohydrazide-osmium procedure was abolished by analine or m-aminophenol. Diastase digestion did not alter the staining on the microvilli surface. Similar results were seen using the silver methenamine procedure. A positive reaction was noted on the microvilli surface, vesicles in both the apical and basal cytoplasm, Golgi apparatus, and basal lamella. Lanthanum nitrate stained the microvilli surface and intercellular spaces between absorptive cells. Alcian blue or cetylpyridinium chloride in combination with lanthanum enhanced the staining produced by lanthanum alone. These results suggest the presence of acidic glycans on both the microvilli surface and basal lamella.


Disruption of spermatogenesis in Fasciola hepatica by some anthelmintics.

Eight-weeks old F. hepatica were recovered from rabbits and rats that had been treated with known fasciolicides and anthelmintics between 4 and 40 h previously. Examination of the surviving flukes showed that spermatogenesis was significantly disrupted by most of the fasciolicides but by none of the other anthelmintics. It is suggested that disruption of spermatogenesis is particularly associated with compounds showing activity against mature F. hepatica.


Ultrastructural development of first- to second-generation merozoites in Eimeria contorta Haberkorn, 1971.

The development of first-generation merozoites to second-generation schizonts and merozoites of Eimeria contorta in one of its natural hosts, the mouse, was investigated with the electron microscope. Merozoites inside a host cell show a marked U-shape and a degeneration of the inner-pellicular membrane complex prior to transformation into schizonts. These processes closely resemble those seen in transforming  sporozoites. In young schizonts with about 3-5 nuclei, the Golgi-adjuncts (structures of unknown function) form a large interconnected network. Nuclear divisions in growing schizonts involve the formation of a centrocône, which develops in a pocket-like indentation of the nuclear envelope. At least one centriole is present immediately adjacent to this indentation. In a later stage, the centrocône forms a conical nuclear protrusion directed towards a merozoite-anlage. This developing merozoite contains anlagen of a conoid, of rhoptries, and of micronemes and a refractile body in addition to the nucleus, centrioles, and a Golgi-adjunct. The merozoite-anlage is limited by a triple unit membrane complex. Schizonts give rise to 8-15 second-generation merozoites. Interesting features of these merozoites are the high number of micronemes, the finding of one single large mitochondrion per merozoite, and the occurrence of 26 subpellicular microtubules, i.e. the same number as in sporozoites of E. contorta. At the end of their development, merozoites come into direct contact with the host cell cytoplasm as the parasitophorous vacuole breaks down.


The effect of some biological and physical factors on infection of Biomphalaria glabrata with Angiostrongylus cantonensis.

Several biological and physical factors which may influence infection of Biomphalaria glabrata snails with the first stage larvae of Angiostrongylus cantonensis were studied. These factors were: the size of snails, the number of first stage larvae to which snails were exposed, the age of larvae, individual exposure compared with mass exposure of snails, the length of exposure period and the effect of temperature and light. The results showed that young snails, 2 mm in diameter, became infected with significantly smaller numbers of third stage larvae than larger snails (4, 8, 12 and 16 mm). No significant differences in the intensity of infection were evident between the larger size groups. The number of third stage larvae recovered from snails was directly related to the number of first stage larvae to which the snails were exposed. The mean percentage recovery per snail was more or less constant regardless of the infective dose. First stage larvae showed a slight reduction in their survival rate within 7 and 4 days, at 24 degrees C and 26 degrees C respectively, after which a sharp decrease in their survival rate occurred. However, the infectivity of larvae was progressively reduced from the second day at these two temperatures. The mean intensity of infection in snails was independent of whether the infection was by mass or individual exposure. The average number of first stage larvae entering a snail was greatest during the first half hour of exposure, this decreased considerably during the second half hour, and thereafter the number of larvae which entered a snail was low. It was concluded that 26 degrees C was the optimal temperature for infection and that the presence or absence of light had no effect on the infection.


The suitability of several aquatic snails as intermediate hosts for Angiostrongylus cantonensis.

Sixteen species of aquatic snails of four families were tested by quantitative technique under standardized conditions for their suitability as intermediate hosts for Angiostrongylus cantonensis. These species were the planorbid snails Biomphalaria glabrata, Biomphalaria alexandrina, Planorbis planorbis, Planorbis intermixtus, Bulinus truncatus, Bulinus contortus, Bulinus africanus, Bulinus tropicus and Helisoma sp.; the lymnaeid snails Lymnaea natalensis, Lymnaea tomentosa, Lymnaea stagnalis, and Stagnicola elodes; the physid snail Physa acuta (an Egyptian and a German strain) and the ampullariid snails Marisa cornuarietis and Lanistes carinatus. All these snail species proved to be susceptible to infection with A. cantonensis, and first stage larvae reached the infective third stage in all of them. However, the rate and intensity of infection varied with different species. B. glabrata was the most susceptible snail species with a 100% infection rate and an average percentage recovery of third stage larvae of 26.1. This was followed by S. elodes and B. africanus, with a 100% infection rate and an average percentage recovery of third stage larvae of 15.6 and 14.6 respectively. The rest of snail species proved to be less susceptible. For comparative evaluation of the suitability of the various snail species as intermediate hosts of A. cantonensis a "Capacity Index" was determined. This index should provide a useful method for the evaluation of the suitability of various snails as intermediate hosts of nematode parasites under standardized conditions in the laboratory.


Reproduction of the normal sexual cycle and reproductive ability in castrated guinea pigs by implantation of the ovary by a new method.

Hormonal and generative activity of the "free" ovarian graft in the uterine wall was studied in 43 sexually mature guinea pigs. Ovaries were grafted by a personal method and by the method of Bland and Donovan. In the author's method, halves of the ovaries were implanted in the uterine wall in such a way that the graft communicated with the uterine cavity and received supplementary vascularization from the connective tissue of the parametrium. Morphologic and histochemical (PAS-positive substances) changes in the free ovarian grafts in the uterus were studied. Hormonal activity of grafts was assessed on the basis of vaginal smears. It was concluded that hormonal activity of the ovary engrafted in the uterine wall depends on the method of grafting. By the author's method, in which blood vessels from the parametrial connective tissue penetrate into the ovary, hormonal activity is the same as before operation and pregnancy is possible. In the method of Bland and Donovan, the sexual cycle and time of opening of the vagina are considerably shortened.


Factors regulating blood levels of free fatty acids during alimentary lipemia.

Transient lowering of blood levels of free fatty acids (FFA) in man and experimental animals after ingestion of fat has been noted by many investigators and has been attributed to inhibition of mobilization of fatty acids from adipose tissue. Studies on lipid mobilizing activity in in vitro systems containing glucagon, insulin and anti-insulin anti-bodies as factors modifying lipolysis indicate that insulin is the basic inhibitor of lipolysis in the blood in the period immediately following feeding of animals. This observation has been confirmed by direct determinations of insulin levels by the radioimmunologic method. Experiments in which substances influencing activity of the autonomic nervous system were used show that ingestion of fats stimulates insulin secretion as a result of cholinergic stimulation. Studies on lipolytic activity of blood serum confirmed an essential role of lipoprotein lipase in the mechanism of deposition of triglycerides in adipose tissue during alimentary lipemia. The role of prostaglandins and intestinal hormones (enteroinsular axis) in the mechanism of regulation of FFA levels during alimentary lipemia is also discussed.


[Cadmium, lead, and zinc-content of fruits and vegetables from gardens in industrial region (author's transl)].

The contents of Cadmium, lead, and zinc in 136 samples of fruit and vegetable of harvest 1973, taken from gardens in Dortmund, have been analysed by mineralisation, extraction with APDC/MIBK and AAS. 5% of the samples contained more cadmium, 13% more lead and zinc than proposed limits.