[Surveillance of drug resistance in pathogenic enterobacteria in Algeria. I. Study of the resistance of major and minor Salmonella species to antibiotics in 1973-1974]. 901 Salmonella strains were examined in our laboratory between October 1973 and August 1974 for their sensitivity to antibiotics. The aim of this study was, on the one hand to detect the possible emergence of drug resistance in strains of Salmonella responsible for typhoid and paratyphoid fevers; on the other hand to follow up, as closely as possible, the occurrence of drug resistance in strains of other Salmonella serotypes isolated in infant and child populations; and, in addition, to awaken practitioners to the problems inherent to the widespread use of antibiotics in these diseases. The 752 typhoid and paratyphoid bacilli strains were found to be drug sensitive with the exception of one Salmonella typhi isolate bearing a R-plasmid coding for resistance to six antibiotics. 91% of the other Salmonella serotypes strains showed resistance to 3 - 7 antibiotics including a number of the latest in use. These data are discussed and a case is made for standardization in the treatment of typhoid fever and review of the use of antibiotics against salmonelloses in infants and young children.


[Bacteriological aspects of extrarespiratory tuberculosis]. 775 strains of extrapulmonary tubercle bacilli isolated during four years (1968-1972) were studied. Our results enabled us to confirm the paucibacillary nature of these tuberculous sites and the variety of their resistance to antibiotics. The comparison between the levels and types of primary resistance in pulmonary and extrapulmonary tuberculosis enabled us to better understand the transmission mechanisms of the tubercle bacilli in the community and its progress in the infected organism.


[Survey of Salmonella in animals].

[Survey of Salmonella in animals]. In order to study the incidence of Salmonella in animals and to determine their role in the epidemiology of human salmonellosis in Algeria, a search for Salmonella was carried out in 1 795 animals of various zoological groups and species. The samples examined were either intestinal or vesicular or from the viscera or mesenteric ganglions. 118 animals were found to be Salmonella carriers. The rate of infestation varied from one species to another. Several different serotypes varying from one zoological group to another and from one species to another were isolated. Although some of the Salmonella serotypes isolated have been found in man, the rate of infested animals suggests that animals play a limited role in the etiology of salmonellosis in Algeria.


[Prospective survey on the organization and supervision of the bacteriological diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis in a screening system in Algeria]. A prospective investigation was conducted in the western region of Algiers in 1974 in order to compare the effectiveness of the different methods of bacteriological diagnosis, the operational efficiency of its centralisation or decentralisation, and to evaluate the various methods of supervision. The results obtained favored the decentralisation of the microscopy centers at the peripheral level with permanent supervision by a regional or central laboratory.


[Epidemiology of leishmaniasis in Algeria. 3. Systematic screening of cutaneous leishmaniasis in the Biskra area]. In the Biskra area which is a historical focus of cutaneous leishmaniasis, the authors have carried out a systematic survey of the disease among the school age population (age interval: 6-15 years of age). The incidence of the disease found through the detection of suspect cutaneous leishmaniasis scars rose to 32.4%. The incidence brought about by intradermal skin-testing (to Leishmanin) was 76.9%. The comparative value of the two systematic survey methods is discussed with reference to the situation of other endemic foci.


[Epidemiology of leishmaniasis in Algeria. 4. The phlebotomi (Diptera, Psychodidae) of tje Aurès region]. Following their epidemiological studies of leishmaniasis in Algeria, the authors report the results of an entomological survey in the Aurès region. They point out the presence in this region of three common vectors of leishmaniasis: two species (Phlebotomus papatasi and P. sergenti) for the cutaneous form, and a third one (P. perniciosus) for the visceral form. Thus, the Aurès region appears to be a potential focus of leishmaniasis.


[Intestinal parasitic diseases of children. I. Results of a fecal survey carried out in the region of Gabes]. A faecal investigation in schools of Gabès, points out that children's parasitism reaches 86,23%. Ascaridiosis is the most frequent intestinal parasitosis.


[Venereal undifferentiated hematosarcoma of Canidae (Sticker's sarcoma): trial of a single electron therapy treatment]. After symptology's description of "Sticker sarcoma" the author gives a light on the origin of this néoplasm. He then indicates a new modality of treatment by electrontherapy in one time only, and proposes to give up histopathologic denomination "Reticulo Sarcoma" and replace it with "Sticker sarcoma" " Veneral non différentiated hematasarcoma" "Sticker sarcoma"


[The Limulus test in studies of pyrogenicity. Applications in radiopharmacy]. Preparation, standardization and use of the Limulus test, in relation to the official Rabbit test. Applications of the Limulus test to radiopharmaceuticals.


[Diet of two selachians common to the Gulf of Gabes (Tunisia): Rhinobatos rhinobatos (Linnè, 1758) and Rhinobatos cemiculus (Geoffroy Sainte-Hilarie, 1817)]. Rhinobatos rhinobatos and Rh. cemiculus are two digging species with a malacophagic and, accessorly ichthyophagic diet. Rh. rhinobatos' main prey is Hermione hystrix. Rh. cemiculus' one is Citharus macrolepidotus. This study points out that it exists few seasonal changes about the diet of these Selacians.


[Toxicity of several pesticides used in Tunisia, for Aphanius fasciatus Nardo, 1827 (Pisces, Cyprinodontidae.)]. The acute toxicity of some pesticides used in Tunisia is determined for the species Aphanius fasciatus (Pisces - Cyprinodontidae). Bioassays conducted at temperature (19-20 degrees C) and salinity (37-38%) have allowed to calculate the CL50 48 h and 96 h. The classification of these pesticides, based on the CL50 96 h, and according to their toxicity for the test species, shows that the organic phosphorus (Murphotox, Bazudin, Dursban, Zithiol, Lebaycid, Imidan, Oleoparathion, Folimat; Nuvan, Actellic, Carbicron, Nexion, Dimecron, Roxion) have all the degrees of toxicity, but the majority are among the most toxic; the carbamates (Betanal, Dimetilan, Baygon), are generally less toxic than the organic phosphorus tested, except Nexion which is less toxic than the Betanal and Roxion less toxic than the three carbamates tested; the herbicides (2,4-D, Basagran, Printan) have a very low toxicity, and are less toxic than the insecticides tested, except Betanal and Suffix of which the toxicity is higher than some insecticides (Nexion, Dimecron, Baygon, Dimetilan, Roxion); Calixin (Fongicide) is more toxic than the herbicides tested but it is generally less toxic than the insecticides used. At higher temperature (28-29 degrees C) A. fasciatus is more sensible to organic phosphorus (Dursban, Folimat) than to carbamate (Betanal). The variation change of salinity (from 37 to 6.5 %) don't modify the sensibility of the test species face to face of three pesticides: Dursban, Folimat (organic phosphorus insecticide) and Betanal (carbamate herbicide). A. fasciatus is suitable for acute and chronic bioassays.


[A case of hermaphroditism in Scyliorhinus stellaris (Linné, 1758) (Pisces, Scyliorhinidae): morphological and histological study]. The authors describe an hermaphrodite Scyliorhinus stellaris with both complete but juvenile male and female genital apparatus.


[Laboratory diagnosis of hyaline membrane disease and amniotic fluid inhalation. A study of 100 neonates with respiratory distress]. The aim of this study of 100 newborns with respiratory distress in the first 24 hours was to evaluate the diagnostic reliability of sequential L/S ratio testing of the fluid retrieved through tracheal suctioning in identifying hyaline membrane disease and that of calculating the urinary meconial index (UMI) for the first mictions in identifying amniotic fluid aspiration. The L/S ratio was found to be low (< 2) during the first 3 days in 90% of the cases of hyaline membrane disease; this good correlation shows that the technique employed here can reliably be used to diagnose clinically and radiologically atypical forms of this disease (12%). The UMI was found to be abnormally elevated (> 1) in all the cases of severe meconial aspiration. This result implies that minor or atypical cases or those in which another disorder is associated can be diagnosed by the test. It is therefore proposed that the concurrent use of these two tests would improve the accuracy of the etiological diagnosis of respiratory distress in newborns.


[Umbilical artery catheterization by cut-down study in 34 newborn infants]. In some newborns with vital distress, conventional umbilical artery catheterization cannot be performed: in our series, this occurred in 34 out of 248 attempts. In 28 of these 34 infants, catheterization succeeded when hypogastric cut-down of an artery was carried out. Two of the 6 failures were due to a minor complication at the time of the cut-down, while two others occurred in infants presenting a single umbilical artery. The usual cuse of failure of conventional catheterization is probably laceration of the artery wall and ensuing subintimal fistulas and perforation.


[The results of screening for deafness in 17,329 neonates]. The authors described the results of systematic screening of the sensorimotor responses of 17,329 neonates. The epidemiology of deafness at this age is shown. In routine situations, provided there is excellent anamnesis, the screening of newborn need only be done in neonates at high risk.


[The role of plasma ferritin determination in screening for iron deficiency. Apropos of a study in 2 groups of children of different socioeconomic background]. A study of 72 children, aged between 6 and 24 months who came from socio-economic background has shown: plasma ferritin levels decrease gradually between 3 weeks and 6 months of age. Between 6 months and two years, levels reach a plateau but the values are lower than those of adults. The mean ferritin level is lower at any given age in children with iron deficiency but plasma ferritin levels may be in the normal range although there is obvious iron deficiency. By contrast the saturation of siderophillin can be used to determine inadequate supplies of iron to the marrow. The frequency of iron dificiency in infants under 1 year was similar in the two socio-economic groups. However between 1 and 2 years no iron deficiency was detected in the children under regular supervision but all the infants who were socially disadvantaged became iron-deficient demonstrating the need for regular iron supplements.


[Nephrotic syndrome, antithrombin III deficiency and recurrent thrombosis. The value of vitamin K antagonists]. In a 7 year-old girl presenting with nephrotic syndrome and repeated episodes of thrombosis, a decrease in antithrombin III and in vitro inactivity of heparin were observed. Treatment by vitamin K antagonists prevented further thromboembolic episodes.


[Respiratory symptoms in school-age children, in 7 areas of France]. A study of respiratory symptoms in 6918 schoolchildren aged 6-10 years was carried out in 1975, in 7 French areas having different pollution levels. The proportion of children with respiratory symptoms (cough and/or wheezing), dyspnoea, colds and colds "going to the chest" was higher in Paris than in the other areas. The frequency was related to age, allergy and some socio-economic factors. After adjustment for these factors the difference in the respiratory symptoms between those in Paris and elsewhere was still statistically significant. According to 1974 average pollution data, air was more polluted in Paris than in the other areas, particularly for black smoke.


[Circadian variations in rat serum and urinary calcium and phosphorus. Reflections on the Ca/PO4 ratio]. Daily variations of serum and urine calcium and phosphate were determined in young and adult rats of both sexes. The animals were maintained in natural conditions of illumination and feeding ad libitum. The twenty-four hour rhythm of the serum levels and urinary excretion of these electrolytes in male rats is confirmed. This rhythm is markedly modified in young females and less in adult females. Evidence for a circadian rhythm of the Ca/PO4 ratio appears in all groups of rats. The rhythms of serum and urine Ca/PO4 rations are similar in all experimental groups.


The effects of noradrenaline, applied by microelectrophoresis on different cells of the rabbit's atrial pacemaker. Noradrenaline has been applied by microelectrophoresis to a small portion of the atrial pacemaker area in the rabbit's heart in order to study the local effects of this chemical transmitter separately from the ones deriving from other parts of the pacemaker area. In a first group of cells, whose action potential and location assimilate them to true pacemaker cells, noradrenaline caused a reduction in cycle length and an increase in the steepness of slow diastolic depolarization. In a second group of cells similar to latent pacemaker cells, noradrenaline caused no change in cycle length, the outstanding effect being an increase in the steepness of the slow diastolic depolarization which afterwards changed into a subthreshold oscillation. A third type of cells showed intermediate characteristics between the two previous groups. These results suggest that: a) the chronotropic effect of noradrenaline on the heart atrial pacemaker seems to be due to changes in the steepness of slow diastolic depolarization which can assume, in some instances, the shape of subthreshold oscillations; the effects on the other parameters in our preparation seem to be either less constant or less significant; b) the different effects which are obtained on various kinds of cells seem to be the result of a different degree of sensitivity to noradrenaline and to the more or less premature activation of mechanisms antagonizing the action of noradrenaline. The results are discussed on the basis of a model of spontaneous atrial pacemaking which has been recently proposed.


Combined effects of tenotomy and denervation on the dynamic properties of soleus muscle of the rat. Isometric contraction time (CT), half relaxation time (1/2 RT), tetanus fusion frequency (TFF) and tetanus: twitch ratio (T : t ratio) were measured in the denervated (D) and tenotomized-denervated (TD) Soleus muscle of the rat. In D muscle there was an apparent speeding effect at the 2nd day after denervation, with a significant decrease of CT, which was followed by the usual slowing process of denervated muscle. In TD muscle, denervation was performed a week after tenotomy. Tenotomy "per se" was ineffective in modifying dynamic properties of muscle, but it accentuated the early shortening of CT caused by denervation, while reducing and delaying the subsequent slowing process. The results are discussed in the light of the hypothesis that muscle disuse has a speeding effect which counteracts the slowing effect of denervation, and/or that tenotomy modifies the effects of denervation by changing the pattern of fibrillation development.


Histological changes in Xenopus laevis Daudin specimens kept under dry conditions, then moved back to their natural aquatic environment. I. Pituitary, thyroid and testis. The histofunctional picture of the hypophysis, thyroid and testis was studied in Xenopus laevis specimens 1) kept in their natural aquatic environment; 2) gradually exposed to dehydration conditions under which they were kept one week; and 3) returned from the dry environment to water for 24 hr or 7 days. Of particular interest are the changes displayed in the hypophysis by type II acidophils, i.e. presumably prolactin producing cells. In the pituitary of "dry" animals and of those 24 hr after their replacement in water these cells appear numerous, large-sized and heavily stained whereas they are small and slightly stainable in the pituitary of control animals or of "dry" ones 7 days after their replacement in water. On the basis of these results it is surmised that prolactin is continuously synthesized and released into the circulation in Xenopus specimens kept or replaced in water, thereby contributing to the animals adaptation to the aquatic environment, whereas in those kept under waterless condition prolactin synthesis is not discontinued, but its release into the bloodstream declines or is abolished. In the testis of the animals kept in dry conditions or 24 hr after replacement in water, the germ cells do not seem to have undergone substantial changes, while the sudanophilic material, which can be detected in interstitial tissues in the animals kept in water, is lacking. In all groups the thyroid histofunctional pattern suggests an intense activity, particularly in control animals or in "dry" specimens 7 days after replacement into water.


[Dopamine, catecholamine receptors, and neurohumoral regulation of renal function]. Were studied in healthy human subjects under conditions of hydro-saline retention the intrarenal mechanism underlying the hydronatriuretic effect of Dopamine (DA) and the changes in DA renal effects induced by Sulpiride (S). DA was infused i.v. in a subpressor dose (0,1 microgram/kg . min) during induced hypotonic polyuria. In each experiment four clearance periods of 15 min were performed; DA was administered during the second and third clearance periods. The glomerular filtration rate and renal effective plasma flow were estimated as endogenous creatinine and PAH clearances, respectively. Tubular sodium and potassium reabsorptions were also determined. 1) In the state of hydro-saline retention, renal arteriolar (mainly preglomerular) vasodilation was produced by DA. Moreover, both sodium isosmotic reabsorption as a percentage of sodium filtered load and sodium anisosmotic reabsorption as a percentage of sodium distal load were inhibited. These tubular inhibitions were found to be correlated with the haemodynamic effects of DA. 2) Sulpiride treatment (4,4 mg/kg . day given orally for two days prior to the experiment and 100 mg i.m. 40 min before DA infusion) caused (a) an increase in the hydro-natriuretic response to hydration during control clearance and (b) a decrease in DA haemodynamic effects. An interpretation is proposed accounting for these DA effects as well as for dependence of DA renal effects on the extracellular fluid volume.


[Climatic factors influencing the performance of cattle and buffalos in Egypt]. Previous analogous investigations of climatic factors influencing the performance of cattle in Syria were continued for Egypt between August 1975 and July 1977. Temperature and humidity data were recorded and related to standard physiological compatibility ranges for cattle and buffalos, respectively. The values found for the two test years largely agreed. 23.3% of the average temperatures of the two years were above the 0 to 24 degrees C temperature range, which is physiologically compatible. Only 28.8% of the total hours were within the optimum temperature range for cattle and buffalos. The values of the relative humidity in the first year were up to 38.5% within the optimum compatibility range, whereas 11.0% were within the too dry and 50.5% within the too moist range. The percentage increased when the animals were in direct sunshine, which reduced their performance.


[Experimental data on the development of the primordia of the long bones of chick embryo extremities]. By means of various kinds of recombination of the two halves of the chick limb buds transected at the presumptive zeugopod mid-length a continuity was established between the opposite portions of the mesenchymal precursors of heterologous shaft bones of the zeugopod. In later development, both proximal and distal components of the recombined skeletal pieces consistently showed variously marked differences in size and shape in comparison with the corresponding parts of the control bones. Reciprocally, from the opposite portions of the presumptive territory of each zeugopodal bone separated the one from the other so that they could not contact and fuse, hypoplasic pieces developed which failed to attain the size and shape typical of the control segments. Those observations seem to show that morphogenetic interactions reciprocally exerted between the various parts of the presumptive territory of each shaft bone are mandatory to ensure the normal development of these skeletal pieces.


[Dendroarchitectonic study of the neurons of the corpus quadrigeminum superius in man]. Two different functional zones may be described in the superior colliculus. The superficial layers receive retinal and cortical fibers, the deep layers are a multimodal center and are implied in the oculo-motor control mechanisms. The aim of the present study has been to use network analysis in order to quantify the cell types of the deep layers of the superior colliculus in Man. 50 Golgi impregnated cell have been drawn in the three plans of space. Topological analysis permits to emphasize the existence of two different cell types: collaterally-branched cells or CB cells, and dichotomously-branched cells or DR cells. Quantitative analysis of the dendritic arcs has shown the spatial orientation of the dendritic tree. The proximal dendrites of DR cells are in the horizontal plane, the terminal dendrites are in the vertico-frontal plane. This difference seems to be due to different functional afferences.


[Arterial vascularization of the left colon in the fetus]. Study on the left colonic arteries in 15 human fetuses (195 to 360 mm VC). The arterial system was injected 9 times with a mixture of gelatin and Indian ink, 6 times with red coloured stratyl. The left hemicolectomic resections are treated with the Spalteholtz method. The arterial axes are constant: left colic artery, the middle colic artery, the middle branch of the left colic artery, the sigmoïd arteries. A paracolic arch, often branched, was always found, an intermesenteric arcade was sometimes present (20%). Straight arteries became more numerous with function and age. Histologic study showed two types of muscular penetration by these arteries.


[Remnants of the thyroglossal duct. A histological study]. This study was undertaken in order to find out the frequency of thyroglossal duct remnants and to specify the relationship between this tract the hyoïd bone. The remnants having undergone cystic pathology refer to tracks edged with an epithelial lining which can be various, associated or isolated, types. Thyroïd follicles may be annexed to this track, in or out of its cystic part. The systematic study of 23 hyoïdal and sub hyoïdal regions of adults exempt of any pathologic remnants allows one to find tracks in 13 cases, that is in every other case. This frequency is higher than the one normally described. These remnants always refer to some thyroïd follicle islands and rarely to an epithelial track. Furthermore, we can sometimes observe the frankly intra hyoïdal situation of the thyroid tissue. This last location is discussed according to embryologic data.


[Ultrastructural study of the olfactory placode in the chick embryo]. An ultrastructural study of the nasal placode of chick embryos between the stages 16 to 24 of Hamburger-Hamilton was made. The study describes the disposition of the constituent elements as well as their characteristics.


Photoperiodic control of rat pineal serotonin N-acetyl-transferase activity. Adult male albino rats were acclimated to constant light (light:dark-LD-24:0) or to darkness interrupted with brief periods of light at 6 h intervals (LD 1/4:5 3/4 X 4) concurrently with rats maintained in a LD 14:10 photoperiodic cycle. The activity and rhythmicity of pineal serotonin N-acetyltransferase (NAT) was examined at regular intervals for 24 hours in rats maintained in the experimental photoperiods and compared to pineal NAT activity and rhythmicity in rats maintained in the LD 14:10 photoperiod. The results indicate that constant light is capable of depressing nocturnal levels of rat pineal NAT and obliterating the pineal NAT rhythm. Likewise, rats subjected to darkness interrupted with brief periods of light at 6 h intervals experienced a similar response in pineal NAT activity to animals subjected to constant light, i.e., pineal NAT activity was persistently low and the rhythmicity was obliterated. The results are discussed relative to the hypothesis that the pineal NAT activity responds to an endogenous rhythm in photoperiodic time measurement. The evidence herein suggests that the time of occurrence of environmental light in the photoperiod is more important in determining pineal NAT activity and/or rhythmicity than is the total amount of darkness or the dark to light ratio to which animals may be subjected.


A study of free-running rhythms in sheep. Free-running rhythms for eating, drinking, standing and walking activities were studied in two experiments with four cross-bred rams. In the first experiment the rhythms were entrained to a LD (12:12) (300:0) regimen. Following a change to continuous dim light (less than 2 lux) there was a suggestion of free-running activity for about three days in some of the variables. By the fourth day, however, the previously entrained rhythms had been damped out and were replaced by random patterns of activity in all variables. In the second experiment, two entraining agents were used: LD (12:12) (300:0) and restriction of feed to the light period only. There was again some indication of free-running activity for the first few days of continuous dim light (less than 2 lux) but by the fourth day only random patterns of activity were evident.


Oxidation-reduction midpoint potentials of mitochondrial flavoproteins and their intramitochondrial localization. Spectrophotometric and fluorimetric substrate couple titrations and potentiometric spectrophotometric titrations were used to determine the oxidation-reduction potentials of components showing absorbance or fluorescence at the wavelengths attributable to the flavoproteins of mitochondria fractionated using digitonin together with sonication. A pure mitoplast fraction devoid of cytochrome b5 contamination could be obtained using 230 micrograms digitonin/mg of mitochondrial protein. The digitonin-soluble fraction contained a species having Em7.4 = -123 mV and probably represents the outer membrane flavoproteins. The inner membrane-matrix fraction, treated with ultrasound, provided evidence of a flavoprotein species with redox potential (Em7.4 = -302 mV) in the matrix fraction. The -302 mV component is probably lipoamide dehydrogenase. A high redox potential species with Em7.4 = +19 mV in titrations with the succinate fumarate couple was located in the inner membrane vesicles and is probably identical with succinate dehydrogenase. The electron-transferring flavoprotein (ETF) was isolated from bovine heart mitochondria and its Em7.4 = -74 mV determined. The component in the matrix fraction with an apparent Em7.4 = -56 mV probably represents ETF, and that in the inner membrane fraction with an apparent Em7.4 = -43 mV the NADH dehydrogenase flavoprotein. A component in an apparently low concentration with Em7.4 = +30 mV was detected in the inner membrane fraction. This probably represents the ETF-dehydrogenase flavoprotein. The origin of the flavoprotein fluorescence of mitochondria and intact tissues is discussed.


Bilayer lipid membranes (BLM) study of antigen-antibody interactions. Previous work of del Castillo and co-workers has shown that bilayer lipid membranes (BLM) can be used as transducers for detection of antigen-antibody reactions. The present experiments extend the previous work by incorporating complement into the BLM system. The results indicate that the antigen-antibody complex or the complement has no ability to affect the BLM system separately, but when carefully combined they will destabilize the BLM as a tool for investigating immunological reactions is suggested.


Concentration quenching in chlorophyll-alpha and relation to functional charge transfer in vivo. Chlorophyll-alpha in ordinary solvents exhibits concentration quenching. Dimeric chlorophyll is reasonably well confirmed as the quenching species, by a critical reanalysis of available data on concentration dependence and on spectral features, in ordinary solvents, and in several analogous quenching environments. This quenching in the dimer in vitro is somewhat less firmly analyzed as due to a new fast internal conversion. Much peripheral evidence supports transient charge transfer as the cause of internal conversion. The same evidence points to a strong similarity to functional charge transfer in vivo. I suggest that inability to extract P680 may be due to its conversion to a form resembling P700 by addition of water. A number of straightforward experiments are suggested to test these proposals. In particular, it is desirable to test for the existence of a vibronic perturbation (from a higher npi* state) in the dimer, as an alternative to charge transfer for explaining the "observed" internal conversion. Such a vibronic cause would raise interesting problems for phototrap function in vivo.


Prenatal effects of 2,4,5-T, 2,4,5-trichlorophenol, and phenoxyacetic acid in mice. The herbicide 2,4,5-trichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4,5-T) and two structurally related compounds, phenoxyacetic acid and 2,4,5-trichlorophenol, were suspended in a 1:1 solution of honey:water and administered by gavage to pregnant mice on one of gestation days 8-15 (copulation plug day = day 1) or on three consecutive days (7-9, 10-12, or 13-15). Doses were 800-900 mg/kg for single and 250-300 mg/kg/day for multiple treatments. With the exception of 2,4,5-trichlorophenol treatment on day 14, only 2,4,5-T treatment significantly increased prenatal mortality, and only 2,4,5-T was associated with decreased fetal weight when comparisons were made with the solvent controls. Although low incidences were seen in all treatment groups, only 2,4,5-T significantly increased cleft palate or other gross malformations. Significant skeletal, visceral or histopathological defects were not observed. These results indicate that both the carboxyl group and chlorination of the aromatic ring are essential for an unambiguous teratogenic response.


Embryotoxicity of inhaled sulfur dioxide and carbon monoxide in mice and rabbits. The embryotoxic and teratogenic potential of sulfur dioxide (SO2) was evaluated in CF-1 and New Zealand rabbits exposed to SO2 alone or in combination with carbon monoxide (CO). The animals inhaled filtered room air (controls), SO2 (mice, 25 ppm; rabbits, 70 ppm), or SO2 plus CO (250 ppm) for 7 hr/day from days 6 through 15 (mice) and from days 6 through 18 (rabbits) of gestation. In both species, inhalation of SO2 resulted in slight toxicity in the dams and an increased incidence of minor skeletal variants among their offspring; exposure to the combination did not potentiate the increased incidence of these variants. A teratogenic effect was not discerned in either mice or rabbits exposed to SO2 alone or in combination with carbon monoxide, but the fetuses of mice exposed to the combination were significantly smaller than those exposed only to SO2.


Embryotoxicity of inhaled sulfuric acid aerosol in mice and rabbits. The effect of inhaled sulfuric acid (H2SO4) on embryonal and fetal development was assessed in CF-1 mice and in New Zealand white rabbits. Both species were exposed for 7 hr/day to 0, 5, or 20 mg H2SO4/m3 during the period of major organogenesis (mice, days 6 through 15 of gestation; rabbits, days 6 through 18 of gestation). Little evidence of toxicity was seen in the fetuses of mice or rabbits exposed to H2SO4. Slight maternal toxicity was seen at 20 mg H2SO4/m3 in both species. Teratogenicity was not observed in either mice or rabbits exposed to H2SO4.


Quantitative histological changes produced in the tracheal mucosa of young chickens by the inhalation of sulfur dioxide in low concentrations. Chickens were exposed to SO2 in relatively low concentrations (3.4 to 18.5 parts per million (ppm)) for 1 to 14 days. A portion of their tracheas was embedded in water-soluble methacrylate, cut at 2 micrometer and stained with hematoxylin and eosin, Wright's stain, methyl green-pyronin, Alcian blue - periodic and Schiff, and for acid phosphatase. An increase was found in (a) the mucosa to wall ratio; (b) the number of mucosal cells in mitosis; (c) the number of macrophages, lymphocytes, plasma cells, and neutrophils in the epithelium and lamina propria; and (d) the number of these infiltrating cells which contained acid phosphatase. The number of mucus- and seromucus- secreting cells and vasoamine-containing cells were sometimes increased, but not consistently. The percentage of cells containing sialidase-sensitive sialomucins was elevated, and percentage of cells containing neutral mucins was reduced. These changes were only partly related to the SO2 concentration and the duration of SO2 exposure, in that increasing amounts of SO2 did not always cause increasing changes in the mucin composition. Evidently, the altered mucins sometimes protected against further mucin modification.


Metabolism and distribution of 2,4,5-trichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4,5-T) in pregnant mice. Pregnant mice were treated with a single oral dose of [carboxy-14C]2,4,5-T (100 mg/kg; 1.22 mu Ci/mg) on day 12 of gestation and sacrificed after 0.25, 0.5, 2 and 24 hours. Maternal blood, embryos, placentas and yolk sacs were analyzed by solvent extraction, TLC, and countercurrent distribution. Expressed as percentage of the administered dose/g tissue, the unchanged 2,4,5-T found in maternal blood, placentas, yolk sacs, and embryos was 3, 0.5, 0.5, and 0.2%, respectively, after 0.25 hours, and 4, 2, 2, and 0.5%, respectively, after 24 hours. No major metabolites of 2,4,5-T were detected. Urine and feces were also collected and analyzed. Radioactivity was largely eliminated in the urine, 69-78% of the administered dose in 7 days. Feces contained 5-9% of the dose. In the urine unchanged 2,4,5-T accounted for 35-44% of the dose, and 22-23% as very polar material. Unchanged 2,4,5-T in the feces was 3-5% and 1-2% as polar material. 2,4,5-T administered to pregnant mice is largely distributed and eliminated as 2,4,5-T and very polar material.


Enrichment of albumin and IgG in the airway secretions of dogs breathing ozone. A study was undertaken of the acute effect of the inhalation of ozone (1.0-1.5 ppm) on the concentration of proteins in the airway secretions harvested from the trachea of intact anesthetized dogs. Secretions were first collected during a control day during which room air was breathed. The dogs breathed ozone (1.0-1.5 ppm) on a second day. This protocol permitted each dog to serve as its own control. During the inhalation of ozone the concentration of total aqueous-soluble proteins, as well as of albumin and IgG were not significantly effected. However, when expressed as a percentage of total protein, both albumin and IgG were significantly enriched in the secretions. The quantitative changes of certain proteins in airway secretions may be an important reflection of the pulmonary response to ozone.


Studies on heat tolerance at rest and orthostatic heat tolerance in a hot environment. Twelve young male Japanese were exposed to a hot environment in summer, and changes in systolic blood pressure induced by changing the position from recumbent to sitting were observed. Sweating was induced in a climatic chamber at 30 degree C with 70% relative humidity by immersing both legs up to the knees into a water bath of 42 degree C for 90 min after sitting on a chair at rest for 30 min in the chamber. The mean values of rise in rectal temperature, body weight loss and mean sodium concentration in sweat were 0.62 degree C, 0.67 kg and 46 mEq/l, respectively. The mean values of fall in systolic blood pressure associated with changing posture and its recovery time were 13.7 mm Hg and 77.5 sec, respectively. Heat tolerance at rest was assessed by a numerical heat tolerance index involving relative water loss, relative rise in rectal temperature, and relative salt loss. Values of relative water loss, relative rise in rectal temperature, and the numerical heat tolerance index correlated closely to those of fall in systolic blood pressure and its recovery time.


Correlation between heat tolerance during exercise and maximum aerobic work capacity. Observation of the physiological responses during exercise in a hot environment and measurement of maximal work capacity were made on eight young male subjects, ages 20--22. Exercise was performed on a bicycle ergometer at a constant work load of 450 kg . m/min at a cycling rate of 50 rpm for 30 min in a climatic chamber at 30 degree C with 70% relative humidity. The maximum work capacity was measured by bicycle ergometer exercise. Heat tolerance during exercise was assessed by the magnitude of physiological strain expressed by the combination of relative rise in rectal temperature, relative water loss and relative salt loss. Heat load during exercise was calculated using metabolic rates at rest and during exercise, assuming heat loss through the respiratory tract to be 10 percent of metabolic rate. Fairly good correlations were found between the ratio of work done to maximum work capacity and rise in rectal temperature, ratio of body weight loss to body weight and heat tolerance during exercise. Close correlations were found among relative heat load during exercise and rise in rectal temperature, relative body weight loss and heat tolerance. Heat tolerance during exercise in a hot environment correlated well to capacity of heat dissipation and maximum work capacity.


Migratory history as a factor influencing dietary habit. A traditional concept of staple food is present in the dietary habits of Japanese, and the prominent role of rice as a staple food has changed since the end of World War II. The influence of migration on staple food patterns was studied using Hayashi's method of multivariate analysis for the quantification of qualitative data. The result of the study suggested that migration clearly influences the choice of a staple food, and that the influence of migration is more conspicuous in comparatively younger generations.


Physiological reaction of women during exercise and recovery, in a comfortable environment and a hot environment. Physiological reaction and oxygen intake during exercise and recovery were measured in fourteen young female Japanese during the follicular phase of their menstrual cycle at 25 degree C with 50% relative humidity and at 35 degree C with 50% relative humidity. Subjects, clad in bathing suits only, performed a bicycle ergometer exercise at a constant work load of 600 kg . m/min at a cycling rate of 50 rpm for 20 min and recovered while remaining on the bicycle ergometer for 40 min. The mean values of sweat volume and skin temperature were significantly greater at 35 degree C than at 25 degree C. It has been shown that heart rate and rectal temperature during exercise were slightly higher at 35 degree C than at 25 degree C, while those during recovery were significantly higher at 35 degree C than at 25 degree C. Oxygen intake, oxygen debt, and the fall in diastolic blood pressure after exercise were considerably greater at 35 degree C than at 25 degree C. The increase in oxygen intake in a hot environment might result from an increased metabolism due to higher body temperature and increased energy requirement for heat dissipation such as profuse sweating, higher heart rate, and increased ventilatory volume. The increase in oxygen debt in a hot environment might reflect the increased metabolism caused by higher body temperature and the increased production of lactic acid in the working muscle as a result of an insufficient blood supply to the muscle. The increases in sweat volume, oxygen intake during exercise, and oxygen debt in women in a hot environment were considerably smaller than corresponding values for men. The smaller increase in sweat volume in women in a hot environment could reflect a smaller oxygen intake and a more marked dilation of skin vessels in women than in men.


The lower and upper critical temperatures in male Japanese. Critical temperatures were determined by a new estimating system called the polynomial equation method. Its consists of polynomial regression equations of metabolic rate on ambient and body temperatures and conversion equations enable to convert metabolic rate value into temperature value. Nine young adult males were tested using the system. Metabolic rate was calculated indirectly with a reference to protein metabolism and the critical temperatures were determined as follows; the lower critical air temperature to be 26.2 C, the upper critical air temperature to be 47.0 degrees C, the lower and upper mean skin temperature to be 29.2 degrees C and 36.5 degrees C, and the lower and upper critical rectal temperature to be 35.5 degrees C and 37.9 degrees C, respectively. The polynomial equation method has an advantage over the intersect method since it allows estimation of several kinds of critical temperature.


Effect of prolonged running on physiological responses to subsequent exercise. The purpose of this study was to compare metabolic and cardiopulmonary responses for submaximal and maximal exercise performed several days preceding (pre-test) and 45 min after (post-test) 21 miles of high intensity (70% VO2 max) treadmill running. Seven aerobically trained subjects' oxygen uptake, oxygen pulse, respiratory exchange ratio, heart rate, pulmonary ventilation, ventilatory equivalent of oxygen, and blood lactate concentration were determined for exercise during the pre- and post-test sessions. No differences were found for submaximal oxygen uptake, oxygen pulse, pulmonary ventilation and ventilatory equivalent of oxygen between the pre- and post-test values. Generally, submaximal heart rate responses were higher, and respiratory exchange ratio values were lower during the post-test. Reductions of maximal work time (12%), maximal oxygen uptake (6%) and maximal blood lactate concentration (47%) were found during the post-test. Thermal stress and glycogen depletion are possible mechanisms which may be responsible for these observed differences.


Experiment studies on sweating for exercise prescription: total body sweat rate in relation to work load in physically trained adult males. This study was designed to examine whether or not the total body sweat rate can be used as a practical index for prescribing exercise. The sweat rate was experimentally studied in relation to factors such as intensity of exercise, the secretory capacity of sweating mechanism, and body temperature. After determining the maximum sweating rate on the whole body surface, regarded as the secretory capacity of the sweating mechanism, each physically trained subject was made to pedal a bicycle ergometer for 60 min at each of several kinds of mechanical work rates under fixed hot climatic conditions in summer. Total body sweat rate, rectal temperature, and RMR were measured during the experiment. The sweat secreting index (SSI), which is ratio of total body sweat rate to maximum sweat rate, was calculated, and was presumed to indicate the functioning rate of sweat secretory capacity. The total body sweat rate responded to factors such as RMR, SSI, and rectal temperature with a high correlation coefficient. From these results it was concluded that the total body sweat rate can be used as a practical index for prescribing exercise.


Breast self-examinations: who does them and why. In a population of 158 women with a breast concern, two-thirds examined their own breasts. Most examiners (80%) practiced breast self-examination at least once a month, and over 60% had been regular examiners for more than 2 years. No significant difference in frequency of breast self-examination was found between women who had been examiners for longer and shorter time periods. Examiners had two main reasons for beginning and continuing breast self-examination: (1) an awareness that it is desirable to detect breast cancer early and (2) an awareness that they themselves could get breast cancer, while nonexaminers tended to deny this possibility. Therefore, to become examiners, nonexaminers may need to be convinced not only that early detection is effective but also that they too are at risk of breast cancer. The importance of informing, but not alarming, women about their breast cancer risk is discussed.


Changes in body image and other psychological factors after intestinal bypass surgery for massive obesity. A group of massively obese persons (predominantly women) was evaluated 6 months prior to intestinal bypass surgery and again while in the hospital awaiting surgery. A second follow-up group of massively obese persons was evaluated on the same measures in-hospital prior to surgery and then assessed periodically over the subsequent 1-year period. The 6-months-before-surgery group showed a general decline in concern with physical symptoms, anxiety, and social introversion at the in-hospital evaluation. The surgery follow-up group exhibited an increasing improvement, as weight loss progressed, in body image, feelings of physical and sexual attractiveness, and evaluation of one's personality. An improvement in mood also was seen. Body size estimation showed a realistic adjustment with weight loss. Both groups scored higher than average on a measure of the addictive personality. Follow-up of the nonresponders indicated that a substantial proportion of those persons had psychological or severe physical problems subsequent to surgery.


Behavioral treatment of presleep tension and intrusive cognitions in patients with severe predormital insomnia. Behavioral approaches to the treatment of predormital insomnia have assumed that hyperarousal is the underlying cause; thus presleep tension has been the most common target treated. A second indicator, presleep intrusive cognitions, has only recently been examined as a target for treatment. In the present study, 20 subjects were randomly assigned to three groups which focused on the treatment of either (1) presleep tension alone, (2) presleep tension and intrusive cognitions, of (3) perception of sleep. Four subjects acted as controls. The findings indicated that reductions in both presleep tension and intrusive cognitions were followed by a significantly greater reduction in latency to sleep onset and daytime impairment than reductions in presleep tension alone. The results obtained from modifying the individual's perception of sleep were not significantly different from those obtained from reductions in presleep tension alone. A 6 weeks follow-up revealed no change in the relative status of the three treatment groups.


The structured interview and questionnaire methods of assessing coronary-prone behavior in male and female college students. Several self-report measures of type A behavior were compared with the Rosenman and Friedman structured interview method of assessment in male and female college students. The student version of the Jenkins Activity Survey was found to correlate relatively weakly with the interview for both males and females, while scales derived from the Gough and Thurstone inventories showed moderate correlations with interview typing for both sexes. A brief scale derived from a recent reanalysis of the Framingham study correlated with the interview appreciably greater for females than for males. In all, these data suggest the need for caution in using only paper-and-pencil tests to assess type A behavior.


Signouts against medical advice from a coronary care unit. Twenty-nine patients who were admitted to a Coronary Care Unit (CCU) but who subsequently discharged themselves against medical advice (AMA) were matched with a group of control patients who were admitted to the same unit but who remained in the hospital for the entire course of their treatment. The two groups were then compared on the basis of sociodemographic, medical, behavioral, and psychiatric variables. Results were that the AMA group differed significantly from the control group in a number of factors including age, number of previous AMA signouts, severity of medical problems, and self-reports of alcoholism and emotional difficulties. The relationship of these findings to the AMA behavior is discussed and intervention strategies are suggested.


Effects of different cognitive strategies on chronic pain experience. The present research sought to examine the importance of cognitive factors in the experience and treatment of chronic pain. An attempt was made to explore possible mediational influences by testing the effectiveness of several cognitive strategies. Experimental conditions were manipulated to examine the influence of three types of cognitive strategies: (1) reinterpreting the pain stimuli, (2) diverting one's attention from it, and (3) concentrating on the sensation itself. Dependent measures such as subjective indices of pain, behavioral observations, and an unobtrusive measure of pain behavior were obtained in an attempt to explore the experience of pain. Results demonstrated that, within a physical rehabilitation hospital setting, patients with a history of persistent pain showed a significant change in their ratings of the quality and intensity of this experience, and in their behavior, through the use of reinterpretive cognitive instructions.


Associative learning, habit, and health behavior. Habit is defined as a firmly established behavior pattern marked by increasing automaticity, decreasing awareness, and partial independence from reinforcement. Reinforcement is viewed as of primary importance in the acquisition of behavior, whereas principles of associative learning enter to complement reinforcement in the maintenance of behavior. Habit is seen as a mechanism for short-circuiting the reinforcement process to avoid its overload and for providing the organism with speed and stability of response instead of the variability offered by reinforcement. The implications of this definition of habit for acquisition and alteration of health behavior are discussed; examples include smoking, obesity, alcoholism, and coronary-prone (type A) behavior.


Seeking reassuring or threatening information about environmental cancer. This study examined information seeking as a potentially adaptive response to a new environmental health threat. College students in a state with a particularly high cancer rate were offered an opportunity to obtain either a reassuring or a threatening informational message concerning the cancer rate. Interview were later conducted with students who had and had not requested a message (N = 502). The results suggested that unconcern rather than defensiveness was the principal reason for not seeking information. Although a majority of both information seekers and nonseekers preferred the threatening message, the choice of message did depend on an individual's beliefs concerning the seriousness of the cancer threat. Most respondents selected the message which supported their own view of the issue. A preliminary model proposed to explain the data emphasized the ambiguity and controversy surrounding most environmental and health warnings.


Symptom disclosure to male and female physicians: effects of sex, physical attractiveness, and symptom type. Seventy-five subjects (50 male and 25 female) rated their willingness to disclose symptoms of a personal nature, general nature, and mental illness nature to male and female physicians whose photographs had been pretested as being either physically attractive or physically unattractive. Increased willingness to disclose was related to (1) the more physically attractive physicians, (2) general as compared to personal and mental symptoms, (3) same-sex match-ups between patient and physician, especially when (4) disclosing personal or mental illness symptoms or concerns. The sex of the physician per se had no influence on patient's willingness to disclose symptoms. Implications are drawn concerning the patient's assignment to or choice of physician based on sex. Patient education and training in symptom disclosure as well as physician's skill building in facilitating symptom disclosure are also indicated.


Generalizability and durability of treatment effects in an intervention program for coronary-prone (Type A) managers. To test the reliability and durability of positive treatment effects obtained in a type A intervention project for healthy managers, the analysis was extended to data available from a third treatment group (a special behavior therapy group for participants eliminated from the main sample because of manifestations of clinical CHD) and to measures obtained 6 months following the end of treatment. Immediately after treatment all three groups showed a similar pattern of improvement, although the two behavior therapy groups did show a greater decrease in serum cholesterol levels. Six months after treatment the sample as a whole showed good maintenance of treatment effects, but the differences between groups had become somewhat sharper, with the special behavior therapy group faring best, the regular behavior therapy group intermediate, and the psychotherapy group worst. The logical consistency of these findings increases our confidence in the initial treatment results, as well as permitting cautious optimism concerning the possibility of developing effective intervention programs for coronary-type (type A) behavior.


[The effects of sphincteroplasty on manometric profile of common bile duct and the duodenum (author's transl)]. A simultaneous manometric monitoring of the common bile duct (CBD) and the duodenum were performed 2 weeks after choledocholithotomy on 15 patients whose common bile ducts were explored without sphincteroplasty and 30 patients with sphincteroplasty. These manometric studies were carried out by open-tip catheters intubated into the CBD and duodenum through the T-tube at the operation. In patients without sphincteroplasty, no effects of the duodenal pressure on a CBD pressure profile were recognized, while a synchronized pressure profile of the CBD and the duodenum was obtained in patients with sphincteroplasty. By stimulation with morphine (Morphine sulfate; 0.17 mg/Kg iv bolus), waxing and waning of the pressured in the CBD without sphincteroplasty were observed with 20 cmH2O in maximum at about 13 minutes after injection. However, in the CBD with sphincteroplasty, scale-over increase of the pressure curve was seen immediately after duodenal contraction caused by morphine stimulation. A direct infusion of 5 ml of 0.1 N hydrochloride to the duodenum causes hyperperistalsis of the duodenum, which made a synchronized pressure profile in the CBD with sphincteroplasty but made no remarkable change in a pressure profile of the CBD without sphincteroplasty. These findings conclude that the sphincter of Oddi plays an important role as a "pressure barrier" between the CBD and the duodenum, and that with the destruction of this sphincter by sphincteroplasty, a pressure profile of the CBD becomes close to that of the duodenum. This simultaneous manometric study of the CBD and the duodenum might be one of most valuable methods for evaluation of completeness of the sphincteroplasty.


[Effects of domperidone on gastrointestinal and gallbladder motility and gastric emptying (author's transl)]. Effects of domperidone on gastric emptying and gastric, duodenal and gallbladder motility were investigated. Intravenous injection of domperidone 2 mg/kg produced an acceleration of gastric motility without increase in the tone while a marked increase in the amplitude of peristaltic waves with a slight decrease in frequency was observed. Domperidone also produced an acceleration of duodenal and gallbladder motility. Domperidone produced an acceleration of transit of stomach contents in some cases, while in others gastric emptying was inhibited. This difference of the effect may be due to the previous tone of the pylorus. The excitatory action of domperidone on gastrointestinal motility was suppressed to some degree after cervical vagotomy or vagus cooling and markedly inhibited by atropine. Tetrodotoxin reduced the excitatory effect of domperidone but did not abolish. Therefore, it is presumed that domperidone stimulates, at least in part, the gastrointestinal muscle itself as well as cholinergic neurons in the gastrointestinal wall or cholinergic receptors of the gastrointestinal muscle and that domperidone may also have a central nervous system stimulant action. On the other hand, domperidone appears to act directly on the gallbladder muscle.


[Oral propagation of the circular muscle contraction induced by local distension of the isolated guinea pig ileum (author's transl)]. The local distension of the intestinal wall was carried out by inflating a thin rubber balloon which had been fixed in the lumen and the contractions of the circular muscle were recorded at the points of 5 mm (PO1) and 20 mm (PO2) oral to the fixed balloon. The contractions elicited by local distension was blocked by tetrodotoxin and atropine, or removing longitudinal muscle, with the myenteric plexus adhering to it, from the intestine at the distending region. When 2 to 3 mm length of longitudinal muscle was stripped off around the intestine between PO1 and PO2, the contraction initiated at PO1 never reached to PO2. That is, the oral contraction did not propagate beyond the myenteric plexus-free region of the segment. When drugs were applied exclusively to the region around PO2, tetrodotoxin and hexamethonium, but not atropine, abolished the contraction at PO2, while the contraction at PO1 was clearly observed. It is likely that the contraction observed at the point of PO2 was evoked by non-cholinergic nervous mechanisms.


[Influence of cimetidine on neuro-humoral excitatory responses of gastric secretion and motility in dogs (author's transl]. The influence of intravenous administration of cimetidine on excitatory response of gastric secretion and motility of innervated or denervated pouches caused by electrical stimulation of vagal and splanchnic nerves and administration of tetragastrin or histamine respectively were investigated. Dogs were anesthetized with nembutal, and also immobilized with gallamine tricthiodide. The following results were obtained. (1) Administration of cimetidine inhibited the augmentation of gastric juice and acid output from the innervated corpus pouch by vagal and splanchnic nerve stimulation and vestibulo-gastric excitatory reflexes of gastric secretory functions via the vagal or splanchnic nerve. (2) Augmentation of gastric acid output from the denervated corpus pouch caused by electrical stimulation of vagal and splanchnic nerves was inhibited by administration of cimetidine. (3) Administration of cimetidine inhibited the augmentation of acid output from denervated corpus pouch caused by injection of tetragastrin or histamine. (4) The excitatory responses of gastric motility caused by nerve stimulation and administration of tetragastrin or histamine could not be effected by cimetidine. (5) No changes were observed in the gastric venous blood flow by continuous intravenous injection of cimetidine, but by rapid injection both the flow was augmented and the systemic blood pressure decreased transiently. These results indicate that histamine stimulates gastric secretory cells directly.


[An experimental study on electric stimulation through the vagus on canine stomach (author's transl)]. The role of the vagus in gastric motility was studied by means of electric vagal stimulation in 44 dogs. Firstly the optimal electric current for vagus was examined, and then the stomach contraction at stimulation was recorded by strain gages. The effect of various agents at stimulation was observed too. The results obtained were as follows. 1. Optimal electric stimulus (duration=5 sec.) 1) frequency; 10 Hz or 50 approximately 60 Hz 2) voltage; 10 approximately 20 V or 30 approximately 50 V 3) width; 1 approximately 10 msec. 2. The canine stomach was proved the contraction gradient for electrical stimulus. 3. The central nerve system appeared to have an inhibitory effect on the vagus. 4. Stimulus for the single body branch could not evoke the contraction. 5. Antral branch stimulation evoked contraction of not only the antrum but also that of the body. 6. The pyloric branch did not play any significant role under the above mentioned stimulus. 7. The conduction of the neural stimulation was completely blocked by regional infiltration of xylocaine. 8. Reserpine and neostigmine increased excitability of the stomach. Gastric movement at stimulation was abolished on atropinization. These results indicate that the antral branch function favorably for the stomach body contraction. From the view point of enhancing the gastric motor (drainage) function, preserving the antral branch of the vagus is considered to support the advantage of selective proximal vagotomy technique.


Israeli culture and the emergence of community mental health practices: the case of the West Jerusalem Mental Health Center. The action assumptions which characterize and differentiate cultures affect the creation and functioning of their institutions. Using this analytic framework, the development of a community mental health center in Israel reflects a culture which contains both pioneering and bureaucratic action assumptions. The effects of these assumptions on staff interventions in community problems are traced. Finally, various dimensions of the emerging definition of community mental health practice in Israel are discussed and their problematic features identified.


On the transaction of social change processes and the perception of self in relation to others: a study of Greek preadolescents. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between perception of self and others on the one hand, and milieu complexity on the other. The basic assumption was that comparison of TAT records of two groups of preadolescents living in an urban-industrialized and rural-traditional milieu, respectively, would reveal more interpersonal and intrapersonal conflict in the first group. The TAT stories were analyzed by story sequence analysis. 16 judges rated the sequence on the basis of a number of scales referring to several variables. The criteria developed for the rating were formulated on the basis of five working hypotheses which concerned degree of syntonicity between personal goals and family expectations, perception of human relationships, possibility assumptions as well as degree of involvement in active effort, etc. All hypotheses were supported.


Mental illness, loneliness and helplessness: a challenge for research and therapy. The purpose of this article is: (1) To discuss the complex relationship between mental illness and the related factors of loneliness and helplessness, in a specific attempt to show why people with mental and/or emotional difficulties have a greater propensity for problems in these areas: (2) To challenge therapists, counselors, pastors, and community health professionals to become more holistic in their orientation towards their patients by giving special emphasis to interpersonal needs and personal responsibility over outcomes.


An experimental program for the promotion of gifted children in elementary schools. Jerusalem school posychologists helped to formulate principles for the specialized care of gifted pupils in four elementary schools. For reasons of public policy and because of educational and social psychological considerations, no separate classes were created. Instead, special teachers were assigned to provide individual and group guidance for gifted children at various grade levels, without isolating these children from their normal classroom environment. A number of activity patterns emerged during the first year of the program. An initial appraisal indicated that the project led to a more flexible attitude in the schooling organization of the general student body. A number of problems were observed.


The Yaffo Community Mental Health Center. The Yaffo Mental Health Center was intended as a model for the implementation of the Israel national program for community psychiatry. The principles governing the function of the community mental health center are set out and the various component (if integrated) service structures are described.


Children's needs and parents' rights: legal and psychological dilemmas. Young children deprived of parenting are being kept in bondage of organizational structures and exposed to temporary placements and re-placements. While lip service is paid by society to being committed to the 'best interest of the child', legal and psychological dilemmas are discussed in relation to this aspect.


A report of juvenile delinquency over a two year period in Benin City. From April 1969 to March 1971, 535 juvenile offenders were arraigned before a juvenile court in Benin City, Nigeria. Of these 282 (52.71%) were males while the rest 253 (47.29%) were females. Their ages ranged between 6 and 17 years. The majority of offenders in the study were in the 12--16 year age group. The most common offences for which the offenders were arraigned were hawking, stealing and assault, in order of frequency of occurrence. While male offenders were more often encountered in stealing and assault, females featured more in hawking. The juvenile delinquency rate in the population is 53:10,000.


Training teachers as facilitators of mental health: 'Psychotherapy of the Role'. This paper describes an attempt to stimulate positive mental health in the classroom. It was carried out by a group of psychologists who experimented with mental health consultation ideas and techniques and developed a model of working with groups of teachers. This model focuses on discussion topics chosen by the teachers (such as envy). The psychologist provides relevant psychological knowledge. Teachers discuss the issues experientially, clarifying their feelings and often uncovering disruptive personal biases in their work. An attempt is made to understand the point of view of teacher and child, both developmentally and interpersonally. Practical implications for the classroom are discussed. In evaluating the project teachers expressed satisfaction with the groups and reported improvement in their ability to cope with the emotional problems of their students. The authors call this approach 'Psychotherapy of the Role'.


[Surgical treatment of experimental liver injuries in dogs with special evaluation of Polish-made cyanoacrylic glue. I. Clinical observations, morphological and biochemical studies of blood and autopsy studies]. Liver wounds were experimentally induced in dogs. The wounds were dressed with catgut suture, suture and fibrinous sponge and ester n-butyl alfa-cyanoacrylic acid in aerosol form obtained laboratorially at the Institute of Organic Chemistry--Polish Academy of Sciences in Warsaw. The basis for evaluation were clinical observations of the operated animals, morphological and biochemical examination of blood and dissection. It was found that the best results were achieved with the surgical glue. Application of this monomer in aerosol form to join and dress liver wounds helps to close them tightly in a short time and obtain full hemostasis and stop bile leaking.


[Surgical treatment of experimental liver injuries in dogs with special evaluation of Polish-made cyanoacrylic glue. II. Histological and histochemical studies]. Liver wounds were experimentally induced in dogs. The wounds were dressed with catgut suture, suture and fibrinous sponge and ester n-butyl alfa-cyanoacrylic acid obtained laboratorially at the Institute of Organic Chemistry -- Polish Academy of Sciences in Warsaw. The basis for evaluation were histological, histochemical and histoenzymatic examinations of the operated liver. It was found that during the process of healing of wound dressed with the glue there were weaker inflammatory reactions and destruction of tissues was smaller than that in the case of surgical suture.


[Monoamine oxidase and acetylcholinesterase activity in the pig's digestive tract in ontogenesis]. To obtain information about the regulating nervous mechanisms of the pig alimentary canal the activity of monoaminooxidase (MAO) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in duodenum, jejunum and colon was studied during the embryonal and postnatal growth. The activity of monoaminooxidase was measured manometrically according to the method prepared by Kolb and that of acetylcholinesterase colorimetrically according to Hestrin's method. It was found that the activity of MAO and AChE in different parts of the pig alimentary canal was considerably differentiated during ontogenesis. Presence of these enzymes was already shown in the embryonal period. However, their activity was poor and almost on the same level in all the examined parts of intestines. Rapid increase of activity of both enzymes was immediately after pigs birth at the time between parturition and fifth day of postnatal life. In the later period of life (6-11 days after birth) there was a decrease of activity of both MAO and AChE only in duodenum. But in jejunum and colon there was a further, slight though, increase of the activity of both enzymes. Comparing the activity of MAO and AChE in the individual parts of the mature pig intestine with the embryonal and postnatal periods, it was found that in spite of the considerable increase of activity of both enzymes after birth, their level was smaller than that in the mature animals.


[Effect of vitamins B and C on the intestinal motor activity of rabbits in long-term experiments]. In 3 rabbits in chronic experiments motor activity of the innervated and vascularized pouch of jejunum was frequently registered under the influence of vitamins C, B1, B6 and folic acid before and after the blockade of cholinergic or adrenergic receptors. Vitamins B1, B6 and C decreased the motor activity of intestines but B2 and folic acid increased it. Decreased motor activity of intestines under the effect of vitamin C is probably connected with the stimulation of adrenergic receptors. Adrenergic and cholinergic receptors did not participate in the motor activity of intestines occurring under the influence of group B vitamin. In chronic experiments the intestines excitability to group B vitamin and to that of vitamin C does not differ much.


[Effect of intra-duodenal administration of HCl and NaHCO3 on the secretion and content of sodium, potassium and calcium in the pancreatic juice and bile of sheep]. The experiments were carried out on 3 sheep with a Harrison type cannula inserted into the funds of the gall-bladder enabling to obtain bile and with a Herrera type cannula fixed in the duodenum enabling to sample pancreatic juice. Administration of 3 mEq HCl in 50 ml of solution to the duodenum increased the volume of secreted bile from 6,04 ml to 8,11 ml/15 min with no essential changes in the volume of pancreatic juice. Administration of 15 mEq NaHCO3 in 50 ml of solution decreased the volume of secreted bile from 6.73 ml to 4,15 ml/15 min and decreased pancreatic juice from 5,46 ml to 4.72 ml/15 min. Intravenous administration of secret increased the volume of both pancreatic juice and bile. Administration of HCl and NaHCO3 solution to the duodenum did not cause changes in the concentration and secretion of sodium, potassium and calcium in pancreatic juice and bile. The results point to the predominance of the secretory function of bile over pancreatic juice in sheep after stimulation of the duodenum with the investigated substances.


[Experimental studies on the parasympathetic nervous system of the trachea]. 3 sheep of approximately 4 years of age were used in the experiments. In 2 sheep in the cervical part of trachea all the nervous branches reaching this organ were cut and the remaining sheep was control. The animals were alive for 21 days. The following material was sampled for investigations: medulla oblongata, cervical part of spinal cord, bilateral spinal ganglions from C1 to C8, bilateral nodus ganglion and zygomatic ganglion and left and right parts of the cervical vagus nerve. The material was fixed and cut into 15 micron sections and stained according to the modified method of Nissl. The experiments evoked vast regressive changes in the nervous cells of both central and peripheral nervous system which helped to determine the source of outlet of fibers innervating this organ. In this paper the sources of outlet for the parasympathetic nervous fibers were presented. It was found that parasympathetic nervous centers connected with trachea were located in 1/3 of the central part of nucleus parasympathicus, anterior to obex, so in this part of nucleus which is the main source of outlet for the esophageal dorsal trunk and the ventral vagus nerve.


Connections of the sympathetic trunk with the adrenal-ovarian plexus in the hen. The bilateral connections between the sympathetic trunk and the adrenal-ovarian plexus were studied in the bodies of 25 two-year-old Leghorn hens. Individual differences in the body in all the specimens examined.


[Histological picture of young and mature nerve cells in the sympathetic ganglia of coypu (Myocastor coypus Mol.)]. The histological picture of the ganglion of the coypus sympathetic trunk was presented in the work. Quantitative studies of sympathicoblasts, young and immature sympathicocytes, and other intermediate cell division forms; binucleolated, binucleated and twin cells were also included in the paper. Beside young cells, the histological picture of mature nerve cells was studied and described.


[Embryotoxic and teratogenic effects of phenylmercuric acetate and methylmercuric chloride in hamsters, rats and rabbits]. Embryotoxic and teratogenic effects of phenyl mercury acetate and methyl mercury chloride were studied on 66 pregnant females of golden hamster, 86 rats, and 62 rabbits. The mercury compounds were given by the stomach tube from the 5th to 12th days of pregnancy once or three times in single doses ranged from 1-6 to 1-2 DL50. The obtained results indicated to the embryotoxic effects of phenyl mercury acetate. This compound induced resorptions, dead foetuses, retardation of the development, diminished cranial ossification, edemata of the body, haematomas and open eyes. The methyl mercury chloride proved to be embryotoxic and teratogenic. The compound produced similar embryotoxic lesions as did phenyl mercury acetate and induced developmental malformations of the foetus (e.g.: encephalocele and hernia spinalis).


[Mechanisms of action of chemoantibiotics (author's transl)]. An useful drug for infectious diseases should have a selective antimicrobial activity and no action on animal cell. The general target, besides some very restricted process like in M. tuberculosis, are: 1) purine synthesis, 2) DNA replication, 3) protein synthesis, 4) cell-wall synthesis, 5) cytoplasmic membrane. On purine synthesis are active the sulphamidic on DNA replication nalidixic acid on Gram-negative bacteria, and griseophulvin on dermatophites. Many drugs have their target in the sequential stages of protein synthesis, among these the aminoglycosides are mainly bactericidal. The antibiotics which block the building of cell-wall are the best, according the target does not exist in animal cell; among them, penicillins and cephalosporins are bactericidal. On contrary cytoplasmic membrane, which is similar to the animal cell membrane has to be evaluated as a bad target. Polimyxins on bacteria, polyene antibiotics on fungi, have this target and are bactericidal, but their use is restricted for toxicity. Antibiotics must be selected in therapy according to their mechanism of action and to the immunological state of the patient. Some bactericidal antibiotics have to be reserved for immuno suppressed people.


[Bacteriological sensitivity "in vitro" and therapeutic response (author's transl)]. After some general considerations on the validity of antibiograms as a therapeutic guide, three methods are described and analyzed. Bacterial chemosensitivity to antimicrobic drugs were tested by the following methods: diffusion, dilution and automized methods. Only when transferred into routine laboratory methods that would reveal the results of chemosensitivity in quantitative values will a valid guide to antimicrobic chemotherapy be possible. Expressing chemosensitive bacteria directly in values of minimum inhibiting concentrations would evaluate the pharmokinetic action of single chemotherapeutical agents in relation to infective organ or apparatus pathologies which limits the practical significance of posology. Unfortunately, the collaboration between the clinical bacteriologist and the chemoterapist is still a long way off because of technical and laboratory difficulties delineating the pharmokinetic aspects in the use of the many chemoterapeutical agents in man.


[A survey of Italian hospitals on the frequency of the resistance of bacterial strains (author's transl)]. The AA. delineate the limitations and practical difficulties encountered during a survey of the chemoantibiotic resistance of bacteria. Data was collected from 12 Italian Hospitals, and 5,702 bacterial strains were confronted with 8 chemoantibiotics. The AA. suggest a model trough which data could be collected and computerized so as to set a correct policy for the use of antibiotics in Hospitals.


[Surveillance of cephalosporins therapy in therapeutic practice of 15 Italian hospitals (author's transl)]. A retrospective review and evaluation of systemic cephalosporin therapy in 15 hospitals of various italian Regions was conducted. In any hospital the Pharmacy Service has examined a random sample of medical records of hospitalized patients exposed to cephalosporin therapy over a twelve month period (January-December 1976). In the years 1974-1976 were also examined the consumption and cost for Penicillin G, Ampicillin and Cephalosporins. A standard protocol and methodology for homogeneous collection of data was developed. On the base of collected data, the patterns of choice, the rational and irrational use, the role of cephalosporins in hospital practice are discussed.


[Prevention of bacterial resistance to antibiotics (author's transl)]. Even though genetically determined, bacterial resistance to antibiotics are perpetuated only when a continual selection is present. Bacterial resistance caused by use of antibiotics is evident in the hospital setting. Since it has been demonstrated in the absence of section bacteria tend to return to a sensitive phenotype, the A. suggests that only with the rational use of antibiotics is the prevention of bacterial resistance possible.


[Practical meaning of the determination of the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) (author's transl)]. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) are the parameters generally used for evaluation of the activity of antibacterial agents. Particular care must be taken for the control of experimental conditions in which the MICs and the MBCs are determined (medium, inoculum, incubation, etc.) in order to obtain informations able to help in the choice and management of the dosage regimen of an antibacterial agent. The significance of MIC and MBC is discussed in connection with blood and tissue levels attainable during therapy and with the pharmacokinetic properties of a drug.


[Quantitative evaluation methods of the chemoantibiotic associations (author's transl)]. In the introductory part a new classification of joint drug actions is submitted, according which three fundamental types are distincted, named respectively interference, cooperation and true interaction. In its turn, interaction is subdivided in three classes (uni-effectual, bis-ineffectual, bis-effectual) in the last of which is placed the most relevant of the interactions, that is synergism, subclassified, at its turn, as additive, super and infra-additive. The second part is devoted to the classification of the bacteriological techniques hitherto proposed in order to evaluate in vitro and in vivo the antibacterial interaction of chemoantibiotics. The third part is devoted to the classification and critical analysis of biometrical techniques hitherto applied to above quoted bacteriological techniques in order to obtain a quantitative evaluation of interaction. Criticism versus isobolic model is pointed out. In the final part a new procedure, named isoeffectual, is proposed. According to such a procedure a close grid of single and joint concentrations of a couple of chemoantibiotics, broad enough in order to cover the whole of the effects to be explored, is tested in vitro adopting the one-center agar diffusion test or a liquid medium. The experimental data so obtained are related in a planar diagram to the log of the sum obtained by adding to the concentrations of the first the concentrations of the second agent, converted into equi-effectual concentrations of the first. By this way a series of curvilinear regressions is obtained, which may be all explained by a mathematical formula according which the data may be submitted to statistical analysis and elaborated in order to draw the parameters able to define quantitatively the interaction. The model so applied is discussed as a general model for joint drug action.


[Computer management of antibiogram data (author's transl)]. Numerous models of computer management of antibiogram data are reviewed with particular regard to their clinical significance. A system presently used in the institute of the A. is taken into particular consideration. The most characteristic aspect of this system is the possibility of retaining via computer memory all the data obtained without having to reveal the information to the attending physician. This model allows the establishment and maintenance of a complete and constant exchange of information with the clinician who can utilize a large part of the data obtained from the antibiogram.


[Comparison of direct and standardized disk diffusion susceptibility testing of urine and other clinical specimens (author's transl)]. A comparison between direct and standardized disk diffusion tests was made on a total of 116 urine specimens containing greater than or equal to 10(5) organism/ml and on a total of 229 clinical specimens others than urine. The number of major discrepancies per organism tested in pure culture was 31 (39.7%) for urine and 102 (59.6%) for other specimens. Although this procedure may be of value in selected cases with pure cultures of organism, its use on a routine basis is not recommended.


[Quality control on antibiotic sensitivity tests: preliminary trials (author's transl)]. A quality control study in clinical microbiology was instituted by A.M.O.I. (Associazione Microbiologi Ospedalieri Italiani) since 1974. Preliminary results are reported on sensitivity tests quality control made by a group of laboratories in various parts of Italy. Our data show the great variety of methods used for antibiotic sensitivity disk determination and therefore the opportunity to standardize this procedure.


[Variations of antimicrobical resistance of bacteria isolated in specimens of the respiratory tract (author's transl)]. Percentages of antimicrobical resistance of potentially pathogenic bacterial species with more frequent isolation, in the years 1973-1976, in specimens of the respiratory tract show some statistically significant variations. From the study of these variations of resistance in the years examined it follows that too near periods should not be compared as often has been noted from one year to the next a change of their direction. In a bacterial genus or in genera often considered akin for their antimicrobical susceptibility, differences that for some drugs resulted remarkable have been emphasised.


[Annual usage in a general hospital of antimicrobials and frequency of resistant bacterial strains (author's transl)]. The data concerning annual usage in a general hospital and the frequency of resistant bacterial strains, isolated from patients with urinary tract's infection from 1975 to 1977 were collected and statistically processed. It was noticed that the year by year variation of resistance were mainly confined to E. coli and P. mirabilis. Increasing resistance with time was found for E. coli with Co-trimoxazole, P. mirabilis with Cephaloridin and Gentamicin, Proteus indole-positive with Rifampicin. Reducing resistance with time was found for E. coli with Colistin and Rifampicin, and Klebsiella-Enterobacter with Rifampicin. Trende with usage were found for E. coli and Klebsiella-Enterobacter with Rifampicin (decreasing) and P. mirabilis with Cephalorin (increasing). Naturally, none of the above trends imply cause and effect.


[Environment microbiological control in a department with patients at great risk (author's transl)]. Microbic flora has been studied in the Centro di Rianimazione of the Ospedali Riuniti in Chieti to control validity of the antibacterial systems and to verify efficacy of the filter systems that allow the admission into the isolation boxes, stopping great bacterial exogenous increases. These inspection have been executed by suction system Batteriological Air Pollution Detector.


[Myelopathic patterns of calcification of the posterior longitudinal ligament]. Three patients with calcification of the posterior longitudinal ligament with myelopathy are reported and discussed. This condition which is frequent in Japan is rarely described in the western population. Such calcification is not only a radiographic finding but is a progressing phenomenon which may extend to compressive lesions of the spinal cord. All patients with calcification of the posterior longitudinal ligament should be fully studied neurologically and followed up.


[Steinert's myotonic dystrophy and Thomsen's congenital myotonia. Observation of a family (author's transl)]. The nosographic relationship between Thomsen's and Steinert's disease is still uncertain. There is not agreement in the literature whether these are two different diseases or just different stages in the evolution of a single one. Four members of a family in two generations have been studied: two have a typical Steinert's, one a Thomsen's disease and one a clinical pattern that cannot be clearly considered neither of the first nor of the second type. In this patient a generalized muscular hypertrophy was followed, at the age of 54, by a generalized impairment of the muscular trophism and evolved into a severe wasting. This may be interpreted as an evolution of Thomsen's into a Steinert's disease. Furthermore, the presence in the same family of cases of both Thomsen's and Steinert's disease supports the hypothesis of a single disease. The present study suggests that Thomsen's and Steinert's diseases could be two clinical varieties of a single disease in different stages of development. This conclusion is supported by the similarity in the electromyographic patterns and in the histological picture from muscle biopsy of all patients examined.


[Study of memory in cerebral damaged patients related to the side of lesion (author's transl]. Twenty-four subjects with cerebral lesions, 21 of vascular and 3 of neoplastic origin, have been tested by the Authors with a battery of tests for memory evaluation. They comprehended short term, middle term and long term memory tests. For the last ones, the subjects was requested to recall remote events presented under visual, verbal and auditory modality. For each test, results comparison between left and right hemispheric cerebral damaged patients was performed. The diagnosis of the hemispherical localisation, on the basis of clinical data established, have been confirmed by instrumental exams (EEG, CAT, Angiography). A clear difference in the results between the two groups of patients does not appear except in specific tests related to memory selective types, in which the sensitive modality of tests administration seems to be more closely in relation with the damaged hemispherical functions. Ribot's law on the longer life of old memories has not been confirmed by the long term memory tests in cerebral damaged patients.


[Genetics of endogenous psychoses].

[Genetics of endogenous psychoses]. As the endogeneous psychoses do not show a Mendelian mode of inheritance, empirical risk figures have to be calculated. They are heterogeneous and nurture as well as nature have a share in the manifestation of illness. The genetic basis of the schizophrenias is demonstrated by twin and adoption studies. The concordance rate in monozygotic twins is four times the rate in dizygotic twins. Schizophrenia is to be found in the biological families of schizophrenic adoptees but not in the adoptive families. However, despite their genetic identity, monozygotic twins do not show 100% concordance but 60% only. Nongenetic factors must be considered. Obviously they are nonspecific and vary between individuals. The same principles apply to the affective psychoses. At present research is most interested in the problem of heterogeneity. Do pure depressive and manic-depressive disease form one genetic entity, or two different ones, or have they in common part of their genetic basis? Some remarks on genetic counselling are made.


[Importance of trigeminal artery persistance in the pathogenesis of cerebrovascular disturbances (author's transl)]. The persistence of the primitive trigeminal artery was detected in a male who had complained of a paresthetic attack in the tongue and in the right part of the body, followed by long-lasting dizziness. The vascular changes connected with this anomaly were similar, in our case, to those reported in the literature. They show that the persistence of carotido-basilar anastomosis may be combined with a defective development in both circulatory systems. The subjective and objective symptomatology reported, in such cases, appears under multiple aspects, as either the carotid circulation or the vertebro-basilar circulation may be involved. In our case, the symptomatology started when the patient was 57 years old, i.e. during the 6th decade of his life, exactly like the other cases reported in literature.


[Changes in CSF dynamics and performance tests after head injuries (author's transl)]. In a large series of head-injured patients (132 cases), we have selected 30 patients (mean age 43 years) with only primary school education: they have been investigated with isotope cisternography and psycodiagnostic tests. 19 underwent neurosurgical procedures (6 extradural haematomas, 8 subdural haematomas, 5 cerebral lacerations). These investigations have been carried at least six months after the head injury. We have used for isotopic cisternography RISA and In111-DTPA. Raven's Progressive Coloured Matrices and Immediate Memory Tests were performed. Cisternographic pictures were classified as 1) normal, 2) with asymmetrical diffusion, 3) with ventricular reflux and were correlated with the neuropsychological data. We have found ventricular reflux in 10 patients (5 underwent surgical procedures), asimmetrical diffusion in 15 patients (11 operated); in 5 cases cisternographic pictures were normal. Neuropsychological tests give quantitative data about progressive mental deterioration, in full agreement with cisternographic results.


[Classification of endogenous psychoses from a genetic viewpoint]. The family-heredity findings serving as criteria for the classification of functional psychoses are discussed, presenting recent data. The global morbidity risk of the resp. psychosis showing secondary cases similar (homotypical) to the index case and no increased incidence of cases of the other type may be interpreted by the theory of two separated genetically transmitted diseases (schizophrenias and affective disorders). The classical schizophrenic subtypes differ in their global schizophrenia morbidity risk and show a tendency toward homotypical secondary cases. Monopolar and bipolar affective disorders were found to be very close together concerning family-genetic data-Schizo-affective psychotics were found to have among their relatives the highest incidence of all types of functional psychoses at all, a high rate of schizophrenics (esp. catatonic type) and affective psychotics and no homotypical secondary cases.


[Catamnesis of prospective conscientious objectors in the years 1971-1973]. In 1975, Gloor and one of us checked the prospective objectants (i.e. objectants to military service) of the years 1971 to 1973. The written paper is a katamnestic study of these cases (N = 127). 35 got a dispensation for psychiatric reasons. 7 of them, however, did serve in the military service, 6 were sentenced for refusal of serving, and 21 proved unfit for military service. Three fourths of the men fit for military service were also sentenced for refusal, the others are serving in the military service.


[Further studies of prospective conscientious objectors in the years 1974-1976]. This present study is concerned with the prospective objectants to military service in the years 74 to 76. Objectants are men liable for service who, at the enlistment, declare to object any form of serving in the military service. 40% of the 178 objectants were unfit for serving for psychiatric reasons. The main causes being neurotic disturbances and infantilism. 91 objectants belong to the church of Jehovah's witnesses. In objectants, indeed, the objecting itself is a symptom of the psychic disorder. Since 1971, the number of prospective objectants did not rise with statistic significance, the contrary being true for the real objectants (i.e. who do not serve in the military service). The portion of prospective objectants in all men enlisting to military service was never greater than 1.5%.


[Variations in the urinary level of MHPG in depressive syndromes]. MPHG urinary changes were investigated in a group of patients affected by different forms of depressive illness. No significant difference was noticed depending on age, diagnosis, number and duration of episodes. Considering the group as a whole, a significant increase of MHPG urinary levels was noted after the recovery, although the patients received different drugs (Tricyclic + phenothiazine, Trazodone, IMAO). Specifically, the patients treated with IMAO and Trazodone, either recovered or ameliorated, showed a remarkable increase of MHPG urinary levels, whereas a decrease was noticed in the group who was administered tricyclic antidepressants.


[The connection between videoanalytic regular measurements of non-verbal behavior and self-assessed mood]. 13 manic-depressive patients were examined during a symptom-free interval while under treatment with lithium, and again after a 6-week placebo period. The results are based on a behavioral analysis of video-taped interviews as well as a self-rating of mood with a multidimensional questionnaire (Hecheltjen & Mertesdorf, MSF). This questionnaire was presented on the day of the interviews. The following parameters were examined: 1. Duration of speech activity, 2. Frequency of hand movements accompanying speech, 3. Frequency of discrete body touchings. In order to clarify the interdependency of these behavioral parameters and to obtain an external validation against mood measures we investigated how far these values change when comparing the two examinations. Significant relationships were found between: a) the relative duration of speech activity and the relative frequency of hand movements accompanying speech, b) these two parameters and the mood dimensions "social affection" and "relaxation", whereas the 5% level and barely missed for "activity" and "good mood". A tendency was noted towards a negative relationship with the dimension "anxiety". No connection could be established for the dimensions "fatigue", "depression", "boredom", "anger", "lightheartedness" and "nervousness". The category of discrete body touchings did not show a relation with either of the other behavioral parameters or with the mood dimensions. Finally, we might point out the low sensitivity of the conventional scales for the course evaluation of depression, and the advantage of the behavioral procedure which is sensitive even in the subclinical range. Moreover, the latter approach has a theoretical impact on the fundamental question of the physiological basis of manic-depressive illness.


Heparin: biochemistry, therapy, and laboratory monitoring. Heparin has been used extensively in the treatment of venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolus and more recently as a prophylactic measure in high-risk patient populations. The chemistry and biologic, pharmacologic, and physiologic actions of heparin are discussed, with some emphasis on the role of antithrombin III. The various modes of heparin administration, dosage regimens, requirements, and indications for therapy are reviewed. Full-dose and minidose heparin therapy are discussed in detail. The advantages and disadvantages of the various laboratory tests used to monitor heparin therapy are covered, along with standardization of heparin preparations. Finally, complications associated with heparin therapy are pointed out.


Guidelines for therapeutic monitoring of tricyclic antidepressant plasma levels. A brief review of the literature surrounding the relationship between plasma levels of tricyclic antidepressants currently available in the United States and clinical efficacy is presented. While therapeutic ranges for plasma levels of some tricyclic antidepressants are reasonably well established, the relationships between plasma levels of others and clinical efficacy require further clarification. Conditions under which plasma level measurements are clinically useful and factors that alter steady-state plasma levels are discussed.


An improved gas-liquid chromatographic procedure for the determination of amitriptyline and nortriptyline levels in plasma using nitrogen-sensitive detectors. An improved gas-liquid chromatographic procedure for the plasma level determination of amitriptyline and nortriptyline using nitrogen-sensitive detectors is described. Derivatization of the secondary amines using trifluoroacetic anhydride greatly improves the response and reproducibility of the assay. Plasma samples containing as little as 5 ng/ml of amitriptyline and nortriptyline can be assayed precisely and reproducibly, using protriptyline as internal reference standard.