[Measurement of the excitability of reticulo-cortical and reticulo-thalamo-cortical system during different states of wakefulness and sleep in the rat: technique, results and application (author's transl)]. The measurement of excitability of reticulo-cortical and reticulo-thalamo-cortical system (RtCS) is realized in rats during the careless waking state, during slow-wave sleep and during paradoxical sleep and the ratio existing between these different levels of excitability is calculated. During the inattentive waking state, the excitability of RtCS is slightly higher than during the slow-wave sleep. During the slow-wave sleep, the excitability of RtCS is higher than during the paradoxical sleep. The calculation of the ratio and the relation existing between the three principal levels of excitability of RtCS allows to define the "constant of excitability" which can be utilized in the experimental investigations of the central nervous system. In discussion, the principal interpretations of the results are given.


[Eye blink: electrophysiological behavioral index (author's transl)]. Eye movements of 15 subjects were recorded through EEG derivation (nasion to first quarter of mid-line) during 17 different precisely controlled psychophysiological situations of 2'30 each. These situation were supposed to trigger the various sensory modalities--visual, auditory, gustato--olfactory, and subjects having to be either passive or active. The relationship between the Number of Eye Blinks per minute (NEB) and each psychophysiological situation were studied. An average oculographic profile was obtained across situations.--The average value of NEP was approximately 25/mn.--In order to control serial effects the situation order was reversed for 7 of the 15 subjects: no serial effect was noticed.--As regards the influence of the various sensory modalities, it appeared that blinking rate was minimal during visual situations, and maximal during tactile, olfactory and taste situations.--The changes in blinking rate were discussed in terms of visual and oculor factors, variations in selective attention or cognitive process and also in terms of emotional factors as they appear in some stressing situations in which the task demand was particularly important.


[Electrocardiogram in pulmonary embolism]. The Authors are examining the electrogenetic and vectorial alterations during pulmonary embolism and the consequent more frequent electrocardiographic patterns according to the literature data. The analysis of the electrocardiograms of 37 patients with proved pulmonary embolism confirms that ECG is not of absolute diagnostic value but may be extremely useful especially if subsequent records are compared.


[Epidemiology of multiple sclerosis in the province of Venezia (author's transl)]. In the province of Venice province on "prevalence day" (31 December 1974), the crude prevalence rate of multiple sclerosis was 20.44 cases/100,000 inhabitants (170 patients in a population of 831,657). The prevalence rate for men was 15.24/100,000 and for women was 25,41/100.000. In the city of Venice and in the near lagoon islands the MS prevalence rate was higher then that in the rest of the province, but there was no significant difference of age of onset, duration of the disease, initial symptoms and degree of disability between the two groups of cases. These results were compared with similar studies in other areas at the same latitude.


[Structural modifications of the sciatic nerve in rats on different fat diets (author's transl)]. The influence of dietary lipid components on fatty acids content of the sciatic nerve was studied in rats. Rats of both sexes were divided into three groups according to diet: 1. standard diet; 2. standard diet enriched with various seed oils; 3. colza oil-enriched diet. Six animals from each group (3 males  and 3 females) were killed after 15, 30, 60 and 90 days, respectively, of controlled feedings. Their sciatic nerves were immediately removed and freeze-dried. Lipid extracts were prepared from each sample gas chromatography tests were made on the esterified fats. The results obtained show that there is a change in the fatty acids of the sciatic nerve lipids in rats on low fat diets, while the amount of phospholipids remains the same.


[Current potential of fiberscopy in the diagnosis of bronchopulmonary lesions]. The Authors relate the results of their casuistics of bronchial endoscopies. Out of 3438 endoscopies, 1237 were bronchial biopsies and 496 lung biopsies. According to the results obtained the Authors have concluded that this method represents an important progress in thoracic endoscopy. It can be also widely applied for the diagnosis of bronchopulmonary diseases.


[Characteristics of pulmonary perfusion behavior in bronchial asthma]. Tuelwe patients with asthma were studied by scintigraphic, and isotopoangiocardiographic technics under acute attack. No regionals differences in the pulmonary blood-flow distribution were observed. The results are help ful in the knowledge of ventilation/perfusion relationships and alterations of blood gases produced from asthma attack.


[Lung blood perfusion changes following tubercular processes cured by antibiotic drug therapy]. This is a studym ade by pulmonary perfusional scintigraphy and angiopneumography on 60 patients suffering from tuberculosis of the lung; they were cured by chemoantibiotic treatment. They were recent tubercular diseases with limited extension (nodular infiltrations, former phthisiogenic lobitises, nodular and miliarich disseminations), so their outcomes were extremely modest or not worthy on radiologic plane. The results acquired with these methods firmly showed a larger ematoperfusive injury as to the affected area.


Renal clubbing and scarring in adults: a retrospective study of 110 cases. A urographic pattern of renal clubbing and scarring was found in 182 scarred kidneys of 110 adult patients. Homolateral vesicoureteric reflux was demonstrated by reliable techniques in 90/135 scarred kidneys. Urinary tract infections occurred in 75 patients. Hypertension developed in 20 patients with normal renal function and was not related to the extent of scarring. Chronic renal failure occurred in 30 patients with diffuse bilateral scarring. Four patients showed histologic changes of chronic pyelonephritis. Two hypertensive patients had a typical histologic pattern of Ask-Upmark kidney (segmental hypoplasia). Development of renal scars in adulthood was demonstrated in 2 cases.


Sonographic evaluation of renal masses: correlations with angiography. The value of sonography in the diagnosis of renal masses in a series of 119 consecutive histologically confirmed cases is presented. Sonography correctly identified 92% of the cystic and 90% of the solid renal masses. Causes of incorrect diagnoses included lesions smaller than 2 cm, masses in the left upper pole, diffusely infiltrating urothelial tumors, echogenic fatty lesions (early in our experience), and acute abscesses and hematomas. Angiography in the same series of cases correctly diagnosed 80% of the cystic and 88% of the solid renal masses. Avascular lesions were the main cause for equivocal or incorrect angiographic diagnoses. We conclude that sonography is more definitive than angiography in the diagnosis of avascular masses, while angiography excels when the lesion is vascular or small. Combining the sonographic and angiographic findings allowed accurate diagnosis in over 99% of the cases.


Diuresis urography in equivocal pelvi-ureteric obstruction. In 43 patients with equivocal pelvi-ureteric obstruction, conventional urography was supplemented with diuresis urography. After peroral hydration with 0.5 liters fluid, a large volume of urographic contrast medium was administered and increased diuresis provoked by intravenous injection of furosemide. A relative obstruction of flow was then accentuated by increased dilatation of the renal pelvis. The technique deserves a wider use in the radiologic investigation of patients with equivocal obstruction at the pelvi-ureteric junction.


Ultrasonic evaluation of the scrotum.

Ultrasonic evaluation of the scrotum. Ultrasonography has proved to be a highly useful method for detecting testicular lesions, correlating them with clinical findings, and indicating whether scrotal masses are caused by fluid or by solid tissue. It has not been possible, however, to distinguish spermatic cord torsion from epididymitis.


Transcatheter embolization of traumatic renal arteriovenous fistula. An iatrogenic renal arteriovenous fistula was treated by transcatheter embolization with particles of absorbable gelatin sponge. Recurrent massive hematuria was successfully controlled. The procedure was easily accomplished with minimal loss of renal parenchyma. Surgery, which usually requires partial or total nephrectomy, was avoided.


Ultrasonographic demonstration of renal cell carcinoma in a pelvic kidney. Renal cell carcinoma in pelvic kidneys is a surprisingly rare entity. This case report describes the first instance in which the tumor was delineated ultrasonographically. No clear rationale for this apparently lower incidence can be determined.


[The effect of ischemia on ascites secretion in the perfused rat liver]. The ascites fluid secreted by the isolated perfused liver was studied in rats. The quantity of fluid appearing on the surface of the isolated perfused liver was independent of the pressure in the portal vein and could be raised by the amount of fluid flowing through the liver. Irrespective of the flow conditions, the ischaemic liver will produce more ascites than the intact liver und similar conditions. A rise of hepatic oncotic pressure will not reduce ascites production by the ischaemic liver. With respect to osmolarity there is no difference between the perfusing fluid and ascites. As regards the quantity of bilirubin secreted with ascites no significant difference was found between the control and the ischaemic group. The pertaining literature and the theories of ascites formation are discussed.


[The modified Denis prostatectomy].

[The modified Denis prostatectomy]. The favourable experience gained with the so-called modified Denis-type method is described. It is stressed that the method has all the advantages which are ensured by the Hencz-type haemostatic thread. In addition, the patient is spared many unpleasantness and post-operative complaints. Post-operative treatment is easier since a separate flow from the loge and from the bladder is provided for. The results of different methods are compared on the basis of 150 prostatectomies performed in the Department of the authors.


[Surgical treatment of induration in penis plastica]. In the past 5 years the authors have removed the scar tissue in the case of the induration of the penis plastica of 43 patients by their special surgical method. Operation had to be repeated in the case of 5 patients. Twenty-five patients were cured, 15 improved and 3 remained unchanged after operation. The method, if applied with the necessary skill, is a recommendable method for the treatment of the induration of penis plastica. If, after operation the restoration of the function is not perfect, the application of supplementary conservative therapy is justified.


Transcatheter gelfoam embolization in intractable prostatic bleeding. The authors describe a case in which protracted bleeding after a transurethral prostatic resection could not be controlled with repeated fulguration and resection. Hemostasis was obtained with transcatheter arterial Gelfoam embolization of both hypogastric arteries.


[Condyloma acuminata].

[Condyloma acuminata]. A review of the clinical features and therapeutic possibilities of condyloma acuminatum is presented on the ground of the ten-year experience of the authors. A giant condyloma simplex with benign clinical behaviour and typical histologic pattern and a case of epithelioma starting from a condyloma simplex and leading to the amputation of the penis are described.


[Urologic diseases in the differential diagnosis of acute abdomen]. The urological diseases which alone or intercurrent with surgical and gynaecologic ailments cause most of the problems in the differential diagnosis of the acute abdomen are reviewed. The necessity of a cooperation between the urologist, surgeon and gynaecologist and the importance of intra-operative diagnosis are stressed.


Ultrasonographic features of pelvic lipomatosis. The authors describe the diagnostic ultrasound findings of pelvic lipomatosis in a patient presenting with lower extremity thrombophlebitis. In this condition, ultrasound shows the full urinary bladder to assume a tubular or "cigar" shape and to "float" in the pelvic fat with failure to distend normally to the pelvic side walls. Confirmatory computed tomography discloses normal muscular and osseous anatomy but an increase in radiolucent fat surrounding the pelvic viscera. Clinical and radiographic findings are reviewed, and a differential diagnosis is presented.


Changes in connective tissue metabolism due to bone fractures in children aged 10--14 years. III. Urinary hydroxyproline and glycosaminoglycan excretion following bone fractures treated in different ways. Urinary hydroxyproline and glycosaminoglycan excretion was studied in the course of fracture healing in twenty 10--14-year-old children with fracture of the femur or of the tibia and fibula. In 11 children reduction and plaster cast were used, in 5 osteosynthesis, and in 4 extension of 6--21 days duration combined with immobilization by plaster cast. In the state of resorption, an increase was observed in the urinary excretion of hydroxyproline and total glycosaminoglycans and in the six glycosaminoglycan fractions studied. As a result of the soft tissue damage accompanying the fracture, the excretion of hyaluronic acid, heparan sulphate, and dermatan sulphate showed the most marked increase. No statistically significant relationship could be demonstrated between the mode of treatment and the amounts of urinary hydroxyproline and glycosaminoglycan, but the stage of resorption was prolonged in the case of treatment with traction. At the beginning of regeneration, a decrease in hydroxyproline excretion and then an increase corresponding to the intensive synthesis of collagen were demonstrated. Glycosaminoglycan excretion during the development of fibrous callus was considerably below the control value. Excretion of the metabolites decreased markedly in the five operated patients. in the case of extension, the stage of regeneration prolonged by 4 to 10 days. In the stage of calcification, urinary hydroxyproline excretion was increased while the excretion of glycosaminoglycan and its fractions was the same as in the controls except in the patients treated with traction. No statistically significant relationship was found between the urinary amounts of hydroxyproline and glycosaminoglycan and the mode of treatment. In the case of traction, fracture repair and the formation of connective tissue callus were prolonged.


[Experimental studies on the development of human skull fractures]. Pressure tests were performed on certain well-defined points in the median-sagittal plane of soft part covered skulls of 40 human corpses. It was found that the elastic behaviour of the skull obeys Hooke's law, thus the modulus of elasticity is the Ist differential quotient in the stress-strain diagram. Beside the vectorial nature of the compression force the point of application is also of decisive importance. The globe-ellipsoid theories do not correspond to the structure of human skulls. Autopsy revealed over 50% more confirmed fractures than the X-ray pictures. This contradiction in the diagnosis of fractures on the human skull can be reduced by series of X-ray pictures. The lines of the fractures run to the most part along the Benninghoff--Goerttler pillars of strength. Additional biostatic parameters (maximum load before breaking, coefficient of elasticity, stress, elongation etc.) were also obtained which permit an insight into the specific mechanic structure of the human skull and its load-bearing ability.


Interposition of the gall bladder: a rare congenital malformation of the extrahepatic bile ducts. A rare congenital malformation of the extrahepatic bile duct is presented: in an elderly female patient the cystic duct was missing and intra-operative cholangiography revealed a gall bladder wedged between the common duct and the hepatic duct. The situation was solved by syphonoplasty and T-tube drainage. Five similar cases have only been published in the literature. The importance of intra-operative radiomanometry during of the bile duct is stressed.


[Late results of reconstructive peripheral vascular surgery of the lower limbs]. The late results of the first 30 crural bypass operations are presented. The longest follow-up period was 6, the shortest 1 year. At the time of check-ups 14 of the bypasses were penetrable, and 16 were occluded. On 9 of the latter 16 amputation of the thigh had to be performed. Flow conditions and the problems of indication and contra-indication are discussed.


Treatment of testicular tumours.

Treatment of testicular tumours. The changes in the treatment of testicular tumours are reviewed. The currently accepted methods of treatment, the indications for postoperative irradiation, retroperitoneal removal of the lymph nodes and the administration of cytostatics are discussed on the basis of the authors' experience and of published data.


[Treatment of urinary tract infections after prostatectomy]. Patients subjected to transvesical prostatectomy were given before and after the operation Nebcin (Tobramycin) intramuscularly in daily doses of 160 mg for 8 days to prevent infections of the urinary tract which develop almost without fail after operations of this type. The urine of the patients participating in the trials was sterile before operation. Two hours before the operation the patient was given his full daily dose and the serum and urine levels, as well as the concentration of the antibiotic in the tissue were determined. The removed organs were processed under aseptic conditions. Bacteriological assay ensured the measurement of the biologically effective quantity of the drug, in contrast to chemical methods. The 18-hour slanting agar culture of the strain of the species susceptible to the antibiotic under investigation was used. The optical density of the suspension of the culture washed with physiological saline was photonephelometrically adjusted to that of a standard barium sulphate suspension. Compared to the controls the results indicate that the pre- and postoperatively administered antibiotic has a favourable effect on the healing of the wound, and on the progress of the postoperative phase.


Loading bearing of the lumbar vertebral arch. The load bearing capacity of the lumbar vertebral arches was studied by comparing vertebrae united with screws with those without screws. Load bearing of vertebral arches was about doubled when reinforced by compression screws and reconstructed by good callus formation. This has been confirmed by the postoperative improvement of the load bearing capacity which after complete healing permitted full loading.


Application of His bundle recording in different rhythm disturbances of the heart. The new intracardiac electrophysiological method: His bundle electrocardiography, combined with the electrophysiological examination used in routine clinical practice, has considerably improved our knowledge of the cardiac dysrhythmias. It helps to localize the focus of the atypical junctional and other supraventricular premature beats complicated with either organic or functional intraventricular conduction disturbance. The various forms of paroxysmal tachycardias can be differentiated more exactly from each other. In pre-excitation syndrome, it has become possible to detect the abnormal pathway and to screen the patients susceptible to life-threatening arrhythmias. By means of this the diagnosis of sick sinus syndrome and estimation of its severity can be made more exactly. In addition to the diagnosis, the electrophysiological examinations connected with pharmacological tests give valuable information whether medical or pacemaker therapy should be applied. Six cases of various forms of cardiac dysrhythmias are presented to demonstrate the superiority of this method.


A Roentgen-anatomic study of the relationships between conduction defects and coronary disease. Intraventricular conduction defects of various types were correlated to the extent of coronary disease and to the parameters reflecting the function of the left ventricle in 125 patients who had been subjected to coronary arteriography. In the patients with conduction disturbances, coronary disease was found to be more extensive and the proportion of abnormal parameters of left ventricular function higher than in those with normal conduction. The relationship of the various conduction defects with the lesions of the individual coronary branches and with the parameters of left ventricular function are discussed in detail.


Significance of premature contractions of WPW type in the acute phase of myocardial infarction. Observations in 220 patients with myocardial infarction of an intensive care unit are reported. The distinctive features of premature ventricular contractions of WPW type are described. Production of premature contractions of this type in the acute stage of myocardial infarction is regarded as a premonitory sign of rhythm disorders of considerable significance. The electrophysiological and electropathological background of rhythm disorders is analyzed in close detail, particular consideration is being given to the implications of premature contractions of WPW type. Increasing electric inhomogeneity in the acute phase of myocardial infarction is illustrated by intracavitary electrocardiograms. A relationship has been found between the protracted repolarization of the hypoxic ventricular areas and the appearance of T-U complexes. Two distinct groups of premature ventricular contractions of WPW type with reference to the conductive system are described. The origin of the delta waves in the WPW syndrome is discussed.


Brachial plexus lesions in hemiplegics.

Brachial plexus lesions in hemiplegics. Nine hemiplegic patients with muscular atrophy in the paralysed upper limb have been subjected to a clinical and electrophysiological investigation. In all but one case with circumscribed muscular atrophy in the shoulder girdle or the small hand muscles electromyography showed evidence for denervation. The findings are consistent with traction neuropathy on the brachial plexus and its branches in spastic or hypermobile shoulder joints.


Study of two cases of aphasia by infarction of the left thalamus, without cortical lesion. Two patients suffering from a left thalamus infarct were studied over a long period. The precise location of the lesion has been demonstrated by the C.T. scan. In spite of the absence of any cortical lesion, both presented with aphasia and other neuropsychological disorders (left-right confusion, dyscalculia and possible finger agnosia). Their speech disorders although different, had several features in common. The observations were compared with the other cases reported in the literature.


Diabetic encephalopathy. Does it exist?

Diabetic encephalopathy. Does it exist? A case of a diabetic aged 65 years with an insidious progressive cerebral disorder with ataxia, tremor, general rigidity and mental deterioration is reported. Pathological examination revealed multiple small infarcts in the pons, the basal ganglia and medulla oblongata, corresponding to the lacunar state. The parenchymal lesions were associated with changes in the small arteries consistent with diabetic angiopathy. Since the patient was normotensive, the pathogenetic role of hemodynamic abnormalities in relation with diabetes is suggested.


[The large somatosensory evoked responses (author's transl)]. Giant cerebral evoked potentials have been observed in a case of brain stem tumor and in hydrocephaly. The mechanism of the amplitude augmentation has been discussed.


[Interest of auditory brainstem responses in clinical diagnosis (author's transl)]. The auditory brainstem response yields information on both the neurological and the audiological status of infants and adults. These early waves have particular properties as: non-habituation, absence of modification between sleep, awake state or under high doses of barbiturates. We have developed a procedure for extracting each type of information by measuring the latencies of wave I (auditory nerve) and wave V (inferior colliculus), then the speed of conduction between these two waves.


Inverted caloric nystagmus by warm air stimulation. The rather frequent appearance of an inverted nystagmus, when stimulating with warm air for caloric testing, is emphasized. It is clearly demonstrated that this nystagmus is a real caloric one, but beating in the opposed direction. Its occurrence in many cases, especially when an active middle ear pathology is present, diminishes the reliability of this air stimulation technique, as it is especially indicated in these cases.


An unusual case of stapes fixation.

An unusual case of stapes fixation. A case of fixed columella stapes is described by a patient of 39 years with bilateral conductive hearing loss, a mitral valve pathology, bat ears, clinodactyly and hallux valgus. This complex of anomalies can be considered a hazardous association or an incomplete form of the Forney-Robinson-Pascoe syndrome. Stapedectomy with interposition of a vein graft and a teflon piston gave a total closure of the air-bone gap.


[Orbital involvement in acute sinusitis in children]. We review the literature on orbital involvement in acute sinusitis in children. Because of the potential severity of the disease which may be life threatening a vigorous treatment is required. Hemophilus Influenzae is a major cause of orbital cellulitis followed by Staphylococcus Aureus and group A streptococcus. Because of the emergence of Ampicillin-Resistant H. Influenzae strains in Belgium, chloramphenicol should be included in the initial therapy in combination with a penicillinase resistant semisynthetic penicillin. Therapy is adjusted as soon as the results of bacterial culture are known. Surgical establishment of sinus or abscess drainage is required if the child is severely ill or failed to respond to medical treatment. A treatment protocol is proposed.


[Comparative study on peroperative bleeding time in tonsillectomy performed according to 2 methods: Sluder's and Popper's]. The authors tried to find out of there was a difference in bleeding time during tonsillectomy by using the Popper and Sluder guillotine. They took three groups of children: one where the tonsils have been removed with both of the guillotines, then a group where only a Sluder was used, and the third group where only the Popper was used. After study of the results, one could only find out that there was no difference between the two instruments. But the authors proposed a tonsillectomy in children only by dissection.


Effect of a "minimal natriuretic and diuretic" dose of prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) on the intratubular and peritubular pressures in anaesthetized rats. A "minimal natriuretic and diuretic" dose (3.4--4.2 ng/min/kg) of prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) as previously estimated was infused into the aorta in anaesthetized rats. During the PGE1 infusion parameters for renal haemodynamics, Na+ and water excretion, intra- and peritubular pressures were studied ("electronic servo nulling device"). During the solvent period parameters for the infused left kidney did not differ from those on the control side. Diuresis and Na+ excretion were increased significantly due to PGE1 infusion in both series of investigations. Cortical blood flow (radio isotope labelled microsphere technique) and glomerular filtration (inulin clearance) did not change significantly. Oncotic pressure in the afferent arteriole was not affected by PGE1, whereas it was reduced significantly in the efferent arteriole (control, 22.9 +/- 1.7; PGE1, 19.2 +/- 0.9 mmHg). Transit times to the early and late distal tubules were not affected by PGE1. There were no changes in the hydrostatic pressure in the proximal tubule and efferent arteriole, whereas the peritubular capillary hydrostatic pressure was significantly increased (control, 9.6 +/- 0.3; PGE1, 11.2 +/- 0.2 mmHg). The present results indicate that PGE1 is capable of enhancing Na+ and water excretion without affecting RBF and GFR, and peritubular physical factors might play an auxiliary role in this effect.


Spatial interactions and stimulus-response relations of unit responses evoked by somato-sensory stimuli in the feline caudal medullary reticular formation. Responses of neurons in the bulbar reticular area to separate and simultaneous stimulation of the forelimbs were recorded extracellularly in chloralose-anaesthetized cats. On increasing the stimulus intensity the number of spikes per response increased while the initial latency and interspike intervals decreased in accordance with the functional property of the neuron. Responses evoked by simultaneous stimulation displayed more spikes and a shorter latency than those evoked by separate stimuli of corresponding intensities. The differences in the responses evoked simultaneously and the sums of responses evoked separately showed characteristic distributions as a function of the latter. Three types of distribution were distinguished. The results indicate that stimulus-response relations play a determining role in the mechanism of spatial integration.


Changes in hypothalamic noradrenaline and 5-hydroxytryptamine levels during the development of warm- and cold-adaptation in the rat. Hypothalamic 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and noradrenaline (NA) as well as plasma corticosterone levels were studied in male rats after 1, 2, 4 and 6 weeks of exposure to 4--7 or 30--31 degrees C. An increase of the NA concentration and a decrease of the 5-HT level was observed after the first week in both cold and warm environment together with an increase of plasma corticosterone levels in both groups. NA, 5-HT and plasma corticosterone levels returned to normal in cold-exposed animals by the 6th week whereas in warm-acclimated rats NA and corticosterone levels regained their initial values and 5-HT concentrations remained low. Changes by the end of the first week of exposure may result from the thermal stress. The low 5-HT levels of warm-adapted animals at the end of the 6th week were probably secondary to the process of adaptation.


The influence of sialoadenectomy, thymectomy and starvation on liver glycogen in the rat. Hepatic glycogen was assayed in young and adult rats subjected to sialoadenectomy and/or thymectomy and starvation. Sialoadenectomy in young, but not in adult rats caused the rats to stop feeding. In young, but not in adult sialoadenectomized and starved rats the glycogen level was notably higher than in unoperated and starved rats, indicating active participation of salivary glucagon in immature animals in hepatic glycogenolysis under conditions of starvation. Simultaneous sialoadenectomy and thymectomy caused glycogen depletion in the liver of young rats in spite of the absence of the salivary glands. Acceleration of glycogenolysis in these rats was not due to thymectomy, being probably a result of excessive secretion of adrenal catecholamines.


[Misadventures of modern psychotherapy (author's transl)]. Various forms of modern psychotherapy come from psychoanalysis because of its rational approach of psychological phenomenon and its manipulation for therapy. The problems of modern psychotherapy deal with the changes and problems of psychoanalysis. One can say that some evolution in the frame of psychoanalysis constitutes a regression if the rational is abandoned for a mystical perception of personality. Furthermore, the development of brief psychotherapy is due to social and economic pressure, but also to the acceleration of psychological time and the increase of avidity in the personality of people, and through the exacerbation of phallico-narcissistic traits of psychotherapists.


[Image of body and family body (author's transl)]. In a difficult and delicate clinic for adolescents, the author attempts to demonstrate, from new concepts such as "Family Body", the importance to reevaluate classic psychiatric nosography, to differently formulate etiology, pathogenesis, prognosis and treatment of the adolescent crisis. The adolescent in crisis, as a symptom offered by the family, can be heard as a metaphore in the familial communication, as a symptom of the "Family Body": uncomfortable position and very fructuous, because in between epistemological approaches, the psychoanalytic approach and the systemic approach.


[Hospitalisation profile in a psychiatric service within a general hospital (author's transl)]. The first part of the study indicates that this small unit has a rapid turnover, that the population is young and that there are fresh cases. The main reason for admission in males are first alcoholism and secondly schizophrenia, and for women first depression and neurotic  troubles and secondly endogenous depressions. The second part of this study deals with length of stays and shows that it behaves like random variables of Pascal, with a mean stay of 34 days and a peak within the three first days of hospitalisation.


Influence of estrogens on tuberoinfundibular and striatal dopaminergic systems in the rat. As assessed by changes of prolactin secretion in rat anterior pituitary cells in culture, estrogens can exert a potent antidopaminergic activity at the pituitary level. Androgens and progestins can reverse the effect of estrogens. An interaction of sex steroids at the hypothalamic level on dopamine release and at the pituitary level on dopamine action could also be demonstrated in vivo. Moreover, estrogens exert a similar antidopaminergic activity at the striatal level on dopaminergic agent-induced acetylcholine accumulation. The observation of a modulation by estrogens of the symptoms of Parkinson's disease and tardive dyskinesias suggests the implication of sex steroids in neurology, psychiatry and behavior.


A controlled double-blind study of haloperidol versus thioridazine in the treatment of restless mentally subnormal patients. Serum levels and clinical effects. A randomized cross-over trial was conducted in 30 restless mentally subnormal patients by increasing the dosage of haloperidol from 10 to 60 mg and of thioridazine from 100 to 600 mg daily. The effects of drug holidays and serum drug levels were also examined. Mesoridazine had 5-6 times higher serum levels than the parent compound and relatively high serum levels are achieved already with moderate doses. The observed differences between haloperidol and thioridazine treatment were surprisingly few. Serum cholesterol was higher (P < 0.05) at the end of the thioridazine administration. Drug holidays may benefit may patients.


Medical and nursing needs of elderly patients admitted to acute medical beds. The medical and nursing needs of elderly patients admitted to acute medical wards were examined. About one third of these patients received only care which could have been delivered at home.


The domiciliary assessment visit in hospital geriatric practice: pressures and dicisions on needs for admission. In a sample of 230 cases, requests for admission to a hospital geriatric unit were assessed, in the patients' homes, by a physician and his associate. The physician recorded his opinion of the strength of 14 factors influencing his decisions and also of total admission pressure. Each case was affected by an average of five different factors. Medical factors were most commonly noted: chronic physical illness in 94% of patients, chronic mental illness in 70%; but acute physical illness in only 34%. Difficult nursing was recorded in 76% of cases: other social factors were noted less frequently and related mainly to problems of support. The analysis suggested the importance of the chronic physical illness, difficult nursing, an short-term advantage factors in their contribution to a decision on the need for admission. The chronic mental factor appeared to affect the decision independently of the other factors. It was considered that half the patients were very strongly in need of admission; but a third gave no, or weak, admission pressure, were too ill to be moved, or refused to leave home.


Longitudinal studies of vision in older people. Visual acuity was measured an cataract recorded in a simple random sample of 215 men and 272 women aged 63-90 years in Edinburgh. One year and five years later the observations were repeated in 113 men and 148 women surviving and available from the original sample. This paper deals with survivors only. Worsening of visual acuity occurred over five years in 12% of men and 14% of women. Improvement was noted in 15% of men and 10% of women. The proportion of those with worsening of visual acuity increased significantly with increasing age at entry to the study. Assessments made by subjects of visual change in five years proved inaccurate when checked by measurement. Prevalence of cataract rose from 15% at the original examination to between 36% and 46% after five years. Increases in prevalence of cataract were greated in older subjects. If cataract was present at any examination, visual acuity worsened in five years in 24% of subjects compared with 11% without cataract at any examination. The proportion of persons with cataract and vision worse than 6/12 was 76% of 37 persons at the original examination and 66% of 105 after five years. Corresponding figures in those without cataract were 37% of 223 and 36% of 155. The actual number with poorer vision associated with cataract more than doubled in five years.


Quality of life after stroke: a three-year follow-up. Forty-five people who had suffered a stroke three years previously were interviewed, as were their close relatives and friends. Changes in their lives which they attributed to stroke were explored, and information was gathered about health and social care resources they had used or needed. It was evident that stroke had devastated many peoples' lives: they ceased work prematurely, their interpersonal relations had deteriorated and over 70% viewed their future with uncertainty or gloom. Physical disability in itself was less important than peoples' response to their disability; inappropriate and dysfunctional responses were present in over half. In spite of adequate medical care, 40% of subjects would have been assisted by social work assessment, counseling and direction to appropriate community services.


Pimozide in the treatment of some "social maladjustments" in "personality disorders". Forty patients with some "social maladjustments" or disturbed interpersonal relationship under 2 mg pimozide (Orap: a 24 h long-acting neuroleptic) for six to twelve months. Concomitant but complementary medication was kept unchanged. Control was based on: long-term investigation (1/2 - 1 year), quantification, use of two scales. Statistical evaluation of the changes in "cardinal symptoms" showed a significant improvement in tension, disorders of sleep, intellectual disturbances, cardiovascular symptoms and gastrointestinal complaints. More detailed analysis of the other 27-item rating scale revealed a dramatic improvement in anxiety and paranoidism. The overall appreciation shows that: 25 patients responded well or very well to pimozide, eight did moderately, seven poorly. Neurasthenia and related states with predominant asthenia turned out to be no indication for pimozide treatment. Except for some cases of increased fatigue, tolerance was exceptionally good. The trial showed that extra patience is required from the therapist as a clinical onset of one to two months is not uncommon.


Dysrhythmias in apparently healthy elderly subjects. Using 24-hour ambulatory electrocardiographic (ECG) monitoring, the incidence of cardiac dysrhythmias was investigated in 50 apparently healthy elderly subjects aged over 60 years. There was a high incidence of both ventricular and supraventricular ectopic beats, supraventricular tachycardia and sinus arrest. First- and second-degree block were also noted. The incidence of dysrhythmias bore no obvious relationship to age over 60, sex, blood presssure, cigarette smoking, caffeine and theophylline ingestion or resting 12-lead ECG abnormalities.


Treatment of Parkinsonian syndrome with dexetimide. In an open study, 60 Parkinson patients with varying aetiology were submitted to a treatment with the long-acting antiparkinsonian drug dexetimide and L-Dopa. Rigor, tremor and akinesia were favourably influenced. An advantage over other antiparkinsonian agents is its long duration of action and the possibility of a simple dosage. Further investigations concerning its long-term effect and elucidation of its interactions with different drugs commonly administered in parkinsonian disorders seem desirable.


Potassium depletion in aged patients: an evaluation through red-blood-cell potassium determination. Depletion of potassium is common in old people and is due to abnormal urinary excretion (misuse of diuretics, chronic pyelonephritis), to increased faecal elimination (misuse of laxatives, chronic diarrhoea) or to inadequate dietary intake. In a series of 90 elderly patients whose potassium status was investigated, the main manifestations of potassium deplition were weakness, increased sensitivity to digitials, impaired glucose tolerance and mental confusion. Potassium depletion can be most easily demonstrated by measurement of red-cell potassium levels; this method provides a valuable indication of the intracellular potassium content.


The fenestration operation in 1979.

The fenestration operation in 1979. While it is rarely indicated today, fenestration of the horizontal semicircular canal has left its mark in otologic history. A significant number of patients with fenestrated ears are alive today requiring continued care. A review of both the technique of fenestration as well as the particular postoperative problems is presented to familiarize younger otologists involved in their management.


Performance intensity functions in cochlear and eighth nerve disorders. In this report, performance intensity functions for monosyllabic materials (PI-PB) were obtained on two groups of subject: 20 patients with eighth nerve pathology and 15 individuals with Meniere's disease. The subjects with retrocochlear involvement exhibited marked deterioration in word recognition as the speech intensity was increased beyond the level required for a maximum discrimination score. Such a dramatic breakdown, referred to as the "rollover effect," was not seen to occur among the subjects with cochlear disorders. Hence, the PI-PB function appears to be a valuable tool for use in the special test battery.


Acoustic neuroma or vascular loop?

Acoustic neuroma or vascular loop? Five patients with signs and symptoms of acoustic neuroma had a filling defect on positive contrast posterior fossa myelography. At surgical exploration they were found to have a vascular loop accounting for the space occupying lesion.


Histopathology of Endolymphatic subarachnoid shunt surgery for Meniere's disease. The histopathological findings in the temporal bones of three patients who underwent endolymphatic subarachnoid shunt operation for Meniere's disease are reported. The postoperative follow-up period varied from three to five years. Two patients had a successful operation; the third was unsuccessful. The continuity between th mesothelial lining of the endolymphatic sac and the subarachnoid space was demonstrated in one case; no definite conclusions could be made for the other two cases. Although failure of shunt surgery was presumably due to fibrosis in the shunt area in the reported case, the human endolymphatic sac seemed to be more resistant to surgical trauma than the sac of the experimental animals.


Intact canal wall mastoidectomy.

Intact canal wall mastoidectomy. A series of 70 cholesteatoma patients is reported. The incidence of recurrent and residual cholesteatoma following intact canal wall mastoidectomy (ICWM) is 22%. Revision surgery is discussed, and data are presented to support performing ICWM as a revision procedure. The place of ICWM in chronic ear surgery is discussed.


Monothermal upright-inverted caloric test. This study evaluates the diagnostic sensitivity of a simple method of producing bidirectional cupular deviation using a monothermal stimulus. This stimulus has the advantage of conservation of time and increased patient comfort and acceptance (two caloric irrigations instead of four). Each patient was seated with his head extended 60 degrees during the caloric irrigation. Eighty seconds after the onset of irrigation, the patient placed his head forward, thereby causing both an ampullopetal and ampullofugal flow of endolymph. Right/left difference and directional preponderance were computed for both monothermal warm and monothermal cold irrigations and compared to the traditional bithermal caloric results. This study comprised a control group of 13 normal patients and 144 dizzy patients. False positive (abnormal monothermal but normal bithermal) and false negative (normal monothermal but abnormal bithermal) tests occurred in 45 percent and 50 percent of examinations, respectively. Inaccurate measurement of the weak slow phase velocity that usually accompanies the inverted position was a probable cause of the poor correlation between test results since a separate analysis of electronystagmograms with more intense nystagmus in the inverted position resulted in an improved correlation. Further evaluation of this technique should include methods that result in more accurate measurement of slow phase velocity.


Speech intelligibility in stapedectomized individuals. We assessed the types of speech errors made in relation to the acoustic reflex. Ten subjects with unilateral stapedectomies were presented with consonant-vowel nonsense syllables in low pass noise at 70, 95, and 110 dB SPL in each ear. Hearing sensitivity for all subjects was normal or near-normal bilaterally. In the operated ear, speech intelligibility was significantly poorer than in the unoperated ear at all intensity levels. A distinctive feature analysis supported this finding. The data suggest that word discrimination testing in quiet does not adequately reveal the success of stapedectomy surgery. The distinctive feature analysis indicated that rather than consider the acoustic reflex as limiting the forward spread of masking into high frequencies, it would be better to describe it as a general aural overload regulator.


Cholesteatoma and the middle ear cleft: a review of pathogenesis. The advent of antibiotics has not reduced the incidence of cholesteatoma resulting from chronic otitis media. This incidence remains high due to continued Eustachian tube problems and to other poorly understood mechanisms. Because the otologist will continue to encounter cholesteatoma in clinical practice, he should be prepared to judge the extent and severity of disease and its potential for complications based on the initial office examination. This judgment is best accomplished through an understanding of the anatomy and embryology of the middle ear cleft--the compartments which encourage growth of cholesteatoma and the membranes which limit its growth. This paper reviews the anatomy and embryology of the compartments of the middle ear cleft in an attempt to understand the pathogenesis of cholesteatoma and its potential for complication.


Round window ultrasonic irradiation: conservative surgery for Meniere's disease. Ultrasonic irradiation of the labyrinth through the round window approach is a minimally destructive method of surgical management for Meniere's disease. Results of 48 procedures, followed from six months to eight years, are reported. Relief from vertiginous symptoms was obtained in 70 percent of the patients. Hearing was improved in 14 percent; hearing was also significantly worse in 14 percent. These findings resulted in an overall 56 percent of the patients falling into American Academy of Otolaryngology control classes A or B. No significant postoperative complications were observed. Results are difficult to classify on a cause-and-effect basis due to the remissions and exacerbations characteristic of Meniere's disease. Ultrasonic irradiation using the round window approach does not involve the potential risks of such surgical procedures as labyrinthectomy, vestibular neurectomy, and endolymphatic sac procedures. The primary disadvantage of this procedure is securing and servicing the instrumentation. Due to its conservative nature, ultrasonic irradiation through the round window is an attractive surgical consideration until such time when the pathologic processes in Meniere's disease are better understood.


Acoustic neuroma removal: a comparative study of translabyrinthine and suboccipital approaches. A comparative study of the suboccipital and translabyrinthine approaches for acoustic neuroma removal in 91 cases using a otologic-neurosurgical team is presented. Fifty of these cases involved the suboccipital route using microsurgical techniques; the remaining cases involved the standard otologic routes. The same neurosurgeon participated in all 91 cases. Two otologists participated in the study. The results of our series of cases indicate that the suboccipital route is the procedure of choice for acoustic neuroma removal.


[Reye's syndrome. Report of two cases (author's transl)]. Two cases of Reye's syndrome aged 11 and 13 are reported, confirmed by hepatic biopsy. The favorable outcome observed in the second case seems to be more related with supportive therapy than exsanguinotransfusion and peritoneal dialysis. The physiopathology of this syndrome is not quite clear, but probably in relation with a diffuse mitochondrial insult. Early diagnosis and supportive therapy are important for a favorable outcome.


[Neuro-sedation and cranial C.-T. scan in infants and children (author's transl)]. Sixty-four infants and children under 14 years of age had a neuro-sedation, for a cranial C.-T. Scan. This entirely painless procedure requires complete immobility of the patient. We used two sorts of methods: for infants under eight months of age, a premedication followed by a feeding-bottle is sufficient. For children over eight months of age, intravenous administration of gamma-hydroxy-butyrate at 30 to 50 mg/kg induces light but sufficient sleep in obtaining a useful scan. Within the group of 24 infants we obtained 14 good results, 8 mild ones and 2 failures. Within the 40 children over eight months of age, 28 procedures were good, 10 children had to undergo more anesthesia during the examination and twice the exploration was impossible.


[Ketamine anesthesia for definitive implantation of a cardiac pace maker (author's transl)]. An hemodynamic study has been performed in eight patients (age 68 +/- 7) suffering from complete atrioventricular block. They had to undergo the definitive implantation of a cardiac pace maker under general anesthesia. The fixed cardiac frequency may help to understand the effect of the anesthetic agent used on the cardiac muscle function. Ketamine is the only agent used directly at an initial intravenous dose of 3 mg.kg-1 followed by a perfusion in a constant rate of 0.20 mg.kg-1. min-1. Hemodynamic data (arterial pressure, pulmonary pressures, thermodilution cardiac output) are performed before induction, then every 5 minutes after induction for a 20 minute period. The absence of respiratory depression (PaCO2: 38 +/- 3 mm Hg) shows that hemodynamic changes are entirely due to ketamine. The peak of these changes takes place after 5 minutes (significant rise (p < 0.05) in systemic and pulmonary resistances, in systemic arterial pressure and in pulmonary arterial pressure). Stroke index decreases moderately. After 20 minutes all the parameters have returned to control values. Use of ketamine is not desirable for two reasons: 1 degree The rise of the afterload may alter the hemodynamic state which can be previously deteriorated in patients suffering from atrio-ventricular block. 2 degree Post-anesthetic agitation can displace the right ventricular electrode.


[Stabilisation of total hip arthroplasty. Hemodynamic and gasometric disturbances (author's transl)]. This work aims at studying the operative complications of the stabilisation of total hip arthroplasties with the help of 11 hemodynamic studies, 19 functional records of the epinephrines and 25 surveys of the impact of the stabilisation on arterial blood gas. 1) Within the few minutes following the implantation of bone cement one may remark: -- a drop in the average arterial pressure, -- greater lowering of the stroke index after a femoral implantation than after a cotyloïdal implantation, -- a constant and massive rise of pulmonary resistances which appears mainly after a femoral stabilisation. 2) The hemodynamic disturbances are accompanied by neither a significant rise nor a significant fall of the plasmatic and urinary levels of the epinephrines. 3) There appears with the insertion a massive hypoxemia which can be prevented by the inhalation of pure oxygen.


[Translumbar intra-aortography. Hemodynamic consequences (author's transl)]. The hemodynamic consequences of the translumbar intra-aortic injection of 80 ml of contrast media were studied in 28 patients, in whom cardiac output was determined using thermodilution. These measurements revealed that the vasoplegia produced by the intra-aortic injection of contrast media is of smaller amplitude and longer duration than that evidenced during regional flow determinations. Moreover, the decrease in vascular peripheral resistances and the increase in cardiac output, accompanied by bradycardia, persist for several minutes. These phenomenons are related to an increase in ventricular filling, resulting from the expansion of the intravascular compartment secondary to plasma hyperosmolality.


[Fatal pancytopenia associated with sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim therapy (author's transl)]. The authors report a case of fatal pancytopenia associated with sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim therapy in a patient with folic acid deficiency. The mechanism is a matter of speculation, but the most attractive view is that the inhibiting effect of trimethoprim on dehydrofolate reductase can involve pancytopenia in patients with folic acid deficiency.


[Central vein catheters. Four unusual accidents (author's transl)]. Malpositioning of the tip of a central vein catheter is an accident whose frequency depends in part upon the puncture site. Certain dispositions are especially rare; the authors thus describe. Knotting in the left innominate vein after left internal jugular vein puncture. Catheterisation of the left internal mammary vein from the left subclavian vein. Intertion of a catheter in a pulmonary vein from the femoral route through a septal defect. And finally a thoracic aorta catheterisation by an unnoticed puncture of the left subclavian artery. The diagnostic steps and the conditions necessary to avoid the complications inherent to these malpositions are thereafter discussed.


[Septicaemias observed in intensive care. Causes (author's transl)]. For four years, the authors have been making researches to know how can happen cases of septicaemias observed in intensive care. They have noticed the frequency of staphylococci in septicaemias caused by catheters and of gram -- in septicaemias caused by urinary infection. From those observations, they have come to some practical conclusions. They worry about the high number of secondary septicaemia having their origin in little resuscitation operations.


[New measurements of noise from road traffic in Rome carried out during 24 hours (author's transl)]. A new series of noise measurements in 10 points of the central zone in Rome, corresponding to residential areas with commercial activity, to parks, to hospitals, and to a subway, have been carried out. Investigation has been protracted during 24 hours and each measure has lasted 20 minutes. For the survey a mobile acoustic unity of the Environmental Hygiene Laboratory, Department of Sanitary Engineering, of Istituto Superiore di Sanità has been employed. The unity is fitted with instruments for statistical analysis of noise in connection with a minicomputer. The used program has allowed to calculate L1, L10, L50, L90, standard deviation, Leq, LNP, TNI. On the basis of such measurements Leq 24, Ldn, CNEL, have been calculated. Collected data have been compared with limits of stated rules and with noise levels measured in other seven Italian towns.


[Characterization of an analytical method, comparison between two methods and electronic elaboration of data (author's transl)]. An experimental scheme for the evaluation of two parameters of validity of an analytical method, precision and accuracy, has been reported. Particular emphasis has been given to the problem of comparison between two methods. In the description a validity limit of the scheme has been given and certain critical points, commonly encountered in the measurement of the above mentioned parameters during the preparatory as well as the experimental phase, has been underlined. Further, with the help of tables and graphs, an example for electronic elaboration of the data obtained during the course of standardization of an automatic method for the determination of uric acid in serum according to the above scheme, has been given.


[Automatic determination of triglyceride, cholesterol, glucose and serum uric acid in the screening for preventive medicine (author's transl)]. A centrifuge speed analyzer, used for triglyceride, cholesterol, glucose and serum uric acid determinations, was tested as to linearity, precision, steadiness and accuracy requirements. The results were compared to those obtained by other techniques. Automatic techniques were proved to comply with reliability and practicability requirements, necessary during the screenings for preventive medicine. The centrifuge speed analyzer seems to be particularly fit for the primary prevention trials of coronary heart disease, since the follow-up studies require repeated laboratory examinations.


[Evaluation of smoke consumption by the determination of serum thiocyanate (author's transl)]. The method of Butts and Coll. for determination of serum thiocyanate--parameter correlated to smoke assumption--has been modified in order to improve sensibility and has been characterized as regards precision and accuracy. The improved method has been successively utilized for determination of serum thiocyanate of 493 subjects during a screening for prevention from coronary heart disease. A linear correlation (r = 0,916) between the number of smoked cigarettes and serum thiocyanate has been found. Assuming 40 mumol/l as a cut-off point to distinguish cigarette smokers and non smokers, 1,8% false positive and 5% false negative resulted.


Multiple endocrine neoplasia, type 2b: phenotype recognition; neurological features and their pathological basis. Sixteen patients affected with multiple endocrine neoplasia, type 2b (MEN 2b), were evaluated by clinical, neurological, nerve conduction and electromyographic, and postmortem examinations. Eight of the 11 patients examined clinically had symptoms: 5, neurogenic constipation; 1, failing vision due to hypertrophied corneal nerves; 1, neuromuscular symptoms and pes cavus; and 1, facial disfigurement. Expression of the dominantly inherited MEN 2b gene is more variable than previously known. When neuromuscular findings are present alone, the features may be those of peroneal muscular atrophy. Because 10 of the 11 patients had sufficiently full expression of the dominantly inherited gene--"Marfanlike" body build, full and fleshy lips, whitish yellow nodules (neuromas) on the tip and edges of the tongue, pes cavus, or peroneal muscular atrophy--the presence of MEN 2b was recognized and a search for the usually associated medullary thyroid carcinoma was instigated. In addition to the recognized involvement of autonomic nerves, we have confirmed that somatic motor and senory neurons may be involved. Findings at postmortem evaluation indicate that symptoms can be attributed to neuroma formation: a characteristic adventitious plaque of tissue composed of hyperplastic, interlacing bands of Schwann cells and myelinated fibers overlay the posterior columns of the spinal cord.


Extraocular muscle biopsy in chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia. A quantitatives assessment of the pathological changes in extraocular muscle is presented in 8 patients with chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia (CPEO). Serial cross-sections of extraocular muscle were stained with a battery of histochemical and immunohistochemical techniques and compared with 36 normal extraocular muscles and 1 muscle from a patient who had longstanding third nerve plasy with anomalous reinnervation. Several of the patients had a striking increase in the number of ragged-red fibers in extraocular muscle, particularly if frequent ragged-red fibers also were found on limb muscle biopsy. One patients demonstrated extrajunctional acetylcholine receptor (AChR) in a small percentage of fibers, although this finding was not present in the reinnervated muscle. Numerous darkly staining central regions were noted in the ocular muscle fibers of a patient with Stephens syndrome (CPEO, peripheral neuropathy, and cerebellar disease) and in the reinnervated muscle. A patient with myotubular myopathy had single central nuclei in both limb and ocular muscle. All patients demonstrated in their extraocular muscles variation in both the size and distribution of each of the three histochemical fiber types. Extraocular muscle biopsy proved to be a safe, reliable technique. As a similar quantitative analysis is applied to the study of further patients, a better understanding of the pathogenesis of CPEO should be possible.


Agenesis of the corpus callosum: a study of the frequency of associated malformations. Review of 11 cases of agenesis of the corpus callosum studied at our institution revealed a high incidence of associated anomalies. None patients had associated malformations of the central nervous system, 6 involving the pyramidal system. Eight cases were associated with malformations in the rest of the body. Review of completely examined cases from the literature yielded 47 examples of associated malformations. These were varied and without consistent pattern, with the possible exception of facial abnormalities.


Dementia in Parkinson Disease.

Dementia in Parkinson Disease. In 520 patients with parkinsonism seen over eight years, 168 (32%) had moderate to marked dementia. Although the demented patients were older than the nondemented patients (70.4 versus 65.5 years), the incidence of dementia in Parkinson's disease (PD) was tenfold higher than among controls (similarly aged spouses of PD patients), and dementia is held to be related more to the disease than to age. Demented patients, in addition to being older, developed PD later, were more severely involved in a shorter time, and responded less well to levodopa. It is suggested that PD with dementia may represent a different disorder from PD without dementia.


Midbrain asterixis.

Midbrain asterixis. Asterixis is usually a manifestation of metabolic encephalopathy. It was the only skeletal motor sign in a patient with ophthalmoplegia caused by midbrain infarction; no metabolic abnormality was present. The asterixis was accompanied by signs of damage to the mesencephalic reticular formation. We propose that episodic lapses of postural control by the reticular formation are responsible for midbrain asterixis and suggest that this asterixis is a segmental form of drop attack.


DNA base compositions and photoreactivation capabilities of six Hansenula species. The DNA base compositions and photoreactivable sectors of six species of Hansenula were determined. The G+C ratios revealed two groups; the first had values of 38 to 44% and the second had lower values of 32-36%. Hansenula muscicola could not repair the UV-induced damage; whereas, H. dryadoides, H. lynferdii, H. ofunaensis, H. philodendra, and H. syndowiorum could do so.


Temperature sensitivity of flocculation induction, conjugation and sporulation in fission yeast. Homothallic cultures of Schizosaccharomyces pombe, anaerobically grown to stationary phase in broth at 32 degrees C, were induced by aeration to flocculate. Flocculation was followed by copulation, conjugation, zygote formation, meiosis and sporulation. Cultures grown to stationary phase at 32 degrees C and then aerated at 37 degrees C did not sporulate. Grown to stationary phase at 37 degrees C, cultures were not immediately inducible when aerated at 32 degrees C. To identify which events in the developmental sequence were thermosensitive, we grew and induced cultures at 32 degrees C and then shifted them at various times to 37 degrees C. We observed the following events to be thermosensitive: development of respiratory sufficiency, readiness (inducibility of a culture within 1 h), flocculation induction, copulation, conjugation and early sporulation (including meiosis). Respiration, flocculation and spore maturation were thermoresistant. Conjugation-induced lysis and postdevelopmental deflocculation were enhanced at 37 degrees C.


A comparative study of carotenoids of Aschersonia aleyroides and Aspergillus giganteus. The orange-red sporodochium of Aschersonia aleyroides contains six caortenes with beta-carotene (87%) as the major pigment. In old cultures there is a decrease in total carotenoids, the disappearance of two trans-carotenes and the appearance of two cis-carotenes. In the case of Aspergillus giganteus and its mutant A. giganteus mut. alba the major carotene is also beta-carotene (80%) with six other carotenoids, including possibly the acid pigment aspserxanthin. Until now this latter pigment has only been detected in Aspergillus and therefore it can be regarded as a criterion to discriminate between Apergillus and other fungi. Aschersonia and Aspergillus seem not to be closely related on the basis of pigment patterns, which is in agreement with distinct morphological differences.


Clavispora, a new yeast genus of the Saccharomycetales. In Candida lusitaniae van Uden et do Carmo-Sousa (1959), strains of opposite sex have been found. Cells of the opposite mating types conjugate and form asci with one to four clavate spores. These are easily liberated from the ascus. The type strain of Candida obtusa (Dietrichson) van Uden et do Carmo-Sousa ex van Uden et Buckley (1970) also produces ascospores after mating with one of the strains of Candida lusitaniae. As clavate ascospores are unknown in yeasts, a new genus, Clavispora, is proposed with Clavispora lusitaniae spec. nov. as type species.


Influence of parathormone on C cells, parathyroid glands, serum calcium and serum phosphate levels in the house shrew, Suncus murinus. A chronic hypercalcaemia was induced in Suncus murinus by the daily subcutaneous injections of parathormone for 15 days. Serum calcium increased 4 hours after the first injection (+ 0.88 mg/100 ml), it reached its highest value on day 10 (+ 2.18 mg/100 ml), and then decreased slightly at the end of the experiment (day 15). The serum phosphate level in treated animals showed a progressive fall throughout the experiment. Serial sections of thyroid-parathyroid complex were subjected to selective staining for C cells identification. The chronic hypercalcaemia increased the number of C cells. This was supported by the presence of mitotic figures. Degranulation of the secretory material was observed as the result of the chronic hypercalcaemia; degenerative changes were found in some C cells. The chronic hypercalcaemia also inhibited the activity of parathyroid "Chief-Cells" which ultimately degenerated.


[Localization of the haemopoietic tissue of polychaete annelids. I. Site of haemoglobin (erythrocruorin) synthesis (author's transl)]. An iron rich tissue with an important pseudo-peroxidase activity and which specifically incorporates 55Fe and 3H delta aminolevulinic acid is localized around some vessels of the investigated Annelids : parapodial vessels of Nephthys, chloragogen coeca of Arenicola. This tissue which can be considered as haemopoietic has been studied at the EM level : it is characterized by numerous dense inclusions with pseudo-peroxidase activity and well developed granular endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi.


[Localization of the haemopoietic tissue of polychaete annelids. II. Site of chlorocruorin synthesis (author's transl)]. The perivasal tissue of some blood vessels (antero-lateral vessels of Pomatoceros triqueter, ventral and lateral vessels of Sabella pavonina) shows a remarkable quantity of iron and pseudo-peroxidase activity. At the EM level, this tissue is characterized by numerous dense DAB positive inclusions and well developed granular endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi. Its function in chlorocruorin synthesis is discussed.


[Origin of cutaneous smooth muscles in birds (author's transl)]. The origin of smooth muscles in the skin of bird embryos has been analyzed in heterospecific quail/chick recombinants. The somitic mesoderm of the wing level of 2-day chick embryos was replaced by homotopic or heterotopic somitic mesoderm from quail embryos. The cellular constitution of tissues was observed in twelve recombinant embryos at 17 or 18 days of incubation. Results show that feather smooth muscles and vascular smooth muscles have the same origin as the cutaneous mesenchyme in which they differentiate. They are of somatopleural origin in the wing integument and of somitic (dermatomal) origin in the dorsal integument. This study further reveals that the muscular and connective tissue wall of blood vessels does not have the same embryonic origin as the endothelium. It is suggested that the latter originates from the primitive aorta.


[Organization and differentiation of the segmentary plate in common toad embryo Bufo bufo L., following heat shock (author's transl)]. A heat shock greatly disturbs the shaping and the growth of embryos with 4 or 5 somites. One part of a segmentary plate with a size including four control somites stays inorganized, whereas posterior segmentation gets on normally. The differentiation of the unsegmented somitic block (fusing myoblasts, myogenesis) is the same as the one of the previous somites; the dermatome and the sclerotome issued from the unsegmented block are not cut up. Ultrastructural observations of treated segmentary plates show that the somitic block undergoes important changes. The non-segmented somitic mesoderm of the control animals obtains a loose aspect; its constitutive cells separated by lacunae are brought into contact by the means of filopods and junctions. 18 hours after the heat shock, the cells of the unsegmented block keep close to each other and are tightened together by many "pseudo-desmosomes", the intercellular spaces are reduced to small meatus. The nuclei of the somitic cells are clear and provided with a restricted amount of chromatine spots; dark granular nuclear like chromatin material is thrown out of the nucleus. In embryos fixed 40 hours after heat shock, several large plurinucleated cells, are formed in the non-segmented somitic block. Inside these plurinucleated cells, there is synthesis of myofilaments and differentiation of myofibrilles. Numerous intercellular lacunae are formed, some yet apparent "pseudo-desmosomes" form "pinchings" between the membranes of muscular cells and therefore confine series of intercellular lacunae.


[Bacteriology of urinary infections in paraplegics (author's transl)]. The AA. report the results of 300 urine cultures carried out on paraplegics hospitalized in the Centro Paraplegici of Ostia since 1970 to the end of 1977. All the patients were catheterized. They found infections in the 73 to 92% of the examined cases in the different years. The most frequently isolated bacterial species in the years 1970, 1971, and 1972 were Escherichia, Staphylococcus and Enterococcus, whereas were Proteus, Citrobacter, Klebsiella and Psuedomonas in the following years. They believe that these findings are correlated with the more and more frequent use of large spectrum antibiotics, that are able to control the infections supported by Escherichia and by Gram-positive and make easy the establishement of bacterial species much more resistant against their action.


[Rubella antibody in a sample of Foggia (Italy) population (author's transl)]. The Authors have found the following distribution of haemoagglutination inhibiting rubella antibodies in the women of about 18 years of Foggia: 13.9% negative serum (titer larger than or equal to 1:8) in a sample of 620 subjects. The seropositivity is similar to that in other regions of Italy. The Authors would suggest the adoption of antirubella vaccination at least for immunologically unprotected fertile women where the embryo is at risk when illness is contracted in pregnancy.


[Epidemiology of infectious diseases in the region Lombardy (1974-1978) (author's transl)]. The AA. acting as members of Regional Health Assessor in Lombardy, have exposed the data of infectious diseases declared during the last five years (1974-1978) in comparison with the data of the single provinces.


[Sensitivity and specificity of the RAST (radioallergosorbent test) in biological diagnosis of the hydatidosis (author's transl)]. The radioallergosorbent test (RAST) for specific IgE antibodies to Echinococcus granulosus was compared with other immunological methods in regard to sensitivity, specificity and its use as a diagnostic aid for hydatid disease. Sera used were from patients with active hydatidosis proved surgically, from persons operated for hydatidosis during the previous 2-10 years and from patients with other parasitic diseases or healthy subjects. Results with enzyme-immuno assay (ELISA), indirect haemagglutination (IHA), counter-immunoelectrophoresis (CIEP) and skin test were compared with those with RAST. The percentage of positive RAST reactions (81.2%) among the patients with active hydatidosis was slightly lower than the percentage of positive ELISA (90.6%), IHA (90.6%) and skin test (87.5%) and was superior to CIEP (75%). Among the patients with previous hydatidosis, the RAST was negative in 90% of case, whereas other serological tests were positive in a considerable proportion of cases (ELISA test, 80%; IHA test, 40%; CIEP test, 40%; skin test, 60%). A high percentage (50%) of false positive RAST reactions have been observed in sera from patients infested with other parasites. Results indicated that the RAST for IgE antibodies not be used as the only method for diagnosis of hydatidosis, but it may be employed, if serological data obtained before surgery are available for comparison, for evaluate the results of surgery and to clarify the prognosis.


[New classification of bacterium (author's transl)]. The Author proposes a new classification of bacterium. It has been drawn up with the acquisitions of these last years regarding morfological, physiological and ecological characteristics and genetics of bacterium. It is also based on a new biological concept of the species, which is valid both for the "procarioti" and for the "eucarioti". Such a new concept, in time, makes a really new natural classification of the bacterium possible. Therefore the classification proposed here does not want to be nor must it be considered complete. It has been formed to be dynamic, capable that is of being modified as knowledge progresses.


[Present issues in antiviral vaccines (author's tranls)]. The conditions are examined, which advise the adoption or discontinuance of a vaccination. In Italy, anti-polio vaccination is compulsory and ought to be enforced also in the future. On the contrary, the vaccination against variola has to be discontinued. Specific vaccines may prevent measles and rubella and their efficacy, expecially in the case of measles, is well ascertained. A vaccine against hepatitis B virus is desirable. Controversial issues on antirabies and anti-influenza vaccines are mentioned and discussed.


[Vaccination against influenza (author's transl)]. The Author refers to the problems of vaccination against influenza with regards to the most recent epidemiological and clinical acquisitions.


[Lymphocytes in the peripheral blood of the dog. Initial data on the presence of receptors for human and canine red blood cells]. The authors studied red cells from men and various animals for their capacity to mind to canine peripherical blood lymphocytes and form spontaneous rosettes.


[Bacterial pollution in the coastal waters of the suburbs north and south of Tunis]. The inshore waters of Northern and Southern suburbs of Tunis are chiefly polluted aroud urban cities. The pollution increases with temperature, men (touristes and bathers), the actions of wind and currentology.


[The actual aspects of measles vaccinations (author's transl)]. Following a brief introduction to measles epidemiological aspects and complications, the Authors expound on the essential characteristics of various types of vaccinations. They then synthesize the effects, indications, contraindications and duration of the immunization in relation to measles vaccinations.


[Clinical contribution to differential diagnosis and possible pathomorphosis of the jaundice in virus hepatitis and other pathological conditions (author's transl)]. Some difficulties in differential diagnosis and the probable influence on transformation of thalassemia minor paths, are described in a patient, after outbreak of a non-B acute virus hepatitis.


[Rubella vaccines (author's transl)].

[Rubella vaccines (author's transl)]. After a short report about clinical features of teratogenic effect of rubella virus, the pecularities of several vaccines are reported. Vaccine efficacy and reactions, and rubella vaccine programmes are examined. The immune responses induced by rubella vaccines are described and particularly about the duration of humoral and cellular factors. The AA. discuss about the possibility to use a killed vaccine or a vaccine without teratogenic effect or the experience to give vaccine intranasally.


[Mollusks in the Bou Grara Sea (southern, Tunisia): initial biometric data on Cerastoderma glaucum Poirêt, 1789 (Bivalvia, Eulamellibranchia, Cardiae)]. The statistical study of Cerastoderma glaucum in the little harbour of Bou Grara points out the presence of 21 ribs on the valves, a mean growth of 19,3 mm for the first year of life and a mean longevity of two years; the formation of rest rings is made at summer period. The dynamical study of the population shows its large homeostasy.


[Biology of the Rajidae from Tunisian coasts. XX. Raja clavata Linne, 1758. Weight of the body, liver and gonads. Liver and gonadal ratio. Coefficients of condition]. The body and liver growth-weight rate is faster in the subadults ones that in the youngs and the adults whatever the sex, as gonads growth-weight rate in the males and nidamental glands in the females; ovaries growth-weight rate is, at the contrary more important in the adults ones. In all individuals during growth or along the year, the variation of cubic and relative of condition ane subjected to liver, gonads and ponderal changes. The part of ecological factors and diet are not to be important but seems more difficult to point out.


[Smallpox vaccination (author's transl)]. The Author examines the reasons that have led to the discontinuance of the routine vaccination against smallpox in Italy. The epidemiology of smallpox and deaths from vaccination complications observed in Italy during the period 1952-1972 are examined.


[A new serotype of Salmonella: "Salmonella pisa (16:i:l,w)" (author's transl)]. A new Salmonella serotype with the antigenic formula 16:i:l,w and named S. pisa is described. The strain was recovered from the feces of a healthy person who had suffered enteritis during a previous sojourn in Ghana. The W.H.O. Salmonella Centre of Paris confirmed the antigenic structure and agreed with this designation.


Microelectrophoretic application of metabolic modifiers of the phosphofructokinase-hexosediphosphatase-system onto various types of bulbar respiratory neurons. Three metabolic modifiers of the PFK-HDPase system were applied to bulbar respiratory neurons and, for comparison, also to unspecific cells. F-6-P did not alter the spike density of the majority of the respiratory and about half of the unspecific neurons. When responding, IE units were activated and unspecific cells were inhibited. Citrate did not alter the spike density of about half of all neurons tested. When responding, excitation prevailed in IE and E units, while unspecific cells were inhibited. AMP did not alter the spike density of the majority of the respiratory and about half of the unspecific cells. When responding, I neurons were activated, inhibition preponderated in IE units and both effects occurred in unspecific cells. The large number of zero effects suggests that the activity of only part of the cells is governed by the PFK-HDPase system.


The vestibular nuclei in the domestic hen (Gallus domesticus). VII.--Afferents from the spinal cord. Lesions of different parts of the spinal cord at different levels in the hen have been made and the resulting degeneration in the vestibular complex has been studied in silver impregnated sections. Spinovestibular fibres originate from cervical as well as lumbosacral levels of the cord and run in the dorsal part of the lateral funiculus. The spinovestibular fibres from all levels of the spinal cord terminate ipsilaterally in the nucleus Deiters ventralis, the nucleus Deiters dorsalis, the medial nucleus and rostrally in the descending nucleus. The spinovestibular fibres terminating in the above nuclei are few in number while spinovestibular fibres terminating bilaterally in the caudal part of the descending nucleus are much more abundant. In a few cases HRP injections in the vestibular complex resulted in labelled cells in upper cervical segments of the spinal cord localized in lamina VII. The findings are discussed in the light of data concerning the spinovestibular pathway in mammals.


Somatotopic organization of second order neurons of the eye muscle proprioception. Unit activity was recorded extracellularly from lamb's nucleus principalis and pars oralis of trigeminal nuclear complex following moderate manual stretching of individual extraocular muscles. The oral portion of the spinal trigeminal nucleus and the main sensory nucleus have been investigated by systematic exploration of the second-order neurons of the eye muscle proprioception. Such responses were somatotopically organized. In particular, each single extraocular muscle was represented along the main dorso-ventral axis in this manner: superior oblique and superior rectus in a dorsal layer; inferior rectus and inferior oblique in an intermediate layer, while the medial rectus and the lateral rectus were represented more ventrally. In a few experiments this representation was not observed, due to intermingling of the units. The topographic organization of eye muscle proprioception in the trigeminal nuclear complex described above closely corresponds to that reported by previous authors in the Gasser ganglion.


[Effect of (Na)e concentration on action potentials of myocardial fibers of Pseudemys]. The occurrence, in the myocardial fibers of several vertebrates, of two components, a fast and a slow one, in the depolarizing phase of the action potential, as shown by several workers, has been tested on freshwater turtle myocardium. In order to test the dependence of the fast component on external sodium concentrations, the maximum rate of depolarization and the level of the notch between the two phases were analyzed in hyposodic solutions. No dependence was found between the height of the overshoot of the action potential and [Na]e, either in atrial or in ventricular fibers. Instead, the maximum depolarization rate and the level of the notch between the two phases showed a linear dependence on the logarithm of [Na]e. These findings support the hypothesis that the fast component is sodium-dependent, while the slow one, responsible for the reaching of the overshoot peak, does not depend on [Na]e and has a more positive equilibrium potential.


[Electrophysiologic relations in the lateral geniculate body]. Responses were evoked in the lateral geniculate body (L.G.B.) of "encéphale isolé" cats by single-shock stimulation of either the geniculate body or the optic tract of the other side. Responses to optic tract stimulation were modified following excitability changes in the contralateral L.G.B. due to topical application of strychnine and KCl. Laminar stimulation and recording in different layers (A, A1, and B) suggested the existence of a certain homotopic organization of L.G.B. interconnections. The activity evoked in the L.G.B. was found to be abolished by electrocoagulation of the posterior commissure and intermediate gray matter. These results point to the presence of a transthalamic pathway which might mediate L.G.B. activity to the contralateral visual cortex.


Actions and interactions of norepinephrine and acetylcholine on sinus node potassium movements. The influence of norepinephrine and/or acetylcholine on K uptake of the guinea pig sinus node was investigated. Both "high" (10(-6) M) and "low" (10(-9) M) mediator concentrations were employed. The following results were obtained: 1) high concentration of norepinephrine increased K uptake; 2) high concentration of acetylcholine had a similar effect; 3) simultaneous exposure to both mediators did not lead to summation of the effects; 4) low concentration of norepinephrine depressed K uptake; 5) high concentration of acetylcholine overcame the inhibitory effect of the small concentration of norepinephrine; 6) 2-deoxy-D-glucose did not abolish the stimulating effect of acetylcholine on potassium uptake; and 7) strophanthidin abolished the stimulatory effect of norepinephrine, but not that of acetylcholine. The following conclusions are drawn: 1) both neuromediators in suitable concentrations increase K uptake in the sinus node; 2) the mechanism of such an increase is different, norepinephrine increasing the active and acetylcholine increasing the passive potassium transport; 3) a low concentration of norepinephrine depresses K uptake; and 4) when the two mediators are administered together, acetylcholine suppresses the action of norepinephrine on K transport.


[Effect of glycerol formal on the embryonic development of the rat]. In order to evaluate the effect on embryonic development of a solvent commonly used in pharmacological investigations, glycerol formal was administered to pregnant rats from days 6 through 15 of gestation at the daily doses of 0.25, 0.50 and 1.0 ml/Kg i.m. Glycerol formal did not induce systemic toxicity in the mothers, but showed an embryotoxic and teratogenic activity on the products of conception.


[Histones from chick embryo, chick and chicken liver nuclei]. Histones were prepared and purified from chick embryo, chick and chicken liver nuclei. The comparative analysis of these histone preparations, fractionated by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, indicates that histone fractions of chick embryo, chick and chicken livers are respectively identical and they comigrate with calf thymus histones.


False positive results in V D R L slide test following smallpox immunization. A study is conducted on the incidence of false positive results in the serological test for syphilis in 300 military recruits following smallpox immunization. It is found that 3.7% of individuals developed false reactivity in the V D R L Slide test. The false reactivity appeared two to four weeks following immunization, and disappeared from two to eight weeks later. All reactive sera were negative in the FTA-ABS test.


[Isolation of Salmonella from marine shellfish]. The present paper reports the isolation of Salmonella from oysters and clams encountered in the marine waters of Santos and destined to the human consumption. The results obtained showed the characterization of 41 (59,43%) strains of Salmonella arizonae and 28 (40,57%) of Salmonella typhimurium, by its cultural biochemical and serological properties. The drug resistance of Salmonella to several antibiotics was also investigated by determining the minimal inhibitory concentration in serial agar plate dilutions of the therapeutic agents.


[Prevalence of Dictyocaulus arnfieldi (Cobbald, 1884) Railiet & Henry 1907, in Pantaneira breed horses of the region of Pocone, MT]. The authors sacrificed fifty-five horses originated from the "Pantanal", lowlands in the State of Mato Grosso in two different periods, droughty period and flooded and they described for the first time the Dictyocaulus arnfieldi in Mato Grosso. Relationship between droughty and flooded periods proved not to occur.


[Comparative study of the susceptibility of suckling and adult mice used for the isolation of rabies virus from the saliva of dogs with natural rabies]. Forty two saliva samples from rabid dogs were examined by intracerebral inoculation of weanling and suckling mice. Although rabies virus assay were successful in all of the samples in both groups of mice used, a significant higher death proportion (p < 0.01) were observed in the suckling mice group.


[On laryngectomy reconstructive according to Labayle (author's transl)]. The Authors bring out the results of 8 patients on laryngectomy reconstructive according to Labayle. The Authors think that this type of operation with the precise indication will be positive without fail regarding the function of formation and deglutition. The don't think to express their opinion with regarding the neoplastic disease, because the time is relatively short from the time of operation.


[Biochemicals and ultrastructural aspects of cardiac microcirculation after experimental treatment of SAM (author's transl)]. The Authors in an experimental model have studied the SAM'S pharmacodynamic process. Various group fo rabbit treated for a pathophysiological screening have been monitored. After discussion of data they conclude that the absence of injury of SAM is revealed by ultramicroscopic screening of morphometabolic areas. A pathologic deviation of biochemical data is also demonstrated.


[On a muscular dystony case from manganism. Therapeutic clinic considerations (author's transl)]. It is described a muscular dystony case of manganism, treated with good results in two following phases with haloperidol and diazepam and then with L-Dopa + benserazide. On the basis of clinical and laboratory results, it makes way the hypothese that the haloperidol had developed his therapeutic action with chelation mechanism.


[Ultrasound diagnosis of poor intrauterine fetal growth (P.I.F.G): reliabilities and limits of biparietal diameter (B.P.D.) and anteroposterior diameter of the abdomen (A.P.A.D.) (author's transl)]. The Authors review the diagnosis reliabilities of ultrasonic determinations (B.P.D. and A.P.A.D.) used for P.I.F.G. detection. The one that appears to be the most reliable is A.P.A.O. that allows a diagnosis of 80% of cases, even if B.P.D. is normal.


[Doppler observations in migraine patients (author's transl)]. The Authors have subjected 14 migraine patients to Doppler ultrasonic technique. Examinations have been performed on both common carotid arteries, either in headache phase or in pain-free periods. Results in each case suggest variable hemodynamic patterns during migraine attacks. Possible pathogenic mechanisms are discussed.


[Biochemical and ultrastructural aspects of cardiac microcirculation after experimental treatment of 3GS (author's transl)]. The pharmacokinetics of 3GS has been studied monitoring various groups of treated rabbits. After discussion of data the Authors conclude that the compound has no toxicity. This is demonstrated by electron microscopy of morphometabolic areas. Further more an improvement of biochemical data are revealed.


[Man's therapeutics prospectives: the cimetidine in the peptic ulcer treatment (author's tran'sl)]. The Authors have studied the clinical employment of cimetidine. After the discussion of data is demonstrated the rapidity and helpfulness of this therapy in order to the other specific drugs.


[Observations on an unusual case of motor preservation (author's transl)]. The Authors describe an unusual motor preservation case, induced by right basal ganglia lesion and with not previously reported characteristics. Possible pathogenetic mechanisms are discussed.


Complement fixation reaction in toxoplasmosis. In toxoplasmosis serodiagnosis the complement fixation reaction (CF) is barely sensitive and specific and supplies results below the general standard levels of this technique. The reasons for this deficiency are discussed and detected in the preparation modalities of the toxoplasma antigens. Two diagnostic antigens are prepared and evaluated; the former, a suspension of whole toxoplasma (WT) the latter a total extract of toxoplasma (TET). The antigens are characterized by the preparative process, culture host and the extractive technique with a modified ultrasonic disintegrator. The antigens are used in the CF reaction, performed with the modified LBCF method, with a 100% hemolysis reading (H 100). The LBCF-H 100 reaction with WT and TET antigens is evaluated parellely to the indirect immunofluorescence reaction (IF) and dye test (DT) on 2514 human sera from cases os suspected toxoplasmosis and pregnant women. The analysis of the serological results pointed out that the LBCF-H 100 reaction performed with WT antigen, shows a sensitivity and specificity equivalent to that of the DT. The LBCF-H 100 reaction with TET antigen extends the range of the antibodies detectable with WT antigen. The optimal serological combination to identify the highest number of seropositive cases of toxplasma infection is given by LBCF-TET and IF reactions.


[Effect of tetanus toxin on rat liver].

[Effect of tetanus toxin on rat liver]. The effects of tetanus toxin on the rat liver, employing as parameters the DNA and protein contents, have been studied. In the animals treated with tetanus toxin the DNA and the total liver proteins appear to be increased in a statistically significant way to comparison with the controls.


[Influenza in Umbria from September 1977 to May 1978]. From September 1977 through May 1978 a research project was conducted to determine the presence of Haemagglutination Inhibiting Antibodies (H.I.A.) on three influenza viruses: A/Victoria/3/75, A/URSS/90/77 and B/Hong Kong/8/73. Participating in the project were 1066 persons residing in the region of Umbria, Italy, ages ranging from 0- - 60. The results obtained showed the possibility of diffusion in Umbria of all three of the strains studied due to the low protective levels found in the participating subjects. In fact, the protective levels (> 1:40) are present only in a small percentage of subjects (31% protected against A/Victoria/3/75; 1% protected against A/URSS/90/77 and 10% protected against B/Honk Kong/8/73). An influenza strain of type A, related to A/URSS/90/77 was isolated in Perugia (Umbria) in March of 1978.


[Visual evoked potential in multiple sclerosis]. Visual Evoked Responses (VER) by binocular flash stimulation were carried out in 30 cases of "definite" (15 cases-Group I) and of "probable" (15 cases-Group II) Multiple Sclerosis (MS). VER were recorded bilaterally by reference occiput-mastoid. Averaging of 50 responses (time base 200-500-1000 msec) was considered; measures were made by registration on X-Y Plotter. Abnormal VER by increased latencies of III and/or IV peak (Ciganek) were present uni- or bilaterally in most of the subjects (73,3% of the I Group; 66,6% of the II Group). Percentage of abnormal VER is quite higher than clinical involvement of visual pathways; it is present in 3 out of 5 patients also, in whom clinical findings were confined to spinal cord. The results are discussed with reference to the previous literature. Recording of VER seems useful in detecting involvement of visual pathways without clinical evidence.


[Thermal tachypnea in pigs].

[Thermal tachypnea in pigs]. In anaesthetised and tracheotomised pig, the reflex of panting has been evaluated. The thermal tachypnea showed two phases: initially respiratory frequency increases likely to body temperature but at 41,4 degrees C is observed apnea. When temperature rose above 42 degrees C the respiratory frequency further increased the changes in blood CO2, O2 and pH were not significant. During apnea is present a slight alkalosis.


[Respiratory work in panting in swine].

[Respiratory work in panting in swine]. The dynamic work of breathing (Wdyn) has been measured during thermal tachypnea in pig anaesthetized and tracheotomized. During euthermia Wdin(cm H2O/R1/min-1) increases with ventilation (L.P.S.) according to Wdyn = 1,09 V2 + 1,33 V3; when body temperature rose above 39 degrees C for a given ventilation Wdyn decreases. In all animals has been observed a change of airways size and probably of respiratory tract of Weibel.


[Effects of partial denervation on the distribution of acetylcholine receptors and other membrane properties in innervated and paralyzed fibers of rat skeletal muscle]. The origin of the membrane changes induced in skeletal muscle by denervation has been investigated by examining partially denervated rat hindlimb muscles rendered inactive for 2-3 days by a chronic conduction block in the sciatic nerve. Extra-junctional sensitivity to acetylcholine and spike resistance to tetrodotoxin developed to the same extent in the denervated and the adjacent innervated but inactive fibres. On the other hand, impulse-blocked fibres of control muscles not containing denervated fibres showed, at this early time, little membrane changes. These results are interpreted as indicating that the response of muscle to denervation is due to the combined action of inactivity and products of nerve degeneration.