[On the determination of changes in the large periodic structure of collagen (author's transl)]. Changes in the large periodic structure of collagen were investigated with the aid of synchrotron radiation. Following results were obtained: 1) Macroscopic extension results in elastic deformation of the elements which are determinant for the structure. 2) The increase of the large period is not proportional to the macroscopic stress. 3) The interpretation of these facts requires a mechanical coupling between the structural units. Up to extensions of 4% this coupling is produced by means of a viscoelastic matrix. 4) In all probability the polypeptide helices are deformed in an inhomogeneous mode. The results were set against measurements on human tendon and on artificially crosslinked collagen. The relations between the mechanical behaviour and the change of the large period were compared with the properties of a mathematical model.


High-temperature inactivation of passive potassium transport in electrically non-excitable cells. High-temperature inactivation of passive potassium transport is demonstrated for mouse cell cultures and discussed in analogy to recent results on model systems from phospholipid/cholesterol doted with channel-forming antibiotics.


Spinal fusion for chronic low back pain. Results of spinal fusion for chronic low back pain in 46 patients are analyzed, and the authors set forth the clinical circumstances in which the procedure may relieve this common complaint.


[Protein synthesis with cell extracts of Micrococcus radiodurans (author's transl)]. Pure active ribosomes of cells of Micrococcus radiodurans could be obtained when cultivated in trypton, glucose and nutrient broth by adding natrium citrate. The optimal conditions for a cell-free protein synthesis were investigated at the (polyuridylic acid) dependent polyphenylalanine synthesis. When exchanging ribosomes and S100-fractions with the corresponding fractions of E. coli, we found that the enzyme fractions of M. radiodurans extremely inhibit the ribosomal activity. The incorporation rates in the cell-free system of M. radiodurans yield, at comparable conditions, in relation to E. coli under 10%.


[Circadian rhythm of metabolic rate in isolated tissue (author's transl)]. The circadian variation of oxygen uptake of isolated mouse diaphragm has been measured by means of the direct Warburg-technique in two series with sets of each 8 successive experiments. Under our experimental conditions oxygen uptake in the isolated diaphragm remains constant for 5 hours at least. The 24-hour period could therefore be completed with 8 single measurements of each 10--20 isolated diaphragms started at 3 h intervals with a overlap in experimental time of 2 h hours between each single experiment. Similar to the results concerning the spontaneous locomotive activity of the mouse (ASCHOFF 1955) we found maximum values of metabolic rate during the night, minimum values during day time and a interpolated relative maximum of oxygen uptake between 6(00)--8(00) h. Oxygen uptake after the stabilisation period of approximately 1 h seems to be determined by the time of the death of the animal.


Studies supporting the concept of glyoxyperoxisomes as intermediary organelles in transformation of glyoxysomes into peroxisomes. Intermediary forms of microbodies, glyoxyperoxisomes, are most likely synthesized at the stage of replacement of glyoxysomes by peroxisomes during the greening of fatstoring cells of cucumber cotyledons. This hypothesis is supported by three lines of results: 1. The levels of both glycollate oxidase and malate synthase are increased in the microbody fractions upon illumination of cotyledons. 2. Both peroxisomal and glyoxysomal marker enzymes are localized in organelles which exhibit the same buoyant densities. 3. De novo synthesis of malate synthase takes place even when irradiation already leads to a drastic increase of glycollate oxidase. The amount of malate synthase synthesized is almost identical in the light-induced system and in the dark control.


Growth and myelination of goldfish optic nerve fibers after retina regeneration and nerve crush. Axonal regeneration in the optic nerve and tectum of the goldfish was studied both after retina regeneration and nerve crush. The retina regeneration was evoked by ouabain-induced damage of at least the ganglion cells and cells of the inner nuclear layer. The necrotic retinal neurons are substituted by mitotic processes in the outer nuclear layer and the marginal growth zone at the ora serrata. The axons of these newly developed retina ganglion cells grow through the degenerating, but mechanically undamaged, optic nerve into the tectum, establishing there synaptic contacts already 16 days after the intraocular ouabain-injection. The fibers were myelinated at first in the tectum, later on in the optic nerve. Thus, the myelination process proceeds in retrograde direction. About 60--80 days after injection the myelination has become nearly normalized. On the contra-lateral side of the same animal, the optic nerve was crushed near the eye-bulb. The axons of the original retina ganglion cells grow out into the degenerating optic nerve and tectum. They also find synaptic contacts and are myelinated in retrograde direction, but to a much lesser extent than the axons of the regenerated retina ganglion cells. An axonal factor is discussed, which would influence the oligodendroglial myelination activity. The effectiveness of this factor is probably dependent on the neuronal age and suggested to be triggered by the establishment of synaptic contacts.


[Urological problems and genesis of the abdominal musculature aplasia syndrome]. Judging according to the frequent description of the syndrome of aplasia of the abdominal muscle above all in paediatric literature (up to now more than 250 cases), the knowledge of the symptomocomplex (aplasia of the abdominal muscle, malformations of the kidneys and the urinary tracts, cryptorchism) might be of particular interest for the urologist, since the urologic malformations decisively determine the prognosis quoad vitam of these patients. On the basis of three own cases the importance of the removal of infravesical obstruction is emphasized, whereas the reconstructive intervention for dilatation of upper urinary tracts is seldom mandatory.


[Uroflowmetry and its methodology. Normal limits. II. Normal range]. Prerequisite for every evaluation of a uroflowmetry curve are normal regions, on which the diagnostic evidence of the examination method is based. In the present paper a definite attitude to the limits of the normal was adopted, in which case apart from the course of the curve the relations from maximum flow to miction volume were entered. Diagrams of the normal region were established for men, women, and children, in which cases apart from the interindividual diffusion breadth also the individual diffusion breadth was taken into consideration. Error in the diagnostic course develop always then, when only mean values are taken into consideration. The critical consideration of the normal values to age seems to be important, in which cases a peak of the maximum values of the urinary flow is to be established between the 13th and the 40th year. In the later decades of life also without any subvesical obstruction an exponential function similar decrease of the maximum values of the flow develops.


[DMF/S study of children with different duration of diabetes (author's transl)]. The objective of this study was to determine the DMF/S indices of 101 children, make regression analyses, and compare the regression coefficients of subjects, in whom diabetes mellitus became manifest before the beginning of secondary dentition, with the regession coefficients of patients with a duration of diabetes as long as three years. It has been found that in the case of manifestation of diabetes before the commencement of secondary dentition the D3-4 MF/S index was significantly lower compared to subjects with a duration of diabetes up to a maximum of three years and the DMF/S index of individual subjects was anything but low despite a specific diet.--From our present knowledge of the pathogenesis of caries it is possible to conclude that a high incidence of caries in the case of early manifestation of diabetes is due primarily to a lack of therapeutic cooperation of the patient.


[Oral examinations by exfoliative cytology of the healthy oral mucosa and inflammatorily altered gingiva (author's transl)]. Exfoliative cytology allows important information to be obtained about the structure and function of individual sections of tissue. Use of this particular method of examination is characterized by simplicity and freedom from strain on the subject being tested. In addition, the method yields clear and comprehensive results. Smears obtained from different regions of the oral cavities of subjects with clinically healthy oral mucous membrans and intact teeth were carefully analyzed. Also examined by clinical methods as well as by exfoliative cytology was the healthy gingiva, with parodontopathia inflammata superficialis and parodontopathia inflammata profunda serving as reference groups.


[Periodontal disease in the workers of paints and lacquer industry (author's transl)]. Examinations were performed by the author upon the influence of organic solvents and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons on parodontium in the workers of paints and lacquer industry. 195 persons employed in industry were examined. 100 persons whose conditions of work had no influence on their parodontium served as controls.--It was found that both, the frequency of incidents and the degree of intesity of changes in periodontium were significantly higher than those in the control group not exposed to the noxius action of work conditions.--This was analysed depending on sex, age, total time of employment and development of calculus dentis and plaques. The frequency, the intensivity of PI and the kind of parodontopathy was examined depending on various toxic condition at different working places. All statistical examinations were carried out by the use of the computer EMC ODRA 1305.


[Cervico-facial actinomycosis--Frequency and change in a period of 29 years (author's transl)]. The clinical histories of 133 patients with cervicofacial actinomycosis, treated stationary in the period of 1948--1976, are interpreted in regard to patients age, treatment period and microbiological of histological proof. The opinions in literature about the frequency and a change of actinomycosis in the antibiotic era are discussed.


[Osteomyelitis of the temporomaxillary joint (author's transl)]. Although osteomyelitis of the inferior maxilla is still relatively frequently diagnosed, manifestation of the disease in the temporomaxillary joint is a rare occurrence. The symptomatology, diagnosis, and therapy of this particular arthropathy is discussed by reference to three cases treated in recent years at the Berlin Clinic of Maxillofacial Surgery. The importance of an early diagnosis and therapy is directed attention to because of the danger of serious subsequent diseases that may result in the loss of vital functions.


[Clinical and experimental animal studies made to evaluate silastic and feeeze dried dura used in the treatment of orbital floor fractures (author's transl)]. A comparison has been made of the results obtained using Silastic and freeze-dried Dura in experiments on dogs treated for orbital floor fractures. Dura was found to be a better implant than Silastic because the former material will be completely resorbed and replaced by cicatricial connective tissue. Silastic tends to remain in its original site or position and may lead to secondary injuries because of its mobility. Accordingly, the latter material is indicated for use in the case of extensive fractures only.


[On the isolation of streptococcus mutans from human dental plaques (author's transl)]. Using morphological and biochemical criteria, it was possible for Streptococcus mutans to be isolated, in one case, from the bacterial plaques obtained from three test subjects. The colonies of this clearly identified species were characterized by a granular surface resembling frosted glass, had attached to them a shining bubble, and were seen to split mannite and sorbite in the absence of conversion of glycerol.


[Superficial and marginal behavior of composite filling materials in class III and II cavities as compared with conventional filling materials (author's transl)]. The superficial and marginal behavior of composite filling materials is better than that of conventional types of front tooth filling cements as regards plaque retention, danger of marginal caries, and microleakage with potential damage to the pulp caused by bacterial toxins.--According to the results obtained in vitro, Evicrol is a positive alternative to Frontasil and Achatit-biochromatic. Plastic foils are not suitable as matrices, whereas aluminum matrices have been found to meet the requirements of surface smoothness and anatomical adaptability in cavity classes III, IV, and V. Celluloid matrices show inadequate adaptational properties, although they offer smoothest surfaces. The marginal behavior of Evicrol in class II cavities in molars is virtually the same in the case of both conventional retentive preparation and modified preparation of initial occlusal-approximal defects by the enamel etching technique. Discontinuous microretentive securing of matrix tags in the enamel etch pattern corresponds neither occlusally nor approximally to the physical definition of adhesion in different areas of the enamel. Clinical comparison in a 12-month study with the results obtained in vitro restricts safe indication to classes III and V, it being necessary to give careful consideration to the directions for use.--Long-term clinical longitudinal studies are required to determine permanent successes of treatment and possible extensions of the range of indications.


[Histological examinations of persisting milk teeth (author's transl)]. In twelve patients aged 13 to 24, histological examinations of twenty persistent milk teeth (with persistency having been due to aplasia of permanent teeth) showed that root resorptions are possible in such cases too. Cellular resorption results in the root being decomposed lacunally or linerly, respectively. The formation of osteodentin, which is a result of the phase of apposition and which is taking place in the pulp and along the surface of resorption, respectively, is considered a characteristic concomitant phenomenon. However, this tissue does not cause "true ankylosis". Accordingly, use of the term "ankylosis" to describe such cases is questionable. The author, on the strength of the results obtained in these studies, believes that root resorption of persistent milk teeth is a pathological process in the case of congenital absence of permanent teeth.


[The registration of the retrusive closing phase and its effect on the mandible]. Retrusion of the mandible is of central importance to the diagnosis and therapy of functional discorders of the orofacial system. The change in width of the mandible is measured during recording this retruded position, and instructions for an appropriate mode of procedure are given.


[Parodontal alterations caused by a deficiency of fibrin-stabilizing factor (factor XIII deficiency) (author's transl)]. This article reports the results of clinical, symptomatological, and histological examinations of the gingiva and parodontium in two patients with a hereditary deficiency of fibrinstabilizing factor (factor XIII deficiency).--In a period of observation of up to seventeen years the periodontal condition deteriorated until the teeth finally fell out.--Because of inadequate possibilities of mechanically reducing the plaque, changes of the gingiva in the form of granulomatous gingivitis accompanied by osteolysis were observed. The histological phenomena are characterized by strong nonspecific plasmacytic inflammation.


[Evaluating the success of bringing the ends of fractured lower jaw bones into close apposition by means of plates and bolts (author's transl)]. The present paper analyzes the results of 100 osteosyntheses performed on 79 patients, with the ends of fractured lower jaw bones having been brought into close appostion through the use of plates and draw-in bolts. The major emphasis of this study centered on localizing the fracture and determining the etiology, the measures to be taken before performing an operation, the time of operation, and the duration of hospitalization.--Inflammatory disturbances of fracture healing were observed in 4 percent of the cases, and malocclusion was determined for another 4 percent of the cases included in this study. Also discussed by the author in his present paper are the results of post-hospital examinations of 51 patients, with 8 patients showing unesthetic operation scares. Temporary incapacity to work was, on average, 27.2 days for patients with isolated lower jaw bone fractures.--In conclusion, the author discusses the advantages and disadvantages of bringing the ends of fractured lower jaw bones into close apposition with the use of plates and bolts.


[The historical evolution of external cranio-maxillary fixation appliances for treatment of midfacial fractures (author's transl)]. The author describes the evolution stages of external cranio-maxillary fixation appliances from bandages, leather headbands, plaster headcaps and weight traction apparatus to head frame devices. Especially he describes recent halo frame and its importance for the treatment of midfacial fractures.


[Changes in the activity of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and in the content of reduced glutathione in red blood corpuscles in the case of tumorous diseases in the maxillofacial region (author's transl)]. The activity of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and the glutathione content of red blood corpuscles were determined in twenty-five patients with tumors (of which nineteen were malignant and six, nonmalignant) as well as in a control group of twelve normal subjects. The activity of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase was markedly higher in all of the tumor patients than it was in the controls. Also, the activity of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase was found to increase with the time of existence of an untreated tumor.--Increased glutathione contents were determined especially in the early stages of tumor development. In patients with a relatively long record of malignant and nonmalignant tumorous diseases as well as in normal subjects there was observed no or only an inconsiderable increase in the content of glutathione.--This method of examination is assuming considerable importance for the differential diagnosis of tumors located in the maxillofacial region.


[Immunostaging (author's transl)].

[Immunostaging (author's transl)]. This survey covers the problems of immunologic monitoring of patients and the spectrum of methods of diagnosing various types of immunopathological reactions.


[Use of intraspecific differentiation of Sh. sonnei for the purpose of studying patterns in the epidemic process of dysentery]. The use of complex typing of Sh. sonnei by the colicinogenic and enzymatic properties in epidemiological analysis of dysentery caused by Sh. sonnei, apart from establishment of epidemiological connections in the foci, offered a possibility of introducing significant corrections in the determination of the sizes and duration of existence of the epidemic foci, as well as in detection of the sources and factors of transmission of the infection established in epidemiological examination. Typing of Sh. sonnei also aided in ascertaining that, apart from general regularities in the individual territories, the epidemic process in individual  groups of the population and in different seasons of the year could also course autonomously.


[Improving tetanus prevention in the Krasnodar area taking the current epidemic situation into account]. An increase of percentage of elderly persons among those who fell ill with tetanus (70%) was noted against a sharp reduction of tetanus incidence under the effect of mass active immunization against this disease. A study of immunity in older and elderly individuals showed the percentage of immune persons among them to be rather low (48.8--55.6%). Due to difficulty of elderly individuals embracement by vaccination the authors suggest a single immunization scheme with a double toxoid dose (20 BU) followed by revaccination with 10 BU in one year. A total of 21 472 persons were placed under observation. The suggested immunization scheme was harmless, promoted stimulation of antitetanus immunity in persons vaccinated earlier; as to unvaccinated persons--it created a favourable immunological preparedness for revaccination, permitting to do without any antitetanus serum in case of trauma.


[Incidence of meningococcal infection in the RSFSR]. The authors present characteristics of meningococcus infection epidemic process in case of sporadic cases and under epidemic conditions (1965--1976). A scheme of epidemiological analysis suggested by the authors permitted to differentiate and to record the incidence of various clinical forms of meningococcus infection, to present data on the age, seasonal characteristics, focality, etc. Comparison of intensive morbidity indices for 10 years, both at the individual administration territories and in the Republic as a whole demonstrated morbidity level of 1.5--2.0 to be one of prognostic signs of the beginning epidemic. The main features differentiating the sporadic and epidemic morbidity periods were revealed. The presence of group diseases, a greater percentage of children among those who fell ill, and marked signs of seasonality and territorial difference characterized the period of rise caused by meningococcus of serological group A.


[Hydrodynamic and radiologic examination of the common bile duct]. The operative study of the common bile duct was  carried out with the hydrodynamics methods (flow and resting pressure) in 433 patients and with the operative cholangiography in 383 patients. The hydrodynamics explorations pointed-out a margin of mistake due to falses positives and negatives of the 2.7% and the operative cholangiographies of the 8.6%. The association of both methods, hydrodynamics and radiologycs, allowed us to estimate that the diagnostic mistake is reduced to 0%. It is established in this work the necessity of carring out the flow, the measure of the resting pressure and the cholangiographies; in all the patients that are operated on the biliary tract because the diagnostic accuracy is the 100%. It is discussed the value of the diameter of the common bile duct for affirming the eventual existence of obstruction of the lower part of the common bile duct and the values are correlated, measured in mm., with pathological founds. It is considered the value of the hydrodynamics methods in the diagnostic of the stenosis of the sphincter of Oddi.


The use of 75Se-methionine as a tracer of thrombocytopoiesis. I. In vivo incorporation of the tracer into platelet proteins: a biochemical study. This study was undertaken to define to which platelet components 75Se-methionine is bound after its injection to normal rats, and to study the curves of specific radioactivity of each labelled fraction. It has been shown that, for a part, platelet labelling is due to adsorption of plasma proteins (albumin and fibrinogen) after their synthesis. For another part, methionine is directly incorporated in the bone marrow precursors into platelet actomyosin, a protein constituent of the cells; the variations of the specific radioactivity of this component indicate that 75Se-methionine can be used as a cohort label of platelets.


Histochemical and ultrastructural study of human muscles after spontaneous rupture of the tendon. The authors studied the histochemical and ultrastructural alterations of human muscles after spontaneous rupture of the tendon. Both succinate dehydrogenase (in type 1 fibres), and ATPase (in type 2 fibres) activity decreased in all injured muscles. In the intact antagonists and in contralateral muscles alterations were not found. The creatine phosphokinase and aldolase activity were decreased also in the injured muscles. The lactate dehydrogenase activity was various both in affected and in unaffected antagonists muscles. 2 weeks or more after the rupture of the tendon, in the injured muscles the number of type 1 fibres were decreased and therefore a statistically significant type 2 fibre predominance occurred. Ultrastructurally the disruption and disorientation of the myofibrils, streaming and disorganisation of Z line were found. The sarcolemma was arranged, the sarcoplasmic reticulum was dilated; both normal, pycnotic and enlarged mitochondria were observed. The motor end-plates were not discernible.


The proliferative activity of myocardial capillary wall cells in variously aged swimming-exercised rats. Cellular proliferation was studied by incorporation of 3H-thymidine in the hearts of young, adult and old swimming-exercised rats. The proliferative activity was measured by scintillation counting. The swimming exercise induced a significant proliferation of capillary wall cells in the younger age groups, suggesting a neoformation of myocardial capillaries in these rats, whereas no cell proliferation was recorded in the old rats.


Dose considerations in total skin electron irradiation for mycosis fungoides. Two hundred patients with generalized cutaneous mycosis fungoides were treated with total skin electron irradiation (TSEI) in the Lahey Clinic Radiotherapy Department-MIT High Voltage Research Laboratory between 1964 and 1973. None of the patients had any clinical evidence of extracutaneous disease at presentation. The 3-year absolute survival rate was 54% (107 patients). Analysis of these 107 long-term survivors evaluated the relation between incidence of generalized cutaneous recurrence and total treatment dose given during the initial course of TSEI. Results indicated that in patients with erythroderma, the need for a second course of TSEI was inversely related to the total dose given during the first course. However, the curve seemed to flatten at about 1,500 cGy (rad). In plaque disease, the percentage of patients who received repeated courses of TSEI seemed to be relatively constant independent of total dose given during the initial course (65%-80%). In patients with tumor lesions, the incidence of generalized cutaneous recurrence was directly proportional to total dose. The optimal dose of TSEI for patients with mycosis fungoides may vary depending on types of skin lesions. Total dose during the initial course of TSEI should be kept relatively conservative, particularly in patients with generalized plaques where relapse rate is high allowing reserve of normal tissue tolerance for further TSEI when indicated.


[The current position of the transfer factor investigation (author's transl)]. This critical review has attempted to describe the current knowledge about the preparation and characterisation of transfer factor, the biological assays, and the tendency to therapy of patients with immunodeficiencies, chronic infectious diseases, and neoplastic diseases on the basic of results of the two last years. Hypotheses for the mechanism of functional activities of transfer factor are discussed.


[Drug-induced bronchospasm (author's transl)]. A detailed review of drug-induced bronchospasm is presented. Four types of reactions are described. Furthermore, pathogenesis, clinical picture, treatment and prophylaxis of the "Aspirin-induced asthma" are demonstrated.


[Comparative investigations of quantitative determination of cell-mediated immunity by skin test, macrophage migration inhibition test, and lymphocyte transformation test in guinea pigs (author's transl)]. Following an intradermal immunization of guinea pigs with bovine gamma globulin (BGG) and/or human serum albumin (HSA) emulsified in complete Freund's adjuvant we studied the cell-mediated immune response and its manipulation by 6-mercaptopurine. Three accepted correlates of cell-mediated immunity (CMI) have been used for the estimation of the immune reaction: - Intracutaneous test (IT) - Macrophage migration inhibition test (MMIT) - Lymphocyte transformation test (LTT). Comparative studies of quantitative determinations of CMI showed a correlation of the results of the in vitro test systems (MMIT and LTT) with the state of delayed hypersensitivity of the experimental animals, estimated by the IT in vivo. The cell-mediated immune response against BGG was much higher than that against HSA. This could be shown by all three test systems. We detected an immunosuppressive influence of 6-mercaptopurine on the CMI of guinea pigs, due to the dose and the mode of application. Thereby the in vitro test systems detected quantitative differences and indicated already a partial success of the immunosuppressive therapy, whereas the IT allowed a qualitative estimation only.


Immunological function of tonsils in atopic and nonatopic children, with special reference to E- and EAC-binding lymphocytes. This investigation was carried out to determine the immunological function of the human tonsils, especially the role of lymphocytes of the atopic and nonatopic children. Authors introduced E- and EAC-rosettes forming technique with semi-quantitative evaluation of T and B lymphocytes in peripheral blood of 56 normal subjects, 28 atopic and 5 nonaptoic children of both sexes and different age. The percentage of T and B lymphocytes in removed palatine tonsils in 28 atopic and 5 nonatopic children was calculated. The percentage of rosettes forming cells in E and EAC suspensions appeared to be independent of age and sex. The percentage of T lymphocytes in peripheral blood is significantly higher than in the palatine tonsils whereas the percentage of B lymphocytes is significantly higher in the tonsils of atopic and nonatopic children than in the peripheral blood. The mean percentage of B lymphocytes in the tonsils of atopic children is significantly higher than in nonatopic children. The percentage of B lymphocytes was found to be significantly higher in hypertrophic than in small tonsils. Also, in the tonsils with adhesions there was a statistically significant higher percentage of EAC rosettes than in the tonsils free of adhesions. The percentage of T lymphocytes is statistically significant higher in the small tonsils.


[Microlymphocytotoxic test with T lymphocytes: positivity by 3 hrs incubation (author's transl)]. Some human anti-HLA-DR and anti-HLA-A,B-sera contain cytotoxins reacting with T lymphocytes in the cytotoxic test by the prolongation of the incubation time to 3 hrs, whereas in the normal cytotoxic test of 1 1/2 hr incubation antibodies are not proved. These results suggest that simultaneous testing of sera with B and T lymphocytes not always give a true image of the actual occurrence of antibodies in the serum. The cause of the phenomen and the problem of the serological character of cytotoxins are discussed.


Acromegaly and the heart. An echocardiographic study. Twenty-seven patients with acromegaly had echocardiograms performed to delineate the ventricular septum, left ventricular posterior wall and mitral valve. Left ventricular function was assessed by calculating the systolic internal dimensional shortening of the left ventricle. Six patients met the criteria for asymmetric septal hypertrophy and eight had concentric left ventricular hypertrophy. The remaining 13 patients were categorized as "normal," although six had septal measurements greater than 11 mm. The group with asymmetric septal hypertrophy had significantly greater percentage of internal dimensional shortening during systole than either the normal group (p less than 0.05) or the group with left ventricular hypertrophy (p less than 0.01). Initial mean growth hormone levels were considerably higher in the group with left ventricular hypertrophy than in the normal group (93 versus 34 ng/ml). Thus, echocardiographic abnormalities are common in acromegaly, and patients with asymmetric septal hypertrophy and acromegaly appear to have significantly increased ventricular ejection. Many of the patients with left ventricular hypertrophy have no evidence of clinical cardiovascular disease, and their left ventricular hypertrophy may be related to higher initial growth hormone levels.


Maternal age patterns and the incidence of Down's syndrome. The incidence of Down's syndrome in three counties in southwestern Ontario from 1960 to 1974 was monitored in this retrospective descriptive study. Of 229, 754 live births including 292 Down's syndrome births, there was an incidence of 1.27/1,000 live births. The age-adjusted incidence for 288 cases where mother's age was known was 1.25/1,000. Data from Statistics Canada demonstrated a decrease in proportions of births to women over 35 years and a decrease in mean maternal age. The anticipated decrease in incidence of Down's syndrome because of these factors was not found; a real biological increase to women under 35 years cannot be ruled out.


Evaluation of a regional resource center for multiply handicapped retarded children. A modified before--after, control-group evaluation design was employed to assess the impact of a demonstration program for multiply handicapped retarded children. Child development, parent and therapist attitudes, and knowledge and use of services were evaluated. Findings revealed no significant positive impact of the program on development, attitudes, and knowledge; the treatment group used more services. A significant change to a more negative attitude on the part of the treatment-group parents with regard to some aspects of normalization was found. Major impact of the program was in the area of coordination of services.


Cortical evoked responses and response decrement in nonretarded and Down's syndrome individuals. Cortical evoked responses were recorded from 66 nonretarded and 66 Down's syndrome subjects. Analyses of single-trial responses from which evoked responses were averaged indicated that visual evoked response amplitude in nonretarded subjects was more dependent on variability than on amplitude of single responses. Response decrement, the tendency for evoked responses to attenuate with repetitive stimulation, was clearly observed in the evoked responses of the nonretarded subjects but was minimal in those of the Down's syndrome group. The findings support the concept that the development of inhibitory processes in Down's syndrome persons' brains may be halted or delayed at an early age.


Imitative behavior by Down's syndrome persons. Three scales of imitative behavior (nonverbal, vocal, and verbal) were administered to 28 Down's syndrome subjects and 56 subjects with other diagnoses. All of the subjects were severely retarded and had at least partial vision and hearing, and the two groups were closely comparable with respect to sex, CA, and IQ. The results provided no support for the hypothesis--backed by a century of clinical observation--that individuals with Down's syndrome "are outstanding in their mimicry" (Belmont, 1971, p. 38).


Characteristics of active Na transport in intact cardiac cells. An active Na transport maintains the Na and K concentration gradients across the cell membrane of many cells and restores them following excitation. Heart muscle cells display frequent electrical discharges and thus the cardiac Na pump is of fundamental functional significance. Some methods for studying active Na transport are described. The active Na efflux from heart muscle cells is activated by an increase in the intracellular Na and the extracellular K concentration. The linkage between active Na efflux and active K influx varies widely according to the experimental conditions. The cardiac Na pump is electrogenic and can contribute directly to the membrane potential of the cells. The effects of active Na transport on contraction and intercellular coupling in myocardium are discussed.


The trial use of clozapine for abnormal involuntary movement disorders. Twelve patients with abnormal involuntary movement disorders were treated with clozapine in a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. The cohort consisted of individuals with Gilles de la Tourette's syndrome, Huntington's disease, and atypical persistent dyskinesia that was drug induced. Two subjects were dropped from the protocol due to complications. Two patients with Huntington's disease showed a marked decrease in movements; other individuals obtained no significant therapeutic benefits. Seven of the 10 patients completing the trial experienced moderate or marked side effects.


Electron microscopic study of the snout muscle spindles of the mole following denervation. The authors examined electron microscopically the daily effects of the muscle spindles of the mole snout muscles following unilateral facial neurotomy. The denervated muscle spindles show first a degenerative sign of the sensory end bulb 1 day after the operation and later a degenerative sign of the intrafusal muscle fibers one week after the operation. The muscle spindles on the untreated side show first a degenerative sign of the intrafusal muscle fibers 2 weeks after the operation and later a degenerative sign of the sensory end bulb 20 days after the operation. 40 to 90 days after the operation, the spindles on both sides show the same degenerative signs, the intrafusal muscle fibers having become much thinner than the control.


Effect of LH, prolactin and spermine on ATPase activity of human spermatozoa. The effect of Prolactin and LH on the activity of spermatozoal ATPase was studied. Both the hormones activated the enzyme activity suggesting that these hormones, as they are present in the seminal fluid may influence the energy metabolism of spermatozoa. The spermine, a polyamine present in large concentration in the semen, had significantly enhanced the ATPase activity of the spermatozoa in a dose related manner.


Actin filaments in human skin fibroblasts are similar in normal persons and patients with Huntington's disease. Actin filaments in skin fibroblasts from patients with Huntington's disease (HD) were examined using immunofluorescent methods. Actin filaments were seen along the axis of cell elongation (stress or sheath filaments) as well as in areas of membrane ruffling (lattice filaments). In some cases, filaments appeared to radiate from foci within the cell. Bundles of these filaments radiated in various directions at different depths within a cell. These structures are similar, in cells from both normal individuals and HD patients, to actin filaments observed in other cell types. The higher-than-normal confluent densities achieved in culture by fibroblasts from patients with Huntington's chorea do not involve alterations in the ultrastructure of actin filaments.


The prevalence of HBeAg and anti-HBe in an institution for the mentally retarded. The age specific prevalence of HBsAg and anti-HBs was studied in 855 mentally retarded children and adults living in a large institution. The sera of every HBsAg positive patient was re-tested for the presence of HBeAg and anti-HBe. Overall, 78.2% of subjects showed serological evidence of current or past infection with HBV. The carrier rate was highest in children and young adults and higher amongst subjects with Down's syndrome than with other forms of retardation. HBeAg was detected in 33.9% of carriers and its prevalence also decreased with increasing age and was highest amongst subjects with Down's syndrome.


Laparoscopic tubal occlusion with silicone rubber bands. Application of the silastic ring to the Fallopian tubes through the laparoscope seems to be a simple, safe and acceptable method of tubal sterilization. The technique and results in 337 patients are described. In the majority of cases, the procedure was effected in the outpatient department under local anaesthesia. Transsection of the tube (with or without bleeding), tearing of the mesosalpinx, and avulsion of the tube at the uterotubal junction were the most common complications; with experience and adherence to the proper technique of ring application, the above can be minimized. The pregnancy rate following this procedure seems to be acceptable, but long-term follow-up is necessary for definitive conclusions.


Prospects and services for medical rehabilitation. In the developed world, comprehensive services for disabled patients are usually well established for children and elderly people. Services for rehabilitation of middle-aged patients generally consist of specific treatment facilities, such as for physiotherapy. On the other hand, a range of services of psychiatric patients is now established, with a model suitable for most disorders. Arrangements are flexible, ranging from crisis intervention to long-term care, in some places being remarkably comprehensive and well coordinated. There is a need to plan development of medical and social services for patients prone to chronic morbidity from whatever cause; this plan for the physicially disabled should take account of their many needs, and of the many facilities now available, some statutory, some voluntary. There is reason to believe that redeployment of resources existing in many countries could improve the standard of medical rehabilitation for patients of all ages.


Purification and reaction mechanisms of the primary inhibitor of plasmin from human plasma. The primary inhibitor of plasmin in human plasma was purified by a four-step procedure involving fractional (NH(4))(2)SO(4) precipitation, ion-exchange chromatography on a column of DEAE-Sepharose CL-6B and affinity chromatography on both a plasminogen-CH-Sepharose 4B column and a column of 6-aminohexanoic acid covalently coupled through the carboxylate function to AH-Sepharose 4B. No impurities in the final preparation could be detected when tested by immunoelectrophoresis against a range of specific antisera or against rabbit anti-human serum. On polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis the inhibitor preparation showed a single band. The dissociation constant for the inhibitor-plasminogen complex was determined to be approx. 3mum at pH7.8. The reactions of the inhibitor with human plasmin and with bovine trypsin were studied. Comparison of the results obtained confirms the hypothesis previously presented, namely that the reaction of the inhibitor with plasmin involves at least two steps, the initial rapid formation of an enzyme-inhibitor complex followed by a slow irreversible transition to another complex. The results also indicate that the reaction of the inhibitor with trypsin involves just a single, irreversible step, so that this reaction seems to be less complicated than that of the inhibitor with plasmin. The ways in which 6-aminohexanoic acid influences the reactions were studied. The same value for the dissociation constant (approx. 26mum) for 6-aminohexanoic acid is obtained for both its effect on the reaction of the inhibitor with trypsin and for competitive inhibition of trypsin. The inhibitory effect of 6-aminohexanoic acid thus seems to be due to its blocking of the active site of trypsin. In contrast with this, the inhibitory effects of l-lysine and 6-aminohexanoic acid on the inhibitor-plasmin reaction occur at concentrations much too low to affect the active site of plasmin. The possible dependence of the reaction of the inhibitor with plasmin on a second site(s) on plasmin is discussed.


Kinetics and regulation of the myofibrillar adenosine triphosphatase. 1. The steady-state kinetic behaviour of the ATPase (adenosine triphosphatase) of intact myofibrils was studied in the presence of both high and low concentrations of Ca2+ (0.25 mM and less than 10 nM respectively). 2. Kinetic data were collected over the initial linear phase of the assay, which lasts for 20--60s. To obtain consistent data we found it necessary to use either fresh myofibril preparations or preparations that had been stored in the presence of thiol compounds. 3. When assayed in the presence of 0.25 mM-Ca2+, the myofibrillar ATPase obeyed Michaelis-Menten kinetics over the range 0.03--5.0 mM-MgATP (Km 16 +/- 6 micrometer, V 0.4 +/- 0.1 mumol/min per mg). 4. At low Ca2+ concentrations (less than 10 nM) the myofibrillar ATPase displayed pronounced substrate inhibition, which was not observed at high Ca2+ concentrations. Thus increasing the MgATP concentration had the net effect of decreasing the ATPase activity at low Ca2+ relative to that at high Ca2+. This preferential effect of MgATP on the low-Ca2+ ATPase may be important in Ca2+ control. 5. The substrate inhibition that was observed at low Ca2+ was lost on storage or thiol modification of the myofibrils. 6. Under physiological conditions (2 mM-MgATP, I 0.15, pH 7.0), the ATPase of fresh and thiol-protected myofibrils displayed approx. 100-fold activation by Ca2+.


Differential sensitivity of functional subsets of T cells to the cytotoxicity of natural T-lymphocytotoxic autoantibody of systemic lupus erythematosus. A naturally occurring T-lymphocytotoxic autoantibody (Hu-NTA) in serum from a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) showed a differential cytotoxic effect on functionally different T cell subsets as did natural thymocytotoxic autoantibody (NTA) of NZB mice. When the normal peripheral blood lymphocytes were treated, in the presence of complement, with Hu-NTA at a dilution that eliminated 25 to 30% of Hu-NTA-sensitive T cells, there was a marked reduction or a total depletion in the ability of resultant cells to show Con A-activated suppression on the proliferative response of responder cells in mixed lymphocyte reaction. The treatment of PBL in the same manner also resulted in a marked reduction in its responsiveness to Con A and PHA. However, the responder cells to allogeneic stimulator cells in MLR were found to be much more resistant to the cytotoxicity of Hu-NTA than other functional T cell subsets tested. These results suggest that Hu-NTA is responsible for the selective loss of certain functional T cell subsets including suppressor T cells in patients with SLE.


Long term effectiveness of low dose mithramycin for Paget's disease of bone. Nineteen patients with Paget's disease of bone were studied 7 months to 5 years after therapy with mithramycin in a dose averaging 11.5 microgram/kg body weight daily for 10 days. Thirteen patients, including 3 with the longest followup intervals, remained free of pain. Objective measures of disease activity (serum alkaline phosphatase level and 99mtechnetium pyrophosphate bone scan) were less favorable. There was no evidence of long term toxicity.


[Cardiotocographic monitoring in pregnancy: some cases of sporadic decelerations (author's transl)]. The Authors are refering to the appearance of unknown deceleration in "APC" cardiotocograms. There is no relationship between these decelerations and the uterine contractions or fetal movements. These decelerations are called "sporadic" and are an indication of fetal risk. However, it is not necessary to have an immediate delivery.


Congenital non-spherocytic haemolytic anaemia variants with primary and secondary pyruvate kinase deficiency. I. Erythrokinetic patterns. The patterns of survival of isotope-labelled erythrocytes were examined in patients suffering from two variants of congenital non-spherocytic haemolytic anaemia with decreased erythrocyte pyruvate kinase (PK) activity. In one variant, with primary PK defect (PPKD) random destruction of erythrocytes was predominant in the process of haemolysis. In the second variant, with primary magnesium activated adenosine triphosphatase (ATP-ase) (Mg++) deficiency and a secondary decrease in PK activity, erythrocytes were destroyed by senescence. Two subpopulations of labelled erythrocytes with different destruction rates were observed in all patients examined, except one with the second variant, with very mild haemolysis. Splenectomy, performed on two patient, was successful only in the variant with PPKD.


Congenital non-spherocytic haemolytic anaemia variants with primary and secondary pyruvate kinase deficiency. II. Enzymatic studies. Some metabolic effects associated with defective pyruvate kinase (PK) in two variants of congenital non-spherocytic haemolytic anaemia with primary PK and primary adenosine triphosphatase (ATP-ase) (Mg++) deficiency respectively we compared. In one patient with a low erythrocyte ATP level, decreased PK activity appeared together with the irreversible loss of its sensitivity to fructose-I,6-diphosphate (FDP), independently of the experimental conditions. In the second patient, the decrease in PK activity associated with an elevated erythrocyte ATP level was a secondary effect, due to primary ATP-ase (Mg++) deficiency. Removal of excessive amounts of ATP, by dialysis of haemolysates or their in-vitro treatment with ATP-ase, increased PK activity to the normal range and restored its sensitivity to the stimulatory effect of FDP. Similar effects could be obtained after i.v. administration of magnesium laevulinate. Under these in vivo conditions the ATP level was normalized after a transient rise ATP-ase activity, the PK activity increased and its sensitivity to FDP reappeared.


Inhibition of the (Ca2+)ATPase from sarcoplasmic reticulum by dicyclohexylcarbodiimide: evidence for location of the Ca2+ binding site in a hydrophobic region. Dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCCD) inhibits the (Ca2+)ATPase, Ca2+ uptake by sarcoplasmic reticulum vesicles and Ca2+ binding to the (Ca2+)ATPase from sarcoplasmic reticulum. Ca2+ (at micron concentrations) specifically protects against DCCD inhibition. The inhibition can, therefore, be readily demonstrated only in the presence of Ca2+ chelating agents such as EGTA. In the presence of EGTA, the ionophore A-23187 increased the sensitivity to DCCD. The ionophore also increased the phosphorylation of the enzyme by inorganic phosphate in the presence of Mg2+. These results indicate that tightly bound Ca2+ is located in a hydrophobic region of the enzyme which is not accessible to EGTA. Complete inhibition of the (Ca2+)ATPase is accompanied by binding of 4--5 nmol of [14C]DCCD per mg of ATPase protein in the absence of Ca2+ compared with 2 nmol bound per mg in the presence of Ca2+ with no ATPase inhibition. Assuming a molecular weight of 100 000 for the ATPase monomer, about 1 nmol of DCCD inhibits 4 nmol of ATPase. This result suggests that the minimal functional unit of the enzyme is a tetramer. Following trypsin digestion of the [14C]DCCD-labeled ATPase most of the radioactivity appears in the 20 000-dalton fragment. We propose that DCCD reacts with the Ca2+-binding site of the ATPase.


Transport characteristics of frog gastric membranes. ATP-induced transport by fractions of frog gastric microsomes prepared either by density gradient centrifugation of by free flow electrophoresis were K+ dependent and hence considered due to a K+-activated ATPase. Significant activity of this enzyme was, however, only found in the anodic peak of the free flow electrophoretic separation, which in addition to separating transporting from non-transporting particles, also separated membranes containing a phosphorylatable peptide (Mr=105 000) region as the major peptide on SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis from those containing a peptide (Mr=44 000) on SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. H+ uptake, measured either by acridine orange or 3,3'-diethyloxadicarbocyanine + tetrachlorosalicylanilide absorbance changes was dependent on K+ intravesicularly. Using 86Rb+, active extrusion of the cation followed ATP addition. SCN-, an inhibitor of acid secretion did not affect the latter, but blocked signals due to H+ uptake, in contrast to mammalian preparations.


[Some peculiarities of ATPase in tumor mitochondria]. The oxidative phosphorylation and ATPase activity (initial and stimulated by DNP and Mg2+) in tumor mitochondria were investigated. The intact mitochondria of Zajdela hepatoma, in contrast to liver mitochondria, exhibit the ATPase activity which is slightly stimulated by 2,4-dinitrophenol and is markedly activated by Mg2+. The mitochondria from transplantable solid tumors (adenocarcinoma 755, Iensen sarcoma, sarcoma 45) despite satisfactory morphological integrity under electron microscopy are biochemically less intact than the mitochondria of hepatoma. ATPase of these mitochondria is also slightly stimulated by 2,4-dinitrophenol and significantly by Mg2+. The ATPase activity of thymus mitochondria, the normal tissue with sufficiently high proliferative activity, corresponds to that of tumor mitochondria. The total amount of enzyme in mitochondria of tumors investigated and thymus is not lowered, since the ATPase activity in the presence of both DNP and Mg2+ corresponds to the ATPase activity of liver mitochondria. The Mg2+ ATPase activity of tumor mitochondria is not sensitive or is only partly sensitive to oligomycin. The data obtained are indicative of a high lability of the phosphorylating system in tumor and thymus mitochondria. A possibility of reorganization of the energy mechanism of tumor mitochondria and some normal tissues in connection with increased metabolism requiring high energy consumption, is discussed.


[Phospholipid composition and enzyme activity of mitochondrial ATPase complexes]. The phospholipid composition of oligomycin-sensitive ATPase fractions from mitochondria, precipitated under different ammonium sulfate concentrations according to the Kagawa-Racker method, was studied. The ATPase activity of the isolated fractions was found to be correlated with the levels of their phospholipase and esterase activities.


[Disruption of the Ca++ transport enzyme system in sarcoplasmic reticulum membranes upon exposure to phospholipid hydroperoxides and fatty acid hydroperoxides]. It was shown that when injected into a suspension of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) vesicles phosphatidyl ethanol-amine hydroperoxide (HP) slightly activated Ca++-dependent ATPase and increased the permeability of SR membranes for Ca++ during the enzyme function. Linoleic acid HP had no effect on the parameters of the enzymatic Ca++- transporting system (activity of Ca++-dependent ATPase, Ca/ATP ratio, rate of Ca++ efflux) in the SR membranes due to its insufficient incorporation into the SR fragments. It is concluded that among the primary molecular products of lipid peroxidation (free fatty acid HP, phospholipid HP) induced both in vitro (by the Fe++ + ascorbate system) and in vivo (ischemia, E-avitaminosis), only the phospholipid HPs were modifiers of Ca++ transport in the SR membranes.


Selectivity of action of 5-FU: biochemical basis. Studies have been initiated to investigate the biochemical basis for selectivity of action of 5-fluorouracil against tumor cells. These studies included the measurement of 5-fluorodeoxyuridine monophosphate pools and the amount of 5-fluorouracil incorporated into RNA at various times following the administration of labeled 5-fluorouracil-6-3H, 5-fluorouridine-6-3H and 5-fluorodeoxyuridine-6-3H to animals bearing sensitive L1210 cells and L1210 resistant to 5-fluorouracil. The data indicate that: 1) in both cell lines the order of drug uptake into cells in vivo was in the order of fluorouride greater than fluorouracil greater then fluorodeoxyuridine; 2) there was no qualitative difference between the two cell lines in term of the extent of drug activation; 3) the data suggest a strong correlation between the amount of 5-fluorodeoxyuridine-monophosphates formed and retained at the target site and responsiveness to these agents. The effects of thymidine administered by continuous infusion and i.v. bolus injection on the antitumor activity of 5-fluorouracil was also investigated in animals bearing the induced colon carcinoma. The data suggest that thymidine, in combination with 5-fluorouracil, improves the therapeutic index of 5-fluorouracil. Initial studies on the metabolism of 5-fluorouracil in patients bearing the colon carcinoma are also reported herein.


Structure and mechanism of catalytic action of active sites of nitrogenase. A review of the data on the macromolecular structure of nitrogenase and its individual fragments, the electronic structure of iron- and molybdenum-containing components of the active site, and the functional groups of the ATPase site of the enzyme is given. Reactions of N2 reduction, ATP hydrolysis, and H2 evolution, inhibitory processes, and electron transport reactions catalyzed by the enzyme are analyzed within the framework of a general kinetic model. The results of an investigation of the location of the iron-containing cluster system of electron transport, the ATPase site, and the N2-binding and reducing site on the nitrogenase macro-molecule with the aid of a new complex approach including methods of spin, luminescent, and electron-dense labeling are described. On the basis of a number of physicochemical and kinetic data a model of the structure and mechanism of action of the active site of nitrogenase is proposed, which assumes four-step electron transfer from an external reducing agent along the chain of ferredoxin-like iron-containing clusters of the enzyme and an increase in the reducing potential of the iron clusters through the energy of ATP hydrolysis and four-electron reduction in a binuclear molybdenum-containing complex.


Potential clinical applications of a new method for quantitation of plasma levels of 5-fluorouracil and 5-fluorodeoxyuridine. A new high-pressure liquid chromatographic method for the clinical assay of 5-fluorouracil and 5-fluoroudexyuridine has been developed. The sensitivity and specificity of the method equals that of gas chromatography/mass spectrometric methods. The practical value of the method has been demonstrated by its application in several preliminary clinical studies of 5-fluorouracil in which plasma levels of 10(-8)-10(-6)M were readily monitored.


Gnotobiotic pigs-derivation and rearing. The procurement, rearing, nutrition and microbiological monitoring of gnotobiotic pigs and a method for conditioning of primary, colostrum-deprived, specific pathogen free pigs is described. As compared to the established hysterectomy and closed hysterotomy methods for the derivation of gnotobiotic piglets an alternative approach, open caesarian section with the sow maintained under general halothane-nitrous oxide anaesthesia and the introduction of each fetus into the sterile isolator via a liquid germicidal trap, was found to be more efficient and equally successful in providing viable and microbiologically sterile piglets. Two sterile commercially available milk diets, a special formula for orphan animals and condensed cow's milk, when the latter was supplemented with injectable vitamin E, selenium and iron, proved adequate for satisfactory health of the animals. Two types of pelleted starter rations, sterilized by 4.5 megarads of gamma irradiation, provided adequately for the nutritional needs of older gnotobiotic pigs. Results of microbiological monitoring indicated that the surgical and rearing methods employed were capable of preventing contamination of the animals with bacteria, mycoplasma, yeasts, molds, protozoa and helminths but probably could not exclude occasional vertically transmitted viral infections. Exposure of the animals for four weeks to selected strains of lactobacilli, fecal streptococci and Escherichia coli did not result in visible disease while they were maintained in isolators and conditioned them for transfer into a conventional microbial environment.


The effects of thymoxamine on anterior chamber depth in human eyes. The effects of 0.5% Thymoxamine on intraocular pressure and anterior chamber depth were studied in 20 non-glaucomatous eyes. Miosis occurred in all of the eyes but was not accompanied by a shallowing of the anterior chamber or reduction in the intraocular pressure. The significance of the findings is discussed.


Phase I trial of chlorozotocin.

Phase I trial of chlorozotocin. Chlorozotocin was given to 37 patients with advanced malignant tumors in a daily X 5 schedule at 6-week intervals. Total iv doses for each course ranged from 75 to 200 mg/m2. Myelosuppression was dose-limiting, with a platelet count depression regularly observed at doses of greater or equal to 150 mg/m2; leukopenia occurred only at the highest dose level. Nausea and vomiting were mild and uncommon. No hyperglycemia or adverse drug-related effects on renal or hepatic function were observed. No major antitumor activity occurred; however, three patients with renal cell carcinoma and one patient each with lung cancer, ovarian carcinoma, and Hodgkin's disease had minor objective decreases in tumor size. A dose range of 150--200 mg/m2 iv for each 5-day course is recommended for phase II studies.


Capillary density and muscle fibre size in the hearts of rats subjected to stimulated high altitude. Six Wistar rats were subjected to a barometric pressure of 50.7 kPa (380 mmHg) for 34 days. These rats and six controls were killed and their myocardial capillaries perfused with India ink. Hypoxia did not induce any proliferation of capillaries in the left ventricle neither did it lead to a reduction in myofibre size. In the right ventricle the capillary density was reduced largely due to a two-fold increase in myofibre area but there was an increase in the capillary: fibre ratio indicating a modest proliferation of capillaries secondary to right ventricular hypertrophy.


Radiologic diagnosis of different types of pulmonary stenoses. Right ventricular outflow obstructive lesions are among the most prevalent congenital cardiac anomalies with a frequency ranging from 6--10% when considered as isolated anomalies. As part of a more complicated developmental complex, their frequency is undoubtedly higher. The diagnosis can be suspected by the traditional clinical and hemodynamic findings, but a firm diagnosis can only be made by angiography. An exact diagnosis is most important since most of these lesions can be surgically corrected.


Middle ear and eustachian tube lining in chronic otitis media. By means of histological observations we have tried to find morphological data on which to classify non-suppurative and suppurative chronic otitis media. There was also evidence of pathophysiological features which may have direct influence upon the development and behaviour of chronic inflammations of the tympanic cleft, such as disorders of ventilation and reaction of the mucoperiosteal layer. Local defence mechanisms, the species and virulence of infection also play an important role. It appears that the Eustachian tube is a very effective mechanical and immunological barrier against ascending infection which may perhaps be assisted by antibiotic treatment. Certainly non-suppurative chronic otitis media is more frequent now than in pre-antibiotic days.


A comparative trial of two oral cholecystographic contrast media--iocetamic acid (Cholebrin) and iopanoic acid (Telepaque). A comparative trial was made between two oral cholecystographic agents, iocetamic acid (Cholebrin) and iopanoic acid (Telepaque), Fifty patients were given Cholebrin and another 50 were given Telepaque by random allocation. The cholecystographic qualities of the two contrast media showed no significant difference. It was noted that contrast medium within the bowel at the time of the investigation tended to be homogeneous rather than granular with Cholebrin, and the significance of this is discussed. Gastrointestinal side-effects were common with both contrast media, but there was a significantly lower incidence of diarrhoea with Cholebrin than with Telepaque. Various biochemical parameters of hepatic and renal function were measrued in 40 random patients and showed no clinically significant alteration following ingestion of the contrast media.


Contact allergy in 330 dermatological patients. A total of 330 patients with eczematous lesions were tested with 27 topical substances. Among the 88 patients with leg ulcers, 85 (2%) were allergic to one or more substances present in one out of two cases of allergy to wool alcohol. Among the 242 patients suffering from eczematous dermatitis, the percentage of allergic reactions reached 54.6%. A great number of allergic reactions of cetyl alcohol (11.2%), chloramphenicol (10%) and sodium lauryl sulfate (6.4%) was observed. These allergens are not included in the European standard series adopted by the ICDRG. The findings are discussed and compared with data taken from the literature.


The neuromuscular blocking action of spectinomycin on the mouse hemidiaphragm preparation. 1. The mechanism of action of the muscle paralysing property of the antibiotic spectinomycin has been investigated on the isolated mouse phrenic nerve-hemidiaphragm preparation. 2. Spectinomycin produced a neuromuscular blockade that was poorly reversed by neostigmine (3 mumol/l) but well reversed by both calcium (5 mmol/l) and 3,4-diaminopyridine (0.1 mmol/l). 3. Intracellular techniques were used to record endplate potentials and miniature endplate potentials from hemidiaphragms paralysed by spectinomycin. Miniature endplate potentials were reduced both in frequency and in amplitude. The quantal content of the endplate potential during spectinomycin paralysis calculated by the method of variance was 14, a value similar to that found in preparations paralysed by the prejunctionally active magnesium. 4. Thus spectinomycin possesses weak neuromuscular blocking activity by a predominant action on acetylcholine release.


Recently reported causes of contact dermatitis due to synthetic resins and hardeners. This study is a survey of recent literature and my own observations concerning dermatological risks of processing and producing plastics. A plea for understanding and cooperation is directed to manufacturers, jurists, occupational physicians, safety engineers, toxicologists, allergologists, dermatologists, industrial and hobby workers, purchasers, consumers and other people involved in order to reach optimal knowledge about risks of processing, warnings and safety procedures.


Allergic contact sensitization to the fungicide Maneb. Three cases of contact dermatitis caused by Maneb, manganous-ethylene-bis (dithiocarbamate), are described. Maneb is used as an agricultural fungicide, and is also used in spraying solutions in horticulture and in flower shops. Patch testing with Maneb-related compounds revealed no regular pattern of cross sensitization.


Type I allergy from cows in veterinary surgeons. Occupational contact dermatitis caused by obstetric work and/or contact with cows is common among veterinary surgeons. We examined serum from nine veterinary surgeons of whom seven gave a history of itching and flare of eczema after obstetric work and/or contact with cows. By means of crossed radioimmunoelectrophoresis the occurrence of specific IgE against cow hair and dander was demonstrated. The IgE did not differ qualitatively or quantitatively from IgE in serum from patients with allergic asthma from cows. Four veterinary surgeons with flare-up of eczema during obstetric aid to cows did not have assignable s-IgE against bovine amnion or allantoic fluids.


Reduction of chromate in cement by iron sulfate. Cement dermatitis is connected with chromate sensitivity. It can therefore be expected that "elimination" of chromate in cement would decrease the number of cases of cement dermatitis. Iron sulfate added to cement reduces the chromate completely and the 3-valent chromium is precipitated. An amount of 0.35% (w/w) iron sulfate, FeSO4 . 7H2O, is enough to reduce 20 microgram Cr6+/g cement. There is no technical side effect to the concrete. The iron sulfate is preferably added to cement when there is an intimate contact with skin, e.g. at floor laying, repairs and hand-made casting.


Contact and microbial allergy in pompholyx. Contact sensitivity to medicaments and other chemical allergens has been observed in about 30% of 364 patients with pompholyx. Pompholyx is a recurrent vesicular eruption which increases the incidence of contact sensitivity. The majority of patients tested by means of intradermal and cultural tests did not show any relevant finding on the microbial nature, allergic or not, of pompholyx.


The electrocardiogram in asymmetric septal hypertropy. Electrocardiograms and echocardiograms in 44 patients with asymmetric septal hypertrophy were reviewed. Patients with asymmetric septal hypertrophy had incidences of left ventricular hypertrophy (33 percent; 16/44) and left atrial hypertrophy (25 percent; 11/44) by ECG that were less than in a group of patients with significant aortic stenosis (70 percent [31/44] and 64 percent [28/44], respectively). Left ventricular hypertrophy on the ECG was associated with a greater septal-posterior wall thickness ratio in asymmetric septal hypertrophy. A small Q wave in lead V4 or a ratio of the R-wave to the S-wave amplitude (R/S ratio) of greater than 0.20 in lead V1 was found in 14 of 44 patients with asymmetric septal hypertrophy but in no patients with aortic stenosis. The mean corrected Q-T interval (Q-Tc) of patients with asymmetric septal hypertrophy was prolonged, and the mean Q-Tc of patients with aortic stenosis was normal. The distinctive findings of an R/S ratio of more than 0.2 in lead V1 and Q waves in lead V4 in asymmetric septal hypertrophy have clinical significance, and the prolonged Q-T interval may relate to sudden death.


Comparative neuropsychological study of the changes in different programmed activities in subjects with frontal or retro-rolandic lesions or with Huntington's chorea. Eaily performed tests for showing alterations in organization of programmed activities were given to 20 patients with frontal lesions, 23 with retro-rolandic lesions and 17 with Huntington's Chorea. Normal scores were determined in a group of 24 patients without any symptoms of cerebral pathology. The results showed that frontally lesioned patients and those with Huntington's Chorea have similar patterns of disorganization in reproduction of gestures, drawing and rhythmic sound sequences. The data seem to indicate that a major difficulty of these patients lies in faulty "recall" of the original model. Retrorolandic patients do not show this difference in response to the differents tests, but have problems in simultaneous organization of visual and auditory information. These results support the hypothesis of LURIA that the frontal lobes regulate programmed motor activity.


Biosynthesis of estrogens in pregnant and non-pregnant guinea pigs. Guinea pig ovaries obtained from pregnant and non-pregnant animals, incubated in the presence of a NADPH-generating system, converted [3H]-dehydroepiandrosterone and [14C]testosterone to estradiol. Under the same conditions, no radioactive estrogen could be identified in adrenal and placental incubations. The rate of formation of estradiol from dehydroepiandrosterone was linear during the 30-min incubation. The initial rates of formation for estradiol were 415 X 10(-13) and 10.4 X 10(-13) mol/min/g tissue for the ovaries from pregnant and non-pregnant guinea pigs, respectively. The formation of estrone was shown only in the pregnant animal, and the initial rate of formation was 36.0 X 10(-13) mol/min/g tissue. These in vitro studies suggest that the major site of estrogen formation in both pregnant and non-pregnant guinea pigs is the ovary.


Isolation and characterization of fragments of reduced and S-carbamidomethylated human growth hormone produced by plasmin digestion. I. Chemistry. Reduced and S-carbamidomethylated human GH (RCAM-hGH) was digested with human plasmin, yielding a mixture of products. These were partially separated by chromatography on DEAE-cellulose, yielding three major fractions: Da and Db, which were equipotent with native hGH in the weight gain test; and Dc, which was about half as active as hGH. Each of these was further purified by gel filtration, yielding a number of subfractions which were characterized as follows: Da1 is a very stable noncovalent complex of residues 1--134 and 141--191 of RCAM-hGH; Da2 represents residues 20--41; Db1 is very similar to Da1, but appears to have lost one or more amide groups; Db3 represents residues 95--134; Dc2 is a heterogenous fraction containing a further deamidated version of Da1 and Db1 plus a similar complex of residues 42--134 and 141--191, apparently with some carboxyterminal heterogeneity; Dc3, like Db3, represents residues 95--134. The biological activities of these fragments are discussed in the accompanying paper. Earlier work has shown that native hGH, upon digestion with plasmin, is cleaved primarily at residues 134 and 140. It is shown here that when RCAM-hGH is digested with plasmin, in about 87% of the molecules at least one cleavage takes place in addition to those at residues 134 and 140.


Changes in somatostatin concentration in pancreas and other tissues of streptozotocin diabetic rats. Changes in immunoreactive somatostatin were examined in islets, whole pancreas, stomach, and hypothalamus of streptozotocin-diabetic rats. There was no change in islet somatostatin content at 2 days after the administration of streptozotocin, but thereafter, somatostatin progressively increased in the diabetic animals by 45% at 2 weeks, 230% at 6 weeks, and 500% by 6 months. By contrast, islet glucagon rose acutely and maintained a constant 2-fold elevation irrespective of the duration of the diabetes. Morphometric analysis of the somatostatin- and glucagon-producing cells in the islets revealed an apparent augmentation of both cell types. The concentration of somatostatin per total pancreas was also increased in the diabetic animals, suggesting that the islet increase was part of a true increase in pancreatic somatostatin. Pancreatic glucagon was unchanged despite the islet increase. The increase in pancreatic somatostatin was paralleled by an elevation in gastric somatostatin concentration, implying a common mechanism in response to streptozotocin for the somatostatin cells in these two sites. There was no change in hypothalamic somatostatin concentration. Islet somatostatin was also increased in alloxan-diabetic rats. suggesting that streptozotocin does not stimulate the D cells directly.


Sex differences in the multiple-dose streptozotocin model of diabetes. The hyperglycemic response to multiple low-dose SZ injections was measured in castrated and non-castrated male and female mice with or without testosterone treatment. On the 10th day of the experiment, control males had plasma glucose concentrations that were significantly higher than those of control females. Castration of males decreased the hyperglycemic response, while testosterone treatment restored it. The glucose concentrations in castrated females were significantly greater than control females, but not different from castrated males. Testosterone administration to castrated or non-castrated females increased the hyperglycemic response to that seen in control males and in testosterone-treated castrated males. Thus, castration negates the  sex difference in the hyperglycemic response to the multiple low-dose SZ injections. Testosterone enhances the hyperglycemic response in castrated or non-castrated females, and in castrated males.


Molecular transformations in sarcoplasmic reticulum of fast-twitch muscle by electro-stimulation. Chronic electro-stimulation of fast-twitch rabbit muscle with the frequency pattern received by a slow-twitch muscle induces a progressive transformation of the sarcoplasmic reticulum. After 2 days stimulation activities of Ca2+-dependent ATPase and of Ca2+ transport begin to decrease, and are paralleled by a progressive decrease in Ca2+-dependent and Ca2+, Mg2+-dependent phosphoprotein formation, reduced rate of dephosphorylation and a rearrangement of the electrophoretic polypeptide and phosphoprotein patterns. These findings suggest a transformation of the sarcoplasmic reticulum to resemble that of a slow-twitch muscle. This transformation is paralleled by increase in time-to-peak of twitch contraction and half relaxation time and occurs before conversion of the myosin light chain pattern is observed. The parallel time course of changes in contractile properties of stimulated muscle and the molecular and functional properties of the sarcoplasmic reticulum emphasizes the definitive role of the latter in determining the twitch characteristics of fast and slow twitch muscles.


The dicyclohexylcarbodiimide-binding protein of the mitochondrial ATPase complex from Neurospora crassa and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Identification and isolation. Incubation of mitochondria from Neurospora crassa and Saccharomyces cerevisiae with the radioactive ATPase inhibitor [14C]dicyclohexylcarbodiimide results in the irreversible and rather specific labelling of a low-molecular-weight polypeptide. This dicyclohexylcarbodiimide-binding protein is identical with the smallest subunit (Mr 8000) of the mitochondrial ATPase complex, and it occurs as oligomer, probably as hexamer, in the enzyme protein. The dicyclohexylcarbodiimide-binding protein is extracted from whole mitochondria with neutral chloroform/methanol both in the free and in the inhibitor-modified form. In Neurospora and yeast, this extraction is highly selective and the protein is obtained in homogeneous form when the mitochondria have been prewashed with certain organic solvents. The bound dicyclohexylcarbodiimide label is enriched in the purified protein up to 50-fold compared to whole mitochondria. Based on the amino acid analysis, the dicyclohexylcarbodiimide-binding protein from Neurospora and yeast consists of at least 81 and 76 residues, respectively. The content of hydrophobic residues is extremely high. Histidine and tryptophan are absent. The N-terminal amino acid is tyrosine in Neurospora and formylmethionine in yeast.


Histochemical and ultrastructural findings in a case of centronuclear myopathy. A case of centronuclear myopathy is presented. The presence of central nuclei in almost all fibres, the existence of type I fibres only, the histochemical pattern of a negative central zone with a perinuclear halo and a hyperactive rim with oxidative enzymes and the ultrastructural data are discussed in the light of the previous literature. The possible relationships with other myopathies are taken into consideration as well as the fact that central nuclei may be a non-specific change in several conditions. Consequently centronuclear myopathy could turn out to be a syndrome from which different entities can be isolated.


A case of persistent atrial standstill.

A case of persistent atrial standstill. A case of persistent atrial standstill is described. The criteria for diagnosing atrial standstill are separated into two categories: the lack of electrical atrial activity and the lack of mechanical atrial activity. Echocardiography of the anterior mitral leaflet is to be used as one of the noninvasive methods for the diagnosis of the lack of mechanical atrial activity.


Ultrastructure of muscle spindles in C57BL/6J dy2J/dy2J dystrophic mice. The sensory organs of skeletal muscles, the muscle spindles, were examined using electron microscopy in dy2J/dy2J dystrophic mice. Despite widespread damage to the extrafusal (skeletomotor) fibres the intrafusal (spindle) fibres appeared normal and seemed resistant to the aetiological factors for murine dystrophy.


Rheological properties of human blood plasma--a comparison of measurements with three different viscometers. Human plasma viscosity was measured in capillary tube, cone-plate and Couette viscometers. The measurement of the viscosity at very low shear rates showed that plasma is a non-Newtonian fluid with a pseudoplastic rheological behaviour. The importance of this phenomenon for the microcirculation is discussed.


A simple technique for testing the in vitro response of rabbit lymphocytes to PHA and allogeneic cells. Lymphocytes of rabbits can be separated from small quantities of heparinized whole blood using a simple density gradient of Ficoll-Ronpacon 1.09. This separation technique yields a pure suspension of viable cells allowing reproducible results from cultures stimulated either with PHA or allogeneic lymphocytes isolated by the same technique.


[Tricyclic homologs of piperazine. III. Synthesis of 4-substituted hexahydro-1H-2,6-methanopyrrolo[1,2a]pyrazines]. The Authors describe the synthesis of some quaternary salts of the hexahydro-1H-2,6-methanopyrrolo[1,2-a]pyrazines mono or disubstituted at carbon-4. These were obtained directly by cyclization of the corresponding diazabicyclooctanes, by formation of a substituted ethylenic bridge between the two nitrogen atoms. The compounds were pharmacologically screened; the hypothesis of enhancement of curare-like activity in comparison with the unsubstituted derivatives was not confirmed.


[Effect of beryllium salts on the activity of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+,Mg2+-dependent ATP-ase]. In the presence of Mg2+ and Ca2+ ions beryllium compounds inhibit the Ca2+, Mg2+-dependent ATPase activity and the transport of Ca2+ in the sarcoplasmatic reticulum vesicles. The inhibition is reversible and concurrent with respect to the Mg2+ ions. In the absence of the Mg2+ ions an addition of beryllium compounds stimulates the ATPase activity, the dependence of the degree of its stimulation on the beryllium compounds concentration is characterized by a curve with a maximum. On the membranous Ca2+, Mg2+-dependent ATPase preparations beryllium compounds produce a stronger inhibiting effect than in the case of the purified enzyme, which is, apparently, due to their ability to influence the membranous structure. The hydrophobic spin probe method shows that beryllium compounds reduce the microviscosity of the lipid sections of the membrane.


Oxamethacin: a pilot field survey.

Oxamethacin: a pilot field survey. Two hundred sixty-four general practice patients were treated with oxamethacin (100 mg b.i.d.) and 261 with indomethacin (50 mg b.i.d.) for a maximum period of two weeks. Both drugs showed equally good analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. Thirty-six patients (14%) treated with oxamethacin and sixty patients (23%) treated with indomethacin reported side-effects. Among them, seventeen patients on oxamethacin (6%) and forty-tree patients on indomethacin (16.5%) reported gastro-intestinal disorders. Side-effects necessitated interruption of treatment in fourteen patients (5%) on oxamethacin and in thirty-three patients (13%) on indomethacin.


[Regeneration of the Fallopian tubes following sterilization (author's transl)]. After any trauma to the fallopian tubes by a sterilizing operation, pregnancy occurs. If the sterilizing procedure was by high frequency current coagulation, large areas of the fallopian tube must be destroyed down into the mesosalpinx in order to avoid the preprogrammed recanalization tendency of the muellerian duct. Fertilization has occurred in recanalized fallopian tubes which only showed a cubic epithelium. Extensive destruction of the fallopian tube is today not justifiable because of the possibility of interference with the ovarian blood supply and subsequent hormonal damage. At present the safest method of female sterilization is by tissue coagulation of segment of the fallopian tube at 100 centigrade and division of the coagulated portion. In 1000 cases there were no pregnancies.


[Medical genetic study of the population of Uzbekistan. V. The frequency of heterozygous beta-thalassemia in 4 kishlaks of Urgut District, Samarkand Province]. A subject of this investigation is the results of the subtotal examination of 4 villages for the detection of heterozygous beta-thalassemic carriers. 848 persons (55.5% of the registered population) have been examined. The mean frequency of the beta-Th gene was 0.0159, FST-Wahlund--0.00975. Statistically significant differences in the gene frequencies between villages have been revealed (p less than 0.01). The study of genetic distances (by Edwards) has revealed no intertribe differences in gene frequencies. The comparison of findings of the present study with other similar investigations enabled to account for the detected differences in the frequencies of beta-thalassemia as a result of the genetic drift. The importance of choosing populations for the study and methods for detection heterozygous beta-thalassemia are discussed.


Transcription and translation in E. coli of hybrid plasmids containing the catabolic dehydroquinase gene from Neurospora crassa. Two hybrid plasmids which carry the gene for Neurospora crassa catabolic dehydroquinase (C-DHQase) and complement an aroD6 (dehydroquinase-deficient) auxotroph of Escherichia coli have been analyzed. One of these contains a 2.9 kilobase (kb) fragment cloned in the HindIII site of plasmid pBR322 (pVK57) and the other contains a 6.8 kb fragment cloned in the PstI site (pVK88). Restriction enzyme mapping of these plasmids has demonstrated that the 2.9 kb fragment is totally contained within the 6.8 kb fragment. When the polarity of either the HindIII fragment or PstI fragment was reversed with respect to pBR322 no effect was observed on either the ability of the hybrid to complement an aroD- auxotroph or on the level of C-DHQase activity. In vivo transcription of plasmid pVK88 in both orientations was analyzed by RNA-DNA hybridization and by the techniques developed by Southern (1975). Approx. 40% of the plasmid-directed transcription occurred from the cloned PstI fragment and 60--70% of these N. crassa transcripts were encoded by the 2.9 kb HindIII fragment. The Southern technique allowed a further localization of the region of most extensive transcription to a 1.8 kb HindIII-EcoRI fragment. Biochemical analysis revealed that the C-DHQase protein produced by strains harboring pVK57 and pVK88 in either orientation was identical to the N. crassa enzyme. Furthermore, when these plasmids were segregated into minicells and labeled with 14C amino acids, the C-DHQase protein was synthesized at a level comparable to other plasmid-encoded proteins. Taken together, these experiments demonstrate that transcription is efficiently initiated in E. coli from a site on the cloned N. crassa DNA and that the resulting C-DHQase mRNA is efficiently and accurately translated.


[Effects of a new psychotropic agent, CS-430, on the central nervous system of experimental animals (author's transl)]. In rats and rabbits with chronically implanted electrodes CS-430(10-bromo-2, 3, 7, 11b-tetrahydro--11b-(2-fluorophenyl)-oxazolo(3, 2d) [1, 4]benzodiazepine-6(5H)-one) (3 mg/kg, .o.) decreased the slightly awake period and increased the slow-wave sleep period. The onset time of sleep was significantly shortened. In the rat pre-treated with p-chlorophenylalaine (500 mg/kg, p.o.), the awake period was remarkable increased and the slow wave sleep period was considerably decreased at 48 hours after the pre-treatment. In these rats CS-430 given in the same dose decreased significantly the awake peiod and the onset time of sleep and increased the slow wave sleep period. CS-430 raised the threshold of the arousal response with stimulation of the posterior hypothalamus, but not of the mesencephalic reticular formation. These effects of CS-430 were almost as potent as those of nitrazepam (NZP). CS-430 reduced duration of after-discharges following stimulation of the hippocampus, depressed the decerebrate rigidity and inhibited activity of lumbar gamma-motoneurons in anesthetized cats. CS-430 (10 mg/kg, p.o.) inhibited the evoked responses recorded from the proreus gyrus following stimulation of either the baso-magnocellularis of the amygdaloid nuclear or the ventral hippocampus, although such did not inhibit the responses between the olfactory bulb and the pyriform cortex, the thalamus and the sensory-motor cortex. Thus CS-430 has a sleep-inducing effect in animals of almost the same potency as is seen with NZP, and site(s) of the action in the limbic system appear to be specific.


[Roentgenological differention of intrapulmonary findings in patients with hodgkin's disease (author's transl)]. The spectrum of intrapulmonary findings of Hodgkin's disease is illustrated by 75 pulmonary episodes of 22 patients with Hodgkin's disease (duration of illness up to 14 years). Both the typical and frequent, as well as the rare pulmonary manifestations are discussed. We analysed the time correlation between pulmonary changes and clinical manifestations, and the effect of therapy. This retrospective investigation showed that more than 55% of the observed 75 pulmonary episodes have been diagnosed correctly by the initial radiological examination. By simultaneous appearance of different forms of disease propagation, sideeffect of therapy and superimposed diseases, diagnosis may be impaired.


[Roentgenological aspects of the cyst lung in newborn (author's transl)]. The article reports on the angiographic identification of a cyst lung in a newborn with special consideration of the differential diagnostic differentiation from lung sequestration which appears similar in the full size radiograph. The article also discusses further differential diagnoses, complications and treatment possibilities of cyst lungs.


[Computer tomography in the diagnosis of aortic aneurysms (author's transl)]. The paper describes the diagnosis of ten thoracic, 20 abdominal and three peripheral arterial aneurysms by computer tomography. This permits a definite diagnosis by a non-invasive method, it defines the extent of the aneurysm and the amount of thrombus in the aneurysm; it permits recognition of a leak and is painless and without risk and can be performed rapidly. Morever, computer tomography provides an accurate control of growth of the aneurysm. In some cases a dissection can be recognised. The use of adequate quantities of intravenous contrast medium prevents any possibility of an incorrect diagnosis. The extent and density of the aneurysms, their lumina, clot and wall thickness, as determined by computer tomography are described. The values are compared with the aortic diameters of patients with normal vessels. The advantages of the method, compared with other procedures, are discussed and its role in the diagnosis of aortic and peripheral arterial aneurysms is described.


[Early and late results of 131I treatment of benign goitres in an endemic area in southern bavaria (author's transl)]. Following the application of 10 000 to 15 000 rd, to 471 patients with benign goitres, mechanical symptoms were relieved in 72 to 82% during a course of six follow-up examinations; the circumference of the neck was reduced by 1.2 to 1.6 cm., the scintigraphic area by 9 to 31% and maximal 131I uptake was reduced by 18 to 31%. Follow-up examinations at 6.4 and 5.5 years in 155 patients showed the best regression of neck circumference (2.2 to 2.6 cm.) and of the area of the scintigram (28 to 31%). 50% of the patients had had recurrences from previous goitre removals and 1 to 3% developed post-therapeutic hypothyroidism. There was no significant change in the level of the peripheral thyroid hormones following treatment, but 10 to 20% were within the hypothyroid range for the area of iodine deficiency.


[Computer tomographic differential diagnosis of thyroid diseases with special reference to scintigraphic cold spots (author's transl)]. A high proportion of carcinomas of the thyroid produce scintigraphic cold spots, this finding therefore requires further investigation in order to prevent unnecessary thyroidectomies. In order to clarify the value of computer tomography in thyroid disease, 70 patients with scintigraphic cold spots, or equivocal thyroid scans, were submitted to computer tomography of the neck. The findings in the majority of these cases have been correlated with histological results.


[The diagnosis of liver metastases. A comparison of sonography, scintigraphy and biochemical findings (author's transl)]. The value of biochemical methods, scintigraphy and sonography in the diagnosis of liver metastases was compared in 150 patients. Of the laboratory methods, gamma-GT proved the most suitable screening method. A negative scan was of considerable value in excluding liver metastases. Positive findings are not always definite and require confirmation. Ultrasound, because of its high accuracy, is the most valuable method for excluding or demonstrating liver metastases. Suggestions for diagnostic procedures are made as a result of these findings.


[Computer tomographic densitometry of human blood. The effect of absorption by parenchymatous organs and effusions (author's transl)]. In vitro measurements of human blood with varying haemoglobin and plasma concentrations have shown a linear relationship between haemoglobin concentrations and attenuation values. A change of haemoglobin content of 1 g/100 ml. blood produced and equivalent density change of 1.5 HU. Attenuation of normal blood is between 55 to 75 HU, that of plasma about 33 HU. Transudates with a protein concentration of less than 5 g/100 ml. show an attenuation value of less than 26 HU. It is therefore possible to indicate the presence of effusions by computer tomography. The effect of the composition of the blood on the attenuation produced by parenchymatous organs is discussed. It is concluded that attenuation values of organs is not seriously affected by even severe haematological changes.


[Chronic occlusion of a renal artery with aneurysms in the para-aortic collateral circulation and multiple aneurysms in both kidneys (author's transl)]. Chronic occlusion of the main renal artery may be followed by the development of a collateral circulation through ureteric and para-aortic arteries, and through lumbar and suprarenal arteries. A patient with occlusion of the left main renal artery is described, who developed a collateral circulation between the common iliac artery and the distal portion of the renal artery. The para-aortic collateral vessel developed one large and several small aneurysms, and there were aneurysms in both kidneys.


[Vascular embolisation in uncontrolled haemorrhages of the bladder caused by tumours and radiation (author's transl)]. Unilateral or bilateral embolisation of the internal iliac artery was effected in nine patients with incontrollable bleeding due to bladder tumour or invasion of a tumour into the bladder, or as a result of massive alterations of the urinary bladder caused by radiation exposure. A clearly superior haemostasis was achieved via bilateral embolisation (in 4 out of 5 patients) compared with unilateral embolisation (2 of 4 patients). Side effects were observed in two-thirds of the cases (elevated temperature, transient pareses and pain in the gluteal and leg regions).


[Evaluation of hepatic and renal function after visceral angiography (author's transl)]. A prospective study was carried out in 25 patients following visceral angiography using, on average, 3.5 (2.3 to 4.3) ml/kg. of sodium methyl glucamine diatrizoate 76%. No significant changes were found in the liver enzymes (SGTP, LDH and alkaline phosphatase). On the other hand, there was a significant but temporary rise of serum creatinine from 0.9 +/- 0.2 mg% to 1.2 +/- 0.3 mg% as well as transient proteinuria (7 cases) and microhaematuria (6 cases). With the usual contrast doses for visceral angiography, the kidney appears to be the critical organ. In order to reduce the risks of renal complications, contrast doses should be kept to below 4 ml/kg. if possible; angiography should be carried out only if the patient is well hydrated and the indications for angiography should be particularly stringent if there is previous renal damage.


[Investigations on pain reduction during peripheral angiography (author's transl)]. An attempt was made to reduce pain during femoral angiography by adding 1 mg. of Lidocaine/ml. contrast medium in the course of 95 examinations. In a further 87 patients, Diazepam was injected intravenously before the injection of the contrast-Lidocaine mixture. Pain and the feeling of heat was compared with a control group who received contrast medium with 10% physiological saline. There was a highly significant reduction in pain sensation as a result of Lidocaine; pain was further reduced by additional Diazepam, which also reduced heat sensation, but resulted in a fall in blood pressure. High risk patients did not suffer any significant complications. Lidocaine is well suited for out patients, but Diazepam requires a longer period of observation. General anaesthesia has been used only if patients insisted on it or if there was known contrast reaction.


Lumbar erosive intervertebral osteochondrosis. Anatomico-radiological study of a case. A radiological and anatomical case study of intervertebral osteochondrosis is presented. X-rays reveal its evolution from an isolated Schmorl's node to a more diffuse lumbar intervertebral osteochondrosis. Macroscopical and microscopical post-mortem examination shows various degrees of disc deterioration with cartilaginous plate flaw and localized or diffuse intravertebral disc herniation. A discussion on the origin of this cartilaginous plate weakness and on the respective significance of the X-ray and biopsy in the differential diagnosis between intervertebral osteochondrosis and infectious spondylitis follows.


[Apophyseolysis, evulsion fractures and osteochondropathy of the anterior inferior iliac spine (author's transl)]. Evulsion fractures of the anterior inferior iliac spine in adults usually are the result of sudden contraction of the rectus femoris muscle during sporting activities, particularly football. In children, before fusion of the apophysis, there may be an apophyseolysis. This may result in a chondropathy because of abnormal development of the frequently multiple ossification centres. In contrast to the relatively frequent evulsion fractures of the anterior superior iliac spine, such an event is very rare in the anterior inferior iliac spine. Three illustrative cases are described showing the typical combination of history, localisation, pain recurrence during exercise and x-ray changes, which usually consist of a curved osseous structure separate from the iliac bone. These findings permit a correct diagnosis.


[Smith-McCort syndrome (author's transl)]. An 13-year-old mentally normal boy with short-trunked dwarfism is discribed as a case of the Smith-McCort syndrome (SMC-syndrome). His disease has been observed radiologically, clinically an histologically for many years. According to Spranger (23) this disorder differs from the Dyggve-Melchior-Clausen disease (DMC-syndrome) by lacking oligophrenia. Beside a characteristic flattening of the vertebral bodies both syndromes show a lacelike appearance of the iliac crest (crest sign) as a significant radiological sign. Both syndromes appear to be inherited as an autosomal recessive trait.