Hepatitis B antigen in the liver cells in cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The demonstration of hepatitis B antigen in the liver cells in formalin fixed paraffin embedded tissues by Shikata's orcein staining method affords an opportunity to conduct retrospective studies on necrospy materials. Such a study in Singapore showed orcein-positive liver cells in 22 out of 52 (42.3%) and 37 out of 50 (74.0%) cases of cirrhosis of the liver and hepatocellular carcinoma respectively, while only 5 out of 113 (4.4%) 'normal' livers gave positive results. There is a significant difference in the frequency of hepatocellular carcinoma in orcein-positive and orcein-negative cirrhotic livers (28 out of 50, 10 out of 40 respectively). These results suggest a possible aetiological relationship between hepatitis B antigen and hepatocellular carcinoma.


Identification of different size motoneurons labeled by the retrograde axonal transport of horseradish peroxidase. Three main groups of motoneurons of different size have been labeled in adult cats by using the method for retrograde axonal transport following injection of horseradish peroxidase in the medial gastrocnemius and soleus muscles. In particular small, medium-size and large neurons which probably correspond respectively to gamma, small alpha and large alpha motoneurons innervating the calf muscles, have been identified and the corresponding area measured.


[Treatment of Paget's disease with salmon thyrocalcitonin. Cooperative double-blind study]. Forty six patients suffering from Paget's disease in acute exacerbation were treated for three months with 80 u/day of synthetic salmon thyrocalcitonin. A control group of 36 patients received a placebo. A marked improvement in pain was seen in 60% of the treated patients and 15% of the placebo group (p less than 0.001). Functional impairment, when present, was also far more markedly decreased in the treated group (p less than 0.01). In comparison with the control group, the fall in hydroxyprolinuria and alkaline phosphatase levels was highly significant (p less than 0.001). This treatment is active against not only symptoms and signs, but also the biological criteria of activity of the disease. The side-effects of treatment consist above all of hot flashes (35% of cases) and nausea (24%). In only one case was it necessary to stop treatment because of intractable diarrhoea.


Nucleotide sequence at the 5' terminus of the avian sarcoma virus genome. Transcription of DNA from the RNA genome of avian sarcoma virus by RNA-directed DNA polymerase in vitro initiates on a primer (tRNATrp) located near the 5'-terminus of the viral genome. One of the major products of transcription is a single-stranded DNA chain complementary to a sequence of 101 nucleotides immediately distal to the site of initiation of DNA synthesis. We have determined the complete nucleotide sequence of this transcribed chain for the Prague strain of avian sarcoma virus, a partial sequence of the transcribed chain for the Bratislava 77 strain of avian sarcoma virus, and the sequence of a DNA transcript that is shorter than the transcribed single-stranded chain. Our data define the location of tRNATrp on the genome of avian sarcoma virus and provide the sequence of 119 nucleotides at the 5'-terminus of the genome. Portions of this sequence may be involved in the binding of RNA-directed DNA polymerase, the initiation of translation from viral messenger RNA, the extension of RNA-directed DNA synthesis from the 5'- to the 3'-terminus of viral RNA, and the integration of viral DNA into the host genome.


Biological function of gramicidin: selective inhibition of RNA polymerase. This paper describes a novel biochemical effect of gramicidin, a class of peptide antibiotics produced by Bacillus brevis during the transition from vegetative growth to sporulation. Gramicidin inhibits RNA synthesis by purified RNA polymerase (nucleosidetriphosphate:RNA nucleotidyl-transferase, EC 2.7.7.6) by interfering with the binding of RNA polymerase to DNA. This effect seems to involve the destabilization of the "open" RNA polymerase-DNA complex, a mode of action consistent with the control of promoter selection. Selectivity in the inhibition of RNA synthesis by gramicidin is observed when transcription is partially blocked by low levels of actinomycin D. Since the inhibition of RNA synthesis by gramicidin is obtained in a highly purified system devoid of membranes, it must be distinct from the ionophoretic activity of the antibiotic. It is possible that this new mode of action reflects the function of gramicidin during bacterial sporulation.


Identification of a purified complement-fixing antigen as the Epstein-Barr-virus determined nuclear antigen (EBNA) by its binding to metaphase chromosomes. A soluble complement-fixing antigen carried by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-transformed human cells has been previously extracted from cell nuclei and purified by DNA-cellulose chromatography [Luka, J., Siegert, W. & Klein, G. (1977) J. Virol., in press]. On addition of this antigen to methanol/acetic acid-fixed metaphase chrmosomes, followed by exposure to human sera containing antibodies against the EBV-determined nuclear antigen (EBNA), brilliant positive staining was obtained by anti-complement immunofluorescence. There was no staining after exposure to EBV-negative sera. Moreover, a nuclear protein fraction, prepared from an EBV-negative cell line in an analogous fashion, failed to induce the staining reaction. These data identify the soluble purified antigen as the EBV-determined nuclear antigen. The purified antigen has a molecular weight of 174,000 +/- 15,000, as determined by sucrose gradient centrifugation and gel filtration experiments. In neutral buffers containing 0.5-1.0 M NaCl, the antigen dissociates into a form of approximately one-half the original molecular weight with retained complement-fixing activity. This "monomer" has a molecular weight of 98,000 +/- 8,000.


Cell separation using fluorescence emission anisotropy. The emission anisotropy of selected fluorescent probes which interact with cells and their membranes is a sensitive parameter for studying the structural changes associated with different functional states. Such measurements can now be made on individual living cells at rates of up to 103 per second and the cells separated on the basis of the anisotropy function alone or combined with other physical signals using a multiparameter automated computer-controlled cell separator (MACCS). Thus, selection can be on the basis of simple or complex algorithms reflecting the size, macromolecular content, and rotational mobility of cellular components or liganded reporter molecules. Cells isolated in this manner are sterile, viable, and can be used for outgrowth or biochemical studies related to dynamic changes occurring during differentiation or malignant transformation.


[Considerations about the physiopathological and clinical significance of the oligclonal serum pattern (author's transl)]. The fortuitous report of the change of serum electrophoretic pattern from the oligoclonal to the monoclonal type in a patient  with Hodgkin's disease has been the starting point for some considerations about the physiopathological and clinical significance of the oligoclonal serum pattern. The AA. carry out a critical review of the ordinary electrophoretic methods, underlining some problems related to a good visualization of the oligoclonal serum pattern.


Digitalis arrhythmias: role of oscillatory afterpotentials. Digitalis-induced OAP provide a mechanism of automaticity that may be responsible for many arrhythmias induced by cardiac glycosides. In response to digitalis, OAP occur in tissues of the specialized conducting systems of both ventricles and atria and, under the influence of tension, occasionally in ventricular myocardium. Digitalis, in toxic doses, suppresses "normal" pacemaker activity possibly in part by enhancing overdrive suppression. In contrast to "normal" pacemaker activity, OAP exhibit, both in magnitude and rate of depolarization, postpacing acceleration. This plus the coupled nature of OAP are important characteristics in the generation of complex arrhythmias by OAP. Conduction disturbances may also be related to OAP. At early stages of intoxication OAP may speed conduction of superimposed beats relative to earlier or later beats. More advanced stages of intoxication are associated with conduction block. The occurrence of digitalis-induced OAP is promoted by high concentrations of calcium, low concentrations of potassium, and moderate stretch. OAP can be suppressed by high concentrations of potassium, reduction of extracellular calcium, and exposure to antiarrhythmic agents including diphenylhydantoin, verapamil, and aprindine. The effectiveness of the latter two agents may be related to ability to block transmembrane calcium currents. Digitalis-induced OAP in atrial tissue can be abolished by acetylcholine. A transmembrane current possibly but not necessarily carried by calcium appears to underly the occurrence of OAP. This current demonstrates kinetic properties different from those of the slow inward current associated with the plateau of the cardiac action potential. Calcium is intimately involved in the mechanism causing OAP and may be responsible for aftercontractions observed in conjunction with OAP. Aftercontractions greatly affect contractility and may be responsible at least in part for some of the inotropic actions of digitalis. Thus the occurrence of OAP may be linked to the inotropic actions of digitalis. Digitalis-induced OAP provide a mechanism of automaticity with characteristics paralleling automatic behavior observed in intact animals intoxicated with digitalis. The relative importance of OAP in the genesis of clinically important arrhythmias awaits further investigation.


[Spatial morphology of the mitochondria of the proximal and distal tubules of the kidney]. A new histological technique of block staining based on the use of a double lead and copper citrate is described in order to observe thick sections (0.5-1.5 micron) with a transmission electron microscope. With this technique, a network of mitochondrial with many morphological communications was seen in the epithelial cells of the proximal and distal convoluted tubules of the rat nephron. A new schematic view of the proximal and distal tubular cell is presented to illustrate the communications of the chondriome, which could become more or less accentuated following the functional status of the cell.


[Kilovolt-megavolt irradiation techniques for malignant tumors. Characteristics, indication and limits (author's transl)]. For curative effects of irradiation tumour doses of 5000 to 7000 rd are needed. They can be achieved in depth-therapy with conventional kilo-volt techniques only in carcinoma of the larynx and - via additional gamma rays - in radium-X-ray irradiation of the cervix. For all other indications mega-volt techniques are needed. If properly used, their side-effects are less. The kilo-volt technique for malignant tumors remains for palliative indications. Training will have to be undertaken in centres equipped for all types of therapy.


[Chemotherapy in bronchogenic carcinoma (author's transl)]. Therapy results in bronchogenic carcinoma remain unchanged since the establishment of thoracic surgery. Prognosis depends on the two main  factors: histological type and extension of disease at the time of diagnosis. Both factors are mutually dependent. Small cell carcinoma of the bronchus represents a special entity with its early hematogenous spread and the poorest prognosis of all bronchogenic carcinomas. The tumor is highly sensitive to radioor chemotherapy. A marked prolongatoion of medium survival time can be obtained by combination chemotherapy. This is usually accompained by an obvious improvement in the patient's general condition. In certain cases results can be further improved by irradiation of the primary tumor and the mediastinum. Prophylactic cranial irradiation is often indicated because of the frequent cerebral metastases. Results of chemotherapy are much less impressive in adenoor squamous-cell carcinomas of the bronchus. Such therapy can only be recommended for the exceptional case. Pilliative radiotherapy should be used freely. Till now, adjuvant chemotherapy after surgery has only proven its value in small cell bronchogenic carcinoma.


A rapid alpha-fetoprotein radioimmunoassay. A simple, reliable and inexpensive alpha-fetoprotein radioimmunoassay is described, in which polyethylene-glycol (PEG) is used as a precipitating agent of antibody-bound AFP. The concentrations of AFP found in amniotic fluid, newborn and maternal sera are in agreement with those reported by others. This assay fulfills the requirements of a screening test for fetal abnormalities and other clinical applications.


Department of medicine - rheumatology service rheumatic diseases study group. Human heavy chain diseases offer an opportunity to examine the molecular events taking place in cells which produce naturally occurring structural variants of a well-studied complex protein. Extensive structural analyses have been carried out on many of these proteins and have revealed the existence of certain characteristic features. Current studies are beginning to elucidate the molecular biology underlying these structural features.


Splenectomy in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia. In a retrospective study it was endeavoured to evaluate the effects of splenectomy in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) characterised by splenomegaly. The material comprises 42 patients subjected to the operation in the course of the past 20 years. In the majority the spleen weighed more than 1000 g. The main indication for splenectomy was anaemia, while in 9 cases it was thrombocytopenia and in 14 cases hypercatabolism. Splenectomy is followed by a pronounced increase in the venous haemoglobin level and platelet count to higher values which have been recorded for up to 3 years after the procedure. In cases where data were available, there has been weight gain and a falling basal metabolic rate. Splenectomy is effective especially in cases predominated exclusively by splenomegaly, but even in cases with marked extrasplenic manifestations, splenectomy often greatly reduces the need for prednisone and cytostatics. Increasing hepatomegaly and lymphomas were not more common after splenectomy than in a control series, and the incidence of infections was not increased after the operation. For comparison, 37 non-splenectomised patients with splenomegaly were assessed. X-radiation of the spleen seems to be insufficient, since usually it has to be repeated. Splenomegaly does not decrease spontaneously and rarely after treatment with prednisone/cytostatics. The findings indicate that splenectomy of patients with CLL and increasing splenomegaly should be performed more often and presumably also earlier than recommended in the literature.


Quantitation of beta2-microglobulin and HLA on the surface of human cells. I. T and B lymphocytes and lymphoblasts. Relative amounts of beta2-microglobulin (beta2m) and of HLA specificities were analysed on the surface of resting unfractionated peripheral human lymphocytes, enriched B and T cells, and on in-vivo- and in-vitro-stimulated lymphoblasts. Single-cell cytofluorometry and a very sensitive radioimmunoassay were used to determine as closely as possible the absolute amounts of membrane-bound beta2m/HLA antigens. B and T "resting" and "stimulated" lymphoid cells express very similar numbers of beta2m and HLA antigenic determinants, respectively, per unit of surface area when compared with each group, although beta2m was found to exist in two- to three-fold excess of HLA.


Quantitation of beta2-microglobulin and HLA on the surface of human cells. II. In vitro cell lines and their hybrids. Beta2-microglobulin (beta2m) participates as an integral part in molecules of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) type. Absence of beta2m makes the residual heavy MHC chain largely inactive as antigen. Striking reductions in the density per unit surface area of beta2m in seven out of nine malignant lymphoid tumour lines in comparison with normal lymphocytes or "immortalized" Epstein-Barr-virus-transformed lymphoblastoid lines were found is this study. This would seemingly represent a specific reduction in the ability of the malignant cells to express actively produced beta2m, since their HLA antigenic determinants were not reduced to the same extent and no indications were obtained suggesting that free beta2m could transfer from one cell to another. However, that beta2m is important in conveying serological specificities of MHC type to cells was shown by fusion of beta2m-negative and beta2m-positive cells, yielding hybrid cells with synergistically increased numbers of detectable, HLA-related determinants. Whether the reduction of beta2m on malignant versus nonmalignant lymphoid cells bears any relevance as to emergence of the malignant clones and resistance to possible anti-tumour reactions would now be an issue for study.


Mitogenic properties of Fab and F(ab')2 fragments of rabbit anti-human beta2-microglobulin for human lymphocytes. Bivalent F(ab')2 fragments and monovalent Fab fragments of rabbit anti-human beta2-microglobulin (anti-beta2m) stimulated DNA synthesis in human lymphocytes. Mitogenicity of anti-beta2m antibodies can therefore be ascribed to the antigen-binding site and not to the Fc portion of the molecule. The mitogenic response to F(ab')2, and sometimes Fab, fragments of anti-beta2m IgG was comparable to that obtained with original IgG antibodies when tested at the same protein concentration. Since Fab monomers of anti-beta2m can cause lymphocyte activation, 'cross-linking' of hypothetical beta2-microblobulin-containing lymphocyte receptors does not seem necessary for activation. F(ab')2, as well as Fab, fragments of anti-beta2m blocked the cytotoxic effect of anti-beta2m IgG, showing that the fragments did indeed react with beta2-microblobulin on the cell surface. F(ab')2 dimers, but not Fab monomers, of anti-beta2m were capable of inhibiting the cytotoxic effect of an anti-HLA-A2 antiserum. The mitogenic activity of both anti-beta2m IgG and Fab monomers of such antibodies disappeared after absorption with highly purified beta2-microblobulin. The mitogenic effect of anti-beta2m IgG was inhibited to a minor extent by exposure of cells to high concentrations of pooled multispecific anti-HLA antibodies. This effect was probably nonspecific.


Production of BALB/c anti-idiotypic antibodies against the BALB/c myeloma protein 315 does not require an intact ligand-binding site. To determine whether the ligand-binding site of the BALB/c myeloma protein 315 is essential for the anti-idiotypic response in syngeneic animals, 17 BALB/c mice were immunized with M315 that had been affinity-labeled with bromo-acetyl-DNP-L-lysine (BADL). Essentially all the active sites of M315 were blocked by the affinity label. Fourteen mice produced antibodies that reacted with an idiotypic determinant localized in the Fv fragment of M315, but this idiotype was not part of the DNP-lysine-binding site, and it was absent from L315 and H315 chains. Two groups of BALB/c mice were immunized with nonaffinity-labeled M315, to determine whether the same idiotype was recognized with this immunogen. All animals in the group that received the most prolonged immunization produced antibodies that could be divided in two populations: about 75% were directed against the site-associated idiotype, and the rest reacted with the nonsite idiotype. The other group produced antibodies exclusively specific for the site. Thus, the site-associated idiotype of M315 is not essential for the antibody response of BALB/c mice against M315, and M315 carries at least two different idiotypes that can be recognized by B cells of syngeneic animals.


Identification in human placentae of antigenic activity related to the amyloid serum protein SAA. Antigenic activity related to the amyloid serum protein SAA was observed in indirect immunofluorescence studies on human placental tissue. Positive staining with anti-SAA antisera was localized to the cytoplasm of cells scattered within the mesenchymal stroma, thought to be fibroblasts, and to foetal stem vessel endothelium and some individual fibrillar structures in villous stroma and perivascular tissue. This immunofluorescent staining was specifically inhibited by protein SAA. In contrast, no immunofluorescent staining was achieved using antisera to the amyloid protein AA. Absorption and immunodiffusion studies have further suggested that anti-SAA antisera may recognize in human placentae only a very limited number of the antigenic determinants present in protein SAA but not in the smaller protein AA. The results support previous observations that protein SAA-like antigenic material can be found in normal human tissue.


Maladjusted children and the school health services. Development of a screening test for routine use. Maladjustment, with social and mental dysfunction, is one of the most prevalent health problems threatening children in many countries. A method for the early identificantion of maladjusted schoolchildren is described and evaluated. The method involves the completion of a questionnaire for each child by the teacher and the calculation of a test score based on a set of weighting factors assigned to each question. The factors are determined by discriminant analysis. For a proper evaluation of the method an independent clinical assessment of maladjustment among 524 school children was performed, making calculations of specificity and sensitivity possible.


[Effect of combined chemotherapy on the prognosis of Hodgkin's disease: retrospective study of 74 cases from 1959-1973]. In this retrospective study the effect of combined chemotherapy on survival of patients with Hodgkin's disease is investigated. Among 125 cases observed between 1959 and 1973, the survival, response rate and duration of remission of patients treated with single drugs are compared with the same parameters in those treated by polychemotherapy. Further, since the combined treatment schedule was introduced in our group in 1969, survival of patients treated before and after this date is likewise compared. 35% of patients in the single drug group survived for more than 2 years, against 69% in the polychemotherapy group. At 3-year survival, the corresponding values were 12% and 61% respectively. For patients treated before 1969, survival of 2 and 3 years represents 45% and 22%. For patients treated from 1969 to 1973, the corresponding values are 61% and 51%. Rates of complete response are 20% for single drug treatments and 70% for combined treatments. Analysis of the results suggests that these differences correspond to the therapeutic superiority of combined chemotherapy in the treatment of Hodgkin's disease and not to major discrepancies in prognostic factors among the patient groups compared.


Experimental allergic encephalomyelitis in Lewis rats: chemical synthesis of disease-inducing determinant. Two amino acid sequences from the same regions of guinea pig and bovine myelin basic protein which induce experimental allergic encephalomyelitis in Lewis rats were synthesized. The sequences of these two regions may be defined by residues 69 to 84 of the bovine basic protein. The encephalitogenic sequence from guinea pig basic protein (peptide S49), H-Gly-Ser-Leu-Pro-Gln-Lys-Ala-Gin-Arg-Pro-Gin-Asp-Glu-Asn-OH, is a much more potent encephalitogen than that of H-Gly-Ser-Leu-Pro-Gln-Lys-Ala-Gln-Gly-His-Arg-Pro-Gln-Asp-Glu-Asn-OH (peptide S8) found in the bovine protein. The primary structures of the two determinants are similar; however, a Gly-His deletion from the guinea pig sequence is noted. Study of the encephalitogenicity of peptide S49, peptide S8, and the parent proteins suggests that the difference in the encephalitogenic potency of the parent proteins in Lewis rats is due to a natural modification in the primary structure of their respective encephalitogenic determinants.


Use of a programmed, self-instructional text to teach psychiatry to freshman medical students. A self-instructional learning system including a text, videotape cassettes, and a test book was used as the core of freshmen psychiatry at the Texas Tech University School of Medicine. The 52 hours previously taken up by lectures were used for small group discussions and exploring the doctor-patient relationship. Three fourths of the 43 students polled found the text to be adequate and easy to use and more useful than lectures, handouts, and small group discussions.


Brain tumors of mixed tissue origin: staining procedures to distinguish glial from connective tissue. Described is a unique mixed intracerebral tumor composed of schwannoma, piloid astrocytoma, and angiomatous malformation. Review of conventional staining methods for distinguishing glial from connective tissue fibrils reveals that Mallory's phosphotungstic acid-hematoxylin (PTAH) method is less specific than is generally recognized. Knowledge of these pitfalls, combined with use of hematoxylin and eosin stains, and reticulum impregnations are currently most useful in making the distinction by light microscopy. Criteria for malignancy of schwannoma and other mesenchymal tumors should be based on number of mitotic figures and invasiveness rather than on pleomorphiam of cells. Prior knowledge of the location of the tumor may lead to diagnosing some schwannomas as other types of tumor.


Evaluation of the Gravlee Jet Washer using combined cell block/cytologic interpretations. Two hundred patients at high risk for endometrial adenocarcinoma were screened using the Gravlee Jet Washer. Tissue obtained from the first 100 patients was processed by cell block technic alone; tissue from the second 100 patients was processed by cell block plus direct smear and Nucleopore filtration stained by the Papanicolaou method. All patients had histologic diagnosis by fractional curettage. Six of 12 patients with a tissue diagnosis of carcinoma were missed by the jet washer using the cell block technic alone. In the second 100 patients, no cases of cancer were missed using both cell block and cytologic technics. Technic and application of the jet washer in screening for endometrial carcinoma are discussed. We conclude that the Gravlee Jet Washer is a safe, effective screening tool which frequently may replace diagnostic curettage; however, if abnormal bleeding persists, curettage must be done.


Tuberculosis in Indonesia: recent studies on detection and drug susceptibility of mycobacteria in Jakarta. Sputum specimens from more than 1000 Indonesian tuberculosis suspects were examined by bacteriologic culture, and by bright field and fluorescence microscopy. Two hundred twenty had positive Mycobacterium tuberculosis cultures and of these 68% were positive by fluorescence microscopy. Agreement between culture, both negative and positive, and fluorescence microscopy was 87%. Sensitivity to antituberculous drugs was performed in 209 isolates. Significant resistance to isoniazid, para-amino salicylic acid, and streptomycin was found i.e. 65 (31%), 19 (19%), 54 (26%), respectively. Fluorescence microscopy was a useful method for rapid microscopic confirmation of tuberculosis and was especially valuable in detecting difficult-to-culture organisms.


Laboratory insecticide susceptibility tests against Mansonia larvae. Insecticides Abate, DDT, Dowco-214, Dursban, fenitrothion, fenthion, gamma-HCH, and malathion were tested against the field collected fourth instars larvae of Mansonia from Penang Island, Malaysia. The larvae appeared to be highly susceptible to Dursban and Abate with LC50 values of 1.54 and 1.92 parts per billion respectively. Other chemicals, in decreasing degree of effectiveness, were gamma-HCH, fenthion, P,P'-DDT, Dowco-214, fenithrothion and malathion. The potential use of these chemicals in Mansonia control was discussed. A simple method for collecting and testing Mansonia larvae was also described.


Drug control of common symptoms in the terminally ill patient. St Christophers' Hospice near London is now internationally known as a special centre for the care of terminally ill patients. In these cases, the relief of symptoms is paramount, and prominent among those symptoms is pain. Such pain can almost always be relieved without euphoria or lessening of consciousness. More than 60% of patients admitted to St Christopher's complain of pain, and the scheme of management outlined below results in substantial or complete relief of pain in all of them. Addiction does not occur when control of the patient's pain is part of the pattern of total care. The author considers management of pain of varying severity, together with associated symptoms such as vomiting, anorexia, dry mouth and hiccup, dyspnoea, cough, anxiety and depression, insomnia, constipation and diarrhoea.


Duration of symptoms and prognosis of carcinoma of the colon and rectum. The symptomatic history in 335 instances of carcinoma of the colon and rectum was compared with the long term survival of the patients. The patients were divided into four groups according to the duration of symptoms recorded on admission to the hospital. There was a significantly higher incidence of resections for cure in those who had symptoms for less than five months' duration, but the long term survival of patients was not significantly related to the duration of symptoms. The pathologic findings suggested that patients presenting early had more virulent or biologically active tumors, and the onset of symptoms in these patients more frequently included complaints of abdominal pain and multiple symptoms. It appears that the prognosis of carcinoma of the colon and rectum is largely determined by the biologic behavior of the primary tumor rather than by the length of the symptomatic illness, and it also appears that the earlier diagnosis of symptomatic patients may result in comparatively small gains in the survival rate.


A comparison of HLA data of the North American black with African black and North American caucasoid populations. For purposes of genetic comparison, the available HLA data on United States and African Black, together with United States Caucasoid populations, are summarized. Antigen frequencies and pairwise linkage disequilibria are presented for the HLA-A, -B and -C loci in Black populations typed for the 1975 Histocompatibility Testing Workshop. The Black population samples comprise 356 North American Blacks and 411 African Blacks of whom 222 were Bantu. These are compared with a sample of 503 American Caucasoids. All significant linkage disequilibria between the A and B loci found in North American Blacks were also present in the North American Caucasoids. Between the B and C loci, Bw35 and Cw4 were in strong linkage disequilibrium in all groups. Significantly stron association between the A and C loci (Aw28 with Cw3) were observed only in the African Blacks. There were unique disequilibria both in the American Caucasoids and African Blacks. Although the frequencies of many antigens in U.S. Blacks lie between those in Africans and U.S. Caucasoids, there are exceptions such as Aw33, Bw35, Cw4.


Serological identification of five HLA-D associated (Ia-like) determinants. Five antisera raised within HLA-A and -B compatible, HLA-D disparate combinations were reactive in a modified NIH microcytotoxicity test with B lymphocytes, but not with T lymphocytes from the immunizing donor, as well as with B lymphocytes from most or all donors sharing his immunizing HLA-D phenotype. Four antisera recognized structures closely associated with the HLA-D determinants Dw2, Dw3, Dw4 and LD 108. One serum had a broad reactivity pattern including Dw3, Dw6 and some unknown specificity(ies). In population and family studies, these B lymphocyte antigens behaved as if they were governed by one genetic locus in the B-D region of the HLA complex. We conclude that the antisera produced by this method recognize Ia-like antigens identical to or very closely associated with the HLA-D determinants.


Decreased utilization of [2-14C]orotic acid for the synthesis of cytidine nucleotides in rat liver after administration of alpha-hexachlorocyclohexane. Administration of alpha-1,2,3,4,5,6-hexachlorocyclohexane (alpha-HCH) to rats decreased the utilization of [2-14C]orotic acid for the synthesis of liver cytidine nucleotides. The specific radioactivities of uridine components of the acid-soluble pool and rRNA increased during the first hours of treatment with the drug. Later on the specific radioactivities of uridine nucleotides remained unchanged, while those of cytidine components decreased gradually. Administration of hydrocortisone increased the incorporation of labelled orotic acid into rRNA cytidylic acid.


Carcinogenicity study of lindane in the mouse. Linadane (gamma-BHC) was investigated for its possible carcinogenic effect on 500 mice (250 males, 250 females) of the Chbi: NMRI (SPF) strain in a study lasting 80 weeks. A substance-related production of tumours was not evident at the dosage levels employed (12.5, 25 and 50 ppm). The tumours found corresponded in type and frequency to those occurring spontaneously in this strain. Electron-microscopical examination of livers, carried our at the same time, provided no evidence of Lindane-induced fine structural hepatocellular alterations.


The analysis of some commercial dyes and Romamowsky stains by high-performance liquid chromatography. High-performance liquid chromatography has been used to quantitate batch variations in commericial samples of thiazine dyes, thiazine eosinates, and Romanowsky-type blood stains. It has been observed that all the dyes and eosinates examined, only methylene blue chloride and thionin were reasonably free of their methylated, demethylated, or oxidized homologs. Large variations in composition were observed between most of the samples of each type examined. In several instances the labeled compound was a minority species. In one instance a dye was apparently mislabeled. Large compositional variation was found between various batches of Wright and Giemsa stains, whereas significant differences between the thiazine composition of these two stain types were minor. Very little compositional variation was observed between the lots of LARC stain examined. The thiazine composition of Ames stain was similar for the three lots examined. Ames stain, however, was found to contain several components of unknown composition which have been linked to degradation products formed when stains are aged in methanolic solution.


Staining of muscle tissue for quantitative studies and automated morphometry. Seventy-six staining tests were carried out of paraffin sections of human and animal muscle to find a suitable staining method for quantitative morphometry of muscle fibers. The results were evaluated under the light microscope, on black and white photomicrographs and on an image analysing computer, the Quantimet 720.A brilliant scarlet-phosphotungstic acid-tartrazine method is described and recommended for automated morphometry after additional testing on 140 sections of developing human muscle using the Quantiment 720.


The degradation of Romanowsky-type blood stains in methanol. The oxidative demethylation of Romanowsky-type stains in methanol has been examined quantitatively with respect to its effect upon the staining of blood smears. Spectral changes in bound dye, observed through two color filters, have been measured for the nuclei and cytoplasm of segmented neutrophils and monocytes utilizing the LARC automated differential analyzer. Stain decomposition in methanol results in a large loss in staining intensity with little change in color. The loss in intensity has been correlated with the observed spectral changes in the degraded stain. High-performance liquid chromatographic analysis of degraded stain samples has shown the products of methanolic degradation to be different from those obtained in aqueous polychroming reactions. To maintain a stain of defined thiazine dye composition and thus defined staining properties, refrigeration is recommended.


A naphthol yellow S and erythrosin B staining procedure for use in studies of the acrosome reaction of rabbit spermatozoa. Rabbit spermatozoa suspended in Krebs-Ringer-phosphate containing 0.25% glucose were smeared on polylysine-coated slides and dried in air at room temperature for 30 min at room temperature, blotted, rinsed in 1.0% aqueous acetic acid for 10-15 sec, drained and stained for 7 min in a mixture of equal parts of aqueous naphthol yellow S and erythrosin B (final concentration of each dye 0.1% w/v) at pH 4.6-5.0 (pH adjusted with acetic acid). Stained slides were well rinsed in distilled water adjusted to pH 4.6-5.0 with acetic acid, blotted, allowed to dry completely, rinsed in xylene and mounted in synthetic resin. Acrosomal caps were stained cherry-red (apical ridge) to pink (dorsal and ventral aspects); postnuclear caps stained pale pink; nuclei were either unstained or stained a very faint yellowish-pink. The mid-piece and flagellum were stained different shades of pink. The procedure is simple, rapid, and gives highly reproducible results. When present, acrosomes are easily detected regardless of the density of the smear.


Joint report of the first workshop of the LD typing study group. In the first workshop of the American LD Typing Study Group, six exchanged typing cells were used by all participants. Several other homozygous typing cells were included in individual experiments by the participating laboratories. The data obtained from LD typing of 142 individuals, among whom were members of 33 families, were submitted for joint analysis by computer. Several typing cells appeared to recognize new HLA-D specificities. Their typing reactions were clearly discernible in the computer analysis of the results using the 25th percentile stabilization method. The next phase of this work will consist of an expanded study of the families included in the present report.


Typing by compatibility in mixed lymphocyte culture using LD-homozygous typing cells. Groups of determinants that produce strong MLC stimulation can be recognized by the use of LD-homozygous typing cells. The importance of these antigens of the main histocompatibility region resides in their involvement in the immune response to thymus-dependent antigens, their role in transplant rejection, and predisposition to disease. Eight specificities are at present recognized, but others are known to exist and can be defined using new typing cells developed in individual laboratories. A collaborative project to study the genetics of the MLC determinants has been initiated by several American investigators.


Complete HLA and Bf typing in families. I. Analysis of MLC responses and LD typing. A triple normalization protocol for the analysis of MLC responses was evaluated using data obtained in more than 1700 triplicate reactions between the members of 17 families. The results show the method to be consistent with immunogenetic expectations. Typing responses to HTC, however, may have values identical with those of some weak one-haplotype responses and often can only be resolved by segregationanalysis.


[Strain related differences in the immunodiagnosis of malaria (author's transl)]. In infections with P. falciparum and P. vivax antibody titers were found to differ in relation to strains. Various strains of both Plasmodium species used as antigens showed differences in their sensitivity in reactions with one patient serum. In P. vivax infections it is supposed that some antibody titer differences are caused by antigen variations.


[TNM-system orientated radiological therapy in prostatic carcinoma (author's transl)]. The classification of prostatic cancer according to the TNM-system in contrast to the older staging systems results in a change in radiological therapy planing. The radiological techniques for the classification of N (lymphnodes) and M (metastases) are explained. Together with T (local tumore growth) these categories define the outline for the radiological therapy. The different radiation techniques are explained.


Polichemotherapy of advanced head and neck malignancies. The favorable results obtained by other authors with polichemotherapy encouraged us to employ therapeutic scheme using a combination of 4 drugs. Treatment envolved the administration of 300 mg/mz cyclophosphamide, 350 mg/m2 5-fluorouracil, 10 mg/mw2 methotrexate i.v. on alternate days 6-8 times, and 15 mg bleomycin on alternate days until a total dose of 150-200 mg is reached. Thirty-five out of 37 patients treated with this protocol (30 previously treated and 5 not) qualified for analysis; the site of the neoplasm, mostly squamous cell carcinoma, was different; for the most part it was in the larynx (18/35) and the oral cavity (10/35). Complete remission was achieved in 9/35 patients (25.7%), varying from 5 to 33 months (median 22); partial remission was achieved in 15/35 cases (42.8%), varying from 1 to 14 months (median 3); and there was no success in 11/35 cases (31.5%). Overall, a total remission greater than 50% was observed in 24/35 patients (68.5%). The most serious side effects both ascribed to BLM were observed in the central nervous system (increasing drowsiness and coma) and the lung. This study has shown that in the ultra head and neck malignancies medical treatment can achieve satisfactory results.


[Aspects of the operative treatment of prostatic adenoma]. The authors have gained minimum blood losses when suturing with provisional catgut ligature through the urinary bladder bottom between interureteral fold and internal urethral orifice yet before dessection of adenoma surgical capsule and tumor enucleation. Depending on the functional state of the upper urinary tract, the bladder tonus and adenoma size, the method of postoperative drainage of the urinary bladder is selected: cystostomy, microirrigation, active suction, etc.


[Demonstration of the Bovid herpesvirus 2 in cell cultures with the aid of fluorescent antibodies]. Used was the immunofluorescence method employing fluorescinisothiocyanate-labeled antibodies against Bovid herpesvirus 2. The localisation and the dynamics of the virus antigen were followed up in cell cultures of calf kidney epithelium. Results showed that there was a specific cytoplastic-nuclear fluorescence in the infected cells. The dynamics of the virus multiplication revealed the presence of a specific antigen by about the 6th hour following the infection of the cells. Discussed is the problem of using the immunofluorescence technique in the differentiation of herpes mammillitis from the rest vesicular diseases of the cow's udder that are similar to one another by clinical picture.


[Changes in the serum proteins in suppurative surgical infection in cattle]. Studied were the serum proteins of 3 cattle with a spontaneous suppurative surgery infection and 10 cattle with an experimental infection of the same character. It was found that in such cases there is a rise in the total protein, the alpha and gamma globulins, and a drop in the albumin and the beta-globulins. The experimental suppurative infection caused by Corynebacterium pyogenes produces changes of a higher degree in the protein spectrum than the experimental infection caused by Str. pyogenes. In cases in which the general status of the organism is more strongly involved in the infection process the changes in the protein fractions are more strongly expressed.


Ultrastructure of alcoholic hyalin and fate of the affected hepatocytes. In liver biopsy specimens, foci of satellitosis, i.e., foci of alcoholic hyalin containing hepatocytes surrounded by accumulated leukocytes, were studied by means of electron-microscopic investigation. Within satellitosis hepatocytes, the same morphologic variants of alcoholic hyalin were observed as formerly described in nonsatellitosis liver cells: (1) clusters of randomly oriented smooth filaments of homogenous electron density, (2) bundles of filaments aligned in parallel arrays and exhibiting irregular densities and indistinct boundaries, and (3) masses of a strongly osmiophilic amorphous material, presumably lipidic in nature. The individual hyalin body was composed of one, two, or all three components in varying proportions; an uptake by cytosegresomes was never observed. The leukocytes of satellitosis foci, mostly polymorphonuclear ones without obvious alterations, had close contact to the central hepatocytes, and sometimes covered large holes in the hepatocellular plasma membrane. In other cases, hepatocytes and neutrophils were both destroyed and the hyalin bodies were found unaltered within the sinusoids. It is suggested that alcoholic hyalin represents an inert proteinaceous storage material, deposited at the site of synthesis which in the course of time becomes superimposed by a lipid component. In cases of alcohol-induced hepatocellular lesions, those hepatocytes which produce hyalin bodies may have a special metabolic sensitivity to alcohol which on the one hand may result in hyalin synthesis and accumulation and on the other hand may, under special conditions, lead to plasma membrane destruction with secondary satellitosis formation.


[Form and content of iodine-containing components of blood in liver pathology]. In dynamics of development of toxic heptatitis and cirrhosis the alterations in functionality of thyroid glands were accompanied by qualitative and quantitative changes of separate iodine-containing components in blood.


Serial infusion effects of hydroxyethyl starch on ESR, blood typing and crossmatching and serum amylase levels. Eight normal healthy volunteers underwent a series of three plasmaphereses, prior to the infusion of 250, 500, and 750 ml hydroxyethyl starch (HES), respectively, in order to ascertain the effect of this agent on erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), blood typing and crossmatching, and serum amylase levels. The bolus injection of either 500 or 750 ml HES produced a significant increase in the ESR, which was sustained over a 5-hour period. Rouleaux formation was observed to be dose related and only observed following administration of greater than 500 ml (575 mg/dl whole blood concentration). The rouleaux formation was, however, easily dispersed by the addition of saline. Blood typing and crossmatching studies were normal, but caution must be taken in regard to false positives when the estimated blood concentration of HES exceeds 575 mg/dl. a-Amylase activity corrected for hemodilution was not significantly altered immediately following infusion of HES in these reported amounts. Recommendation of a new method of HES administration during centrifugal leucapheresis is discussed.


[Use of proteins, covalently bound to agar gel, for specific sorption in electrophoresis]. A method is developed for electrophoretic fractionation of serum proteins in agar gel with simultaneous specific sorption of gamma-globulin fraction, migrating during the electrophoresis through specific immunosorbents incorporated into agar gel. The reaction was carried out in a special apparatus designed for the electrophoresis in two perpendicular directions. The sorbent was separated from impurities by passing the current in the first direction. The unspecific sorbent did not alter the electrophoretic mobility of migrating proteins, but the specific sorbents immobilized completely both antibodies and antigens. The antibodies were shown to bind repeatedly to the immunoglobulins, which had been linked to the sorbent. The method facilitated distinctly the estimation of antigens and antibodies in complicated mixtures. By analogy with affinity chromatography a term "affinity electrophoresis" was used for designation of the method described.


Development of an intravenous gamma-globulin with Fc activities. I. Preparation and characterization of S-sulfonated human gamma-globulin. S-sulfonated gamma-globulin (S-GG) was prepared by treating gamma-globulin with sulfite and tetrathionate ions. About four interchain disulfide bonds were selectively cleaved to give S-sulfonate groups. Although the above treatment strongly suppresses anticomplementary activity and nonspecific skin reactivity, the resulting S-GG retains high antibody activity. Furthermore, S-GG was found to maintain satisfactory levels for prolonged periods in vivo. The physicochemical and antigenic analyses of S-GG suggest that the S-sulfonation induces structural modification only at restricted sites.


[Immunochemical analysis of toxic protein fractions of burned skin]. As a result of hyperimmunization of rabbits with a preparation of toxic protein fractions from burned rat skin an antiserum, containing specific "antiburn" antibodies, was obtained. The antiserum cross-reacted in the precipitation reaction with proteins from normal skin and with macroglobulin fraction of normal blood serum. Purification and estimation of the antibodies specificity were carried out by means of immunoabsorbents, synthesized on the basis of CNBr-Sepharose 4B. The toxin from burned skin was shown to possess both the specific antigenic determinants and those common for the normal properties of skin and serum.


Development of an intravenous gamma-globulin with Fc activities. II. Reconversion of S-sulfonated human gamma-globulin into the original gamma-globulin. The reconversion of S-sulfonated antitetanus gamma-globulin (S-GG) into the original gamma-globulin was studied. S-sulfonate groups in S-GG could be converted into disulfide bonds in vitro. The conversion restored the greater part of both complement-fixing and skin-sensitizing activities. S-GG administered intravenously formed interchain disulfide bonds again in vivo, which was accompanied by restoration of the C-dependent passive hemolytic activity. Intravenous injection of S-GG did not cause a significant decrease in serum complement level.


[Cation preferences of the DNA-polymerases in plasma from patients with leukaemia or breast cancer (author's transl)]. The reverse transcriptase in plasma from leukaemic patients perfers the divalent cation Mn++ to Mg++ in the polymerase assay. The reverse is true for the enzyme from plasma of patients with breast cancer. This cation preference is analogous to the cation preference found in B- and C-type RNA-tumour viruses.


[Analysis of the antigenic properties of strains of influenza virus that caused the epidemic of 1974-1975]. The etiology of influenza epidemic of 1974-1975 in the USSR was studied. The influenza viruses isolated from patients in the period of the 1974-1975 epidemic were tested in the hemagglutination-inhibition, neuraminidase activity-inhibition, immunoadsorption and biological neutralization tests. The majority of the strains tested were shown to be similar to the new antigenic variant A/Port Chalmers/1/73. It means that the strains of A/Port Chalmers/1/73 variant occurred epidemically in this region only in the winter of 1974-1975. The greatest differences between the new isolates and previously circulating strains of A/England/42/72 variant were observed in biologic neutralization tests.


[The effect of bleomycin, ICRF 159 and of simultaneous X-ray application on CHO-fibroblasts]. The cell damage of the cytostatics Bleomycin and ICRF 159 were studied experimentally by the use of the following parameters: colony survival, colony-size-spectrometry and multiplicity of CHO-Fibroblasts. Series of increasing drug concentrations and simultaneous irradiation with 200 rds were measured. In the above mentioned tests an additive and no potentiating effect of damage by the cytostatics in combination with irradiation of 200 rds was found. Compared with Bleomycin, ICRF 159 showed a higher degree of damage to CHO-Fibroblasts.


What does the symptom "palpitation" mean? - Correlation between symptoms and the presence of cardiac arrhythmias in the ambulatory Ecg. The correlation between palpitations and arrhythmias was examined using 319 long term Ecgs of 167 patients. Furthermore, we attempted to determine the shortest possible recording time permitting the correct diagnosis of an arrhythmia and ST-segment changes. 31 arrhythmias (9.7%) were correctly identified by our patients; On the other hand, while there were 20 palpitations (39%) that could not be related to an arrhythmia we recorded 39 instances in which these same patients missed an arrhythmia. Tachycardias and multiple ventricular extrasystoles were most likely identified. Most of the rhythm disturbances (89%) appeared during the first 12 hours and all of the ST-segment changes eventually seen (100%) occurred until the end of 8 hours of recording. This study shows that ths symptom "palpitation" is a poor indicator of underlying rhythm disturbances. In the documentation of arrhythmias and/or ischemic ST-segment changes 8 to 12 hours of recording should usually be sufficient.


[The effect of ethanol and antabus-antabus-alcohol-reaction on histamin and mast cell. Contents of the lung (author's transl)]. Alcohol--orally given in concentrations from 1 to 4 g/kg body-weight--leads to a reduction of mast cells in the guinea pig lung. At the same time a minor decrease of histamine concentration was observed. The incompatibility reaction with alcohol after disulfiram intake (DAR) shows an additional degranulation oft mast cells of the lungs and decrease of histamine-content. So far, there seems little difference between the influence of disulfiram alone and the DAR. Besides thrombocytes and basophile leucocytes, the mast cells of the lung are responsible for the release of histamine and serotonine during higher alcohol concentrations and alcohol-disulfiram-reactions. We think that the intolerance phenomena of humans after alcohol--f.e. in form of flush-reaction--is at least partly related to the concomitant influence oft mast cell-substances.


[Determination of alpha1-fetoprotein in bloodstains by means of electrophoresis on cellulose acete (author's transl)]. The distinction of foetal from adult blood stains prepared from 219 cord blood samples was possible, without exception, up to eight months by means of alpha1-fetoprotein precipitation, carried out by immuno-electrophoresis on cellulose acetate (Biotest) instead of agar gel, as described by Patzelt, Geserick and Lignitz. The material carrying the blood stains (glass, wood, paper and linen) did not influence the results.


[Relationship between the virulence of a culture and the presence of common (non-type-specific) antigens in strains of group A streptococcus of different types]. In studying common (nontypespecific) antigens sensitivity to trypsin there was shown their wide distribution among the cultures of streptococcus, group A, belonging to different types and containing M-proteins. The antigen No. 1, identical to one of the antigens of the thermostable fraction was found in the cultures, irrespective of the degree of their virulence. The antigen No. 2 was characteristic of only virulent cultures obtained after the increase of the virulence and forming matt-form colonies. Both of the antigens were referred to the category of R-antigens. The presence of the nonspecific antigens in the hydrochloric extracts should be taken into consideration in typing streptococci of group A and determination of M-antigens.


[Effect of partial modification of serum albumin on its conformation and complex-forming activity]. In using a series of the succinic anhydride concentration the authors obtained preparations of succinylated albumin with a different degree of modification. The effect of succinylation on the immunochemical and some physico-chemical properties of albumin were investigated; depending on the concentration of the modifying reagent preparations of succinylated albumin proved to differ by the antigenic properties, electrophoretic mobility in agar gel and the complex-forming activity in interaction with rivanol. Conditions of partial modification permitting to increase the complex-forming properties of albumin 3-fold with the minimal changes in its structure were determined.


[Simultaneous transvesical prostatectomy and reconstructive surgery of inguinoscrotal hernia]. In the surgical treatment of the hypertrophy of the prostata we use few operative methods. Some of them are older than 80 years. Mainly we use modify Harris--Hryntschak technics. Still 1889 Bassini made known operative method for onquinoscrotal hernia which has been with some modifications used up to this day. Bacause of the very low mortality and a pour local complication in last 5 years, if there is in the same time hypertrophy of the prostata and hernia, we combined open transvesical prostatectomy with a plastic of onquinoscrotal hernia. The authors give own operative technic, its advantage and the review on own casuistic.


[Ankylosis in the lower limb in ankylosing spondylitis]. Synostosing ankylosis of lower limb joints was investigated radiologically and clinically in approximately 2000 patients with ankylosing spondylitis. Ankylosis was found in 8 hip joints and in 4 of the joints of the foot skeleton. Most commonly the initial picture of these diseases is that of an arthritis (sometimes specifically misinterpreted as such) years and decades before the manifestation of ankylosing spondylitis appears. The ossifying potential of the disease can apparently manifest itself early in limited areas. The radiological morphology with destruction and reconstruction is found mainly as the well known vertebral changes. Immobilization can at the most be regarded as a favourable factor in a predominantly immunological-inflammatory patho-mechanism. Additional local abnormalities of the vascular or enzymatic systems of the joints can be assumed.


Studies on a case of suppurative thyroiditis. A patient with suppurative thyroiditis due to infection with Escherichia coli is described. Serial studies of thyroid function were performed. Before the abscess was drained there was no uptake of radio-iodine by the thyroid and there was some spillage of iodinated compounds from the gland. Post-operatively circulating thyroid hormone concentrations declined but were restored at four weeks. Thyroid uptake of radio-iodine was re-established two weeks after operation but there was little secretion of thyroxine at this time. Four weeks after operation the uptake of radio-iodine was greater than normal and thyroxine was being secreted. These changes in thyroid function were not associated with any significant rise in the plasma thyrotrophin concentration.


A simple stain for nerve fibres.

A simple stain for nerve fibres. A modification of Wilson's crystal violet staining for renin granules is able to show both centra and peripheral nerve fibres on paraffin sections with reproducible results. Fixation, pH and temperature are critical. This stain is considered to demonstrate nerve fibres on account of its capacity to combine with proteolipids.


Histochemical methods for proteins in tissues submitted to decalcification. A histophotometric study. 4 histochemical methods for demonstration of protein acid groups: Nihydrin-Schiff, Millon, DDD and DMAB-nitrite were applied in sections of rat pancreas fixed in the following fixatives: 10% formalin, 10% formalin in saline, ZENKER and GENDRE, and treated with the following decalcifying solutions: 5% nitric acid, 5% trichloroacetic acid, 33% formic acid, 5% EDTA pH=7.0 JENKINS, GREEP and citrate buffer pH=4.5. The colour intensity of each reaction was measured photometrically over the zymogen granules region of the acinar cells, using a Zeiss histophotometer, and compared with controls, i.e., fixed tissue which have not been treated with decalcifying solutions. The results have shown that for each method there is more than one combination fixative-decalcifying solution which gives results similar to those of the control.


Osmotic effects on neutrophil segmentation. An in vitro phenomenon. Segementation of the nucleus is an important morphologic characteristic of mature neutrophils and is a useful parameter for their identification in various body fluids. From our studies, we have demonstrated that when mature neutrophils are placed in low specific gravity urine, cellular enlargement and a loss of nuclear segmentation occur, resulting in inaccurate identification. Both cytotechnologists and investigators involved in neutrophil research should be aware of the effects of tonicity on morphologic characteristics.


Morphological and functional aspects of the arrangement of connective tissue and muscle fibres in the tail of the Mexican axolotl, Siredon mexicanum (Shaw) (Amphibia, Urodela). In the lateral musculature of the axolotl tail a multipennate arrangement of muscle fibres is found in the 3rd postanal myomere and all following myomeres. This arrangement appears in larval stages as soon as the myomeres concerned are fully differentiated. Within a myomere a uniform degree of contraction of the muscle fibres may be achieved either by helical arrangement as seen in Teleosts, by diminishing fibre length in medial direction or by a combination of both phenomena. The relation between muscle fibre length and angle of insertion in the myomeres showing pennate arrangement is approximated by the Benninghoff and Roll-häuser equation but the values recorded deviated systematically from the values calculated. In the rather slender tail of the axolotl the transition from the helical or parallel fibre system into the pennate arrangement will be in favour of the development of relatively strong bending moments in the region concerned while a reasonable uniformity of the rate of contraction is maintained.


Lupus erythematosus cells in pleural fluid cytologic diagnosis in two patients. Lupus erythematosus (LE) cells were demonstrated inpleural fluids from two patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). They were observed in preparations stained with the Giemsa and the Papanicolaou stains. The finding of LE cells in serous fluid has rarely been reported. Our results suggest that it is imporant to search for LE cells in serous fluid in patients in whom the diagnosis of SLE has not been established.


Mucopolysaccharides in the dog spinal cord and dorsal root ganglia. A histochemical study. A histochemical study of mucopolysaccharides in the dog spinal cord and dorsal root ganglia is reported in this paper. The histochemical techniques used were the following: PAS, colloidal iron, toluidine blue (pH 5.4 and 3.5), thionine (pH 5.4 and 3.5) and alcian blue 8GX (pH 1 and 2.5). Some histological stains were used also. Two types of neurons could be observed in spinal cord sections stained with colloidal iron techniques. In some neuron a border line of mucosubstances could be seen. In the dorsal root ganglia, different patterns of Nissl bodies distribution in neurons were described. This different distribution of Nissl bodies is associated with different metachromatic colorations of neurons. By using the colloidal iron method, two types of neurons were also revealed in the dorsal root ganglia: some neurons are of a yellow, small-sized and star-shaped type and others are of a light green, larger and round-shaped type. Mucosubstances in the endoneurium and perineurium of nerve fibers, in the Ranvier nodules and in the Schmidt-Lantermann incisures were observed. The possibility that the functional rhythm in some cases might be responsible for the difference in coloration between the dorsal root ganglia neurons is suggested.


Appearance of free histones within nuclei of differentiating cells in the developing rat embryo. Having applied the picric acid-bromphenol blue (BPB) and the phosphomolybdic acid-benzidine (PMA-B) methods--the first method detecting the total histone content, the second one only free histones--we have found that cell nuclei of the rat embryos permanently contain histones, nevertheless, in such a pattern that the free histone appears only at a well-defined stage of embryogenesis. Strong PMA-B reaction is observable in the nuclei of some mesenchymal cells and in the reorganizing somites' cell nuclei of the 13-day-old embryo as well as in the hemopoietic elements of the 15- and 17-day old embryos' liver. Within nuclei of the red blood cells of the 13-day-old embryo an extremely intense reaction is seen which then disappears till the 15th day, while the BPB reaction shows a gradual intensification up to the neonatal age. The experiments support the former model of one of the authors for a histone-nonhistone control of ontogenesis.


Susceptibility to experimental allergic encephalomyelitis in two strains of rats and their hybrids. Lewis and PVG strains of rats and their F1-hybrids were challenged with guinea-pig or bovine encephalitogenic protein (EP) in Freund's complete adjuvant (FCA) to produce experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE). The Lewis and F1-rats were also challenged with guinea-pig EP in FCA with a fivefold lower concentration of Mycobacterium butyricum. Data are presented concerning clinical signs and histological changes of EAE showing an intermediate position of susceptibility to EAE for the F1-hybrids compared to the parental strains. The findings are discussed in relation to the mode of inheritance of susceptibility to EAE. Among rats immunized with bovine encephalitogenic protein in FCA a weak activity was registered; this was difficult to evaluate, as it could be an effect of FCA only.


Occurrence of genital herpes simplex and cytomegalovirus infections in pregnancy. A total of 244 pregnant women, 172 in the first and 72 in the third trimester, were screened for genital herpes simplex (HSV) and cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections using virus isolation, cytological examination and serological studies. In addition, immuno-fluorescence staining of exfoliated cervical cells was used for the detection of HSV infections. Herpes simplex virus (HSV) could not be isolated and no characteristic HSV altered cells were found in cytological (PAPA) smears. Cytomegalovirus was isolated four times but PAPA smears obtained from these patients were also normal. In 34 (14%) patients HSV antiserum detected immunofluorescence positive exfoliated cervical cells. Overall, 14% of patients had HSV-2 antibodies and 71% CMV antibodies. No differences between the first or third trimesters in these respects were noted.


Studies on delayed hypersensitivity in mice. I, Physicochemical and biological properties of preferential antigens for inducing delayed hypersensitivity in mice. Variously modified protein antigens were tested by footpad assay to clarify the effect of these medications in producing delayed hypersensitivity in mice. The most potent antigen examined was carboxyl-methylated serum albumins. These antigens were highly basic proteins and hydrophobic compared with native serum proteins. They stimulate humoral antibody response in mice poorly, and remain at the subcutaneous injection site much longer than native serum albumins. In vitro tests of susceptibility of thymus and spleen cells and peritoneal macrophages to the antigens revealed that methylated serum albumins possessed the stimulatory activity to the latter and were toxic to the former. As for macrophage, fluorescein-labelled methylated serum albumin showed an affinity to their membrane and were phagocytosed, but FITC-BSA did not show any affinity to the macrophages. These biological activities to tissue or cells may be contributable to render methylated serum albumins to induce and elicit delayed hypersensitivity preferentially in mice.


Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in cystic fibrosis. Relative prevalence of antibodies in serum against cathodic and anodic migrating P. aeruginosa antigens determined by immunoelectrophoretic methods. Sera from 119 patients with cystic fibrosis were examined for precipitating antibodies against anodic migrating P. aeruginosa antigens by means of crossed immunoelectrophoresis. The presence of precipitins against cathodic migrating P. aeruginosa antigens was investigated by means of classical immunoelectrophoresis. Thirty-six per cent of the sera contained precipitins against both anodic and cathodic antigens, 20% contained only precipitins against anodic antigens, none contained only precipitins against cathodic antigens, and 44% had no demonstrable P. aeurginosa precipitins. The amount of extra information obtained by combining the results of classical immunoelectrophoresis with the results of crossed immunoelectrophoresis was small.


Electron microscope studies on the relationship between mitochondria and inclusion body in spheroid alveolar epithelial cell after vital staining with acidic and basic dyes. Electron microscope observations were conducted on the relationship between mitochondria and inclusion body in mice spheroid alveolar epithelial cells after injection of trypan blue, an acidic dye and Alcian blue 8GS, a basic dye, by vital staining procedures. When both dyes were injected, the mitochondria of the spheroid alveolar epithelial cell became degenerated; however, in injection of only trypan blue, the cristae showed an increase in electron density. In injection on only Alcian blue 8GS, the cristae showed negative contrast. In most cases the trypan blue particles did not enter into mitochondria, whereas particles of Alcian blue 8GS sometimes entered into the mitochondria. When trypan blue particles entered mitochondria, deposits were not evident in the inclusion body, whereas when Alcian blue particles entered mitochondria deposits were seen in the inclusion body. In both of these cases only a few inclusion bodies were formed so that only traces or no inclusion bodies with vacuolar appearance were observed. From these findings it is suggested that mitochondria maybe convert to inclusion bodies.


[Remarks on the modifications of cell wall during the sporulation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Hansen (author's transl)]. Evolution of cell wall during sporulation was studied by means of scanning electron microscopy and by immunological techniques. Experiments were done simultaneously with a strain a/alpha able to sporulate and a strain alpha/alpha unable to sporulate. Under such conditions it was possible to clarify whether the changes observed were related to the sporulation or to the culture conditions. Cell wall structure modifications during sporulation were not obvious morphologically but have been revealed by immunological methods. During vegetative growth, antigenic sites of strains a/alpha and alpha/alpha were different. During incubation in the sporulation medium, antigenic structure of the cell wall was modified. Some antigenic sites seem to be specific of sporulation.


The influence of some herbicides on selected groups of microorganisms in loess and sandy soils. II. The effect of nitrification. Studies on the effect of herbicides on nitrification in field and laboratory conditions have shown that steady use of these substances in the same field does not exert a significant effect on this process in the soil. The herbicides caused only shortlasting disturbances. Nitrification usually returned to a relative equilibrium in several days after the herbicide application.


On the combined action of drugs on the lambda prophage induction in Escherichia coli K12 cells. The capability of methotrexate, jododeoxyuridine and 5-fluorouracil to induce lambda prophage was compared when given alone or in combination. All these drugs were found to cause inducing conditions in Escherichia coli K12(lambda) cells. Combined action of jododeoxyuridine and methotrexate resulted in a pronounced increase in the number of free phages compared with that resulting the treatment either with methotrexate of jododeoxyuridine alone. Treatment with 5-fluorouracil caused inactivation of plaque forming ability in cells induced with methotrexate.


Effect of X rays on virus production and DNA synthesis in adenovirus-infected cells. The effect of X rays on the process of type 10 adenovirus infection in HeLa cells was tested. CPE development and virus infections titer were lower in the irradiated cells, while CF titer remained unchanged. The rate of DNA synthesis, as measured by 3H-thymidine incorporation, was higher in the infected cells and radiosensitivity of the process was higher in the infected cells compared with uninfected controls.


Mechanism of conjugation and recombination in bacteria. XVII. Further evidence for single-stranded regions in recipient DNA during conjugation in Escherichia coli K-12. The secondary structure of recipient DNA mated with Hfr strain was investigated by CsCl density gradient fractionation. After 45 min of HfrH64 X 3h-f-ab1157 mating one-fourth of the radioactive recipient DNA was recovered as a single-strand but only after shearing of cell lysates prior to centrifugation. This heavier than native DNA fraction of radioactive material (obtained after the first centrifugation) was degraded by single-strand specific nuclease S from Aspergillus oryzae. These findings thus confirm the authors' earlier results suggesting that in the course of mating are generated local single-stranded regions in recipient DNA.


Effect of X rays on protein synthesis and RNA synthesis in adenovirus-infected cells. Ionizing radiation exerts a deteriorating effect on the rate of protein and RNA synthesis in HeLa cells. This effect is higher in cells infected with adenovirus, thus pointing to a higher radiosensitivity of viral syntheses compared with the cellular ones.


Effect of various culturing conditions of Acholeplasma laidlawii on the yield and properties of the cells and cell membrane. Acholeplasma laidlawii strain B cell cultured in complex medium have an optimal temperature of growth at 31 degrees. Maximal growth at this temperature is 80% higher than at 37 degrees. By stirring of the culture, the yield of the cell mass of 4 liter-cultures increases by 200%. With these modifications the yield of cell membranes increases 3--4 times with respect to that of static culturing at 37 degrees. Membranes obtained from better aerated cultures have a lower flavin and carotenoid content. Membranes obtained from agitated cultures show a higher content of the more insoluble membrane-core proteins. It is suggested that these proteins play a role in membrane and cell adhesiveness.


Formylation and acetylation of 4-chloroaniline by a Streptomyces sp. 4-Chloroaniline was metabolized in a liquid growth medium by a Streptomyces sp. which was isolated from soil. After 60 gours of incubation the aniline had disappeared and several metabolites could be detected by thin layer chromatographic analysis. 4-Chloroformylaniline and 4-chloroacetanilide were identified as products. The formation of a formylanilide by the actinomycete indicates a new mechanism of microbial aniline transformation.


Aspartate aminotransferase of Pediococcus cerevisiae. A five-step procedure is described for preparing highly purified aspartate aminotransferase (L-aspartate: 2-oxoglutarate aminotransferase, EC.2.6.1.1) from cell-freee enzyme extracts of Pediococcus cerevisiae. An overall purification of 130-fold was achieved. Some of P. cerevisiae aspartate aminotransferase properties were studied, i.s. pH optimum (7.8--8.0), optimum of temperature (37 degrees), Michaelis constans for 4 enzyme substrates and substrate specificity of enzyme. The enzyme is very thermolabile. During purification the enzyme was stabilizated by 2-oxoglutarate. The highly purified preparation was stored in the solution containing ammonium sulphate. The obtained aspartate aminotransferase preparation was free of alanine and aromatic amino acids aminotransferase activites and did not reveal malate dehydrogenase activity.


Studies on the purification of wastes from the nitrogen fertilizer industry by intensive algal cultures. IV. growth of Chlorella vulgaris in wastes with high nitrogen content in continuous and intermittent light. The growth and utilization of nitrogen by intensive Chlorella vulgaris in wastes from production of urea, containing 1300 mg NH4+-N and 4000 mg urea-N/1, was investigated. In these conditions only Chlorella vulgaris AA strain, adapted to high concentrations of ammonia nitrogen, was able to grow. The elimination of nitrogen by continuous cultures was 750 mg urea-N/1 with 5-day flow rate. A considerable part of the urea was hydrolized by urease bacteria and removed in the form of NH3. The effect of intermittent light on the growth of algae was also studied. The better growth than in continuous light, was obtained with alternate one hour periods of light and darkness. Good results were also obtained with the use of 12 hour light and 12 hour darkness.


Transfer of R1drd19 plasmid from Escherichia coli J53 to Rhizobium trifolii by conjugation. Rldrd19 plasmid was transferred by conjugation from Escherichia coli J53 to Rhizobium trifolii T24, T26 and 24XSM strains with frequency 10(-3) to 10(-5). The R. trifolii exconjugants carrying Rldrd19 were in turn able to transfer the R factor by conjugation to other R. trifolii strains. Rldrd19 was maintained stably in R. trifolii. R. trifolii 24XSM, T26 and 14M were also found to harbor an endogenous plasmid (molecular weight 5.5 megadaltons) with undetermined as yet properties. Ridrd19 could be stably maintained in the same cell together with the endogenous plasmid.


Dehydrogenase activity in the bottom sediments of three lakes. Dehydrogenase activity was studied in the sediments of three lakes of the Iława Lakeland (Jeziorak, Mały Jeziorak and Jasne) with reference to the type of lake, the season of the year, the situation of the sediments, pH and temperature. The highest activity was found in the sediments of the eutrophic lake Jeziorak sampled during the summer from places in the vicinity of a village. The lowest activity was exhibited by sediments sampled in the autumn in the lakes Jasne and Mały Jeziorak. No correlation was found between dehydrogenase activity and the number of bacteria in the sediments. The highest dehydrogenase activity was found at 20 degrees and pH 7.0 and 8.0--8.25.


Kinetics of pair formation during cell cycle of Hfr and F in Escherichia coli K-12. Pair formation ability in mating mixture of synchronized Hfr or F- culture and asynchronous culture of appropriate partner was studied. The obtained results allow to conclude that the pair formation ability of F- cells is stable over the whole cell cycle whereas in Hfr cells is it subject to cyclic changes with maximum in the first half of the cycle.


Dependence of efficiency of DNA transfer and recombinat formation on cell cycle of Hfr in Escherichia coli K-12. The efficiency of DNA transfer during the Hfr cell cycle, studied with the use of 3H-thymidine, is the highest in the first half of the cycle. The efficiency of recombinant formation in the Hfr cell cycle demonstrates a similar periodicity only when the ratio of 1 Hfr cell to 8 or more F- cells in mating mixture is maintained. The absence of such changes in the number of recombinants during the cell cycle of a donor with relative excess of Hfr cells seems to be caused by limitation of the number of recombinants by the competent recipent cell fraction.


Degradation of transforming and transfecting DNA by the restriction endonucleases of type I and type II isolated from Haemophilus influenzae. The restriction endonucleases of type I and II from Haemophilus influenzae were studied for their activity on transforming and transfecting DNA. Type I restriction enzyme from Haemophilus influenzae Rf, which requires adenosine 5'-triphosphate, reduced the size of unmodified bacterial DNA from 66x106 daltons to approximately 18x106 daltons and did not attack modified DNA. The action of this enzyme gives only a low level of inactivation of single and linked markers in the transforming DNA. In contrast the HP1c1 phage DNA was drastically inactivated by this enzyme. The endoR.Hind III degrades the ummodified bacterial DNA but the segments generated by this enzyme are still capable of being integrated in transformation. The enzyme has no activity on HP1c1 phage DNA.


Biosynthesis of alpha-amylase and protease by Streptomyces olivaceus 142. I. Regulation of alpha-amylase activity. Streptomyces olivaceus 142 produces amylase in the logarithmic phase of growth of the culture. The synthesis of the enzyme is induced by maltose and starch. In the case of maltose the synthesis is induced by a contaminating compound, probably being a higher than maltose polymer of glucose. The synthesis of amylase is negatively controlled by catabolic repression. The level of the activity of the enzyme depends not only on the biosynthesis but also on it proteolytic degradation.


Biosynthesis of alpha-amylase and protease by Streptomyces olivaceus 142. II. Biosynthesis of protease. Streptomyces olivaceus 142 produces proteolytic enzymes de novo, mainly in the stationary phase of growth. The highest activity of the enzymes was observed in media containing maltose or fructose. In media supplemented with glucose, glycerol or starch the activity was lower. The synthesis of proteases is subject to catabolic repression. The proteolytic activity is reduced by phosphate buffer.


Biosynthesis of a alpha-amylase and protease by Streptomyces olivaceus 142. III. Some aspects of alpha-amylase induction. The induction of alpha-amylase in Streptomyces olivaceus 142 depends on the phase of growth of culture and the nature of the carbon sources upon which the cells were grown prior to exposure to inducer. The most susceptible to induction are cells from the initial hours of growth and glycerol -- grown cells. Reduction in the susceptibility of cells to alpha-amylase induction is probably a result of catabolic repression.


Hemoproteid peroxidase from Inonotus radiatus. The exoperoxidase from Inonotus radiatus was first identified as hemoproteid enzyme. The purified peroxidase Ia and IIa contained 1.09% 1.15% of hematin, respectively. It is established that oxidation products of phenolic compounds form stable complex with these two fungal peroxidases.


Properties ofChlorella vulgaris strain adapted to high concentration of ammonium nitrogen. Chlorella vulgaris is very sensitive to high concentrations of ammonium nitrogen. In medium containing 0.33 g NH4-N/1 its growth is inhibited by 50%. Prolonged incubation of the strain in media inhibiting any increase in cell number enabled the isolation of a strain with enhanced tolerance to high ammonium nitrogen concentration. The strain has been designated Chlorella vulgaris/AA. The concentration of nitrogen inhibiting the growth of the strain by 50% was 195 g NH4-N/1. The acquired character proved stable. The isolated strain also demonstrated increased tolerance to high concentration of urea nitrogen. Chl. vulgaris/AA cells were larger than the cells of the parental strain.


Determination of the number of active saprophytic aquatic bacteria by semi-continuous culture on membrane filters. The number of bacteria in the hypolimnion waters of Lake Mikpłajski was examined by direct count on membrane filters, by the agar plate method and by semi-continuous culture on membrane filters, as previously proposed by the author. The agar plate method recovered only 20--25% of the bacteria found by direct method. On the other hand, semi-continuous culture on membrane filters allowed the recovery of about 90% of the total count. At the same time it differentiated between active, microcolony forming cells (about 70%) and inactive single cells (about 20% of the total count).


Influence of nitrogen supply on host and multiplication of cucumber mosaic virus. The effect of several concentrations of nitrogen (0, 21, 70, 210, 420 and 630 ppm) on the growth and multiplication of cucumber mosaic virus in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L. Barshati) grown in sand culture was studied. The effect of nitrogen nutrition on the concentration of virus appeared to be directly related to vegetative growth of the host. 420 ppm level yielding the best growth also showed the highest virus concentration and total nitrogen percentage at 30th day of infection.


Development of some groups of microorganisms in liquid cattle manure and farmyard manure during their fermentation. The development of meso- and thermophilic microorganisms proceeded more strongly in the examined farmyard manure than in the liquid cattle manure. The most vigorous proliferation of mesophilic bacteria and fungi was found in both dungs during the first weeks of fermentation. Relatively greater numbers of mesophilic actinomycetes were noticed in the later experimental period. Compared to mesophilic microoganisms, thermophilic ones were less numerous and quantitatively changeable in the tested dungs. In contrast to the farmyard manure, in the liqued dung thermophilic actinomycetes did not occur at all. After 3 monts of the experiment the Coliform titre decreased to 101 in the liquid manure, but to 104 in the farmyard manure.


Isolation and study of functional mast cells from lung and mesentery of the guinea pig. A method is described for the dissociation of guinea pig lung and mesentery into their component cells. The method comprises incubation of the tissues with the enzyme pronase in Ca++- and Mg++-free saline followed by mechanical dispersion and yields on average 3-8% free mast cells. These cells are morphologically intact and viable. They retain an active sensitization or can be passively sensitized. The levels of cAMP and cGMP in the whole cell suspension respond to catecholamine, histamine or cholinergic stimulation in a way similar to that observed in the corresponding undispersed tissue. Although the separation of guinea pig mast cells from other cells proved to be more difficult than the purification of rat mast cells, an inrichment of greater than 50% has been achieved. The mast cells isolated by this method proliferate in vitro and have been cultured successfully for several months.


The modulation of histamine release by alpha-adrenoceptors: evidences in murine neoplastic mast cells. Murine neoplastic mast cells which have been loaded with exogenous labelled histamine, released 14C-histamine when exposed to increasing concentrations of phenylephrine and noradrenaline. Adrenaline was only slightly effective, while isoprenaline and dibutyryl-cyclic-AMP were fully inactive. The release of histamine evoked by alpha-adrenergic agonists was antagonized by phentolamine, and left unchanged by practolol and cocaine. It is concluded that alpha-adrenoceptors may be valuable in evoking histamine release by murine neoplastic mast cells.


Histamine release in dogs by Cremophor E1 and its derivatives: oxethylated oleic acid is the most effective constituent. Several preparations of Cremophor E1, several of other non-ionic detergents and several components of Cremophor E1 were tested for their histamine-releasing capacity in dogs. Lutensol AP 10 and a derivative of 1,2-propylenglycol were ineffective, but showed excellent properties as detergents. Thus the histamine-releasing capacity was not necessarily combined with the tenside effect of the surfactants. Oleic acid found in Tween 80 as well as in Cremophor E1 seems to be the most effective constituent, but the alcohol seems also to be important for the histamine-releasing capacity. The development of a non-toxic solubilizer for lipophilic drugs seems of considerable clinical interest.


Diamine oxidase activity and histamine release in dogs following acute mesenteric artery occlusion. Following superior mesenteric artery occlusion and revascularization in dogs all animals died in a circulatory collapse state. However, pretreatment by aminoguanidine, the strong and specific inhibitor of diamine oxidase, accelerated the circulatory break-down significantly and increased the venous plasma histamine concentrattions up to levels which also in normal dogs are effective in the circulatory system. Furthermore, the haematocrit increased significantly more in the aminoguanidine-treated animals than in the dogs treated by saline. No changes in plasma diamine oxidase activity were observed in saline-treated animals during intestinal ischemia and following revascularization. In aminoguanidine-treated animals no enzymic activity could be measured. The results were interpreted by a protective role of intestinal diamine oxidase in intestinal ischemia. Enhancement of the enzymic activity in patients, for instance by heparin, may be helpful in mesenteric infarction disease.


Comparisons of antigenic types of Trypanosoma (T)brucei strains transmitted by Glossina m. morsitans. A modified infection and maintenance procedure for the cyclical transmission of T. (T.) brucei in Glossina m. morsitans is described which produced high mature infection rates in the flies. Freshly extruded metacyclic forms and bloodstream forms were serologically typed, using the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) and the neutralization infectivity test (NIT). Metacyclic forms of a certain strain and its cloned derivative were antigenically homogenous and of the same antigenic type, whereas metacyclics of different strains were antigenically different. Antigenic variation had occurred in bloodstream forms of mice harvested 36 h after the infectious bite.


Studies on antigenic variation of cyclically transmitted Trypanosoma congolense. Antigenic variants of T. congolense transmitted by G. m. morsitans through normal and X-irradiated mice were investigated by means of the neutralization test and IFAT. Clones of a cyclically passaged derivative strain were isolated from irradiated and normal mice. The IFAT revealed cross immunofluorescent reactions between most of the stabilates, whereas only the two clones obtained from irradiated mice were totally neutralized by their homologous antisera. These two antisera showed no cross neutralizing activity. The results indicate a possible antigenic heterogeneity of the extruded metacyclic forms.


"What's wrong with my baby?".

"What's wrong with my baby?". The birth of a child with any developmental disability is an occasion of marked trauma to parents. Early, honest and frank counseling is imperative, and the family physician can play a unique role in this counseling process. When the physician is not knowledgeable in a paretcular case, he or she should seek expert help and fully utilize available community services.


Ventricular premature beats and anatomically defined coronary heart disease. Ambulatory 24 hour electrocardiographic monitoring was performed in 124 patients before cardiac catheterization and coronary angiography. Ventricular premature beats were demonstrated in 83% of all patients. Ectopic activity persisted for at least 3 of the 24 hours in 75% of the 84 patients with coronary heart disease, 61% of 28 with other heart disease and in 24% of 12 normal subjects. The prevalence and grade of ventricular premature beats were increased in the 57 patients with multivessel disease compared with values in the 27 patients with one vessel disease (P less than 0.01). Findings in the latter group did not differ from those of normal subjects. The presence of elevated left ventricular end-diastolic pressure of asynergy was associated with increased ventricular ectopy. Of 15 patients having both asynergy and elevated left ventricular end=diastolic pressure (more than 19 mm Hg), 40% had paroxysms of ventricular tachycardia and 67% had coupled beats; these findings were present in 6 and 12%, respectively, of the 34 patients without asynergy or pressure abnormality (P less than 0.005). Repeat monitoring performed in 65 patients demonstrated greater reproducibility of advanced grades of ventricular premature beats among those with the most severe lesions. For the individual patient the prevalence and grade of ventricular ectopy may not always correlate with the severity of coronary artery disease or degree of left ventricular dysfunction.


Clinical significance of ventricular ectopic beats in the early posthospital phase of myocardial infarction. The clinical significance of ventricular ectopic beats in the posthospital phase of myocardial infarction was studied in 272 patients aged 65 years or less who were followed up for 1 year after the infarction. Ventricular ectopic beats, identified in 6 hour electrocardiographic tape recordings, obtained before hospital discharge (study 1) and 5 months after discharge (study 2) increased in frequency and complexity in the 5 month interval. Ventricular ectopic beats at a rate of 20 or more per hour recorded before discharge were associated with complex ventricular ectopic patterns in the same 6 hour recording and with frequent (20 or more per hour), early cycle and bigeminal patterns in recordings mad 5 months later. Analysis with log-linear modeling indicated that the occurrence of complex ventricular ectopic beats at follow-up examination was associated with the concomitant use of antiarrhythmic agents,but not with use of digitalis, propranolol or tranquilizers. A ventricular ectopic beat frequency of 20 or more per hour at discharge was associated with increased (P less than 0.05) cardiac mortality in the initial 0 to 4 months after discharge but not in the subsequent 8 months; ectopic beats recorded in the 5 month follow-up study were not associated with increased cardiac mortality in the subsequent 5 to 12 months. The prognostic significance of ventricular ectopic beats is discussed in the light of these findings.


Ventricular septal motion and left ventriclular dimensions during abnormal ventricular activation. To determine the effect of abnormal ventricular activation on ventricular septal motion, left ventricular endocardial motion and left ventricular dimensions, 12 patients with normal motion were studied with echocardiography during incremental pacing of the right ventricular apex, outflow and inflow regions. Three types of abnormal ventricular septal motion were seen: The type I pattern was characterized by an early rapid preejection posterior ventricular septal motion followed by another posterior systolic motion that lasted throughout ejection, both of which were associated with septal thickening. In the type II pattern an early rapid preejection posterior ventricular septal motion was followed by an anterior ejection motion; the latter was not accompanied by septal thickening. The type III pattern consisted of an early preejection posterior ventricular septal motion followed by a mid and late systolic posterior motion: the latter motion extended through diastole. During right ventricular apical pacing, 8 of 11 patients showed a type 1 pattern, 1 a type II pattern and 2 a normal septal motion. During right ventricular outflow pacing,seven of nine patients showed a type II pattern, one a type III pattern and one a type I pattern. During right ventricular inflow pacing, eight of nine patients showed a type II pattern and one a type III pattern. At faster pacing rates patterns of types I and III changed to a type II pattern (five patients). End-diastolic dimensions decreased significantly during incremental right ventricular pacing when compared with those during sinus rhythm. End-systolic dimensions decreased significantly only during right ventricular apical and outflow pacing at maximal rates. In the seven patients who had pacing from all three sites, the decrease in left ventricular dimensions did not significantly differ when the three pacing sites were compared. These findings suggest that (1) abnormal ventricular septal motion during right ventricular pacing (induced left bundle branch block patterns) is dependent on the sequence of ventricular activation; (2) ventricular septal motion during right ventricular outflow and inflow pacing is similar to that seen in spontaneous left bundle branch block, whereas the pattern of septal motion during right ventricular apical pacing is different from that of spontaneous left bundle branch block; and (3) changes in left ventricular dimension are dependent on ventricular pacing rate but independent of pacing site.


Aortic origin of innocent murmurs.

Aortic origin of innocent murmurs. Intraarterial sound was measured just distal to the aortic and pulmonary valves of 10 subjects with no apparent valve disease. Six patients had no audible murmur; four had grade 1 to 2 innocent murmurs. At rest, during normal sinus rhythm, the intensity of intraarterial sound was greater above the aortic than above the pulmonary valve (0.41+/-0.14 versus 0.02+/-0.01 ergs/sec per cm2 [mean+/-standard error of the mean]) (P less than 0.02). In all patients with an audible murmur, the murmur was of greater amplitude within the aorta than within the pulmonary artery. The two patients with a grade 1 murmur had a murmur near the aortic valve and no murmur near the pulmonary valve. To examine the effects of increased flow, the six patients with inaudible murmurs were studied during the first beat immediately after a premature ventricular contraction. The intensity of intraarterial sound after premature contractions in these six patients was 1.41+/-0.38 ergs/sec per cm2 above the aortic valve and 0.10+/-0.04 above the pulmonary valve (P less than 0.01). The intensity of murmurs in the aorta during postextrasystolic beats was in the range that occurs with grade 1 to 2 murmurs, whereas murmurs within the pulmonary artery were in the range of inaudible murmurs. Comparable observations were made in dogs in which instantaneous flow was also measured. These observations suggest that innocent murmurs are produced at the aortic rather than the pulmonary valve, possibly because of the greater compliance of the pulmonary artery, which may have a damping effect upon turbulence.