[Examination of sinoatrial conduction through premature atrial stimuli via the esophagus].

Sinoatrial (SA) conduction can be tested in man by premature atrial stimuli. The difference between the post-extrasystolic pause and the spontaneous sinus cycle is a sign of the sinoatrial delay. Extern atrial stimuli provoked over the esophagus showed analogous results to intracardiac tests. The sinoatrial conduction time estimated by the esophagus method is about 20 ms higher. In 30 normal persons it was 95 +/- 36 ms (x +/- 2 SX). 7 patients with sick sinus syndrome showed aberrations as in the intracardiac test. Different types of sinoatrial block should be distinguished. Type I measured by the esophagus method had a "SAE time" over 130 ms. Type II always had compensating postextrasystolic pauses due to higher SA delay. Type III of other authors could not be observed; there are doubts about the rightness of this type. In 2 patients SA blocks over several sinus cysles could be induced by premature stimuli. This feature osberved for the first time has been declared as type IV. In 28 patients with different diseases of the heart type I could be found 12 times and type II 6 times; SA block was not known previously. The calculation of the SA time by atrial stimuli via the esophagus offers a riskless and simple method for the further differential diagnosis of disturbances of the cardiac rhythm.


[Left atrial parasystole].

A case of atrial parasystole is described in a 55-year-old female with multivalvular heart disease, treated with high doses of digitalis and showing first-degree av block. The left atrial origin of the parasystolic P waves was supported by their distinctive morphology, especially in lead V1, and the sequence of left and right atrial activation. Depending on the refractory state of the myocard, there was a greater shortening of the av conduction time during the parasystolic discharge than during sinus beats indicating a caudal localization of the parasystolic center.


[Indication for preventive pacemaker implantations in patients with severe disorders of atrioventricular conduction].

A method for the evaluation of patients with severe conduction disturbances who might develop Adams-Stokes attacks or total A-V block is described. In 9 patients with conduction disturbances a "stress test" of the conduction system with small dosis of Ajmalin was performed. In 2 patients a higher degree of A-V block developed (2: 1 block, total A-V block). These patients were considered as candidates for prophylactic pacemakerinsertion. During this procedure a temporary pacemaker electrode has to be put into the right ventricle to provide saftey for the patient.


[Electric stimulation as a means for the diagnosis of atrioventricular conduction disorders].

A patient with 2 : 1-block and right-bundle-branch block is described, who developed a high-degree-AV block distal to the bundle of His during electrophysiological investigations. Rapid atrial pacing caused total AV block distal to the His bundle. Rapid pacing from the right ventricle also caused total AV block after sudden discontinuation of pacing. The duration of total AV block was 25 to 60 seconds and the preautomatic time 2300-4750 msec according to rate and duration of stimulation. These methods are considered as good tools to evaluate patients with severely diseased conduction system, who might develop total AV block or Adams-Stokes seizures.


[Effect of thoracotomy on the contractility parameters of the left heart ventrilce in dogs].

The influence of thoracotomy on blood pressure, heart rate as well as maximal rate of pressure rise in the left ventricle (dp/dtmax), left ventricular pressure, left ventricular end-diastolic pressure, and the parameters (see article) and (see article) was studied in anaesthetized and relaxed dogs, which were artifically respired using a Bird-Mark-8-respirator. The opening of the thorax leads to the following changes in+ the cardiovascular parameters: The mean arterial blood pressure was initially raised 9%. The heart rate increased by a few beats after the thoractomy, followed by a slow continuous drop so that a slight bradycardia was registered in the late phases of thoracotomy. The left ventricular pressure rose 8% after thoracic opening. The dp/dt values exhibited a similar rise initially (increase 17%), however fell to below the control values at a later stage so that a drop of 15% was registered by the end of the experimental period. The quotients (see article) and (see article) were slightly raised immediately following the opening of the thorax. During the remainder of the experiment the parameter (see article) underwent no appreciable changes, however, the quotient (see article) decreased up until the end of experiment. The left end-diastolic ventricular pressure dropped continually after thoracotomy.


[Right atrial myxoma as a cardiac emergency. Diagnosis using M-mode and multiscan echocardiography].

A case of right atrial myxoma in a 31 year old female is reported which led to a typical history of syncopal episodes. The importance of echocardiography by two-dimensional multiscan and conventionel single beam techniques for the diagnosis of this disorder is emphasized. Symptomes, diagnosis and clinical course are discussed.


[Heart diagnosis using M-mode echocardiography. Continuing registration of transverse left ventricular inner diameters. I. Measurement in healthy persons].

Transversal internal diameters of the left ventricle can be determined simply, quickly, precisely and continuously by external application of impulse reflected ultrasound. These measurements permit the calculation of "relative cross-sectional area differences" between end-diastole and end-systole (RCD); peak and mean velocity of circumferential fiber contraction can be equally determined. The present report gives an analysis of 133 measurements on 81 healthy individuals. All persons were examined at rest, a part of them during exercise. All measurements were taken while supine position. The transversal internal diameters averaged 4.9 cm with considerable standard deviations. There was only a trend showing diminution of diameters during exercise. The "relative cross-sectional area differences" (RCD) between end-diastole and end-systole have only small standard deviations compared with the diameters. The average 58.3% and show a slight increase during exercise. The RCD were only slightly influenced by heart rate at rest. In contrast, peak and mean velocity of circumferential fiber contraction are obviously dependent on the heart rate. The results indicate a linear correlation between mean velocity and heart rate. The "relative mean velocities of contraction" (RVC), defined by normalization of the values to a rate of 60/min, average 1.0 and have small standard deviations like the RCD. The small physiological variety and the excellent reproducibility of data offer RCD and RVC determined by echocardiography as sensitive dynamic heart parameters applicable in clinical cardial diagnosis without any stress for the patient.


[Relation system of electrocardiographic parameters in posterior myocardial infarction].

The polarcoordinates of the electrical heart vector in the groups of posterodiaphragmatic, postero-basal and extensive posterior myocardial infarctions were determined by the triaxicardiometer analogue computer. The ecg leads of Franks' system were numerically and graphically reconstructed from the digitalized polarcoordinates using formulas of connection between spherical polarcoordinates and rectangular Cartesian coordinates. Then the 12 conventional leads, by the use of coefficients were synthetized from the reconstructed leads of Franks' system and of the conventional leads were performed by the ODRA 1204 computer. So was created the connection system of the electrocardiological parameters, where the informative value of the polarcoordinates and the Cartesian coordinates-also mathematically-is exactly alike.


[Kent's rhythm].

In a case of WPW syndrome type B with AV dissociation, the ectopic beats, presenting an extreme form of WPW morphology, are considered as a rhythm of Kent, attributing conductivity and automaticy to the accessory pathway.


[Test for the determination of physical fitness 3 weeks after myocardial infarction].

In a consecutive group of 125 patients three weeks after myocardial infarction an ergometer bicycle test was performed in order to obtain an objective assesment of the physical fitness. The patients were exercised on 3 different workloads during a total time of six minutes. It was attempted to reach the training heart rate which was calculated from the resting heart rate plus 60% of the maximum increase, the maximal heart rate being "215-age in years". The Physical Work Capacity (PWC) was compared with the fitness of on age correlated control group. We could show that the PWC at hospital discharge, i.e. 3 weeks after myocardial infarction, was 79.6 +/- 23% of the normal value. Three weeks later it had improved by another 9%. A positive correlation with the CPJ of Norris and with the degree of physical activity prior to the acute illness could be demonstrated.


[Morphometric investigations' on synovial membranes of human knee joints. Statistical analysis (author's transl)].

Sixty knee joints of 49 autopsies and 10 amputated legs were examined histologically by specimens removed from eight locations. The criteria considered were: configuration of the surface, number of rows of synovial cells, sizes of bodies and nuclei of the synovial cells, position of the blood vessels to the synovial surface, degree of sclerosis both of the subsynovial connective tissue and blood vessels, and infiltrates of inflammatory cells. These parameters were recorded in tables, and 3,600 individual data were statistically evaluated by the aid of a PDP-12-computer. Survey of all findings shows that the age changes of the synovial membrane are relatively slight. With increasing body weight sclerosis of the synovial blood vessels progresses, but these vessels are sometimes spared in generalized arteriosclerosis. The greatest number of individual tissue changes is noted in the fat pad, medial and lateral capsular parts. Thus the synovial membrane of these parts may be regarded prominently reactive and of special value for the diagnosis of synovial changes. Since these parts are easily accessible at routine arthrotomies, they are recommended as the sites for diagnostic biopsies.


[Results of hallux valgus operations in young adults (author's transl)].

Compared were the results of three different hallux valgus operations (operations according to: Hohmann, Du Vries and Brandes) of young patients. As expected, the 2/3-resection according to Brandes showed unsatisfactory results, cosmetically and functionally. For this reason, this method should only be used with hallux valgus with a metatarso-phalangial joint with athrotic changes and with the polyarthritis foot. On the other hand, there can be obtained in most cases quite good results or at least satisfactory ones by the subcapital osteotomy according to Hohmann and Du Vries. The risk of a posterior metatarso-phalangial joint arthrosis seems us to be higher with the method according to Du Vries as according to Hohmann.


[Anatomical investigation of the blood-supply of the lunate bone (author's transl)].

The lunate bone receives its blood-supply via a palmar and a dorsal vascular and fibrous strand. When the wrist is extended the dorsal vessels are caught in a kind of vice formed by the radius and the capitate bone and compressed up to complete occlusion. This mechanism, important for the pathogenesis of Kienböck's disease, is demonstrated on anatomical specimens.


[A case of sarcoma of the talus giving the radiographic appearance of a "cyst" (author's transl)].

A case of sarcoma in the talus with the radiographic appearance of a cyst is reported. In spite of local excision of a part of the talus there were local recurrence and metastases. The histologic diagnosis is discussed.


[Immediate and delayed luxation of lower cervical vertebrae (author's transl)].

The secondary occurence of traumatic cervical spinal luxation is discussed with reference to three cases where there were no radiologic signs of dislocation immediately following the accident. Pathomechanics, diagnostic possibilities and treatment are discussed. Surgical realignment via the anterior access route, with intercorporeal spondylodesis, has proved advantageous. The name "immediate and delayed cervical spinal luxation" is suggested for cases of vertebral dislocation occurring some time after the accident.


[Osteoporosis -- due to reduced blood circulation of bone (author's transl)].

According to a theory of the authors both senile osteoporosis and pathologic osteoporoses (rheumatic, in diabetes, bronchial asthma, pulmonary emphysema, portal hypertension and Cushing's disease) are due to disturbances of the circulation of the blood in bone. Every type of stasis in the sinusoids, be it due to reduced arterial supply or venous stasis or to a reduction of extravascular fluid-pressure will provoke an increase in osteoclastic activity and thus osteoporosis.


[Demonstration of the "length-disharmony" syndrome (author's transl)].

Illustrations show the anatomical variant, the "length-disharmony" and its relationship to important deformities like scoliosis and funnel chest. This syndrome may be of interest since it provides a plausible explanation for the development of idiopathic scoliosis.


[Management in avascular necrosis of the femoral head (author's transl)].

For differentiated indication for operative treatment of avascular necrosis of the femoral head following points have to be considered: age, sex and profession of the patient, precedent treatments, state of contralateral and neighbouring joints. -- Methods of operation: Osteotomy for redistribution, filling with spongious bone and muscle-pedicle-bone graft, transplantation of homeoplastic osteochondral cups of the femoral head, Smith-Petersen-Cup arthroplasty- alloarthroplastic replacement of the femoral head, total replacement of the hip joint, resection of the femoral head and angulation-osteotomy of the diaphysis, arthrodesis of the hip joint. These methods are discussed with regard to personal conditions, surgical techniques, postoperative treatment as well as their advantages and disadvantages. There is no causative treatment of avascular necrosis of the femoral head. Therefore it is especially important to use the different methods appropriate to the special situation.


[A case of a very benign tumor of bone: desmoplastic fibroma of the fore-arm (author's transl)].

A case of multilocular desmoplastic fibroma in both bones of the fore-arm, a very rare localization, is described. Diagnosis and treatment are discussed with cases so far puclished. The important distinction from a highly differentiated fibrosarcoma is mentioned.


[A fitting tool for the halo (author's transl)].

A simple fitting tool for placing the halo under local anesthesia is described.


[Results of treatment with Pavlik harness for congenital dislocation of the hip (author's transl)].

The results of treatment with Pavlik harness in 168 hip joints have been reviewed. The average follow-up period was 8 years 6 months. In total 114 hip joints were treated only by Pavlik harness. Four hip joints were treated by surgical methods after conservative treatment. The results were very good in 81.0%. Subluxated hips were in 8.9%. Coxa valga et antetorta in 6.0% and deformed head in 4.1%. In a high percentage of our cases radiologically very good results were found. Joint development must be further followed up.


[The alcaline serumphosphatase activity from adult and children after osteotomies (author's transl)].

Alcaline phosphatase activities in the Sera from 50 children of the age of 2-9 years were determined after intertrochanteric osteotomies. A significant decrease of enzymatic activity was to be seen, in contrast to the adult, where a slight increase of alcaline serum-phosphatase activity during bone healing is known. The possibility of reduced enzyme production caused by the postoperative immobilisation of the children is discussed.


[A case of juxta-cortical chondroma (author's transl)].

A further case of juxta-cortical chondroma in the first finger-ray of a 61-year-old woman. Periosteal chondroma is an extremely rare benign tumor. Only 34 cases can be found in the literature. The tumor is cured with surgical removal.


[Treatment of segmental ischemic necroses of the head of femur with intertrochanteric flexion-osteotomy (author's transl)].

We call conditions with focal necroses in the head of femur "segmental necroses". Where possible we prefer to treat this condition with intertrochanteric displacement osteotomy, either with flexion- or varus displacement. As with arthrosis of the hip-joint the effects of displacement osteotomy are: reduction of tension of the muscles acting on the joint and increase in the leverage of the abductors reduce the work-load of the joint. An intact sector of the femoral head is placed into the weightbearing position and the necrotic segment is relieved. Immediate freedom from pain is supposed to be due to a normalization of the internal pressure in the marrow-cavity. For radiologic examination of segmental necroses of the femoral head tangential films (after Schneider) in addition to AP and axial films have proved useful. Early results of 16 flexion osteotomies for segmental necrosis of the head of femur, followed up for 6-34 months after operation (and further for up to 54 months), are encouraging. Impressive improvement of pain occurred in 14, of gait in 11 patients. The range of movement of the diseased joints, however, was not essentially increased.


[The development of the dysplastic hip-joint following intertrochanteric rotating varus-osteotomy (author's transl)].

Evaluation of radiographs of 267 children with 465 intertrochanteric rotating varus osteotomies, carried out between the ages of 15 months and 14 1/2 years. The period of follow-up varied between 2 and 15 1/4 years. 1. The CCD angle on the last radiograph was normal in 77%, once more in values in 16.2%, coxa vara in 7%. 2. The AT angle was about normal only in 58.3% (0-20 degrees); it relapsed in 8.4% (over 35 degrees); in 8.8% a corrected angle did not return after retrorotation, particularly on the left. 3. The Ac angle was normal in 63.3%. 4. The CE angle corresponded to the norm in 59.1%. 5. Good late results (normal angles and shape of head) occur only in 20%. If one omits the AT condition, they rise to 40%. 6. The main causes of return of valgus appear to be: too early operation before the fifth year, mainly when disregarding the dysplastic acetabular roof, insufficient correction of the CCD angle of over 115 degrees, and technical faults. For physiologic weightbearing by the acetabular roof an AT angle of 10 appears necessary. 7. When dysplasia of the acetabular roof is present, the polyaxial correction of the proximal end of femur must be combined with acetabuloplasty or pelvic osteotomy.


[Demography and medicine in Switzerland: medical manpower and project "DEMOMED"].

The situation as regards medical manpower in Switzerland in 1975 is characterized by high enrollment in the medical schools and a doubling time for the number of physicians in practice of approximately twenty years. A federal commission concerned with problems related to medical studies (CEPREM) conducted a study aiming at defining an optimum figure for intake of students into the medical schools. A survey of the international literature and a statistical study of availability of physician services region by region in Switzerland were conducted. The results show that it is impossible to define with precision an optimum "medical density" for Switzerland. The system of health and the functions of its various professions are not defined, and powers of decision in this field are not uniformly attributed. In the national survey, the most striking feature was disparity between various regions as regards access to medical or paramedical services. This disparity is parallel to state of economical development, and unlikely to be corrected even by an excess of overall medical manpower. Four hypotheses are presented on the consequences of increase, decrease, or stable enrolment in the medical schools. We conclude that there is no technical basis for defining an optimal medical density, but that it would be reasonable to decrease the number of second-year students by a factor of the order of 25% on the basis of a political decision.


[Prevention and risk factors of coronary disease in the Canton of Zürich].

An intervention study is being carried out in relation to the prevention of diseases caused by atherosclerosis, especially coronary heart disease. The purpose of the study is to test in one community whether an intensive health education program, including the media (newspapers, radio and educational materials) as well as more individual instruction (lecture, group discussions, courses, exhibitions, collaboration with organizations) can modify risk factors in the population through favorable changes in the mode of life. Another community without any programs serves as a control. Questionnaires are being sent and screening examinations are being carried out in random samples of both populations before and at the end of the educational campaign in order to evaluate its effect. The plan and methods of the study are being described and the distribution of risk factors, based on the first round of examinations, is presented. A second round of examinations is due after a 12 months interval.


[Mortality and incidence of malignant tumors in the Canton of Zürich].

Cancer mortality data of Switzerland and of the Canton of Zurich are being compared for the years 1969-1972. The pattern of distribution of the five most frequent cancer sites in Zurich compared to Switzerland shows a clear trend towards the American situation: increase of cancer of the colon, pancreas and lung, decrease of cancer of the stomach and esophagus. Incidence data of the first year of registration of the Zurich Tumor Registry are being discussed.


[The extent of the relationship of dental care and dental status to social class].

Interviews and dental inspection were conducted ina random sample of 300 adults from a city and the surrounding rural districts. Having a family dentist who had been seen during the two years preceding the interview, was ten times less common in the lowest of three social classes than in the higher. None or only one daily toothbrushing is reported five times more frequently in the lowest social class than in the upper class, and complete dentures are five times more frequent in the lowest class. On the other hand, partial dentures are found twice as frequently in the upper class than in the middle or lower classes, indicating more differentiated services by the dentists.


[Computer estimates of the cost for restorative dental treat].

The costs for a complet functional restoration of the dentition and the parodontium (orthodontics not included) in a sample of 1392 adolescents aged 16-20 (Geneva, 1970-1972) have been estimated on the basis of an approved scale of fees (1). These costs are analyzed with respect to age, sex, occupation and socio-professional status of the parents.


[Medical aspects of the prevention of occupational diseases].

Important tasks of the physician in the field of occupational health are-setting of threshold-limit-values (TLV) as a base for technical and medical measures-planning and carry-out of medical examinations (medical prophylaxis) at the beginning and during work for the purpose of selection and survey.


[Air pollution caused by cigarette smoke].

In a climatized room of 30 M3 various gas-phase components of the side-stress smoke of cigarettes were quantitatively determined. In these experiments, acroleine, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde and nitric oxide reached relatively high values.


[Ergonomic analysis of heavy work carried out by female workers in the textile industry].

Work and recovery pulse were measured with 22 female workers doing heavy work. The proposed limit of capacity under continuous operating conditions of 25 work pulses was surpassed by 10 of the 22 workers. Recovery pulse made it possible to detect illness in two cases and correlates significantly with the total duration of relaxing operation. Similar results could not be obtained with work pulse. As the recovery pulse is quickly and easily measurable, it was in the frame of this study a more interesting value than the work pulse.


[The effect of a monotonous repetitive task on flicker fusion and subjective feelings].

The effects of a uniform repetitive and of an activating task on critical flicker fusion (cff) and subjective feelings were measured on 15 subjects under laboratory conditions. With the uniform repetitive task the cff decreased significantly and the subjective feelings showed marked changes. With the activating task we could determine changes neither for cff nor for subjective feelings (except factor "subjective recovery").


[The effect of low carbon monoxide concentrations on humans].

The effects of a 3 h exposition to 150 ppm CO on the flicker fusion frequency and the subjective assessment of 20 subjects have been investigated under two different experimental conditions (monotonous and activating). In the monotonous situation the exposition to CO has induced a relative "activation" of the subjective feelings.


[Preventive health examinations of kindergarten children in Basel].

A survey of preventive examination in 4.820 kindergarten children (4-5 years old) in Basle is presented. The results of screening have been grouped according to different criteria. Special attention is paid to the importance of minimal brain damage in early childhood. Out of 73 cases of minimal brain damage in 31 cases the diagnosis revealed was previously unknown. The number of children with a visual deficiency is high. In 535 children the visual defect was detected by this examination; 9 children have an ear deficiency caused by prenatal damage; 79 children with speech impediment needed logopedical treatment. Other diagnosis are discussed briefly.


[Noise emission in dwellings].

A social survey in 800 dwellings showed - among other results - the relation between the intensity of traffic noise and the annoyance due to this exposure.


[A comparison of 10 overweight adolescents with normal weight matched controls].

Ten obese young people as well as ten matched controls with normal body weight have been interviewed in respect to development of body weight, eating habits, influence of the family, position of the subject in his (her) surroundings and his (her) self-assessment. It has been shown that obese subjects are eating more and more frequently than subjects with normal body weight. No other differences have been detected between the two groups. An important influence of the family on eating habits and consequently on body weight was a common feature in all the subjects.


[Children under stress: socioeconomic change and the well-being of school children].

The influence of a changing environment on the well being of children has been examined by applying the HOS of Leighton. There is no general connection between "Changing Environment" and "Stress Score". But children who are not underprivileged socioeconomically show a higher Stress Score in a region with faster change.


[Social mechanisms of drinking habits in Switzerland].

In the sociological Section of this interdisciplinery study data are collected on the consumption pattern, the social contexts of drinking, the drinking rules, the attitudes and behavior toward and the social distance to the alcoholic, on popular conceptions of the etiology of alcoholism, social attitudes and on socio-demographic characteristics. The household survey is representative for the French, German and Romanic speaking parts of Switzerland. The psychological section is complementary in the sense that it is, on a smaller scale, based on the same population. However, it deals with the functions of drinking  at the individual level. First results will be available in summer 1975.


[Family factors and alcohol consumption of 14-15-year-old Basel school children].

In a representative sample of Basle school children a good correlation between the alcohol consumption of parents, elder siblings and 14-15 year old schoolchildren was confirmed. Neither frequency nor quantity of alcohol consumption was dependent on family structure in this age group.


[Family factors and cigarette smoking in adolescents].

Results of the Basle-Adolescents Study confirmed an important effect of parent smoking and even more of elder sibling smoking on cigarette consumption of adolescents. Broken home situation and employment of mother were other important determinants the effect of which can, however, be partially explained by a higher frequency of smoking mothers.


[Food habits and cigarette smoking in adolescents].

Bad eating habits, e.g. no regular breakfast, rarer consumption of fruits and milk, are associated with higher frequency of cigarette smoking in adolescence. Probably this is due to a common factor most likely to be found in the personality of the adolescent and its determinants.


[Weal-formation by Utrica Dioica. An intravital reaction? (author's transl)].

The question concerning the intravital and postmortal mechanism of urticarial weal after contact with nettles (urtica dioica) was investigated in corpses, animal experiments and voluntary trials. No nettle weals could be induced in corpses or postmortally in experiments with albino rats (Witstar Strain). When animals were exposed to nettle-stings immediately before decapitation only 2 od 12 rats developed weals postmortally. However, the diameter of such weals was only 30% of that of weals produced intravitally. After Application of a tourniquet (180 - 200 mm Hg) to test persons no weals were formed after contact with nettles in a period of 10 minutes. As soon as the tourniquet was released weal-formation occured in full extent in most test persons. According to the authors opinion the occurence of nettle weals (urtica dioica) in corpses is therefore considered a local intravital reaction.


[Social histories of female abusers of phenacetin-containing analgesics].

The abuse of analgesics is common in the Swiss population. In a field study social und psychological investigations with 600 women ingesting analgesics and 600 women not taking analgesics are made. In a preliminary interpretation of 80 interviews the women ingesting analgesics differ only in a few points from the control group: 1. In the study group a greater number women has children, however on the average a lower number than the control group 2. The children of the women ingesting analgesics are more often taken care of outside their own home. 3. As an overwhelming event in life the loss of one or both parents was often mentioned. 4. Questions asked with regard to depressive symptoms were similar for both groups.


Acute toxicity of the combustion products from various kinds of fibers.

Acute toxicity of the combustion products from various fibers was evaluated in animal experiments. The materials used were cotton, gauze, acetate, rayon, polyester (PE), polychlal (PC), polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), silk, wool, polyacrylonitrile (PAN), and modacryle (MA). Rats, mice, and rabbits were exposed to gases released from these materials, heated with an electric heater. In experiments with rabbits animals inhaled gases through a tracheal cannula under urethane narcosis. As indices for toxicity, the time at which animals were impaired severely, was used in rat experiments while the death time was used in experiments with rabbits and mice. The concentrations of O2 and CO in the exposure room were determined continously, blood COHb and cyanide values were also estimated. Gases from fibers containing nitrogen impaired severely and killed the animals earlier than any other materials. Blood analyses revealed the presence of high values of cyanide in PAN, MA, and silk experiments. HCN was considered to be responsible for the high toxicity of gases from these materials. In the case of wool, despite of high toxicity of its combustion products, blood cyanide and COHb values were not very high. Gases from cotton, gauze, and rayon impaired severely and killed the animals relatively early in the exposure period. Toxicity of combution products from these materials was attributable to CO on the basis of gas and blood analyses. Acute toxicity of PE and acetate gases, being less than that of cotton, gauze, rayon under the present experimental conditions, was explained mainly by CO. Neither severe impairment nor death occurred during exposure in PC and PVDC experiments.


[The liver and the so-called absorption deficiency. A hypothesis (author's transl)].

The blood supply of the liver consists of about 25 per cent from the hepatic artery and 75 per cent from the portal vein. Therefore, especially in the phase of absorption, considerably more alcohol comes from the portal vein into the liver than from the hepatic artery. As the alcohol in the liver is always partially metabolised, all the alcohol that is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract can never appear in the general and pulmonary circulation. Perhaps this is the essential reason for the so-called absorption deficiency.


[Data on the static and dynamic rigidity of the calvaria (author's transl)].

Our investigation, carried out on the calvaria of a cadaver, gave us numerical values for the scientific cognition of the static and dynamic flexion- elasticity of the bones of the calvaria. The investigations were carried out with a DYNSTATT type, pendulum-system, flexion-elasticity examining apparatus. On the basis of the measured values three value groups could be established and correspondingly, well-separable regions on the calvaria. While the dynamic static resistance of generally higher value decreases with the progress of the circle, the static resistance rises with approximately identical values. The collateral fractures - indirect fractures - observed beside the direct fractures of the calvaria develop on the parts of the bone around the directly damaged bone region which show relatively smaller static and dynamic resistance.


[Trends in urinary analgesic excretion in a cohort observed from 1968 to 1975].

From 1968 to 1972 and in 1975 (provisional results) urine samples collected on three days per year were examined by photometer for N-acetyl-p-aminophenol (=NAPAP, main metabolite of phenacetin) and for salicylates in the same population. It consists of 1200 women born from 1918 to 1937 whose majority works in 80 enterprises of Northwestern Switzerland. In 1968 half of the women showed regular intake of phenacetin containing analgesics (=study group) in contrast to the other half that did not (=control group). Excretion of salicylates was no criterion for grouping. Between 1968 and 1972 the total of women positive for NAPAP in urine decreased from 50% to 35%. The decrease concerns almost exclusively women positive for NAPAP on one or two days, whereas the number of women positive on all three days remained stable. At the same time the total number of women positive for salicylates decreased too. Possible reasons for the decreasing tendency of analgesics intake are mentioned. The much more frequent excretion of salicylates in the study group in contrast to the controls is probably due to the intake of combined analgesics. The provisional results of 1975 are in accordance to those observed previously.


[The narrow spinal canal - medicolegal aspects (author's transl)].

The constitutional anomayl of a narrow spinal canal was found in a neuroradiological department in 31 cases. The cervical stenosis can be defined in the following way: Inside diameter of cervical canal (anterior-posterior) in relation to diameter of vertebral body. In normal cases the quotient is over 1 - in pathological narrowing under 1. Clinical symptoms mainly appear from 45th year onwards, when reactive-degenerative changes increase the space problem. In wiplash injuries or other adequate cervical trauma 7 cases were seen and described with acute incomplete tetraplegia or/and multilocular lesions of cervical roots, resulting from cervical stenosis combined with degenerative changes in 6 patients. Myelography revealed multilocular deformities of the spinal subarachnoidal space in the abnormal narrow cervical canal. The referred cases were not complicated with forensic aspects. The prognosis quod sanationem was poor. A chronic cervical myelopathy results. Pretraumatic clinical alterations of cervical roots and/or the myelon in the referred cases were absent, existing in other patients. Predominantly men and hard working people with narrow cervical canal became ill. Early symptoms were pain in extremities. Dysesthesia and loss of sensation combined with signs of pyramidal lesion occured later. Defects in nerve roots sometimes overlayed the myelon symptoms. Unspecific CSF-Alterations were common. The EMG showed abnormalities in cases of root involvement. Operative treatment was tried to remove the reactive processes, but could not alter the constitutional anomaly. The resulting immobilisation of myelon and nerve roots involves in the case of trauma a direct mechanical lesion and secondary vascular complications via Arteria vertebralis, spinalis anterior and radicularis, namely in patients with degenerative alterations of the cervical spine, these including a further narrowing behind the constitutional anomaly. Our experience seems to recommend that more attention should be paid a cervical narrow spinal canal in medicolegal implications.


[Cerebral ischemia or post traumatic thrombosis of the A. carotis occuring to a car driver (author's transl)].

A short while after leaving a public-house a 71 year old man as the driver of his car was involved in a head-on collision with another car. On admission to a hospital he was unconscious with a distinct debility for the left side of his body and showed a changing anisocoria. Angiography of the right carotid artery revealed an occlusion. It was suspected that this was the terminal state of a generalized arteriosclerotic occlusion which was considered being the reason for the accident. The autopsy-findings showed, however, a posttraumatic thrombosis (whiplash-trauma of the cervical vertebral column) of the right arteria carotis and of the right arteria vertebralis with thromboembolia in a small pontine artery with an infarct-like ischemic softening. The differentiation from an apoplexia is of importance for the differential diagnosis.


[The use of combined spectroscopy in analytical toxicology (author's transl)].

The combined application of the four spectrometric techniques UV, IR, NMR and MS is an important analytical tool for the identification of the increasing number of potential poisons with which the analysts in the fields of forensic sciences and toxicology are confronted. Some of the contributions of these techniques to toxicological analyses are reviewed and illustrated by a few examples. Furthermore, the incorporation of the four methods into the analytical scheme, the requirements with respect to quantity and purity of the unkown substances, as well as the different possibilities for the combination of separation and identification techniques are outlined.


[About the effect of alcohol and tiredness on the activity of tendon reflexes (author's transl)].

In order to estimate the combined effect of ethanol and fatigue on the activity of tendon reflexes, the mechanical threshhold and the latency of the patellar tendon, the radial and the biceps reflexes as well as the time of contraction of the musculus quadriceps femoris was investigated in men, with an ethanol level in blood at 80 mg % during elimination-period, and with tired subjects meaning that they hade done their usual daywork and had been awake for about 20 to 22 hours. The group, consisting of 21 male students, was then investigated under both these conditions. The patellar reflex was elicited by a specially constructed reflexhammer, by which the mechanical power could by measured exactly, from the angle of the position the hammer was released from and its known weight. The latency and the muscular contraction time were registered with electrodes on the skin by an oscillograph. The mechanical threshhold of the patellar, biceps and radial reflexes and the latency of there reflexes were significantly and equally impaired by ethanol as well as by fatigue. The combination of both these factors resulted in an almost exactly additional effect. The contractiontime of the m. quadriceps was prolonged more by fatigue than by ethanol. Comparing these results with fromer findings, a depressing effect of the formatio  reticularis of the brainstem on the activity of the spinal motorcells is to be discussed. This impairment of neuro-muscular coordination and activity obviously is dangerous for drivers. It should especially be noted, that the effect of a wake period of 20 to 22 hours can be compared with that of a bloodlevel of 80 mg % ethanol as to the impairment of the tendon reflexes.


[Unidentified dead bodies: identification by means of an information-pool from dental data. Practical suggestions for a reformation of the collection and assessment of data of the masticatory system and their documentation (author's transl)].

The masticatory system has often proved very useful for the identification of unkown bodies. The technique of excising the mandible and the maxilla is explained. The evaluation and the preparation of models are described. For registration of the findings a new form has been developed. It is based on the old form "KP 16" as well as on the PA status.


[A case of goodpasture-syndrome in legal medical practice (author's transl)].

Goodpasture's syndrome (GS) is a very rare diagnosis in forensic post-mortem examinations. This casereport shows, that GS should always be considered as cause of sudden natural death of young adults, if merely unusual disseminated pulmonary hemorrhages represent the essential findings at autopsy. The final diagnosis of GS is made by microscopic evidence of additional diffuse hemosiderosis of the lungs and proliferative glomerulonephritis.


[The witness in German criminal case (a contribution from the legal, psychological and psychiatrical view) (author's transl)].

The judgement of adult witnesses in particular cases, as sufficiently made clear by the described special case, is at least as necessary as a specialist's opinion of child testimony. Furthermore, it should be noted that the present modus of criminal proceedings does not allow for adequate objectivation possibilities of testimony of witnesses. Thirdly, it should be pointed out that at least for the so-called key witnesses a specialist's examination, i.e. by a psychiater and a psychologist is of great importance; it seems at least necessary that in problematic cases the specialist or the court should have the possibility to interrogate the witness to the exclusion of the public. It also seems of utmost importance to extend the judge's knowledge in the field relevant to the subject during his university education and also during his further professional instruction in order to enable him to identify problematical cases in time and decide on calling upon an adequate specialist.


[The influence of cleaning agents to the result of abo blood-group determination by the agglutinin-binding test (holzer) at blood stain on articles of clothing (author's transl)].

The blood-group determination in the ABO-system during blood stain testing on articles of clothing is very often affected by various factors. In this research project blood-traces were tested on many different textiles and after treatment of these textiles with some usual washing and cleaning agents by the Agglutinin-binding-test (HOLZER).


[Systematic approach for investigating basic drugs by paper- and thin-layer chromatography (author's transl)].

The systematic approach described for investigating basic (pharmaceutical) drugs with the aid of paper and thin-layer chromatography relies on the principle that the positions of the spots created by a certain substance on various chromatograms in relation to 5 to 7 test substances and developed together with the sample are indicated by a digit code. With a pre-determined sequence of application of the solvents, code numbers are formed by writing down these digits (supplemented by indices), which are characteristic of the components of the mixture. The code numbers are in all cases clearly distinctive even in the case of a large number of different substances (e.g. 300) if the number of appropriately chosen developing solutions is increased to 6. Evaluation of the code numbers can be carried out with tables or with the aid of punch cards.


[Quantitative investigation of the amino acid levels in putrefying liver (author's transl)].

To elucidate the post-mortem proteolysis we investigated the behaviour of the free amino acids in rotting liver homogenates by means of two-dimensional thin-layer chromatography and reflection densitometry. The post-mortem alterations of the amino acid levels are characterized mostly by a two-phase increase with maxima at the end of the first and after the third week. A few amino acids showed only little changes hardly above the physiological intra-cellular levels. Anaerobic rat experiments and experiences with antibiotic treatment give rise to the supposition that increasing amino acid concentrations indicate a predominance of proteolytic activities over aminoacid catabolism. In the beginning autoenzymes are prevalent, while afterwards bacterial proteases probably predominate. The transient regression about the second and thrid week is interpreted as the effect of a temporarily intensified amino acid degradation by foreign enzymes (maximal bacterial growth).


[Survival time, capacity of action and radiological diagnosis after gunshot wounds of the cranium (author's transl)].

Three cases of suicidal temporal gunshots. Different circumstances in the clinical course and in the ability of action.--In one case there was a bullet tract in the lower temporal region with considerable destruction of the base of the skull, followed by immediate inability of action and early death. Another case with a transtemporal gunshot without radiological signs of a laceration of the base of skull showed severe disturbance of cerebral functions for some days and remaining blindness. In the third case there was a pistol shot in the temporal region with retained missile, full ability of acting and undisturbed consciousness. Causative for the differences in the effect of the gunshots are differences of weapons and amunition and the anatomical position of the wound track in the temporal region. Discussion about the role of concussion of the brain by different rate of transgression of energy from the missile to the skull. Reference to the importance of X-ray analysis and to a radiographic documentation of the findings in such cases.


[Larynx lesions and sudden death (author's transl)].

Several recently observed cases of "Sudden Death" caused by larynx lesions give reason for a special discussion of this problem. At the Institute of Legal Medicine only six cases were found in 10.747 autopsies between 1949 and 1970. A brief description of the anatomical structure of the larynx is followed by a discussion of the 4 general pathological entities, which might be the etiological cause of laryngeal obstruction: 1. Abnormalities 2. Disturbances of circulation 3. Inflammations 4. Tumors Besides the question of the forensic-medical importance of such fatal cases, the difficulty of evaluating some of the patho-morphologic and histologic findings is discussed. Simultaneously attention is drawn to the frequent lack of a clinical history, so that life-supporting measures wuch as tracheotomy and others are applied very late or not at all. Finally the problem of forensic evaluation of larynx-cysts and their etiology is presented. In this context the clarification of a causal relationship with possible previous intubations of the larynx is of major importance.


[Morphological findings in Zieve's syndrome (author's transl)].

The macroscopic and microscopic findings of a case of Zieve's syndrome are described (fatty liver, icterus, hyperlipemia and hemolytic anemia in chronic alcoholism). The outstanding macroscopic finding is milky turbidity of the blood in arterial and venous vascular channels as well as hepatomegaly and anaemia of internal organs. A prominent feature of the histological picture is the high-grade lipaemia of the large and small vessels (arteries and veins), capillary occlusions resembling fat embolism in all organs and severe diffuse fatty metamorphosis of the liver. Circulatory disorders and the cause of death are discussed.


[Biological validity, cytodiagnosis, and therapy of cervix dysplasia].

Certain forms of dysplasia are biologically equal to carcinoma in situ and should be treated alike. The persistance of the state during the permanent cytologic control is to be regarded as criterion for the treatment of middle and even the slight dysplasia. Slides of cells indicating a dysplasia are therefore placed in a cytologic risk-group III D. If the restoration of the cytologic state cannot be observed within 12 months, the conisation as carcinoma prophylaxis of slight and middle forms of dysplasia should be performed.


[Brenner tumors].

It will be reported about 33 cases of Brenner-tumors, observed between 1932 to 1974. Symptomatic, therapy, progress, morphology of these tumors as well as their coincidence with other pathological changes on genitals will be demonstrated. A short casuistic description of 3 cases with proliferating and 1 case of malignant Brenner-tumor will be given. In the discussion, it will be informed about the frequency, age, diagnostic and prognostic problems of proliferating and malignant tumors. The problem of hormonal activity of some of Brenner-tumors and finally the modern views over histogenesis will be considered and discussed.


[Therapy of ovarian stage-Ia carcinoma (review of 103 cases)].

103 cases of carcinoma of the ovary stage IA are presented, which have been operated upon at our clinic from 1944 to 1970. The 5 year cure rate of the 94 cases which had been treated until 1967 was 67%. 10 of the eleven patients who had been operated upon by preserving the opposite ovary -- in 4 cases additional radiotherapy was given -- were free of carcinoma after 5 years. When radical operation was performed (bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy with or without removal of the uterus) the 5 year cure rate was 55%, with additional postoperative radiation 70%. This difference is not statistically significant. -- The therapy of choice of cancer of the ovary stage IA should be bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy and total hysterectomy with additional radiotherapy. -- Instead it may be justified in some cases to preserve the opposite ovary.


[Use of the depot estrogen ethinylestradiol sulfate in the therapy of menopausal syndrome].

Ethinylestradiol sulfonate is a newly developed orally effective derivate of ethinylestradiol with depot properties produced by "Jenapharm"-GDR. This depot estrogen has been proved for its usefullness in treating menopausal syndrom. A modified Kupperman-index had been used to check the therapeutic results. The effects concerning the endometrium were examined in postmenopausal women that atrophic character of endometrium had been ensured before. Ethinylestradiol sulfonate was applicated in the following dosages: 0,015 mg/day; 0,25 mg/week; 0,5 mg/week; 1,0 mg/week; 3 mg/month. The treatment with 0,25 mg/week over a period of 4 up to 6 weeks proved to be possible and effective if we take into account the endometrial reaction and the danger of bleeding. After the removal of the uterus higher dosages can be given. Up to a dose of 1 mg/week there were not to be seen subjective side effects. Ethinylestradiol sulfonate was compared with other oral estrogens.


[Placental changes in diabetes mellitus with special reference to villi maturation disorders. (Morphological findings and severity of the disease)].

The placentas of 30 cases of diabetes mellitus were examined. The degree of severity of the disease was classified according to the schema of White. Related to the gestation period different degrees of severity of diabetes mellitus revealed nearly the same weight of the placentas. Similar relations were found referred to the height of the placenta-child-index. Implantation lesions occured in 56, 7% of all cases, most of these in cases with strong diabetes mellitus. The greater number of lesions were insertion anomalies of the cord. All placentas-showed disturbed circulation by dominance of disturbed blood supply. A relation to the degree of the severity of the disease wasn't provable. Very often we found villi necrosis and proliferations of the syncytiotrophoblast. Also we could see alterations of the villi vessels and a compensatory angiomatosis. 83,3% of diabetes cases showed disturbed maturation of the villi; the grade of these changes could not be referred to the degree of severity of this disease; it was merely a ramification block. The authors point out that in diabetes mellitus the degree of danger to the pregnancy does not depend on the severity of the maternal disease. It is always necessary to have a sufficient metabolic condition.


[Experience with cephalometry in the determination of labor in diabetic pregnant women].

Foetal biparietal diameter was measured with ultrasound techniques in 35 diabetic pregnant mothers. 203 measurements were compared to 589 dates values which were obtained in 100 normal pregnant women. There were no differences in the mean values of biparietal diameter and the weekly growth rates in comparison to non diabetic values. It was concluded at thin diabetic pregnancies in spite of the frequent occurrence of the macrosomie, the ultrasonic diagnostic approach is a suitable method for estimating of the foetal maturity.


[Pregnancy of diabetic women with diabetic angiopathy. Clinical results in correlation of morphological findings on the placenta].

In comparison with morphological changes of the placentae 58 pregnancies of class D and F-diabetics (with diabetic angiolopathy) were analysed. The incidence of toxaemia was 55%. Insulin requirement decreased some days before delivery in 8 cases (14%). The perinatal mortality rate amounted to 17%. Birth weights were found between 2500 and 3000 g in 9 cases, below 2500 g in 8 cases with signs of intrauterine growth retardation. The majority of placentae showed medium-sized to severe diabetic disturbances of maturation on an average more severe than in diabetics without angiolopathy. A "modification" or "mascing" of maturation disturbances by severe toxaemia is discussed. The antenatal retardation of fetal growth in some cases was attributed in part to the diabetic maturation disturbances of the placentae. Another cause may be the defective uteroplacental circulation caused by narrowing processes of myometrial and decidual arteries in consequence of long-term diabetes and hypertension.


[Status of possibilities in the transplantation of female genitalia].

It is given a short report about the principles of the transplantation immunity and the mechanism of the organ transplant rejection. The possibilities to inhibit the transplant rejection (donor-host-selection, antigenicity of the transplant, unspecific and specific immunosuppression: immune tolerance, enhancement) are explained in detail. Finally the present status and the futuric possibilities to transplant the female genitale organs are estimated.


[Thrombotic complications due to oral contraceptives].

Cases reported here as well as the literary date tell attention to the vascular complications following contraceptive therapy. Shift of clotting-fibrinolysis system towards hypercoagulobolity is remarkable because of its role as a risk factor. If contraceptive therapy is accompanied by a condition or a disease altering clotting factors, vessel walls or circulation so that it presents an enhanced thrombosis capacity the risk may increase. In such cases indication of oral contraceptive therapy should be considered cautiously and the patients should be controlled with more intention.


[Significance of precise cytodiagnosis in the indication for diagnostic conisation].

Since 1. 3. 1972 cytologic laboratory exists at the Medical Center Wismar, Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Correlation between positive smears and histologic results was registered in 96% (1972 to 1973). In the time before (1969 to 1971) the correlation was only 41% caused by inexperienced investigators. Diagnostic conizations were frequent not indicated. Cytologic examinations are claimed to be carried out by special laboratories only.


[Histological studies and pathogenesis of polycystic ovaries].

58 ovarian wedge resections of 34 patients with the clinical diagnosis "Stein-Leventhal-syndrome" were histologically examined in comparison to 23 ovaries or parts of ovaries of 16 patients with regular ovarian cyclus. There was found no important difference in these two groups apart from a hyperplasia of the tunica albuginea and the absence of corpora lutea. According to our investigations, and regarding well known facts, it must be concluded that the polycystis ovaries are nothing else than the result of a disturbance of cyclic gonadotropin secretion, and thus an expression of anovulation with sufficient ovaries.


[Therapy of adnexa inflammation].

To women with chronic inflammatory diseases of uterus adnexes is applied intrauterine electrophoresis and intrauterine hydrotubation with streptomycin (1 gram) and hyaluronidase ferment (400--600 U. Hylaze "Dessau") and experimental studies are carried out. The new method for application of the antibiotic in inner genitals tissue, i.e., intrauterine Electrophoresis with streptomycin finds application in treatment practice under the observation of the relevant indications and conditions.


[Female genital actinomycosis].

A case of primary endogenous genitalactinomycosis with an IUD in situ is reported. 200 cases of actinomycosis of the female genital organs have so far been reported in literature. The mode of infection are discussed. In this case the ascension from the vagina and uterus are most probable. The treatement completely cured the patient.


[Case report on a fetus papyraceus].

A report on a fetus papyraceus, who was born with the placenta after birth of a normal baby.


[Partial hydatidiform mole with a full-term infant. (Case report)].

After short survey about the coexistence of partial or total hydatidiform mole and pregnancy will be demonstrated an own case. The high possibilities of compensations of the placenta in case of living fetus and hydatidiform mole were mentioned and the rarity shown.


[Obstetric complications in the Ehlers-Danlos syndrome].

After discussing the so-called Ehlers-Danlos syndrome in connection with pregnancy and birth, we report on a complication, turning out deadly for mother and child. Futheron, we discuss the appropriate control of pregnancy and birth.


[Cardiotokography, obstetrical decission, and perinatological results].

For clinical use we divide the cardiotocographic parameters in 4 groups with the following percentages for antenatal or intranatal period. Normal criterias (antenatal: 80%; intranatal: 40%) Warn symptoms (antenatal: 5%; intranatal: 10%) Umbilico-placental circulatory disturbances (antenatal: 6%; intranatal: 45%) Signs of hypoxia (antenatal: 9%; intranatal: 5%). Variable decelerations are typically for disturbances in the umbilico-placental circulation. The clinical reasons are as well cord compressions as uterine hyperactivity or supine hypotensive syndrom. A prospective management of labor is possible only by means of CTG. The fetal death during labor is avoidable. The number of fetal micro-blood-samplings was reduced (in our hospital 10%) and the feto-maternal relationship was included. The operative frequency is the result of objective obstetrical decisions. We have before and after introduction of fetal monitoring a constant frequency of caesarean sectio of about 3%. A rise in operative frequency simultaneously with the beginning of fetal monitoring is due by a high operative activity in cases of umbilico-placental circulatory disturbances. The rate of neurological findings in newborn infants can be decreased. This result is not valid in preterm or small for date infants.


[Heat-stable alkaline phosphatase (HSAP) and fetal maturity].

In 154 cases of pregnancies 170 sera were examined with respect to the level of heat-stable alkaline phosphatase. The correlation between the level of HSAP and foetal maturity was investigated. By reason of their results the authors find the measurement of HSAP an effective additional method to establish foetal maturity.


[Comparative studies on 2 radioimmunoassay technics for the rapid determination of human chorionic somatomammotropin (HCS) in normal early pregnancies].

To measure HCS concentrations in serum in early pregnancies, 2 commercially available kits (Pharmacia, Frankfurt, and Amersham-Buchler, Braunschweig) were used. When comparing them, we found that they were nearly of the same quality and equally suited for the measurement of HCS in early pregnancy. We ourselves should prefer to use the Amersham-Buchler kit, because it uses 2 standard curves, covering 2 ranges and thus avoiding to tilute the patients' sera, which decreases the possible pipetting errors and increases the accuracy of the determinations.


[Immunochemical demonstration of soluble antigens in the protein fractions of placental tissue].

Protein fractions were prepared from placental tissue by homogenization, ammonium sulfate fractionation, gel filtration and ion exchange chromatography. The antigens detected in these fractions by absorbed antisera against placental tissue and pregnancy serum partly occur in the pregnancy and fetal serum too. The other antigens, which are found neither in pregnancy serum nor in fetal serum, could be specific for placental tissue. Their possible significance is discussed.


[Morphology of the materno-fetal metabolic barrier in the human placenta].

On chorionic villi of normal human placentas obtained from different aged females morphological studies were made with a view to collecting new data on the molecular structure and material composition of the materno-fetal metabolism barrier. The basement membrane of the chorionic epithelium is characterized by a network of fine collagen filaments arranged parallel to the plane of the membrane and having diameters less than 200 A. Lying between the filament proteins are lipid molecules in the form of bimolecular lamellae, which with their longitudinal axes are oriented approximately vertical to the plane of the membrane and whose thickness is about 40 A. There are many bimolecular lipid layers. In addition, noncollagenic proteins and uronic-acid-free polysaccharides were also found in the epithelial basement membranes. The submicroscopic organization of the endothelial basement membrane of fetal capillaries is different from that of the epithelial basement membrane of chorionic villi. Whereas lipid components disposed vertically to the plane of the membrane and parallelly oriented protein filaments are also present, collagen seems to be nonexistent as is evident from polarization-optical results. Running parallel to the surface of villi and in the apical sections of the plasmodium are protein filaments which are arranged in the form of a network and probably have certain mechanical functions. The structure of the outer membrane is similar to that of the basement membranes because of the presence there in of oriented lipid inclusions. In the region of microvilli and in the outer zone of the plasmoditrophoblast of young placenta there has been found N-acetyl neuraminic acid. The so-called "placental fibrinoid" in the intervillous space is exclusively composed of fibrin. There are no additions of collagen to be found. Therefore, it appears unjustified to use the term "fibrinoid". Glycosaminoglycanes are present in the stroma of villi, and they are oriented in the direction of disposition of collagenous fibers. Their content in the stroma of villi decreases with the progress of gravidity. They are also involved in displacental material transport, although the degree of involvement decreases with the progress of gravidity. Functionally, they show what has been called a "molecular screening effect". The lipid-protein system of the epithelial basement membrane-together with the endothelial basement membrane of fetal vessels in the second half of gravidity-is the principal barrier to the passive passage there-through of substances.


[Progesterone and pregnandiol levels in the pripheral blood and urinary pregnandiol level in pregnant women before and after delivery].

Determinations of progesterone and pregnandiol in blood and pregnandiol in urine of 18 women in the last 9 days of pregnancy, in labour and in the first 7 days of puerperium were performed. The results were conformable to the data of other authors except the levels of progesterone in blood after labour. It was established that the levels of progesterone and pregnandiol in blood are increasing till the moment of labour. The levels of pregnandiol in urine have a tendency to decrease from the 5-th day before labour. The results are discussed in the aspect of Csapo's theory of placental block.


[Pregnandiol and progesterone in the umbilical cord blood in comparison with the level of both hormones in the maternal peripheral blood].

The levels of pregnandiol and progesterone in venous and arterial umbilical blood in 18 neonates were determined. The statistical analysis has shown that the values of both hormones were higher in venous blood. The comparison of the results with the levels of these hormones in maternal peripheral blood was performed. No correlation was found.


[A case of thalassemia minor and twin pregnancy].

In the case of anaemias resistent to therapeutics during pregnancy, especially with patients from the countries around the Mediterranean Sea, the presence of a Thalassaemia must be taken into consideration from the point of view of a differential diagnosis. The course and the uncertainties of such a case are described and the therapeutical measures discussed.


[Urometry using a biomonitor combination].

Description of an apparatus for electronical measurement of pressure at the efferent urinary passages of the woman is given. The combination may be fitted in a variable way from elements of the biomonitor series of the VEB Kombinat Messgerätewerk Zwönitz. Pressure values can be recorded simultaneously by means of three separate measuring canals. The apparatus is suitable for clinical and scientific examinations such as cystometry, simultaneous cystourethrometry and uretermanometry. Additionally typical pressure graphs are demonstrated.


[Functional studies on the implanted ureter].

Electronical measurements of pressure in 8 successfully implanted ureters (6 Boari-Plastics, 2 direct implantations) yielded the following results. 1. Frequency, amplitude, duration and rate of spreading of the contractions show no differences compared to the normal ureter. 2. In the Boari-plastic the peristaltic activity is transferred also to the area of the anastomosis between bladder-flap and ureter. 3. Increasing pressure of bladder by retrograde filling produced temporary impairments of peristaltic of the implanted ureter in one case only.


[Surgical management of ureteral evacuation disorders using a surgical gama camera].

By means of the radionephrogram it is possible to discover a disturbance of the excretion of the upper urinary tract at an early stage. Since there can be no pathological function of the urinary excretion without negative effect on the renal function, measures must be taken in order to prevent this from happening. By conventional surgical methods the eventual success of an operation can be judged only at a postoperative stage, sometimes an additional operation will prove necessary. A continuous intraoperative registration of a sequential scintigram, using a gammascintillation camera that has beem modified into an operation table, enables the control of method and extention of the operation. This method permits an optimal surgical result and we may save the patient from the strain of a possible second correcting operation. The method is being described by means of a case.


[Role of haemophillus vaginalis in the pathogenesis of urogenital diseases].

The opinion is stated, that haemophilus vaginalis is a potentially pathogenic organism found exclusively in persons with sexual intercourse, and therefore requires control tests and stimultaneous treatment of the male partner as well. Further studies regarding its role in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases of the genito-urinary tract are necessary.


[Serum antibody determination in patients with urinary tract infections during pregnancy].

In 37 patients with significant bacteriuria in pregnancy antibody-determinations were carried out by means of bacterioagglutination and indirect hemagglutination. High antibody titres in serum could be detected in 13 patients with clinically acute pyelonephritis. Bacteriurias in connection with chronical pyelonephritis resulted in titres above normal values in few cases only. In no case there was a connection between asymptomatic bacteriurias and an increasing antibody titre.


[Chemotactic effects of some staphylococcal substances (author's transl)].

Bovine leukocytes, besides rabbit leukocytes, were found to be suitable for chemotactic studies on staphylococci with the modified Boyden-method. The bovine leukocytes could be obtained more easily in larger quantities. Casein, however, had no significant chemotactic effects on bovine leukocytes. Culture supernatants of Staphylococcus aureus and S. epidermidis and the heat-killed staphylococci had cytotaxigenic and to a small degree also cytotaxic effects on the rabbit and bovine leukocytes. The extracted "straphylococcal skeletons", "clumping factor" (CF), protein A and capsular substances were cytotaxigenic. In addition, CF was moderately cytotaxic only for rabbit leukocytes. The chomotactic migration of leukocytes was markedly reduced after their treatment with leukocidin (PVL-R) in subleukocidic concentrations.


[Eight new Arizona serotypes with emphasis on 2 O-antigens previously only found in Salmonella (author's transl)].

Description of eight new Arizona serotypes isolated from snakes and lizards (exception: Arizona 7a, 7c:23-21) in various countries and submitted to the National Salmonella Centre Hamburg for identification. No. 4-36/70 Arizona 10a, 10b:29-25 = S. arizonae 40(1), 40(2):k:z53 No. 159-36/70 Arizona 7a, c..:26-21 (with a new O-antigen) = S. arizonae 1, 6, 14, 25:z53:z35 No. 160-36/70 Arizona 30:32-31 = S. arizonae 65:c:z No. 162-36/70 Arizona 10a, 10b, (10c):23-31 (with a new O-antigen) = S. arizonae 40(1), 40(2):1, v:z No. 167-36/70 Arizona 25:23-31-41 = S. arizonae 16:1, v:z:z61 No. 2-36/71 Arizona 20:33-21 = S. arizonae 35:i:z35 No. 227-36/72 Arizona 26a, 26b:26-21 = S. arizonae 61(1), 61(2):z52:z35 No. 305-36/72 Arizona 7a, 7c:23-21 = S. arizonae (6), 14:1, v:z35 The two new Arizona O-antiges traced in strains nos. 159-36/70 and 162-36/70 testify the close relationship between Arizona and Salmonella justifying the inclusion of all Arizona serotypes with their corresponding Salmonella-formulae in the Kauffmann-White-Schema. The O-antigen of strain no. 159-36/70 was verified only by using Salmonella O-antisera, the O-antigen of no. 162-36/70 by serological comparative tests with a certain Salmonella-species = S. bukavu. Strain no. 167-36/70: it is pointed out that phase 3 could probably be a so-called R-phase.


Deoxyribonuclease release by incompatible strains of Proteus.

Using incompatible strains of Proteus growing on the same deoxyribonuclease (DNase) agar plate, it was found that DNase is consistently released at the demarcation line. DNase was shown to be released when the swarming organisms were killed. While screening Enterobacteriaceae according to the method of Schreier (1969) on agar containing deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), it was noticed that when dissimilar strains of Proteus met, there was a breakdown of DNA. Schreier (1969) reported that, of the Enterobacteriaceae, only Serratia sp. consistently release DNase, while 10% of Proteus sp. and Pseudomonas sp. release DNase, but in much smaller amounts. Dienes (1946) reported that when dissimilar strains of Proteus are allowed to swarm on the same agar plate, a demarcation line the organisms show various degenerative changes. Many organisms at the line have been shown to be nonviable. When identical strains of Proteus are used, no line is produced. The present study reports DNase release at the demarcation (Dienes) line, questions the significance of this, and suggests the usefulness of the phenomenon in the Dienes typing of Proteus sp.


Electron microscopic studies on altered forms of Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae obtained under the effect of novobiocin.

Altered and L-forms of Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae were obtained through in vitro and in vivo treatments with novobiocin. Electron microscopic studies were carried out on the changes taking place in the morphology and ultrastructure of strains showing a varying degree of resistance. When lower concentrations of the antibiotic were employed (15, 25, 200, 400 mcg) strongly elongated and threadlike forms were established manifesting characteristic changes in the cell wall and the inner structure. The use of high concentrations of novobiocin (1000 and 2000 mcg) incited the production of L-forms the morphology and ultrastructure of which are dealt with in detail.


Studies on the cultivation of Clostridium oncolyticum M 55. 5th communication: The influence of iron, zinc, and cobaltous ions on the growth and the kininase activity of clostridium oncolyticum M 55 ATCC 13.732.

The precipitation or iron sulfide by hydrogen sulfide excreting Clostridium oncolyticum M 55 led to further examinations in order to avoid this disturbing factor. The method should render the cultivation of Cl. oncolyticum M 55 under definite conditions and should also intensify the formation and the enrichment of the clostridial kininases. Cobaltous ions and zinc granules were found useful for cultivation, because no disturbances increased from both during sterilization and incubation. The determination of the growth cycles and the replication rates showed the usefulness of zinc for substitution of iron. Cobaltous ions did only allow a low replication rate. These results confirmed those showing the influence of chelate-forming agents on the kininase activity. Cobaltous ions were not able to exchange the central atom of the metallo-proteide. The influence of the peptone quality on the kininase activity in presence of zinc was also examined, since examinations with iron media have shown a direct connection between peptone quality and enzyme activity. The results with zinc-containing media were nearly 5-10% lower than those with iron. The results allowed also the conclusion that the kininase excreted by Cl. oncolyticum M 55 is an iron-containing metallo-proteide, whose central atom is exchangeable for zinc. The consequences of the loss of enzyme activity for the oncolytic therapy with Cl. oncolyticum M 55 will be shown in further examinations.


Persistence and isolation of L cycle forms of Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae in experimental infection.

In experimental infection of rats induced with teh S-form of Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae the pathogen was found to persist for a long time (up to fifteen months according to the author's personal observations). Under the effect of the specific and unspecific defense of the animal's organism the causative agent suffered a number of morphologic changes. In the course of the first days of infection the R-form was isolated, and thirty days later up to the fifteenth month forms of the L cycle were recovered from the parenchymal organs, blood, and joints. An electron microscopic study was carried out on the structure of the isolated L-forms. The long-term persistence of the agent in its different morphologic forms may well account for the chronic course of the infection in rats.


Contribution to the study on fatty acids of Epidermophyton floccosum.

The total lipid content of a dermatophyte, Epidermophyton floccosum, grown under controlled environmental conditions, varies with growth stage and represents 7.0 to 19.8% of the dry weight. The main lipid classes, determined by quantitative thin-layer chromatography, were: triglycerides, free fatty acids, sterols and phospholipids. The fatty acid composition was established with the aid of combined gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The major components, linoleic, palmitic and stearic acids represent 42.8, 18.9 and 9.6 per cent respectively. The fatty acid biosynthesis, their taxonomic value and their role in the disease mechanism are discussed.


[Comparison of motor endplate and central synapses. An ultrastructural study].

The fine structural characteristics of motor endplate (paradigm of a cholinergic synapse) and central synapses are briefly summarized giving major emphasis on recent observations in freeze fractured material. Special attention is paid to the concepts of "Active Zones" (presynaptic membrane complex) and "Specific Sites" (postsynaptic membrane complex). Comparison and functional interpretations are made specifically with respect to secretion and receptor mechanisms that are so characteristic of chemically transmitting junctions.


[Synthesis of purine and pyrimidine nucleosides under the action of high temperature and UV-radiation].

By means of UV-spectroscopy, gel filtration, thin layer and paper chromatography, it has been shown that the action of UV irradiation and heat on a dry mixture of nitrogenous bases and deoxyribose results in the formation of nucleoside pool, particulary deoxyadenosine. These energy sources were chosen in order to imitate at least approximately the conditions assumed to exist on the primitive Earth. Similar synthesis takes place in the atmosphere of the three gases studied, being more intensive in CO2 than in N2 or O2.


[Mechanism of the protective action of acetylcholine and serotonin against their cytotoxic antagonists].

By means of biological testing on supersensitive embryos of the sea-urchin Arbacia lixula, it has been shown that the eggs and embryos of the sea-urchin Paracentrotus lividus incubated in solutions of cytotoxic neuropharmacological drugs (cholino- and serotoninolytics), accumulate the latter. During the first (rapid) stage of binding, a level is reached which is 2-6 times higher than the external concentration; during the second stage of binding, this level gradually increases up to the values which are 8-12 times higher than the external concentration. The protecting action of exogenous acetylcholine and serotonin against the drugs studied does not inhibit their accumulation in embryonic cells. Therefore this protecting action is due to the decrease in the sensitivity of embryos to neurophysiological drugs. The protecting effect of endogenous factor produced by eggs and embryos is associated with the inhibition or abolition of the second stage of binding of cytotoxic neuropharmacological drugs.


[Multiple forms of brain cholinesterase in phylogenesis and ontogenesis of vertebrates].

Multiple forms of the brain cholinesterase have been investigated by means of the original technique based on the extraction, ammonium sulphate salting out and gel filtration on Sephadex G-200. It was shown that the number of multiple forms increases in phylogenesis (8 in triton, 13 in rat, 18 in cat, 16 in dog and 23 in man), although their relative enzymic activity decreases. Isolated multiple forms with high molecular weight enzymatically are classified as acetylcholinesterases. In higher brain structures, multiple forms are more numerous. Butyrylcholinesterases and aliesterases are more abundant in lower brain structures. In the neural plate of the developing triton, it is possible to detect the forms with high specific activity, which exceeds that in adult animals.


[Retinal pigments and carotenoids of the light-shading "spectacles" of the greenling Hexagrammus octogrammus].

Three light-sensitive pigments having lambdamax of 480, 505 and 540 nm which contain retinal as a chromophore were found in the digitonine extracts from the retina of H. octogrammus. In summer time, only one pigment (lambdamax equals 480 nm) was found, whereas during autumn and winter periods the other two pigments (lambdamax equals 505 and 540 nm) could be also observed together with the first one. The lambdamax  480 pigment is easily degraded when being exposed to light, although it is resistant to the effect of hydroxylamine. The other two pitments are less sensitive to the light, but are readily bleached by hydroxylamine. The yellow-orange coloured cells of the light-shading "spectacles" contain a mixture of beta-carotenoids. When extracted by petroleum ether, these beta-carotenoids display lambdamax at 425, 445 and 476 nm. Column chromatography on aluminium oxide revealed 6 fractions in the extracted carotenoids: light-yellow, dark-yellow, brown, reddish-brown, pink and pinkish ones. In the range from yellow to pink fractions, the contribution of the lambdamax 475 nm band increases, while that of two other ones-decreases.


[Ontogenic changes in cardiac rhythm during acute hypoxia in dogs and rabbits].

Newborn dogs and rabbits exhibit unequal reactivity of cardiac activity to acute hypoxia as compared to adult ones, being lesser in the newborn. In dogs, during postnatal life as well as during adaptation to hypoxia, tachycardic effect of atropine increases indicating the increase in vagal tone. In growing rabbits, cardiac rhythm decreases, the decrease being presumably due to changes in the tone of the sympathetic nervous system, since no significant changes were observed in cardiac activity during atropine administration.


[Heat production in the ground squirrel Citellus pygmaeus during arousal from hibernation].

Heat production has been both measured experimentally (Qcal) and calculated from oxygen consumption (QO2) in arousing ground squirrels during the rise of their body temperature. Studies were made on total heat production during all the period of their warming as well as on the heat production at various stages of arousal. Qcal was evaluated by changes in body temperature and those in heat losses via convection and irradiation (calorimetrically). During arousal of animals, their body temperature, heat losses, Qcal and QO2 Gradually increase. However, the increase in heat losses is 3-4 times lower as compared to the intrinsic heat production measured both calorimetrically and by oxygen consumption. Limitation of heat losses (due to the constriction of subcutaneous blood vessels) together with activation of the metabolism in muscles and other tissues provide for significant heat accumulation and the increase in body temperature of arousing ground squirrels.


[The effect of ouabain on the sugar receptor of the contact chemoreceptive sensilla of the fly Protophormia terraenovae].

Studies have been made on the inhibitory effect of ouabain solutions on bioelectrical activity of the labellar sensillae of flied. It was shown that 10(-2) M ouabain solution irreversibly inhibits the activity, where as 10(-3) and 10(-4) M concentrations decrease the frequency of impulses within 40-60 min. Ouabain solution is a specific stimulator of the sugar receptor of the sensillae with a threshold of 10(-7) M; in combination with 0.2 M glucose, it inhibits impulse activity with the first 200 msec of stimulation. The effect is observed in a narrow zone of ouabain concentrations, with a maximum approximately at 10(-4) M. Differences between the effects of the inhibitor at the vicinity of the onset of generator potential and those in the impulse activity zones on the membrane of the sensory cell are suggested.


[Reflection of evolutionary trends in the recovery pattern of the electrical activity in the human brain after unilateral electroshock].

After unilateral electroshocks the following stages of the recovery of EEG may be defferentiated in man: residual seizure activity, flat EEG, low-amplitude polyform arrhythmia, monoform delta-rhythm, synchronized teta- and alpha-rhythms. It is assumed that changes of these stages reflect the migration of EEG pacemakers within the system of hierarchically interrelated brain structures, which provide for various forms of regulation of the electrical activity of the cortex. It was shown that in each of the hemispheres, pacemakers operate relatively independently and that electrical stimulation of the dominant (left) hemisphere affects brain activity to a greater extent than stimulation of nondominant (right) hemisphere. The ascending influences of desynchronizing systems of the brain stem are less lateral as compared to the ascending pathways of hypothalamic and thalamic structures.


[Intraspecific variability in fractional composition of the serum proteins of the sturgeon Acipenser stellatus].

Comparative studies on fractional composition of the blood serum proteins in two sympatric populations of the sturgeon A. stellatus (South-Caspian and North-Caspian) have been made by means of polyacrylamide gel disc-electrophoresis. Serum proteins are fractionated into 13-18 electrophoretic components, the heterogeneity of proteins being somewhat higher in the North-Caspian population than in the South-Caspian one. Most pronounced differences were found in the relative content of albumins and beta-globulins. Special interest is attracted to different heterogeneity of albumins and beta-globulins (transferrins) in the two populations of the Caspian sturgeon.


[The effect of cerebellectomy on motor activity of the stomach in the ray Dasyatis pastinaca].

It has been shown that after cerebellectomy in rays, motor activity of the stomach undergoes significant changes. From the 1st day after the operation, the frequency of stomach contractions diminishes from 8.30+/-0.46 to 6.30+/-0.50/15 min. Individual variability markedly increases. The amplitude of stomach contractions is also diminished. Sham cerebellectomy does not affect neither the frequency, nor the amplitude of stomach contractions.


[Neuronal reactions of the olfactory centers of the forebrain during stimulation of the hypothalamic structures in rabbits].

During stimulation of phylogenetically ancient parts of the hypothalamus (the anterior and lateral), neuronal reactions have been recorded in the prepyriform lobe and tuberculum olfactorium. These reactions are characterized by a short latent period (6-25 msec) and high stability to rhythmic stimulation. Neuronal reactions in the same olfactory centers during stimulation of phylogenetically more recent hypothalamic structures (the posterior and medial) exhibit a long latent period (30-120 msec) and are readily exhausted by rhythmic stimulation.


[Cability of the neuro-muscular spatial relationships in the wall of the blood vessels].

Electronmicroscopic studies have been made on the distribution of the nervous fibers in the wall of the constricted and dilated auricular artery of the rabbit. It was demonstrated that during the dilatation of the vessel, the dimensions of the neuro-muscular cleft decrease. In the constricted artery, 50% of the nervous fibers are found in the adventitial zone which has a thickness of 4.6 mu. In the dilated vessel this zone decreases up to 1.8 mu. It is suggested that this mechanism is responsible for the regulation of the blood vessel tone.


[Sensory innervation of the somite in the polychaete worm Nephthys hombergii].

Studies have been made on the peripheral sensory innervation of N. hombergii stained with methylene blue. It was shown that sensory elements of the polychaete are presented by several types of nervous cells which are symmetrically embedded between the circular and longitudinal muscle layers in each of the segments. Peripheral projections of these cells terminate in the epithelium, on muscle fibers and in the connective tissue. Central projections pass to the abdominal nerve chain. All. the observed sensory cells have a constant localization and shape, the latter presumably being determined by their polyvalent functions.


[Brain lipid biochemistry of the sturgeons Acipenseridae].

Brain lipids of 4 species of sturgeons-Acipenser güldenstädti, A. stellatus, A. ruthenus and Huso huso-have been investigated. In whole brain homogenates the content of the basic phospholipid families, their fatty acid composition as well as the content of glycosphingolipids-gangliosides, cerebrosides and sulfatides were studied. The quantitative relations between different molecular ganglioside fractions and their fatty acid composition, as well as the relative content of hydroxycerebrosides and cerebrosides with normal fatty acids were determined. The brain lipids of Acipenseridae were compared to previously obtained data on the brain of Elasmobranch and Teleost fishes. The brain lipid pattern of the four sturgeon species is very similar, but it differs greatly from that of Elasmobranch and of Teleostean brain, being in some respect more like the type of bony fish brain, in others the kind of brain of sharks and rays, and frequently considerably differing from both these types. The conspicous peculiarity in the content and molecular characteristics of the brain lipids of Acipenseridae compels us to agree with the opinion expressed by the late A.N. Belozerski and his coworkers [26, 27], based on a detailed study of fish DNA nucleotides, that the Ganoid fish are to be regarded as an independent class.


[Fatty acid composition of phospholipids from rabbit and crayfish skeletal muscle sarcolemma and sarcoplasmic reticulum membranes].

A comparative analysis of fatty acid composition of lipid components from skeletal muscle sarcolemma and sarcoplasmic reticulum membranes of rabbits and crayfishes Astacus fluviatilis and A. leptodactylus has been made by means of gas-liquid chromatography of methyl esters of fatty acids. There are slight differences between external and internal membranes in fatty acids composition of lipids in the same animal. Considerable differences were found, however, when lipids in corresponding membranes of different species were compared. There are more unsaturated fatty acids in the crayfish than in the rabbit membranes. The most expressive differences in fatty acid composition between the two animals concern the content of linoleic acid type. Polyunsaturated acids in the crayfish are mostly of a 3 type and those in the rabbit of a 6 type. During biochemical evolution the following changes seem to take place, a decrease in the amount of unsaturated fatty acids as well as of polyunsaturated ones of a 3 type and an increase of those of the 6 type. These changes very probably reflect the transition from an aquatic to a terrestrial habitat.


[Immunoreactive insulin and insulin-like activity of the blood in ontogenesis of the hen].

Studies have been made on immunoreactive insulin (IRI) and insulin-like activity (ILA) in the blood serum of chick embryos (from the 10th day of incubation), chicks and adult hens up to 1 year old. It was shown that IRI content of embryonic blood is relatively low and remains approximately constant during incubation. During postnatal ontogenesis, the level of IRI increases, the increase being most significant at the 1st day after hatching and between the 2nd and the 5th months. With respect to IRI level, 5-month chicks are similar to adult hens. Being assayed by the method of isolated epididymal rat fat, ILA was not found in the blood serum of chick embryos. It was observed in all test samples only from the 30th day after hatching. It is suggested that at this period of postnatal life, some factors are formed in the blood which increase ILA without changes of the insulin content of the blood. After the 30th day, no evident shifts were observed in ILA, although it reached maximum in adult hens. By absolute values, ILA of the blood in chicks was several times higher than the corresponding levels of IRI.


[Myoglobin content and distribution in muscle tissues of Black Sea dolphins].

Myoglobin content is found to be higher in skeletal than in cardiac muscle of Tursiops truncatus and Phocaena phocaena and much higher than that in skeletal muscles of terrestrial mammals. According to the myoglobin content muscle fibres are devided into five types: red, white and three intermediate types. Deep muscles contain more red fibres and less intermediate fibres than superficial ones. White fibres compose almost one half of all fibres of the superficial skeletal muscles of the dolphins. The role of myoglobin distribution and higher content in oxygen supply of muscular tissue is discussed in relation to the peculiarities of dolphin breathing and blood circulation.


[Studies on projections of somatic afferentation in the neocortex of the hedgehog Erinaceus europaeus].

Cortical projections of the somatic system in the hedgehog cortex were studied by means of the evoked potential (EP) technique. The EPs were shown to arise at a large area of the lateral cortex, the area in question being enlarged under chloralose anaesthesia. In the focus of projection of corresponding modalities the EPs posessed the least latency. Functional differences in the EP generation system both in the focus of projection and outside it are discussed. The wide EPs spreading in the lateral cortex as well as the presence of relatively differentiated projections is supposed to depend on the afferent volley dispersion to the polysynaptic pathways at the thalamic level. Considerable overlapping of sensory projection zones in the cortex is conditioned by the latter and indicates low degree of the somatic analyser organization.


[Changes in the content of 11-oxycorticosteroids in the blood serum of the spawning Siberian salmon Oncorhynchus keta and humpback salmon Oncorhynchus gorbuscha].

Studies have been made on 11-oxycorticosteroid content of the blood serum in spawning salmons. During sexual maturation and spawning migration, the level of 11-oxycorticosteroids in the blood serum undergoes significant changes. The pattern of these changes is similar in both of the species investigated. During fresh-water period of migration, 11-3xycorticosteroid content in the blood serum of females of O. gorbuscha is 3 times higher as compared to that during sea-water period. In O. keta, this level increases two-fold. The increased content of 11-oxycorticosteroids remains constant up to spawning. After the latter, the level of 11-oxycorticosteroids decreases reaching the values typical for sea-water period.


[Age related changes in the affinity of hemoglobin to oxygen in rabbits].

It has been demonstrated that the affinity of hemoglobin to oxygen decreases after birth due to changes in the saline composition of erythrocytes. It is suggested that this decrease is mainly due to accumulation of 2.3-diphosphoglycerate in erythrocytes of the growing rabbits.


[The effect of high temperature and hydrocortisone on amylolytic and invertase activities of the mucous membrane of the small intestine in early ontogenesis of rats].

In experiments on 16-19 day rats, studies have been made of the effect of 2-hour heat exposure (40-41 degrees ) and hydrocortizone injection (4 mg per 100 g of body weight) on gamma-amylolytic and invertase activities of homogenized ad inside-turned pieces of proximal, middle and distal parts of the small intestine. It was shown that thermal stress results in a sharp increase of the enzymic activities of homogenates and total pieces of proximal and middle parts of the intestine. In distal parts, the enzymic induction is less significant or even completely absent. Hydrocortizone injections evoke similar changes, although the latter are more evident. On the basis of the data obtained, it is suggested that the effect of thermal factor on the synthesis of intestinal enzymes is realized via the hormones of suprarenal cortex.


[Populational differences in venom composition in the snake Vipera lebetina turanica].

Studies have been made on the toxicity, enzymic activity and fractional composition (polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis) of the venom obtained from various populations of the snake Vipera lebetina turanica. Animals were captured in different regions of the Mid-Asian part of the USSR. Electrophoretic studies reveal differences in fractional composition, mobility and density of proteins in the venoms studied. However, no significant variations were found in the enzymic activity and toxicity of the venoms.


[Intraspecific genectic variation of phospholipids in the blood serum of the salmon Oncorhynchus nerca and O. keta].

Electrophoretic studies on the blood serum of many individuals of salmons reveal the existence of intraspecific genetic polymorphism of lipoproteins. This polymorphism is presented by 3 distinct bands, namely C,D and CD. It suggested that genetic polymorphism of lipoproteins is associated with their lipid components, especially with phospoholipid composition.


[The effect of cold adaptation on total gaseous metabolism and tissue respiration in gerbils].

Short-term adaptation to cold (-17-19 degrees) results in evident changes of energy metabolism of gerbiles. In cold-adapted Meriones unguiculatus, tissue oxygen consumption increases in all the tissues investigated. In M. tamariscinus, respiratory rate increased only in the cardiac muscle, whereas that in other organs and muscles remained unaffected. In contrast to these two cold-resistant species, M. erythrourus is less resistant to cooling. In the latter case, no changes were observed in total and tissues respiration after cold adaptation of animals.