Effect of pelleted feed on the incidence of gizzard erosion and black vomit in broilers. Mash and pellet broiler feeds were compared for effectiveness. During an 8-week study, pelleted diets were associated with significantly higher mortality and poorer growth, accompanied by black vomit, gizzard erosion, and condemnations due to septicemia.


A microtiter agglutination test for anti-Pasteurella multocida antibodies in turkeys. A microtiter agglutination test (MTA) was developed for assaying anti-Pasteurella multocida antibodies in turkeys vaccinated with live avirulent Clemson University (CU) strain. Safranine-O was incorporated with the decapsulated P. multocida antigen and greaterly enhanced the visibility of the sedimented free antigen, which formed a compact red button on the bottom of the well. The advantages of the MTA test over the tube agglutination test were that: 1) less antigen and serum were required; 2) delineation of the end point was improved by staining the antigen with safranine-O; and 3) less labor was required.


Viral encephalomyelitis of pigeons: pathology and virus isolation. A previously unrecorded nervous disease in pigeons was investigated. The disease, characterized by paresis, paralysis of the extremities, head-shaking, and torticollis, is contagious and spreads slowly. The mortality rate of affected pigeons was very high. The disease appeared to spread among pigeon flocks in spring and summer. The predominant gross change in most cases examined was congestion of the visceral organs. Some cases had grayish spots on the pancreas and kidneys. The histologic changes are characterized by neuronal and myelin degeneration with mononuclear cell infiltration and perivascular cuffing. Degeneration of the parenchyma and marked congestion are prominent in the visceral organs. The causal agent, found to be a virus, produced pock lesions on chorioallantoic membranes of developing chick embryos and failed to aagglutinate chicken RBCs. Antisera against Newcastle disease virus and avian encephalomyelitis virus did not neutralize the isolated virus. The virus produced typical signs in experimentally inoculated pigeons.


Effects of 2-chloro-4-acetotoluidine (CAT) toxicity on biochemical and morphological alterations in quail. Morphological changes in response to 2-chloro-4-acetotoluidine (CAT) toxicity in the quail appeared in the form of progressive necrosis of the kidney, particularly the proximal tubular epithelial cells. Changes at 32 hr after the CAT administration included vacuolar degeneration, dilatation of distal tubules containing hyaline and granular casts, overt necrosis, and deposition of urate casts in collecting tubules. There were no striking histopathological changes in the liver at 24 hr. However, small focal necrotic lesions were seen 32 hr after the CAT administration. A 40% protection against the toxicity of CAT at the lower dose was seen in quail pretreated with phenobarbital. The protection offered by phenobarbital pretreatment was attributed to a quantitative shunting of CAT and/or its reactive metabolite along the microsomal-mediated metabolic pathway of the kidney responsible for their inactivation. Administration of reduced glutathione (GSH) to quail treated with CAT offered little protection against the toxicity. The quail treated with a toxic dose of CAT had an increased level of thiobarbituric acid (TBA) reacting products in the liver, with a concomitant decrease in GSH content. This suggests that lipid peroxidation may be involved in CAT-induced hepatic damage of quail. It was hypothesized that the depletion of protective GSH stores coincident with gradual shutdown of the protective peroxidase system of the kidney may occur in a more advanced stage of CAT toxicity in quail. This would then result in a severe disturbance in renal excretion of uric acid and in frank necrosis of renal tubules.


Scanning electron microscopy of damage to the cecal mucosa of turkeys infected with Eimeria adenoides. White Wrolstad turkeys were each inoculated with 100,000 Eimeria adenoides oocysts and killed on days 4-14 postinoculation. Tissue samples, obtained from 4 areas of the ceca comparable to areas examined in chickens infected with E. tenella in previous studies, were processed by a modification of the osmium-thiocarbo-hydrazide-osmium technique and examined with a scanning electron microscope. The pathologic situation found in turkeys was slightly different from that in the ceca of chickens infected with E. tenella. The mucosal lesions are most severe at the proximal end of an infected cecum. Surface disruption was far less severe than with cecal coccidiosis in chickens of the same age exposed to an equal number of infective oocysts. Rupture of the epithelial cell often caused the mucosal surface to present a honeycomb appearance. Some specific stages of the life cycle were identified, including schizonts and oocysts.


Pathogenicity of a Marek's disease virus for chickens vaccinated with graded doses of herpesvirus of turkeys. Six different groups of one-day-old chickens were vaccinated with herpesvirus of turkeys (HVT) vaccine at doses of 0, 4, 16, 64, 256 and 1,024 plaqueforming units. At 9 days of age they were challenged with an acute strain of Marek's disease herpesvirus (MDHV). Gross and microscopic lesions in nerves and gonads were investigated and combined for quantitative expression of MDHV pathogenicity. Including the microscopic lesions improved the accuracy of the HVT doses/MDHV response. The qualitative aspects of late microscopic lesions could be related to acquired resistance or to persistence of susceptibility in vaccinated chickens.


Salmonella isolation from litter as an indicator of flock infection and carcass contamination. The Salmonella status of 15 different farm flocks was assessed at the farm level and at processing plants. Bacteriological examination for Salmonella was made of litter, dust, feed, 5-day-old culled chicks, and chicken carcasses. Fresh straw litter was found contaminated with Salmonella and may be a source of flock infection. Culture of floor litter can be a practical method for detecting flock infection, and culture of 6-weeks litter in particular would  be a good indicator of carcass contamination at processing plants. Properly pelleted feed did not contain Salmonella. Processing did not render carcasses free of Salmonella.


Eimeria meleagrimitis in young turkeys: effects on weight, blood, and organ parameters. Weight and biochemical studies were conducted on 2-week-old turkeys inoculated with 10(4) to 5 X 10(5) sporulated Eimeria meleagrimitis oocysts, on their pair-fed controls (equivalent food intake), and on control turkeys fed ad libitum. Food consumption and rate of weight gain of all inoculated and pair-fed turkeys fell sharply on day 4 postinoculation (PI), but deaths occurred primarily among the birds inoculated with 5 X 10(5) oocysts. Heart weights (expressed as percentage of body weight) were reduced in inoculated and pair-fed birds, but liver, spleen, and pancreas weights did not differ from those of either control group. Feed conversion (feed consumed/gain) was less efficient for inoculated turkeys than for ad libitum or pair-fed controls and was least efficient for turkeys inoculated with 5 X 10(5) oocysts. Plasma glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (GOT, aspartate and aminotransferase) activity increased, and carotenoid and total protein levels decreased in inoculated turkeys but not in the pair-fed turkeys, indicating that these changes were caused by the infection and not by reduced food intake. Plasma glutamic pyruvic transaminase (GPT, alanine aminotransferase) remained stable in all groups. Plasma glucose levels of inoculated birds did not differ from those of the control groups, but liver glucose and glycogen levels decreased in both the inoculated and pair-fed birds.


Attenutated live fowl cholera vaccine. III. Laboratory and field vaccination trials in turkeys and chickens. Administered via the drinking water, M-3-G, an attenuated strain of Pasteurella multocida of serotype 1, was found to immunize turkeys and chickens against fowl cholera. Immunity was tested by challenging birds intramuscularly, by palatine cleft swab, or orally after 3 vaccinations. No reactions to vaccination were noted in 390 turkeys in 12 laboratory trials, nor in 20,245 vaccinated in field trials. Chickens showed no vaccination reactions, and immunity was elicited by challenge in a laboratory trial and in face of natural outbreaks in the field, where 11,600 chickens were vaccinated. No vaccination reactions were noted, although most birds involved in the trials were carrying Mycoplasma spp. Immunity was found to last about 10 weeks after the last vaccination. The immunizing properties of M-3-G are compared with the CU strain.


Further studies on competitive exclusion for controlling Salmonellae in chickens. A native intestinal microflora of chickens which is protective against salmonella readily transferred to penmates and apparently to birds in adjacent pens. The microflora not only minimized infection resulting from exposure following colonization of the gut with microflora, but significantly abbreviated the period of infection when introduced after a salmonella infection was established in chicks. A microflora with undiminished protective activity, sensitive to only a few commonly used antibacterials, was established in a SPF-Cofal/Marek-negative population. Intestinal microflora from mourning doves was at least partially effective in protecting chicks against a naladixic-acid-resistant strain of Salmonella infantis. In limited tests with 2 of 3 sources of protective microflora, the growth rate of chicks in the absence of salmonellae was significantly improved. A hypothesis involving specificity of attachment between the glycocalyces of the protective microflora and of the intestinal mucosa is offered as the likely mechanism of protection.


Attenuated live fowl cholera vaccine. I. Development of vaccine strain M3G of Pasteurella multocida. A live cholera vaccine was developed from a virulent avian septicemia strain of Pasteurella multocida serotype 1. The virulent parental strain was mutagenized with N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitroso guanidine. Mutants were selected that had either smaller colonies at 37 C or temperature sensitivity for growth at 41 C. Four small-colony mutants and 2 temperature-sensitive mutants were studied. All the mutants were avirulent for turkeys. Sixteen days after turkeys were vaccinated with each mutant, both the vaccinates and unvaccinated controls were challenge-exposed to virulent P. multocida of the homologous serotype and the heterologous serotype 3. Two of the small-colony mutant strains protected against both homologous and heterologous challenge. Suggested for a live cholera vaccine is P. multocida M3G, a small-colony-forming mutant, innocuous for both mice and turkeys and stable against reversion.


[Cultures of fetal bone sites as a model for studying drug influence on mesenchymal metabolic processes (author's transl)]. Cultures of murine embryonic bone explants were studied regarding their use as experimental model for the investigation of drug effects on metabolic processes of mesenchymal tissues. Embryonic tibiae excised on the 17th day of gestation and grown in a liquid medium for 6 days as organ cultures appeared particularly suited for this purpose. The planimetrically estimated size of the explants increased during this period in the mean by 40.7% and their DNA-content rose by 67.5%. After 6 days of incubation in vitro the mean DNA-content was about 2.5 micrograms/mg wet weight and the mean uronic acid content 10 micrograms/mg wet weight. Using dexamethasone, oxyphenbutazone, acetyl salicylic acid, sodium aurothiomalate and sodium pentosanpolysulfate as test drugs clear differences in the action on the determined parameters (explant growth, DNA- and uronic acid-content, glycosaminoglycan secretion of the explants) could be demonstrated.


The 1978 epornitic of avian cholera on the Chesapeake Bay. In an outbreak of avian cholera (Pasteurella multocida infection) in wildfowl on and around Chesapeake Bay during March and April of 1978, 31,295 carcasses were retrieved from Maryland and Virginia. Although other birds were involved, mortality was heavy among diving ducks (90% of the total), especially oldsquaw ducks (80% of the total). This is the second outbreak involving primarily diving ducks to be reported from this area of the Atlantic Flyway. It mimics in many respects the epornitic that occurred in 1970. Although mortality was heavy then, this occurrence appears much more severe and could be the largest recorded outbreak of avian cholera in North America.


[Effects of 6-methyluracil and exogenous nucleic acids on DNA-synthesis of bone-marrow cells of rats following X-irradiation and tretamine or cyclophosphamide treatment (author's transl)]. The in vitro incorporation of 14C-thymidine into DNA of bone-marrow cells as well as DNA content of spleen and thymus of male Wistar rats were increased significantly by 6-methyluracil (within an N-methyl-D-glucosamine-6-methyluracil complex) and/or heterologous, low-molecular nucleic acids, when given therapeutically at doses of 100--250 mg/kg b.w. following i.v. injection of tretamine. Maximum effects were reached as early as two days after the onset of experiment. When tretamine was replaced by X-irradiation or cyclophosphamide, the influence of the 6-methyluracil complex and nucleic acids was less significant. Whereas normal bone-marrow cells and cells damaged in vitro by X-irradiation, tretamine and/or inhibitors of protein synthesis could not be influenced by the 6-methyluracil complex, incorporation of 14C-L-phenylalanine into proteins of bone-marrow cells was enhanced by exogenous DNA or RNA (10--100 micrograms/ml). The present investigations underline the previously drawn conclusions that certain biological alkylating agents, nucleic acids and pyrimidines may interfere to some extent through the reticuloendothelial system.


Experimental transmission of Chlamydia psittaci to turkeys from wild birds. Wild birds were inoculated with Chlamydia psittaci to determine species that could be potential hosts and vectors in transmitting the agent to domestic turkeys. Infection occurred in turkeys exposed to starlings (Sturnus vulgaris), common grackles (Quiscalus quiscula), brown-headed cowbirds (Molothrus ater), and Inca doves (Cardafella inca). Mourning doves (Zenaidura macroura) shed the agent sparingly, but turkeys exposed to them did not become infected, These findings and knowledge of the habits of these various species are discussed. It was concluded that the Inca dove should be considered a potential source of turkey chlamydiosis in Texas. The species studied and other species not studied should be included in serologic surveys and surveillance studies attempting isolation of chlamydiae.


Nitrogen bridgehead compounds. Part 7: Synthesis of anti-atherosclerotic pyrido[1,2-a]pyrimidines. The synthesis of 9-substituted-pyrido[1,2-a]pyrimidines are described. The new compounds exhibit antiatherosclerotic effects. The 3-ethoxycarbonyl-6-methyl-4-oxo-6,7,8,9-tetrahydro-4H-pyrido[1,2-a]pyrimidine-9-acetic acid (Chinoin-123) has the most favourable effects.


[Bicyclic 3-hydrazinopyridazines with antihypertensive action (author's transl)]. The synthesis of a series of 3-hydrazinopyridazines is described. Several of these compounds exhibited high antihypertensive activity in the rat. The most potent member of the series is l-benzoyl-3-hydrazino-5,6,7,8-tetrahydropyrido-[4,3-c]pyridazine, compound 28 [1], which is now under clinical trial [2] under the clinical code number BQ 22-708 (endrazaline, Miretilan). It was possible to discover certain structure-activity relationships.


Effect of incubation temperature or maternal antibody on virus growth and mortality of embryonated chicken eggs inoculated with the B1 strain of lentogenic Newcastle disease virus. The effects of incubation temperature on virus growth and mortality patterns were studied in antibody-free chicken eggs inoculated with the B1 strain of Newcastle disease virus. Embryo mortality patterns did not differ much between 37, 39, and 41 C of incubation, although virus growth curves were higher at 39 C and 41 C than at 37 C. Below 35 C, embryo mortality was delayed, although from 48 hours after incubation the virus growth curves were similar to those at 37 C. In eggs with and without maternal antibody, virus titers were maximum 48 hours after incubation, although slightly higher in antibody-free eggs than in eggs with antibody whether the eggs were alive or dead. Eggs with maternal antibody had delayed mortality patterns.


Modulation of cross-protection factor(s) of avian Pasteurella multocida. Cross-protection factor(s) (CPF) of Pasteurella multocida were maintained in vitro through at least 9 serial passages. Different growth media and temperatures enhanced or repressed the ability of P. multocida to produce CPF. Certain amino acids were innoculous to expression of CPF. B-vitamins enhanced CPF, whereas certain inorganic salts repressed CPF. The plasma of normal tuekeys contained a compound or compounds that were responsible for expression and maintenance of CPF.


Mode of hypocholesterolemic action of S-methylmethionine (vitamin U) in mice. S-Methylmethionine (vitamin U) markedly increased the fecal excretion of both 14C-bile acids and 14C-neutral sterols in 14C-cholesterol injected mice, and did not inhibit both intestinal absorption of 14C-cholesterol and biosynthesis of 14C-cholesterol from 14C-acetate in mice.


Effects of probenecid on blood levels and tissue distribution of ampicillin in fowls and turkeys. The effect of probenecid (a benzoic acid derivative which competitively inhibits active secretion of weak organic acids by the renal tubules) on serum ampicillin concentrations and the distribution of ampicillin in body organs was examined in fowls and turkeys. An aqueous solution of probenecid coadministered intramuscularly, at 200 mg/kg, with sodium ampicillin solution, at 25 mg/kg, resulted in peak serum antibiotic concentration of 16.5 microgram/ml. A similar dose of ampicillin administered alone produced a peak level of 4.6 microgram/ml. Subcutaneous injections of sodium ampicillin at 25 mg/kg with aqueous probenecid at 200 mg/kg resulted in a peak serum ampicillin concentration (12.8 microgram/ml) three times as high as the peak produced by the subcutaneous injection of ampicillin alone at 50 mg/kg (4.2 microgram/ml). The elimination half-life (t 1/2) of the drug (30 min) was increased to 1.5 hr by coadministration of probenecid parenterally, and serum antibiotic levels greater than or equal to 5.0 microgram/ml were maintained during 3 hours. Ampicillin seemed to be poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract of fowls. A single oral bolus administration of ampicillin trihydrate aqueous suspension produced a peak of 0.6 microgram/ml, and coadministrations of aqueous probenecid suspension at 20, 50, and 100 mg/kg respectively produced peaks of 0.9, 1.25, and 1.5 microgram/ml. During 4 and 5 days, when ampicillin was added to the drinking water at rates of 200 and 50 mg/liter, serum ampicillin levels were rather low (peaks of 0.20 and 0.12 microgram/ml, respectively), and although these levels were increased by 50% with the coadministration of probenecid they were considered to be of limited clinical value for treating systemic bacterial infections. Probenecid did not change the distribution of ampicillin in the organs.


Enzymatic hydrolysis of pentaerythritoltetranicotinate and meso-inositolhexanicotinate in blood and tissues. The esters between nicotinic acid and pentaerythritol (niceritrol, Perycit) or meso-inositol (MIHN) were hydrolyzed by enzymes present in plasma and tissues of man, rat and dog. Human plasma and rat tissues hydrolyzed niceritrol at a higher rate than did MIHN. The reversed relation was found with dog tissue. The ability of niceritrol and MIHN to raise the level of free nicotinic acid of plasma was studied on man, dog and rat and related with their hydrolysis in vitro and the different solubility of the esters. There was a relationship between these properties of the esters and their ability to increase the plasma level of nicotinic acid.


Effects on the immune response of rats rendered leukopenic with 4-(p-chlorophenylthio)-butanol (W-2719) and its major metabolites. 4-(p-Chlorophenylthio)butanol (W-2719) and its major acid metabolites W-2718 (butyrate) and W-2683 (acetate), when administered as drug-diet admixtures to male and female Sprague-Dawley rats for five weeks (approximately 200.0 mg/kg/day), induced a marked leukopenia. Effect on the primary and secondary immune responses to bovine serum albumin (BSA) immunization was that of suppression as evidenced by strikingly reduced passive hemagglutination serum titers.


[An assessement of the in vivo sister chromatid exchange (SCE)-test using various cytostatics (author's transl)]. Five cytostatics of different chemical structure and pharmacological action were used on Chinese hamsters (bone marrow cells) to test the efficiency and validity of the in vivo sister chromatid exchange (SCE)-Test as an indicator of mutagenicity. These model substances, all of which had previously shown a mutagenic effect in one or the other of the various in vivo test systems, gave positive results in this test, too, with the exception of bleomycin. On the basis of the lowest effective dose and the isoeffective doses of the test substances the SCE-test proved to be the most sensitive in vivo mutagenicity test.


Three substrains with different hemagglutination patterns isolated from a Japanese lentogenic strain of Newcastle disease virus. Three substrains were cloned from chick kidney cell monolayers infected with the Ishii strain of lentogenic Newcastle disease virus isolated in Japan. These substrains, which differed in plaque morphology, were distinguished as having no +24R+ and -24R- patterns in the hemagglutination (HA)-elution test.


Mechanism of protection with 2,4-monofurfurylidene-tetra-O-methyl sorbitol (MSF) against Amanita phalloides toxicity in mice. 2,4-Monofurfurylidene-tetra-O-methyl sorbitol (MSF), which prevents hepatotoxic effects of amanita phalloides powder (APP) in mice and of CCl4 in rats, increases liver microsomal drug-metabolizing activity in mice, as shown by a) the prolongation of pentobarbital or zoxazolamine-induced loss of the righting reflex and b) the decrease of phenylbutazone plasma levels. Further phenobarbital sodium, administered according the schedule usual for liver microsomal drug-metabolizing enzyme induction, also protects mice from APP death. On the other hand 2-diethylamino-ethyl-2,2-diphenylvalerate HCl (SKF 525-A) aggravates APP-toxicity and reduces APP protection afforded by both MSF and phenobarbital. Since it has been widely recognized that liver microsomal drug-metabolizing enzymes toxify phalloidin as well as CCl4, it is suggested that 1. mice APP toxicity depends on an unknown factor similar to but not identical to phalloidin, 2. MSF-antitoxic effect is produced by a mechanism unrelated to stimulation of liver microsomal drug-metabolizing system.


Animal model for pharmacokinetic approach to individualized heparin dosage regimen for i.v. infusion by constant rate to achieve and maintain a desired clotting time. A pharmacokinetic approach was developed for the determination of an individualized heparin dosage regimen for an i.v. constant infusion rate. The rabbit was chosen as the animal model. From a test dose given i.v. the individual rate constant for loss of anticoagulant response was determined by measuring the whole blood activated clotting time. After selection of a desired clotting time to be maintained, the loading dose and infusion rate or heparin concentration at set infusion rate were calculated. In the three infusion studies used to illustrate this method, less than a 4% average deviation resulted between the actual clotting times and the desired clotting times.


STRIPACT, an interactive curve fit programme for pharmacokinetic analyses. An interactive computer programme was written for a small computer to perform curve fitting in pharmacokinetic analyses. The programme can handle data with or without an absorption phase. It considers, however, the absorption process to be of first-order kinetics. If necessary a lag time is incorporated in the absorption phase. Results are compared with programmes running only on large computer systems.


[The diffusion of cefazedone into heart muscle, prostatic and skin tissue and into bile]. The diffusion of cefazedone into human heart muscle, prostatic and skin tissue as well as bile fluid was investigated. 40 to 80 min after a single injection of 100 mg/kg (n = 14) the concentration in the heart muscle was between 10.8 and 85.5 micrograms/g. The respective serum levels were between 117 and 168.1 micrograms/ml. The single i.v. injection of 2 g cefazedone resulted within 30 min in a mean concentration of 34.63 +/- 9.75 micrograms/g in the prostatic tissue and in serum levels of 139.07 +/- 39.68 micrograms/ml (n = 14). In 5 patients additional values were estimated after 60 min. At this time the antibiotic concentrations were 24.92 +/- 1.31 micrograms/g in the tissue, with simultaneous serum levels of 87.25 +/- 20.86 micrograms/ml. 1 h after a 500 mg i.v. dose, concentrations in bile taken from T-tube were between 71.4 and 210 micrograms/ml. After 2 h there was a mean level of 83.2 micrograms/ml which was significantly above the serum concentrations at the same time (1 h = 35.25 +/- 7.17; and 2 h = 20.5 micrograms/ml). The bile concentration of 2 patients taken 5 h after cefazedone injection was 4.95 and 11.6 micrograms/ml. The cefazedone concentrations in the skin were estimated mainly in biopsies from granulating leg ulcer tissues. The mean concentrations in 4 cases were 120 +/- 28.7 micrograms/g 3 h after i.v. injection of 2 g cefazedone. The simultaneous serum levels were between 14.85 and 68.2 micrograms/ml, in one patient with extreme venous stasis the tissue concentration was only 8.1 micrograms/g. Cefazedone should be regarded as an antibiotic with excellent penetration into tissues.


Studies on pharmacokinetics of rifampicin in the body of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis. Two-stage pharmacokinetic studies were conducted in patients suffering from pulmonary tuberculosis treated with rifampicin (RMP). At the first stage of the studies in 100 patients blood and urinary drug levels were determined. The results showed that RMP applied orally penetrates rapidly into the circulation and reaches high serum concentrations varying largely in individual patients. At the second stage of the studies in further 30 patients blood, urinary and sputum RMP levels were simultaneously determined and the biological half-life of RMP and its distribution were checked. It was found that the biological half-life of RMP was 3.79 h, the distribution at the initial stage 38%, and after a few weeks of treatment 52.1%. The authors are of the opinion that the increased value of this parameter has a direct effect on the fall in serum RMP concentration at the later period of treatment. The amount of active RMP excreted by the kidneys of patients with lung tuberculosis averages 33.5%.


Separation of polypeptide chains of ricin and the interaction of the A chain with Cibacron Blue F3GA. From ricin bound to the galactomannan guar gum in a column, the nonbinding toxic A chain could be eluted by reduction with 2-mercaptoethanol and later the B chain by lactose. The presence of a nucleotide-binding domain on the toxic chain A could be demonstrated from its interaction with the blue dye Cibacron Blue F3GA.


[Purification and characterization of protease inhibitors from urine during pregnancy (author's transl)]. Two forms of urinary trypsin inhibitor, A and B, were purified from the pooled urine from pregnant women using non-denaturing methods. The inhibitor B arose from the inhibitor A and was not present in native urine. Electrophoresis on polyacrylamide gel in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate indicated a new heterogeneity of the inhibitor B with molecular weights of 33 000 and 24 000; the molecular weight obtained for the inhibitor A was 50 000. Inhibitors A and B were acidic proteins with an isoelectric pH of about 2.6 for A and about 4.2 for B. Inhibitor A and inter-alpha-trypsin inhibitor formed a precipitate with an antiserum to purified inhibitor B. But neither inhibitor A nor inhibitor B formed a precipitate with anti whole human serum or anti-inter-alpha-trypsin inhibitor antiserum. Measurements of specific activity of inhibitor A were consistent with two active sites in the molecule.


Isolation and characterization of the cuticle from the free-living nematode Panagrellus silusiae. The cuticle (0.15 to 0.5 microns thick) of the microscopic free-living nematode Panagrellus silusiae was isolated intact by incubating worms with 1% sodium dodecyl sulfate at 37 degrees C overnight. After shearing and further treatment with detergent, electron microscopy revealed that the cuticular pieces were free of contaminating material and retained their characteristic in situ ultrastructure. From amino acid determinations, the cuticle is collagen-like with high levels of glycine (approximately equal to 31 residue %), proline (approximately equal to 20 residue %) and alanine (approximately equal to 21 residue %) although the hydroxyproline (2.6 residue %) content is low. Half-cystine (approximately equal to 1 residue %) is present in purified cuticles. Treatment with 8 M guanidine hydrochloride-2% beta-mercaptoethanol can solubilize more than 85% of the cuticular preparation. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of the solubilized cuticles from juvenile, adult and old dead worms revealed, at least, 18 discrete components. Estimated molecular weights ranged from about 26 000 (peak 1) to 250 000 (peak 18).


Isolation and properties of a lectin from sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia, Scop.). A glycoprotein capable of binding simple carbohydrates and causing hemagglutination has been isolated from seeds of the legume plant sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia, Scop. var Eski). The phytolectin was prepared by affinity chromatography of pH 7.0 sodium phosphate extracts on columns of Sepharose-4B containing covalently attached D-mannose. Molecular weight determinations showed the lectin to be a dimer consisting of 26 000 dalton, non-covalently associated monomers. Amino acid analyses indicated high amounts of aspartate, glutamate, threonine and serine which accounted for 41% of all amino acids. One residue of cysteine was present and methionine was totally absent. The lectin contained 2.6% (w/w) neutral carbohydrate and two residues of N-acetylglucosamine/monomer. Carbohydrate-binding specificity was directed toward D-mannose and D-glucose and their alpha-glycosidic derivatives. The purified protein agglutinated cat erythrocytes at 5 micrograms/ml. Antiserum to seed lectin showed a single common immunoprecipitation line in Ouchterlony double diffusion against both the seed and root antigen. Lectin isolated from sainfoin seedling roots showed molecular weight, amino acid and carbohydrate values similar to that of the seed lectin.


The glycosyl moiety of lectin from sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia, Scop.). A lectin isolated from the seeds of sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia, Scop. var Eski) has been shown to be a glycoprotein containing 2.6% (w/w) neutral carbohydrate and 1.6% (w/w) glucosamine (Hapner, K.D. and Robbins, J.E. (1979) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 580, 186--197) A homogeneous glycopeptide accounting for 70% of the original glycoprotein carbohydrate was isolated from pronase digests of the lectin by gel filtration chromatography. Gas-liquid chromatographic and amino acid analyses showed the glycosyl portion to contain glucosamine, mannose, xylose and fucose in molar ratio to glycopeptide of 1.8 : 1.8 : 0.7 : 0.9. The amino acid sequence was determined as H2N-Ser-Asn(glycosyl)-glu-Thr-COOH. The glycosyl moiety was attached to the peptide through N-glycosidic linkage between asparagine and glucosamine.


Partial amino acid sequence of glycophorin from porcine erythrocyte membranes. Glycophorin from porcine erythrocyte membranes was digested with trypsin and chymotrypsin. Some of the peptides were isolated by conventional techniques. The amino acid sequence was determined for two isolated peptides: a chymotryptic glycopeptide of 19 residues and a tryptic peptide of 36 residues which represented the carboxy terminal of the glycophorin.


Conformational stability of a human cryoglobulin. Studies on a single component human cryoimmunoglobulin (cryo-IgG) (gamma 1 : lambda, Gm 4) were undertaken to gain a better understanding of the conformational stability of macromolecular interfaces essential for self-association of cryo-IgG leading to the formation of visible gel mass. Changes in the gross and localized conformation of cryo-IgG and a monoclonal IgG (gamma 1 : lambda, Gm 4) isolated from a myeloma patient (Hy) (Hy IgG) (gamma 1 : lambda, Gm 4) in alkaline media were determined by analytical ultracentrifugation, fluorescence characteristics, tyrosine ionization and H+ titration. Ultracentrifugal studies revealed that major transition in gross conformation took place at pH 11.4 for cryo-IgG and pH 11.7 for Hy IgG, whereby the number of charges and tyrosine residues exposed to aqueous environment was 110 and 26 for cryo-IgG, and 111 and 48 for Hy IgG, respectively. Beyond this transition pH fragmentation of both the proteins occurred and cryo-IgG lost its capacity for gel formation. Self-association of cryo-IgG was observed upto pH 11.4 in decreasing order with increase in denaturation pH. Cryo-IgG renatured from exposure to higher alkaline pH upto pH 11.4, showed the capability for forming gel, in spite of the irreversible local conformational changes as established by direct and reverse fluorimetric titration and tyrosine ionization studies. Cryo-IgG could be maintained in the optically clear sol phase at pH 10.5, at which pH 12 out of 62 tyrosine residues became exposed to aqueous media. There are distinct differences in the accessibility of tyrosine residues of cryo-IgG and Hy IgG as reflected in their tyrosine ionization profiles.


[Heterogeneity of alpha-L-fucosidase from human kidney during affinity chromatography]. During affinity chromatography on N-(epsilon-aminocaproyl)-beta-L-fucopyranosylaminosepharose of the enzyme preparation of alpha-L-fucosidase from human kidney the elution profile of the enzyme revealed two components, which can be designated as alpha-L-fucosidases A and B. In the absence of sodium aside in the buffer mixtures used one of the components (fucosidase A) was retained by an affinity adsorbent, while the other one (fucosidase B) was adsorbed under the same conditions; the latter component was eluted with a solution containing the enzyme inhibitor--L-fucose. Data from the enzyme rechromatography suggest an equilibrium of the fucosidases A and B, which differ in their affinities for the affinity sorbent.


[Properties of satellite DNA from Brassica nigra]. The DNA components of B. nigra were preparatively separated by equilibrium ultracentrifugation in a CsCl density gradient, the buoyant density of the main component being 1,696 g . cm-3, that of the satellite component--1,704 g . cm-3. The properties of individual DNA fractions were investigated. Four major components could be observed on the differential melting curve of satellite DNA. Using the reassociation kinetics method it was shown that 30% of satellite DNA are presented as a fast reassociating component with a length of a repeated unit of approximately 2,5 . 10(3) nucleotide pairs. The calculated values of Tm and buoyant density suggest that the m5C content in satellite DNA is lower than that in the main component. During equilibrium ultracentrifugation in the density gradients of actinomycin D--CsCl and Hg2+--Cs2SO4 the satellite DNA is split into 4 major components.


[Separation of plant photosystems by sievorptive chromatography]. The pigment-protein complexes enriched with photosystem I (PPC-1) and photosystem II (PPC-2) were obtained using sievorptive chromatography on DEAE-Sephadex. Both types of complexes contain chlorophyll a,  beta-carotene and minor quantities of chlorophyll b. Red absorption maxima for PPC-1 and PPC-2 are located at 676 and 673 nm, respectively. Using differential spectrophotometry, the degree of the reaction centre enrichment was established: PPC-1 has one P700 per 35 bulk chlorophyll a molecules, PPC-2 contains one P680 per 18 bulk chlorophyll a molecules. The yield of PPC-2 is 7-10 times lower than that of PPC-1 and equals to 0,3% of the chlorophyll content of the initial chloroplasts. The amount of P680 in PPC-1 preparations does not exceed 7% after a single chromatographic procedure; the amount of P700 in PPC-2 makes up to 2%. The method proposed is more advantageous with respect to higher reaction centre enrichment of PPC-1 and PPC-2 as compared to ion-exchange chromatography on DEAE-cellulose.


[Photo-dependent conversions of cytochrome f in bean chloroplasts and leaves treated with polyene antibiotics]. The photo-dependent absorption changes of cytochrome f in bean chloroplasts and native leaves treated with the polyene antibiotics surgumycin and filipin were studied. Upon incubation of the chloroplasts or leaves with the antibiotics the value of the photo-induced signal of cytochrome f decreased considerably; however, the kinetics of the cytochrome oxidation under the effect of the exciting light and dark reduction remained unchanged. An addition of plastocyanin to the suspension of the antibiotic-treated chloroplasts, which contained no artificial donors and acceptors, only slightly increased the absolute value of the photo-induced signal of cytochrome f. An addition of plastocyanin to the chloroplasts containing the dichlorophenolindophenol-ascorbate-methylviologen system, sharply changed the kinetics of the cytochrome f photoconversions. A simultaneous registration of the photo-induced signal of cytochrome f and the photochemical activity of photosystem I of the antibiotic-treated chloroplasts revealed differences in the degree of inhibition of the photosystem I activity and decrease of the absolute value of the cytochrome f signal. The data obtained are discussed in terms of possible alternative pathways of electron transfer in the part of the electron transporting chain under study.


[Mitochondrial ribosomes of the phytoflagellata Astasia longa]. The physico-chemical properties of ribosomes and rRNA isolated from the mitochondria of the phytoflagellata Astasia longa were studied. It was shown that the mitochondrial ribosomes of A. longa have the sedimentation coefficient of 81S (those of the cytoplasm-82S); upon a decrease of Mg2+ concentration in the medium they dissociate into subparticles with sedimentation coefficients of 60 and 45S. The relative protein content in the mitochondrial ribosomes of A. longa is equal to 42% (rho = 1,60 g/cm3), that of cytoplasmic ribosomes-49%. The molecular weights of mitochondrial rRNA are equal to 1,05 . 10(6) and 0,71 . 10(6) and differ from those for cytoplasmic rRNA (1,32 . 10(6) and 0,94 . 10(6)). It was shown that the GC-content in mitochondrial rRNA is equal to 32,0 mol. %, that in cytoplasmic rRNA-55,9 mol. %. Thus, the mitochondrial ribosomes of A. longa differ in some of their properties from both procaryotic and eucaryotic ribosomes and are probably related to a special type of mitochondrial ribosomes.


[Existence of glucocorticoid-specific receptors in the plasma membranes of rat liver]. It was found that isolated plasma membranes whose purity was assayed by determinations of marker enzyme activities, specifically bind dexamethasone. The association constant and the number of binding sites were found to be equal to (7,03 +/- 4,05) . 10(9) M-1 and (1,6 +/- 0,18) . 10(-14) mol/mg protein, respectively. It was assumed that lipoprotein components of plasma membranes are involved in this binding.


[Soluble high molecular weight derivatives of pancreatic trypsin inhibitor. Effect of electrostatic interaction of protein with the carrier on covalent binding and some physico-chemical properties of modified preparations of pancreatic inhibitor]. Modification of pancreatic trypsin inhibitor by carboxymethyl dextran with the aid of carboxyl groups of the carrier activated by water-soluble carbodiimide has been carried out. A special role of electrostatic interactions of protein with the carrier during inhibitor modification has been shown. This modification results in active preparations with high protein concentration on the carrier; their molecular weight is practically equal to that of previously used carrier. A comparison of the thermal stability of high molecular weight preparations of pancreatic inhibitor with respect to protein concentration on the carrier and the number of links between protein and carrier has been carried out.


[Some specific features of enzymatic dehydration of tetrahydro-1,4-benzdiazepine-2-one]. Differences in the dehydration rates of tetrahydro-1,4-benzdiazepine-2-one in the liver, kidney and adrenals of mice, rats and guinea pigs have been revealed. It has been found that the enzyme catalyzing the substrate conversion into its dihydroderivative is localized in the microsomal and soluble fractions of the organs tested and has a pH optimum of 9,0. The enzyme activity depends on the concentation of phosphate ions in the incubation medium.


[Ca2+-accumulating capacity of mitochondria, sarcolemma and sarcoplasmic reticulum of rat heart]. Using the isotope exchange technique including 45Ca, the Ca2+-binding and Ca2+-accumulating capacity of mitochondria, sarcolemma and sarcoplasmic reticulum of rat heart was studied. The ATP-independent binding of Ca2+ to isolated membrane fractions is by 1--2 orders of magnitude less than the ATP-dependent Ca2+-accumulating capacity of the fractions. The Ca2+-accumulating capacity of mitochondria is increased 6--8 fold after addition of physiological concentrations of succinate and Pi to the incubation medium. Under these conditions the ratio of Ca2+-accumulating capacity of mitochondria, sarcolemma and sarcoplasmic reticulum of the heart is 100:3,12:2,9. The initial rate of Ca2+-uptake by the sarcoplasmic reticulum is much higher in comparison with sarcolemma and mitochondria. A high Ca2+-accumulating capacity of heart mitochondria probably determines a long-term regulation of the concentration of "troponin-accessible" Ca2+ in the sarcoplasm, whereas the high initial rate of Ca2+ accumulation by the sarcoplasmic reticulum provides for a rapid decrease of Ca2+ concentration during rhythmic contractions of the heart.


[Intragenome distribution of 5-methyl cytosine and reassociation kinetics of cow blood lymphocyte DNA under normal conditions and in chronic lymphoid leukemia]. The DNA from cow blood lymphocytes is methylated in a varying degree: the maximal content of 5-methyl cytosine (2,3 mol%) is found in the "instantly" renaturating sequences (Cot lett than 10(-4)), a relatively large amount (1,4 mol%)--in moderately repeated sequences (Cot = 10(-4)--400) and the minimal amount (0,9 mol%) in the unique sequences (Cot greater than 400). In their reassociation kinetics, GC-content and other physico-chemical properties the blood lymphocyte DNA of the controls and of animals with chronic lymphoid leukemia appear to be similar. Consequently, the genome organization of leukemic animals does not change significantly; a considerable decrease of 5-methyl cytosine of lymphocyte DNA in lymphoid leukemia parallels the decrease of genome methylation in the leukemic cells. This decrease does not affect the unique sequences, but involves all types of repeated sequences (moderately and frequently repeated ones and palindromes). It is assumed that the specific disturbances in genome methylation under lymphoid leukemia may be a cause of transcription deficiences and cell transformations.


[Presence of genes of ribosomal and transfer RNAs in kinetoplast DNA from two Crithidia species]. The coding properties of kinetoplast DNA from two respresentatives of the order Kinetoplastidae--Crithidia oncopelti and C. fasciculata--were studied. Experiments on hybridization of the whole network and fraction of minicircles with labelled 23S and 16S rRNA and with tRNA isolated from kinetoplasts of C. oncopelti clearly demonstrated the presence of the genes for these RNAs in the whole network and their absence in the minicircles. It may be thus concluded that the genes of ribosomal and transfer RNAs are localized in the maxicircular molecules. Similar efficiency of hybridization of rRNAs from C. oncopelti with kDNA from C. fasciculata and C. oncopelti revealed significant conservativity of ribosomal genes in the protozoa under study.


[Properties of cholinesterase and carboxylesterase from locust ganglia]. The activity of locust ganglia cholinesterase is found to depend on concentrations of acetylthiocholine (ATC), propionylthiocholine (PTC) and butyrylthiocholine (BTC); that of carboxylesterase--on concentration of p-nitrophenylacetate (25 degrees, pH 7,5). The activity of cholinesterase is inhibited by an excess of ATC and BTC, but is unaffected by an excess of PTC. At concentrations greater than 0.01 M PTC is hydrolyzed faster than ATC at optimal (1.10(-3) M) concentration. The cholinesterase hydrolysis of BTC proceeds slower than that of ATC and PTC. The bimolecular constants (kII) of the rate of cholinesterase and carboxylesterase interaction with structurally different organophosphorus inhibitors (OPI) were determined. It was found that methylsulfomethylates of O-alkyl-S (beta-ethylmercaptoethyl) methylthiophosphonates are stronger inhibitors of cholinesterase than carboxylesterase; on the contrast, their uncharged analogs are stronger inhibitors of carboxylesterase, since the substitution of the sulfide sulphur for the sulphonic one strongly decreases the anticholinesterase activity and slightly increases the anticarboxylesterase activity of these OPI. O-alkyl-S (carbomethoxymethylmercaptomethyl) methylthiophosphonates inhibit carboxylesterase stronger than cholinesterase. The inhibitory activity of diisopropylthiophosphates towards cholinesterase is much lower than that of the corresponding diethylthiophosphates, while the activity of the former towards carboxylesterase is approximately the same as the activity of diethylthiophosphates or more strongly pronounced. Diisopropylfluorophosphate is a potent inhibitor of carboxylesterase. The data obtained provide evidence for differences in the structure of the active sites of cholinesterase and carboxylesterase. The carboxylesterase has no anionic sites. Moreover, the active surface of this enzyme interacting with the leaving part of OPI possesses, a site which prevents the absorption of cationic OPI and favours the interaction with the OPI containing the carboxyether group. The esterastic site of carboxylesterase is larger than that of cholinesterase and can predominantly interact with OPI having a bulky phosphoryl part.


EEG asymmetries in recognition of faces: comparison with a tachistoscopic technique. Twelve field-dependent and twelve field-independent women, who had previously shown opposite superiorities in a tachistoscopic face recognition task, returned to the laboratory for a session in which FEG asymmetry was measured during two facial and two verbal recognition tasks. Although task-related EEG asymmetries were observed, there was no effect of cognitive style on either direction or amount of asymmetry. These results suggest a lack of comparability among different methods of assessing individual differences in lateral functions.


On the independence of P300 and the CNV: a short critique of the principal components analysis of Donchin et al. (1975). Donchin, Tueting, Ritter, Kutas and Heffley (1975) present evidence from a principal components analysis (PCA) that the CNV and P300 are independent. This short critique points out a number of erros in their PCA and presents a reworking of their analysis. A number of further aspects of Donchin et al.'s paper are also discussed. The general value of this contribution in drawing the attention of EP researchers to potential sources of error in the application of factor analysis is emphasized.


The independence of the P300 and the CNV reviewed: a reply to Wastell. The relationship of P300 to the CNV was investigated by Donchin, Tueting, Ritter, Kutas and Heffley (1975) who concluded that these two components of the event-related brain potential (ERP) are independent. Wastell (1979) questioned the validity of the data analysis procedures and of the experimental design used by Donchin et al. In this report we examine Wastell's criticisms and find them to be unfounded. In support of this conclusion we note the differences between principal component analysis and factor analysis. We clarify points about Donchin et al.'s experimental design, and we review evidence for the independence of the P300 and the CNV that has accumulated since 1975.


EEG and autonomic responding to verbal, spatial and emotionally arousing tasks: differences among adults, adolescents and inhalant abusers. The present study investigated the physiological responses of an adolescent inhalant abuse group, an adolescent non-abuse group, and an adult non-abuse group elicited by three types of tasks: verbal, spatial, and emotionally arousing. Each group consisted of 10 male Mexican-American subjects. Bilateral EEG and electrodermal activity, as well as heart rate, were monitored. While exploring for possible heart rate and hemispheric alpha wave differences in response to predominantly verbal and spatial tasks, an attempt was also made to discover if electrodermal responses could be bilaterally differentiated. Another purpose of the study was to explore possible psychophysiological differences between a younger and older group, and between an inhalant abusing group and a non-abuse group, in response to the three types of tasks. Results indicated that attempts to produce task-related EEG hemispheric asymmetry were largely nonsuccessful. Bilateral electrodermal responses were also not greatly differentiated. It was suggested that stronger task manipulations were needed. Significant group differences were found for initial physiological response levels (adults demonstrated higher levels than the two adolescent groups) and for heart rate response to the emotionally arousing task (non-abusing subjects demonstrated greater heart rate acceleration than inhalant abusing subjects). It was suggested that group differences in initial levels occurred due to the adult groups's greater involvement in the experimental situation. Heart rate differences to the emotionally arousing situation were discussed in terms of Zuckerman's sensation seeking hypothesis.


Correction for sinus arrhythmia in the evoked cardiac response: a timebase problem. The detection and description of the evoked cardiac response (ECR) has received much attention in recent literature, with an increasing concentration upon the 'noise' problem of sinus arrhythmia (SA). A departure from extrapolated pre-stimulus activity, obtained by employing procedures of various complexities, has been proposed as an SA-free measure of the ECR. The use of such procedures without consideration of respiratory changes appears questionable. Simulation of HR protocols across a change in respiratory period indicates that spurious ECRs, similar in form to those in the published literature, may be produced by such techniques. A simple method of correcting the problem is outlined.


Effects of frontalis EMG feedback and reinforcement on frontalis EMG level. This experiment employed a between-subjects design (N = 40) to investigate the effects of feedback and reinforcement on the lowering of frontalis electromyographic (EMG) activity. The feedback and reinforcement manipulations were combined in a 2 x 2 factorial design and each subject underwent one baseline and two training sessions on three consecutive days. The analogue feedback signal was a 55 dB tone whose pitch varied as a function of EMG activity, while the reinforcement consisted of points which were exchangeable for money. The training sessions were each divided into 10 2-min baseline periods and 10 2-min trial periods. The results indicated that although analogue feedback did not result in lowered EMG levels, trial period EMG level was significantly lower than baseline level under conditions of reinforcement. These results pose problems for Budzynski and Stoyva's (1972) views concerning the therapeutic usefulness of frontalis EMG feedback training.


Familial mutagen sensitivities: are these the hallmarks of meiotic or mutator mutants in humans? Mutagen hypersensitivity (MHS) has been found to be associated with abnormalities in DNA metabolic processes in many prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms. The study of fibroblasts derived from humans with genetic diseases believed to have altered DNA metabolism, has also revealed patterns of MHS. In this paper results are presented that suggest MHS  patterns unrelated to obvious disease can be inherited in a dominant fashion. As these individuals exhibiting MHS patterns have been observed in families with poor reproductive history, new syndromes, or ontogenetic problems (including malignancies) there may be a causal relationship between these events and the MHS. These events which may have a genetic basis appear as maternal or paternal effect mutants as the consequences are observed in reduced reproductive fitness or abnormal progeny. Since these effects are similar to the events precipitated by the meiotic or mutator mutants in Drosophila, it is speculated that the MHS patterns may be the hallmarks of such mutants in man.


Relation between cell cycle and yield of aberrations observed in irradiated human lymphocytes. The bromodeoxyuridine-Giemsa technique has been used to study systematically the incidence of cells in first or subsequent mitoses at different fixation times of human lymphocyte control cultures as well as the influence of ionizing radiations on cell kinetics. Second divisions appear (3%) in cultures harvested 48 h after initiation. In 72 h cultures 40% of the dividing cells are in second and 33% in third division. Administration of 200 rads of X-rays before PHA stimulation results in a mitotic delay but does not increase the incidence of SCE. The yield of dicentrics after an exposure to 200 rads was the same for all cells in first mitosis regardless of fixation time. These results demonstrate that there is no evidence for the existence of sensitive subpopulations that could be distinguished by the time of the first mitotic division following stimulation.


Baroreceptor influence on a spinal cardiovascular reflex. A stretch of the walls of the thoracic aorta, performed in vagotomized cats without obstructing aortic flow, induces increases in heart rate, myocardial contractility, and arterial pressure. These reflex responses are still present after high spinal section. Cats under chloralose-urethane anesthesia were vagotomized and one carotid sinus was isolated and perfused with arterial blood at constant flow. The contralateral carotid sinus nerve and both aortic nerves were sectioned. A stretch of the walls of the thoracic aorta between the 7th and 10th intercostal arteries induced a reflex increase in mean arterial pressure 29 +/- 2 mmHg (mean +/- SE). Stepwise increases of carotid sinus pressure (CSP) or electrical stimulation of the carotid sinus nerve induced stepwise decreases of this reflex response. At maximal baroreceptor stimulation (CSP 212 +/- 9 mmHg) the reflex response to aortic stretch was reduced by 42%. These experiments show that this spinal cardiovascular reflex is at least partially under the inhibitory control of the baroreceptor input.


[Interaction of dimethyl prostaglandin E2 and ethanol on the pancreatic secretion of the rat]. We have studied the action of 16,16-dimethyl prostaglandin E2 methyl ester (DiMePGE2) on pancreatic secretion in the unanesthetized rat with pancreatic and duodenal fistulae. DiMePGE2 inhibited volume, protein secretion and bicarbonate output. The inhibition of protein concentration is dose related (ED50 = 5.35 microgram/rat). DiMePGE2 was effective by the intraduodenal, intravenous, and intraperitoneal routes. Intraduodenal infusion of ethanol alone (2 mL 16% (v/v) in 1 h) strongly increased protein secretion (concentration, +30%; output, +69%)  When 4 microgram DiMePGE2 was injected intraperitoneally just before the ethanol infusion, the secretory effect of ethanol disappeared and the inhibition was similar to that observed with DiMePGE2 alone.


[The parathyroids and desoxycorticosterone acetate induced arterial hypertension in the rat]. We studied the importance of parathyroids in the development of mineralocorticoid hypertension in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Ablation of the parathyroids 1 week before deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA) + NaCl administration prevented development of hypertension (for 1 year). But ablation of parathyroids 2 weeks after the start of treatment has no effect on the development of arterial hypertension. Autotransplantation of parathyroids in thyroidectomized rats caused a recurrence of mineralocorticoid hypertension, which was completed after DL-thyroxine supplementation: blood pressure levels were nearly the same as in DOCA sham rats. We conclude that parathyroid glands favor the establishment of mineralocorticoid hypertension in the rat. These results raise the question of the mechanism of action of parathyroid hormone in the hypertensive process.


Effects of noradrenaline and metaraminol on isolated aortic strips and auricles obtained from untreated and reserpine-treated rabbits. The isolated aortic strips of the untreated rabbits responded to noradrenaline in concentrations ranging from 20 to 160 ng/mL, whereas similar preparations from reserpine-treated animals responded to lower concentrations (from 2.5 to 10 ng/mL) and larger effects were produced by concentrations ranging from 20 to 160 ng/mL. Comparatively stronger concentrations (from 0.4 to 1.6 microgram/mL) of metaraminol were required to produce suitable contractile responses, which were not modified by reserpine pretreatment. On the isolated auricles obtained from untreated rabbits, noradrenaline was used in concentrations of 20 and 80 ng/mL, but these concentrations were reduced to 2.5 and 10 ngmL in the case of tissues obtained from reserpinized rabbits. Comparatively stronger (0.2 and 0.8 microgram/mL) concentrations of metaraminol were required to produce a stimulant effect on this preparation, and the sensitivity was not altered by reserpine pretreatment. These observations lead to the conclusions that though reserpine pretreatment produces a well-marked increase in the sensitivity of isolated rabbit aortic strips and auricles to noradrenaline, it does not modify the sensitivity of these preparations to metaraminol. Reserpine was used in 0.3 mg/kg doses injected subcutaneously for 3 successive days.


Circulating natriuretic and kaliuretic factors in acute uremia: the role of the kidney. The role of the kidney as a source or as the excretory route for natriuretic and kaliuretic factors present in acute uremia was studied using the technique of isovolemic cross-circulation in 49 pairs (eight groups) of anaesthetized rats. Marked and similar natriuresis, kaliuresis, and diuresis occurred in recipients undergoing cross-circulation with donors subjected to either bilateral nephrectomy or total intravenous urine reinfusion for 18 h previously, and were not seen with sham-operated donors. Similar and significant, but less marked, changes occurred in two groups with bilateral nephrectomy or urine reinfusion of only 3 h duration. Urea-loaded normal donors caused a natriuresis and kaliuresis which was similar to the two 18-h uremic donor groups. When donor animals were sodium depleted prior to bilateral nephrectomy the natriuretic response in the recipients was significantly reduced. The results indicate that the kidney is not necessary for the rapid appearance of natriuretic and kaliuretic activity in the blood of acutely uremic animals, and that such activity results from the retention of factors of extrarenal origin. Natriuresis and kaliuresis result from inhibition of tubular reabsorption and are not dependent on changes in glomerular filtration or renal hemodynamics. Pitressin or aldosterone levels. Urea appears to be a major component of the circulating natriuretic and kaliuretic activity in acute uremia but evidence of other factors was also obtained.


Metabolic responses to status epilepticus in the rat, cat, and mouse. Prolonged sustained seizure activity (status epilepticus) was created in rats and cats using paralysis and ventilation to prevent muscular contraction and its secondary systemic effects. Under physiologic control, seizure activity was maintained for 30, 60, and 120 min. At this time the brains were frozen using the in situ technique and the cortical tissue was analyzed for energy-related metabolites. The alteration of metabolites found at these times was similar to that previously described in the first 10 min of seizure activity. No evidence was found of any significant or progressive derangement of oxidative metabolism. A progressive lactic acidemia developed in spite of adequate arterial oxygen tensions. In contrast, when mice received a similar dose of the convulsant and were allowed to convulse freely in an oxygen-enriched environment, major derangements of energy metabolism were found which were progressive and persisted following recovery for at least 18 h.


Catechol O-methyltransferase activity in the human placenta and liver. Catechol O-methyltransferase (COMT) obtained from human liver (HL) and human placenta (HP) was found to be much less active than rat liver (RL) COMT when norepinephrine, epinephrine, dopamine, and isoproterenol are used as substrates. The Km values, which reflect the affinity of substrate and enzyme, show that RL COMT has the highest affinity toward the catecholamine substrates followed by HP COMT and then HL COMT. Both HP and RL COMT preparations O-methylate the catecholamines primarily in the meta position.


[Ledderhose's disease].

[Ledderhose's disease]. The authors review the cases of Ledderhose's disease come to their observation at the "Gaetano Pini" Orthopedic Clinic of Milan. They explain that this condition, formerly regarded as extremely rare, can no longer be considered such in the light of modern observations. After giving a brief discussion of clinical and anatomopathological features, they state that the condition is essentially benign and often associated with Dupuytren's disease. They also believe that surgical correction should be done only in the more severe instances, and comment on the extreme rarity of relapses in cases treated surgically.


[Orthopedic methods used in the treatment of scoliosis]. This paper describes the various technics of orthopedic surgery currently used to correct scoliosis and maintain correction. Among corrective methods they illustrate the use of the Cotrel plaster corset (E.D.F.) preceded by passive bipolar traction and autoelongation. Once correction is achieved, it must be maintained to the end skeletal growth; this is done with various types of orthopedic corsets (Lyonnais, La Padula, Milwaukee), which are used according to the patient's age and anatomical type of deformity. The authors discuss in particular the forces that are applied to the occiput and mandible with the Milwaukee corset (Logan, Cochran and Waugh), the values being recorded in diverse situations including the upright stance, ambulation, sitting position, position, supine position, and sleep (Galante, 1970). The authors also made a comparative study of the conventional Milwaukee corset (with broad chin bearing) versus the Milwaukee with hyoid bearing; and finally they illustrate the results obtained by Andriacchi and his associates in selecting the Milwaukee corset for patients with idiopathic scoliosis on the basis of the mathematical model of the rachis.


[Anastomosis of the thoracic duct and the esophagus in surgical treatment of cholestasis. Experimental research]. After brief recall of the pathophysiology of cholestasis, the authors describe a technic of internal drainage of lymph from the thoracic duct by an indirect anastomosis created surgically between the latter and the esophaghus. They conclude that the procedure definitely solves certain symptomatologic aspects of cholestasis, but has no effects on the underlying anatomopathological lesion, which does not regress once established.


[Alteratiions of calcium and phosphorus metabolism in patients treated with duodenoencephalopancreatectomy]. In a followup study of 14 patients treated by duodeno-cephalo-pancreatectomy at least one year before, the authors detected radiological evidence of bone tissue reshuffling in 64 per cent of the cases. Of these, 70 per cent showed high serum alkaline phosphatase content not attributable to cholestasis, liver metastasis, or specific bone disease. The authors call attention to the significance of this biochemical parameter for diagnostic purposes and therapeutic guidance.


[Cystadenoma of the bile ducts].

[Cystadenoma of the bile ducts]. The authors describe one case of cystadenoma of the bile ducts removed by left hemi-hepatectomy. They stress the importance of a complete angiographic examination, both in the arterial and in the venous return phase, for diagnostic purposes and correct planning of the surgical procedure.


[An unusual case of entero-vesical fistula caused by a foreign body]. The authors describe a rare case of sigmoidovesical fistula due to a foreign body and giving trouble 30 years after the causative surgical procedure, namely an oopheroctomy. The cause of the fistula was apparently some suture material that had not been reabsorbed. Surgical excision of the fistula produced a complete recovery.


[Criteria for choice of cryosurgical hemorrhoidectomy]. In the light of their own experience the authors assess the cryosurgical method in the treatment of hemorrhoids; they point out that this method is especially suitable for patients that cannot be treated by conventional hemorrhoidectomy because of associated pathology. With cryosurgery the authors have obtained radical surgical cures without any major complication and with a definitely lower incidence of discomfort than with the conventional surgical technic.


[Contact thermography in the early diagnosis of tumors of the breast]. After a brief review of thermal physics and physiology, the authors explain the applications of cholesterol ester plates in the study of breast malignancy. Accumulated experience plus the fruits of statistical studies conducted in leading centers, make it advantageous to use contact thermography not only for the early diagnosis of breast malignancy but also for mass screening of the general population. In competent hands, this technic yields accurate and dependable diagnosis; the method is completely harmless to patient and physician and can be used as many times as needed; and in addition, the method is economical both in terms of time consumed and of actual cost of materials. The new method does not supersede roentgenological investigation indiscriminately but confines it to cases that remain doubtful or suspicious after clinical and thermographic examination.


[A case of bilateral congenital aplasia of the femur]. The authors describe a rare case of bilateral congenital aplasia of the femur, seen by them at a Center for Motor Rehabilitation of the "La Nostra Famiglia" organization. They offer a complete clinical and roentgenographic documentation of the case, which was compounded by the presence of other congenital malformations.


Control of test substances.

Control of test substances. The efficient control of chemicals during a nonclinical laboratory study is of the utmost importance from three main points of view: (1) integrity of the experiment, (2) safety of personnel, and (3) protection of the environment. While the general principles involved in chemical control may be set forth in formal GLPs, detailed problems concerning individual test substances can only be resolved by utilizing the competency and judgment of a researcher who possesses adequate analytical chemical methods. Integrity of an experiment requires knowledge of the identity, purity, and stability of the test substance, as well as its proper handling and storage and a knowledge of its chemical properties. Assurance of homogeneity, stability, and proper concentration of the chemical in the dosage form is also of primary importance. The development and use of adequate analytical chemical procedures for determining the test agent in human samples, air, clothing, and on work surfaces is necessary for the initiation of surveillance procedures to assure safety of personnel from exposure to the test substances. The environment must be protected from hazardous test substances by using adequate disposal techniques for the chemical and all contaminated materials. This usually involves development of wastewater cleanup systems and continuous monitoring of the effluent to prevent discharge of hazardous substances. Incineration is the most useful method for disposal of solids and highly contaminated liquids. Work from our laboratory, done during the past 5 years, provides an illustration of the important principles, problems, and pitfalls encountered in chemical control.


Developmental relationships between the structure, blood supply and metabolic pattern of the vertebrate heart. In the animal kingdom there exist four types of myocardial blood supply: a) spongious musculature alone, which is supplied from the ventricular cavity; b) an inner spongious layer covered by an outer compact musculature with a vascular supply; c) as b), but with capillaries also present in some trabeculae of spongious musculature; d) compact musculature only, supplied from coronary vessels. The development of the compact layer in different species of cold-blooded animals is more closely related to heart weight than to the phylogenetic position of the animal; the total amount of compact musculature increases with increasing heart weight. These facts give additional support to the hypothesis that the development of compact musculature is necessary for the maintenance of balanced blood pressure conditions in larger hearts. The activities of enzymes connected with aerobic oxidation and glucose phosphorylation are higher in the spongious musculature than in the compact layer. The higher aerobic oxidative capacity of the spongious layer correlates with the higher sensitivity of this musculature to the necrogenic action of isoproterenol.


Assessment of myocardial infarct size in clinical practice. The myocardial infarct size was assessed on the basis of serial analyses of serum creatine phosphokinase (CPK) in 70 patients with first transmural myocardial infarction. Clinical symptoms of heart failure (Killip II-III) were found in patients with infarcts larger than 50 CPK-g-equ; in patients with lung oedema the infarct size averaged 104.2 CPK-g-equ. Patients without clinical and roentgenological evidence of left heart failure (Killip I) had infarct sizes always lesser than 50 CPK-g-equ, averaging 31.7 CPK-g-equ. Precordial mapping of the QRS complex in patients with anterior wall infarction revealed a significant correlation (r = 0.916) between the sum of voltages of Q waves on a 30-lead map recorded 24 hours after hospitalization and the enzymically assessed infarct size. Exact skiagraphic and auscultatory examinations of the heart and lungs, together with precordial mapping of the QRS complex, in patients with anterior wall infarct allow a relatively accurate quantification of the infarct size for prognostic classification of the patients.


Detection and clinical significance of functional intrapulmonary vascular anastomoses in patients with chronic nonspecific lung diseases. In 60 patients with chronic nonspecific lung diseases, both pulmonary circulation systems were examined simultaneously by catheterization and selective angiography of bronchial and lesser circulation vessels. The value of regional oxy- and barometric measurements for the diagnostics of left-to-right shunts in the lesser circulation was proved. Complex angiological examinations of both lung circulation systems helped reveal the basic variations of intrapulmonary anastomoses in both systems in patients with chronic nonspecific lung diseases. The formation of intrapulmonary anastomoses in such patients led to regional hyperoxygenation and to pulmonary arterial hypertension in the lesser circulation (in 18% of the patients), and to functional blockade of the perfusion (in 47% of the patients) of the affected segments, lobes, or the whole lung, which phenomenon substantially influenced the clinical course of the disease.


Antiarrhythmic effect of cardiac sympathectomy. The authors studied the effect of sympathetic denervation of the heart (removal of the stellate ganglion together with the sympathetic trunk up to the level of the 5th thoracic ganglion) on the ventricular fibrillation threshold (VFT) in dog. The acute experiments were performed under general anaesthesia with pentobarbital. Unilateral left sympathetic denervation raised the VFT to 144% of the initial value (14 measurements) and unilateral right sympathectomy to 214% (9 measurements). Immediately after bilateral denervation the VFT increased to 242% (23 observations). Atropine blockade of the vagus nerve (0.1 mg/kg b.w.) displayed no effect on the VFT increase. The observed increase in VFT corresponded with the finding that bilateral sympathetic denervation of the heart protected the dogs from spontaneous ventricular fibrillation after ligating the intraventricular branch of the left coronary artery. The authors compared their own results with those reported in the literature and discuss the possible clinical use of sympathetic denervation of the heart in the treatment of tachyarrhythmia.


Chloride localization in Phaseolus vulgaris leaves exposed to HCl gas. An investigation of chloride accumulation and distribution in unifoliate leaves of Phaseolus vulgaris following supra-acute exposures to gaseous hydrogen chloride (HCl) was conducted. Plants which were 8-22 days old (post-seeding) were exposed for 20 min to HCl gas in concentrations ranging from 6.0-54.2 mg m-3 in different combinations of age and concentration. Aqueous extracts of treated unifoliates contained more chloride than was present in control leaves. In both 8 and 12-day-old leaves, the amount of chloride accumulated was proportional to the exposure concentration of HCl, but 12-day-old plants accumulated less chloride than 8-day-old plants. The number of leaves with macroscopic injury symptoms (epidermal glazing and interveinal necrosis) was also related to chloride content. Precipitation of chloride ions by silver salts was employed to examine the ultrastructural distribution of chloride. Deposits of AgCl were present in cell walls, ground plasm, vacuoles, and chloroplasts of both control and HCl-treated leaf tissues. In leaves sampled immediately after treatment, chloroplastic AgCl precipitates were less than in controls, but as sampling was delayed from the HCl treatment, AgCl deposits in chloroplasts regained control levels. The frequency and distribution of AgCl deposits indicated that chloride passed through the leaf cuticle and migrated through the apopolast. Chloride also entered the cytoplasm of cells and appeared to be sequestered in vacuoles of treated cells.


Protection after x-irradiation by 1,4-dithiothreitol of two mammalian cell types in vitro. 1,4-Dithiothreitol (DTT) was found to diminish the amount of chromosomal breakage in leucocyte cultures of the marsupial Potorous tridactylus and in the Don strain of Chinese hamster cells (LHI). The maximum decrease of damage in Potorous lymphocytes was to 54% of that of the irradiated cells without DTT treatment, and to 64% in the case of the Chinese hamster cells. For both cell types, it was shown that the most significant effect of DTT was due to its presence in the first 30 min post irradiation. The protective action of this sulphydryl compound occurred even when DTT was not present during irradiation but was introduced as soon as possible after the X-ray dose was delivered.


Chromosomal aberrations induced by Dispersion Yellow 3 in Rana clamitans larvae during tail regeneration. Azo dyes have been shown to be mutagenic and toxic in a variety of organisms. The azo dye, Dispersion Yellow 3 is a pollutant in the river water supply of Northern Georgia. Preliminary and definitive studies have indicated that it is mutagenic in micro-organisms and causes several malformations in chicken embryos. The present study revealed that when larvae are exposed to the dye during tail regeneration, several aberrations are seen in the squash preparations from regenerates. Included are gaps (the most frequent abnormality), dicentrics, rings and breaks. The data suggest that this azo dye deserves more detailed study to determine its mutagenicity.


A possible mode of formation of mitochondrial dense bodies in cardiac muscle of a dystrophic hamster. Pathological alterations of the fine structure of the cardiac muscle of hereditary muscular dystrophic hamsters (BIO 14.6), with peculiar changes of mitochondria, which were possible degenerative, suggest a mode of formation of intramitochondrial dense bodies. The initial stage of this process appeared in the outer compartment of a mitochondrion where the outer membrane began to vesiculate or interdigit with another outer membrane of an adjacent mitochondrion. Then this vesiculated region developed into an intramitochondrial dense area, which further invaded the central part of the mitochondrion keeping its continuity with the cristae and its vesicle substructure. Independently, some parts of the membrane of the mitochondrial cristae fused with each other and formed dark spots. They were also included in the vesiculated intramitochondrial dense area. The vesiculated outer membrane may be involved in deterioration of the calcium binding site compatible with increased calcium of the prenecrotic stage of the cardiac muscle of dystrophic hamster.


Permanent disability from hand dermatitis in females sensitive to nickel, chromium and cobalt. Among 564 Danes applying for permanent disability pension due to skin diseases, 222 had allergic contact eczema. Psoriasis was the next most common disorder. Nickel allergy was found in 99 cases, of whom 91 were women with hand eczema. In 43 the primary eczema was on the hands, in 38 under costume jewellery, suspenders, ect. Besides nickel the patients were often sensitive to cobalt, rubber and formaldehyde. Within Denmark there were geographical differences, as only few applicants came from the rural areas. Ten were atopics. 63 were chrome sensitive, including 21 women who all had hand eczema. Like the nickel sensitive they often had additional allergies to cobalt, rubber and formaldehyde. In 53% of the nickel sensitive the hand eczema started in occupations with a high nickel exposure. 39% had frequent changes in occupation, often to a new job with occupational nickel contact. As the patients in the present study were all selected on the basis of their poor prognoses, we have tried to establish prognostic criteria through comparison with unselected material from within the same geographical area.


[Necrotic dermatitis following permanent wave process (author's transl)]. This report describes a case of necrotic dermatitis in relation to a permanent wave process. The possible causes of the necrotic dermatitis are discussed.


[Toxic contact dermatitis due to the quaternary ammonium compound benzalkonium chloride (author's transl)]. A 20-year-old soldier caught an eczematous contact dermatitis on the left ear after the protection of hearing "Selektone" had been adapted. The protection of hearing had been disinfected before in a Zephirol solution 1% aqueous. Zephirol contains the quaternary ammonium compound Benzalkonium chloride. The problems of patch testing with Benzalkontium chloride are discussed.


Occupational contact dermatitis due to Codiaeum variegatum and possibly to Aeschynantus pulcher. Codiaeum variegatum is a plant that has a rather strong sensitizing capacity as appeared from an examination in a large nursery of so called Crotons. Rather striking were two positive reactions to Aeschynantus pulcher (family: Gesneriaceae), It is not sure if Aeschynantus really has sensitizing properties. More investigations about handeczema caused by contact with Aeschynantus has to be performed.


Herbicidal potency of 1,1'-alkyl-4,4'-bipyridylium salts as a function of their physicochemical constants in duckweed. Duckweed (Spirodela oligorrhiza, Kurz) is a sensitive indicator of 1,1'-alkyl-4,4'-bipyridylium salt (viologen) herbicidal potency. A homologous series of viologens were tested to determine relative herbicidal potency which was related to alkyl inductive and steric effects of N-alkyl side chains. Chlorosis was assessed after 48 hr of continuous illumination to establish herbicidal potency. Herbicidally effective concentrations were 2.7, 12, 236, 71, 31, 51, 13 and 43 microM for methyl (paraquat), propyl, isopropyl, butyl, methyl-pentyl, hexyl, octyl and benzyl viologen, respectively. A biphasic relationship of herbicidal potency versus steric effect was established in which compounds with the least bulky side chains were most phytotoxic. Comparison of rat lethality (acute, subcutaneous) and herbicidal potency of these compounds indicates that none of the viologens tested are less toxic to mammals than plants compared to the commercial herbicide methyl biologen (paraquat).


Toxicity of 1,1'-alkyl-4,4'-bipyridylium salts in the rat. Methyl (paraquat), propyl, isopropyl, butyl, methyl-pentyl, hexyl, octyl and benzyl viologens (1,1'-Alkyl-4,4'-bipyridylium salts) were administered subcutaneously to female Sprague-Dawley rats to determine relative toxicities. These compounds all produce the spectrum of effects previously reported for paraquat and additionally produce a focal necrosis at the injection site, nonemptying of the stomach and adrenal enlargement. A lethal dose of propyl, hexyl or benzyl viologen often produced a yellow to red serous fluid in the pleural cavity. Many of the signs observed with viologen poisoning are similar to adrenal hormone effects and the suggestion is made that the adrenals may be contributing to toxicity.


Effects observed during subchronic administration of l-alpha-acetylmethadol (LAAM) to guinea pigs. l-Alpha acetylmethadol in water was administered by gavage to male and female guinea pigs over a period of 4 weeks: Mondays and Wednesdays, 2 mg/kg; Fridays, 3 mg/kg. Appropriate volumes of water were administered to control animals on the same schedule. Treated animals consumed significantly less feed (p less than .05) and weighed less (p less than .05) than control animals. After 4 weeks, heart rates in treated animals were less than heart rates in control animals (p less than .05). There was a higher mortality rate associated with the treated group. Dry and dull coats, runny or loose stools, scabs and sores, and alopecia were observed frequently in the treated group of animals.


NIAX catalyst ESN: subchronic neuropharmacology and neurotoxicology. NIAX catalyst ESN (a mixture of 95% DMAPN/dimethylamino-proprionitrile and 5% A-99/bis-dimethylaminoethyl ether) was a catalyst used in the production of polyurethan foam which was reported to produce a reversible peripheral neuropathy in workers exposed to it. ESN and its two components were tested by a variety of short term tests for neurologic activity. In vivo (rat and mouse) and in vitro (isolated tissue) assays were employed. Both ESN and DMAPN at dose levels of 0.25 ml/kg IP (intraperitoneally) produced tremors, convulsions, and cardiovascular effects in rats and mice. At doses as low as 0.01 ml/kg both ESN and DMAPN also induced a loss of micturition reflex in rats. A-99, though more lethal, caused no neurologic or reflex effects at doses up to 1.0 ml/kg. DMAPN was concluded to be the causative agent.


Experimental diazepam intoxication in rodents: physostigmine and naloxone as potential antagonists. The ability of physostigmine and naloxone to reverse the loss of righting reflex (LRR) induced by diazepam was tested in mice and rats. Physostigmine was ineffective under our test conditions, but high doses of naloxone reduced the duration of LRR in both species. However, the LD50 of diazepam in mice was unaltered by 100 or 150 mg/kg of naloxone given 1 hr after LRR to model an antidotal situation. Use of a longer duration narcotic antagonist, naltrexone (172 mg/kg), in the same design likewise failed to elevate the LD50 for diazepam. These data give limited support to prior suggestions for clinical usefulness of naloxone, although not for physostigmine, in the management of intoxication caused by diazepam.


Acute toxicity of a mercapto - functional silicone oil. A poly(dimethylsiloxane) type silicone oil containing gamma-mercaptopropyl groups was evaluated for acute toxicity. Acute inhalation, oral and dermal toxicity, primary skin irritation, skin sensitization, eye irritation and human patch testing studies failed to demonstrate any significant response to this functional oil. Transient eye irritation and barely perceptible skin irritation were among the observations. On the basis of the data presented, it is doubtful that any problems of acute toxicity will result from the use of this silicone oil.


Acute toxicity of micronized 8-methoxypsoralen in rodents. The acute oral and intraperitoneal LD50 values of micronized 8-Methoxypsoralen were determined in rats and mice. The values obtained in the present study were lower than those previously reported. The suggestion is made that the discrepancy in the LD50 values may possibly be attributed to differences in compound particle size in the preparations used.


Adrenergic inotropic responsiveness of embryonic chick and rat hearts. Rates of isolated embryonic chick hearts (ECH) and embryonic rat hearts (ERH) of various ages were maintained constant by field stimulation and the characteristics of their inotropic responses to isoproterenol (Iso) were investigated. Exposure to Iso produced concentration, age, species and calcium dependent increases in contractility that were prevented by propranolol (3x10(-6) M). The slopes of the linear portions of the concentration-response curves increased with age (14-20 days) in the ERH, the maximal slope and inotropic effect being observed in the 18-day-old heart, whereas they decreased with age (3-7 days) in the ECH, the minimal slope but maximal inotropic effect being observed in the 5-day-old heart. At 10(-7) M, Iso produced approximately maximal responses at all ages in the ECH but elicited only minimal responses at all ages in the ERH, approximately ten times this concentration being required to produce maximal responses in the ERH. Reducing the calcium concentration of the bathing medium significantly increased the sensitivities of the hearts of both species to the inotropic effects of Iso. Iso-induced positive inotropic responses were also demonstrated in isolated, driven ventricles from 4-day-old ECH. These results indicate that functional, beta-adrenergic, inotropic receptors are present in the embryonic hearts of both species and undergo changes in responsiveness during embryonic development which are species-dependent.


[Malignant neoplasms of the colon and rectum in the G.D.R. (author's transl)]. Data of the national cancer registry and the official death statistics are used to analyze the incidence and mortality of malignant neoplasms of the small intestine (ICD 152), the colon (ICD 153) and the rectum (ICD 154) in the German Democratic Republic. An apparent increase of age-adjusted incidence from 1956 to 1975 and of mortality from 1960 to 1970 can be explained by more complete reporting. A further increase of incidence from 1970 on is possible but not proved. There is no conclusive evidence that results of treatment have changed. An international comparison of incidence and mortality is difficult, since sources of information are not as reliable as generally assumed.


[Toxic megacolon in Crohn's disease (author's transl)]. The toxic megacolon is well known in colitis ulcerosa, in colitis ulcerosa, in colitis granulomatosa--Crohn's disease--it is by far rarer. The authors observed two cases among their patients. The emergency operation consisted in applying an ileostoma and several colostomata. The definitive treatment with colectomy and ileorectostomy was done after weeks respectively months.


[The value of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreaticography in the diagnosis of bile duct and pancreatic diseases. Results of 756 studies]. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography was successful in 626 of 756 examinations (82,8%). Choledocholithiasis in view of bile ducts and chronic pancreatitits on the score of bile ductal system are the most lesions we could observe. An acute pancreatitis in 2 cases and an infection of a pancreatic pseudocyst in 1 case were the 3 complications in our material. Meanwhile the rate of successful cannulations reached more than 90%.


Effect of gonadal steroids on respiratory metabolism of Anabas testudineus (Bloch). The present investigation deals with the effect of gonadal steroids on the oxygen consumption (through gills only) in an air breathing fish, Anabas testudineus (Bloch). A good correlation (P less than 0.05) has been established between the seasonal variations in VO2 and cyclic changes in the activity of gonads in both the sexes. Oxygen consumption in both the sexes of A. testudineus were studied for a period of fourteen months. VO2 of male Anabas remained higher as compared to female throughout the period of investigation. Statistical as well as experimental analysis of the data also indicates that the "male hormones" are much more effective in bringing about the homeostasis of oxidative metabolism as compared to "female hormone" in this fish. The treatment with testosterone brings about significant (P less than 0.001) increase in VO2 in males though the lower dose proved to be most effective. Most of the "female hormones" (progesterone, Duogynon forte and Ovocyclin) used in the present investigation seem to decrease the VO2 significantly in females. The decrease in VO2 was more pronounced at higher dosage. Two peaks of VO2--first in June/July and second in October--have also been observed in this fish. The reason for and mechanism of such change are discussed in the present investigation.


[Diabetic polyneuropathy. 3. Electroneurographic findings in diabetics and their relationships to age and duration of diabetes]. Nerve conduction velocities were determined in patients with diabetes mellitus: motor conduction of the median nerve in 778 patients, sensory conduction of the median nerve in 680 patients and motor conduction of the tibial nerve in 745 patients. In 40.9% out of 778 patients at least one of the three nerve conduction velocities were found within pathological ranges. 30.4% of 227 patients below 19 years of age in whom the duration of the disease did not exceed four years exhibited at least one delayed nerve conduction velocity. Clinical signs of polyneuropathy in children and in adolescents below 19 years of age are rare (0.6%). In contrast delayed nerve conduction velocities were found in 29.4%. Metabolic disturbance of peripheral nerve function is assumed to be responsible in these patients, for angiopathy in children and adolescents is very rare too.


Electron microscopic and ultracytochemical investigations of thyroid C cells in primary hyperparathyroidism. The subject of study were C Cells of the human thyroid in course of primary hyperparathyroidism caused by the presence of a single adenoma. C cells were estimated by routine electron microscopic technique and by cytochemical cholinesterase (ChE) reaction according to Iwayama in electron microscopic technique. The presence of single C cells and of a small agglomeration of these cells, parafollicularily localized was found in the thyroid gland. An electron dense reaction product was noticed on membraneous structures of C cells of the thyroid.


Ophthalmoplegia, ataxia and hyporeflexia (Fisher's syndrome). With a midbrain lesion demonstrated by CT scanning. This report concerns a patient with ophthalmoplegia, ataxia and hyporeflexia (Fisher's syndrome) with a lesion in the midbrain tegmentum demonstrated by computerized-tomography (CT) scanning. Spontaneous recovery was almost complete 1 month after the onset. Based upon its strategic location, it is suggested that the lesion can explain the findings in the patient. The CT finding, if confirmed, will necessitate a reconsideration of our current pathogenetic views about Landry-Guillain-Barré syndrome in general and Fisher's syndrome in particular.


Reye's syndrome in an adult.

Reye's syndrome in an adult. Reye's syndrome or encephalopathy with fatty infiltration of the liver occurs mainly in childhood and to a lesser degree in adult age. This report concerns a rare adult case of this syndrome in Europe. The different diagnostic steps are described, with special emphasis on the enzymatic disturbances of the Krebs-Henseleit cycle and on the morphological criteria needed to confirm the diagnosis.


Giant aneurysm of the distal portion of the posterior inferior cerebellar artery. The authors report a case of a giant aneurysm of the distal portion of the posterior inferior cerebellar artery presenting the classical picture of a tumor of the posterior fossa. CT scan of a giant aneurysm reveals the clear margin and high density area of aneurysm wall, and the homogeneous and high density area of the organized thrombus in a cavity of the aneurysm.


Epilepsy and agitated delirium caused by an astrocytoma of the amygdala. The clinical picture of a tumour involving the amygdaloid nucleus was characterized over a period of 6 years by generalised epileptic fits, then a state of agitated delirium with oneirism evolving during 2 months and leading finally to pulmonary embolism. The association of epilepsy and psychiatric disorders is the clinical picture usually observed in tumors of the limbic system but these symptoms are various and unspecific. The conventional neuroradiological procedures often fail to discover the lesion.


Transient traumatic "locked-in" syndrome. The first clinical case of transient traumatic locked-in syndrome is presented. The locked-in state lasted for 3 months. The patient's neurologic deficit and the abnormal auditory evoked responses pointed to a lesion involving the left pons and ventral midbrain. The locked-in syndrome caused by a traumatic damage of the brain stem structures can be transient and thus it may have a better prognosis than the locked-in syndrome secondary to the occlusion of the basilar artery.


Hypokalemic periodic paralysis in primary hyperaldosteronism. Subclinical myopathy with atrophy of the type 2A muscle fibers. A case of a patient suffering from primary hyperaldosteronism is reported. In this case the disease is manifested clinically by periodic paralysis and hypopotasemia without permanent myopathy. The morphological study of the muscle demonstrates selective atrophy of the type 2A fibers as the most pronounced alteration. These findings suggest a chronic myopathic process.


Studies on orthocephalization. 2. Flexions of the rat head in the period between 14 and 60 days after gestation. The present paper considers the significance of a variety of cranial flexions in the process of orthocephalization of the rat skull between 14 and 60 days postnatally. The study is based on a sample of 27 male rats, who have been x-rayed at 14, 30 and 60 days with subsequent analyses of the photographs obtained. In this period the angle between the cranial base and the facial part of the skull becomes more obtuse, i.e. the skull becomes more orthocranial. The cranial base becomes at the same time more airobasal (lordotic). Angular changes between the individual bones in the cranial vault straightens the vault markedly. By this it becomes orthodorsal. As the angle between the basisphenoid and the parietal bones stays more or less constant between 14 and 60 days, the impression is created that both the anterior and posterior parts of the neural skull rotate upwards relative to this bone complex. Thus, orthocephalization in the period between 14 and 60 days both consists of flexions between the facial and neural parts of the skull (prebasal flexions), and may be more importantly of interosseous ventral and dorsal flexions.