Prostheses, pain and sequelae of amputation, as seen by the amputee. Results of a survey of 19 organizations belonging to World Veterans Federation indicate that major complains of amputees include; poor fitting, poor dissemination of knowledge to doctors and amputees regarding new prostheses, lack of opportunity for "input" from amputees at research level and inadequate measures to deal with phantom and stump pain. Suggested improvements by amputees; decrease in weight of prostheses, reduction in maintenance for swing and stance-phase control units development of recreational prostheses, more frequent checks through use of X-ray and film techniques, particularly during the "break-in" of a new appliance. Older veterans showed increasing concern in regard to development of consequential disabilities arising from amputation; premature arthritic changes in spine and remaining limb, circulatory problems and gastro-intestinal problems due to ingestion of drugs to control pain.


A statewide amputee rehabilitation programme. Patients are referred to the amputee clinic at the Medical College of Georgia from all areas of the State of Georgia. Most referrals are made a considerable time after amputation and most patients live from 50 to 250 miles from the amputee clinic. A special programme was designed to alleviate some of the problems incurred by the distance and the delayed referral. Physical therapists, prosthetists, social workers, the vocational counsellor and the orthopaedic surgeon co-operate to provide maximum care on the day of the amputee clinic. The cooperative efforts of all members of the team and the ability to plan ahead for optimum rehabilitation maximize the use of patients' time and his rehabilitation level.


Ideas on the suspension of the below-knee prosthesis. Comparative studies with the PTB-suction prosthesis and the ordinary PTB prosthesis have provided opportunities to analyze and understand some functional differences in the suspension of below-knee prostheses. In a roentgenological study of the stump-socket contact signficantly less vertical displacement in the PTB-suction prosthesis has been shown. A study of the pressure variations in the suction socket verified the theory of the necessary pressure gradient in the PTB-suction socket. Added negative pressure by muscle action was also observed. An electromyographic study suggested a muscular activity pattern in the suction prosthesis similar to that of a normal leg, as a contrast to the ordinary PTB prosthesis where simultaneous contractions of antagonistic muscles seemed to be the usual pattern. The latter is interpreted as a defence reaction. An optimal prosthesis has been deduced. It shall have a soft prosthetic socket with a perfect fit, a suction, adhesion and friction fixation and a pressure gradient between the skin and the socket wall with minimum compression distally. The plaster casting shall be done in a downward modelling manner making available space for soft tissue without compression.


Prostheses for partial hand amputations. Amputation of part of a hand may create significant functional limitations for the amputee which are difficult to ameliorate by either orthoses or prostheses. To help develop a logical approach to devices for partial hand amputations the patterns of losses have been studied and a division into four categories has been proposed. Transphalangeal, thumb spared; thenar, partial or complete; transmetacarpal, distal; transmetacarpal, proximal. By utilizing basic principles of orthotics and prosthetics and by exercising ingenuity, it is often possible to provide considerable improvement in function and/or cosmesis to individuals with partial hand amputations. Case illustrations and their prosthetic solutions are presented.


Measurement of prosthetic alignment.

Measurement of prosthetic alignment. An essential part of alignment description is the position and orientation of the socket relative to the rest of the limb. Repeatable measurements of these parameters is hindered by the non-geometrical shape of the socket. A unique axis system has already been defined to enable such measurements to be carried out. The method however, employs an iterative technique and is time consuming. A simple device to facilitate these measurements has been developed and is reported.


A mechanically-actuated wave mattress.

A mechanically-actuated wave mattress. A polio victim who has been in a negative pressure ventilator ("iron lung") since 1950 was in need of an activated mattress to combat the hallucinatory effects of complete immobilization and to assist with body pressure distribution. A mechanical method was used to give the patient's mattress a moving wave form of vertical amplitude 50mm with a period variable from 50 seconds to infinity. His arms rested on separate supports which oscillated 180 degrees out of phase with the trunk support. The device is powered by a 12 volt electric motor operating through two mechanical reduction gear units. It differs significantly in design and purpose from pneumatic ripple mattresses.


Rehabilitation engineering as the crow flies. Part IV--Criteria and constraints. When engineers function in a biomechanics clinic team, collecting information for the definition and solution of problems, and developing solutions in a logical pattern, then establishment of criteria by which to judge actions and results at various stages are essential. In our procedures, we make the most general statement we can which will indicate the goal we have for the patient or the type of patient being considered. Based on this, we proceed with a breakdown of the goal into increasingly explicit statements keeping the objective in focus. Eventually, with the criteria we need in order to decide "yes or no" to any aspect of the solution developing, we consider the constraints. These we see as imposed by the life-requirements of the patient, the effects of the physical environment, the limitations imposed by the social environment, and the limits of available technology including the skills of the designers, the manufacturing capabilities and the distribution system with which the designers must cope. When a "checklist" of requirements and limits has been established, the "critical eye" watches over the rehabilitation engineer as he in effect watches over himself!


Hand orthosis for various finger impairments--the K U finger splint. The K U (Kumamoto University) finger splint has been manufactured for the purpose of developing an effective hand orthosis for various finger impairments using simple parts and materials. By combining the W type orthosis for which piano wire is mostly used, and the S type for which fishing line is mainly used, it has been used to good effect on patients with several kinds of finger impairments. The fabrication and adjustment of the orthosis is simple and if the material is in kit form, a doctor or an occupational therapist can at once construct one and give it to a patient. For this reason, the patient will not lose the chance of timely treatment.


[Treatment of hereditary angioneurotic edema with androgens]. Hereditary angioedema (HANE) is a rare, life-threatening disease due to the deficiency of C1 inhibitor (C1 Inh). Androgen therapy has been recently shown to be effective for prophylaxis of Hane attacks. Since life-long androgen therapy may be hazardous, this study was designed to define the minimal doses required for effectiveness. Ten patients from six different families were treated during cumulative 73 months by danazol and/for methandrostenolone. One tablet/day of either drug was the minimal requirement to prevent any attack in all patients. When 3 tablets/day were given, complement abnormalities were simultaneously rapidly reversed. When 1 tablet/day was given the biological effect was barely detectable, except for C2. Serum C2 levels may, therefore, represent the best criteria of androgen therapy effectiveness. Thus, an excellent clinical result can be obtained with much lower doses of androgens than previously stated. This result seemed important with respect to the serious dose-dependent risk of androgens.


[The molecular expression of C1 esterase inhibitor in hereditary angioneurotic oedema. Study of 32 families (author's transl)]. Seventy seven patients from 32 families suffereing from angioneurotic oedema were studied and a single theory of the disorder is suggested. The functional abnormality of alpha2 neuraminoglycoprotein (NGP) or of C1 esterase inhibitor is related involvement of the structure gene (s) controlling its synthesis. Particular immunochemical characteristics of the inhibitor seen in severals families and remaining constant through a number of generations would indicate the existence of a phenomenon of functional haploidism in these heterozygous patients. Treatment of the condition with androgens suggests the existence of two varieties of alpha2 NGP molecules which are differentiated on the basis of their complete or incomplete glycoconjugation in the hepatocyte.


[Ulcers of the neck in hiatal hernias. Perforation into the free peritoneum (author's transl)]. Perforation into the free peritoneum of ulcers of the neck of hiatal hernias is a rare complication. On the basis of one case, which would appear to be the third reported in the literature but the only one in which the special circumstances resulted in the diagnosis being made preoperatively, the authors propose a new therapeutic attitude based upon the physiopathology of ulcers of the neck, combining suturing and reduction of the hernia with anterior repositioning of the greater curvature of the stomach, mobilised according to Thal's technique, and thereby simultaneously producing an anterior hemi-valve.


[Clometacine hepatitis. 2 cases (author's transl)]. Two women (aged 72 and 78 years) developed hepatitis due to clometacine. The main laboratory abnormalities were raised transaminases and blood eosinophil count. In one of these cases, in which the initial histological lesions had the appearance of aggressive chronic hepatitis, there was progression to cirrhosis despite the interruption of treatment. The mechanism of this hepatotoxicity is probably a hypersensitivity reaction.


[Femoro-popliteal venous thrombectomy by a new balloon catheter (author's transl)]. The use of a modified Fogarty catheter has been found to considerably facilitate disobliteration of the femoro-popliteal segment. The absence of vascular trauma is felt to be an important factor in ensuring long-term venous permeability.


[The hormonal basis of discontinuous progestational contraception (author's transl)]. This study reports the changes in the principal biological parameters seen during the human menstrual cycle (plasma FSH and LH gonadotrophins, oestradiol and progesterone) and provoked by the discontinuous administration of a progestational agent. Fourteen women aged from 25 to 40 years, volunteers, received this treatment. In 9 women, 10 mg of lynoestrenol were administered from the 10th to the 25th day of the cycle. In 5 others, the progestational agent was given at the same dose from the 5th to the 25th day of the cycle. In all cases, there was a rapid and durable fall in gonadotrophins and ovarian steroids in the plasma. These results suggest a marked antigondadotrophic effect of the progestational agent used, which would provide effective contraception. The possibilities offered in the area of human contraception by the dicontinuous administration of progestational agents are discussed in relation with the indications of these substances, in particular during the premenopausal phase and in cases of luteal progesterone insufficiency.


[The Wirsung's duct of in surgical chronic pancreatitis. Radiologial and anatomical study (author's transl)]. On the basis of pancreatography findings and the study of operative specimens in 32 cases of duodenopancreatectomy, it was possible to distinguish two groups according to whether or not the duct of Wirsung was dilated. When the duct was not dilated, fibrosis was relatively marked, but disseminated and more notable in sections of the head than in sections of the isthmus. Lithiasis was essentially cephalic, but distributed more or less equally between the duct of Wirsung and the canaliculi. When the duct was dilated, there was marked fibrosis, distributed equally. Lithiasis was radiologically diffuse throughout the organ, but situated in particular in the duct of Wirsung itself.


[Hypocomplementaemic leucocytoclasic vasculitis. (Mac Duffie's syndrome). One case with bacterial lymphadenitis (author's transl)]. Mac Duffie's syndrome includes a hypocomplementaemic allergic vasculitis with essentially cutaneous and articular manifestations. Its pathogenesis, still incompletely elucidated, involves the precipitation of immune complexes in the walls of the all vessels. The problem remains as to whether the alteration in the complement system is merely a reflection of this formation of immune complexes, or if it is primary, favourising the chronic infections which produce such complexes. The significance of the presence of low molecular weight precipitins reacting with C1g in the serum of a number of patients remains uncertain. The case reported, with its new clinical features, does not provide an answer to these questions but emphasises the possible role of chronic infections in the origin of this syndrome.


[Retrograde repair of complex renal artery stenosis (author's transl)]. Among 60 cases of renal artery repair with venous or arterial autografts, 20 complex lesions involving the bifurcation and the branches of the artery were corrected by retrograde repair. This means that, after excision of the diseased artery, the graft is sutured to the distal branch(es) first, after which the proximal anastomosis is performed. This technique makes easier the distal sutures which are the most difficult, allowing complex repairs and often avoiding extra-corporeal surgery. The total clamping times were 65 to 110 minutes without any protection of the kidney against ischemia. No adverse effect upon renal function ensued these prolonged clamping times.


A specific endonuclease from Bacillus caldolyticus. The purification and characterization of a new restriction endonuclease, BclI from the extreme thermophile Bacillus caldolyticus is reported. This enzyme recognizes the sequence : formula: (see text) and cleaves at the positions indicated by the arrows.


Effect of histone acetylation on structure and in vitro transcription of chromatin. n-Butyrate treatment of growing Hela cells produces a dramatic increase in the levels of histone acetylation. We have exploited this system to study the effect of histone acetylation on chromatin structure. Chromatin containing highly acetylated histones is more rapidly digested to acid-soluble material by DNase I, but not by micrococcal nuclease. The  same pattern of nuclease sensitivity was exhibited by in vitro-assembled chromatin consisting of SV40 DNA Form I and the 2 M salt-extracted core histones from butyrate-treated cells. Using this very defined system, it was possible to demonstrate that acetylated nucleosomes do not have a greatly diminished stability. Stability was measured in terms of exhange of histone cores onto competing naked DNA or sliding of histone cores along ligated naked DNA. Finally, it was shown that acetylated nucleosomes are efficient inhibitors of in vitro RNA synthesis by the E. coli holoenzyme as well as by the mammalian polymerases A and B.


Specific termination of RNA polymerase synthesis as a method of RNA and DNA sequencing. Termination of RNA synthesis with 3'-O-Methylnucleoside 5'-triphosphates have been studied using E. coli RNA polymerase holoenzyme and poly [d(A-T)] as well as unfractionated T7 D delta III DNA as templates. It was shown that the termination can be used for DNA sequencing. A sequence of a part of RNA synthesized from AI promoter of the DNA have been determined. Syntheses of four 3'-O-Methylnucleoside 5'-triphosphates are described.


Photochemical production of psoralen - DNA monoadducts capable of subsequent photocrosslinking. Irradiation of 4' -aminomethyl-4,5' ,8-trimethyl psoralen in the presence of DNA at wavelengths between 380 and 400nm leads to efficient production of monoadducts with no significant amount of crosslinking. The yield of monoadduct attainable is high (about 35 adducts per 1000 base pairs) and can be made still higher by repeated irradiation with fresh psoralen derivative. Subsequent irradiation at 350nm results in crosslinking of a almost half of the monoattached psoralen. Studies of the yield of nonoadduct and crosslink as function of irradiation wavelength show that the action spectrum for crosslink formation is blue-shifted relative to that for monoadduct formation.


The interaction of core histones with DNA: equilibrium binding studies. The binding of core histone proteins to DNA, measured as a function of [NaCl[ is a reversible process. Dissociation and reassociation occurs in two stages. Between 0.7 and 1.2 M NaCl H2a H2b bind non-cooperatively as an equimolar complex with deltaGo = 1.6 Kcals/mole at 4 degree C and 1.0 M NaCl. Between 1.2 and 2.0 M NaCl H3 and H4 bind cooperatively as an equimolar complex with delta Go = 7.4 Kcal/mole at 4 degree C and 1.0 M NaCl. The proper binding of H2a and H2b requires the presence of bound H3 and H4. Nuclease digestion of the H3-H4 DNA produces a tetramer of H3-H4 bound to fragments of DNA 145, 125 and 104 base pairs long. Thus an H3-H4 tetramer can protect fragments of DNA as long as those found in complete core particles and must therefore span the nucleosome core particle.


Reactions at the termini of tRNA with T4 RNA ligase. T4 RNA ligase will catalyze the addition of nucleoside 3', 5'-bisphosphates onto the 3' terminus of tRNA resulting in tRNA molecule one nucleotide longer with a 3' terminal phosphate. Under appropriate conditions the reaction is quantitative and, if high specific radioactivity bisphosphates are used, it provides an efficient means for in vitro labeling of tRNA. Although the 3' terminal hydroxyl is a good acceptor, the 5' terminal phosphate in most tRNA's is not an effective donor in the RNA ligase reaction. This poor reactivity is due to the secondary structure of the 5' terminal nucleotide. If E. Coli tRNAf Met is used, the 5' phosphate is reactive and the major product with RNA ligase is the cyclic tRNA.


Chromatin fiber dimensions and nucleosome orientation: a neutron scattering investigation. Chromatin fibers were studied in solutions of mM monovalent salt by small angle neutron scattering. The variation of the cross section radius of gyration with H2O/D2O contrast shows that DNA is at much larger average radial distances from the fiber axis than histone. Consequently, the coils of DNA in a core particle must be approximately parallel to the fiber direction. The radii of gyration suggest that the maximum diameter of chromatin and nucleosomes is approximately 14 nm and that the DNA id distributed in two radial layers. The concentration dependence of the scattering maxima near 14 nm spacings furnishes independent support for a 14 nm external diameter and can be interpreted by a double DNA layer configuration.


Photosnesitization of DNA by gold.

Photosnesitization of DNA by gold. Au (III) reacts with DNA at pH 5.6 to form a complex which is sensitive to mid-UV radiation. Cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers are produced at some 15 to 30 times the rate that they are in untreated DNA. The mechanism of photosensitization appears to involve energy absorption by Au-urine and Au-cytosine adducts which can then transfer energy to thymine residues. There is no evidence for a "heavy atom" effect which enables metals such as Ag to mix excited states of DNA and to increase the quantum yields of some photoproducts. The use of mid-UV radiation as a probe for investigating the interaction between DNA and drugs such as sodium aurothiomalate is discussed.


Study of DNA-spermine interactions by use of small-angle and wide-angle X-ray scattering and circular dichroism. Circular dichroism measurements with DNA-spermine complexes at 0.075 M NaCl and at 0.15 M NaCl reveal +psi (type I) and -psi (type II) CD spectra respectively. From small-angle X-ray scattering studies it could be shown that type I has a long-range order, short-range order supramolecular structure, while type II is of long-range disorder, short-range disorder structure. The secondary structure of the DNA in both types of condensates is B-like as concluded from wide-angle X-ray scattering diagrams of the condensates and from a comparison with the wide-angle X-ray curves of DNA and RNA in solution.


Semi-conservative transcription in particles of a double-stranded RNA mycovirus. During transcription in vitro catalysed by the virion RNA polymerase of Aspergillus foetidus virus AfV-S in the presence of tritiated UTP, the virus double-stranded RNA becomes labelled in one strand, which has the same sequence as the single-stranded RNA transcripts produced. Most of the label incorporated into double-stranded RNA could be chased into single stranded RNA by further reaction with excess unlabelled nucleoside triphosphates. In reactions containing tritiated UTP the single-stranded RNA transcripts released after the first round of transcription were unlabelled. It is concluded that transcription in virions of AfV-S occurs by displacement of one of the strands of double-stranded RNA by the RNA strand being newly synthesised i.e. the reaction is semi-conservative with respect to double-stranded RNA.


RNA synthesis in isolated nuclei: the use of mercurated nucleotides. We have used uridine 5' triphosphate-5-mercury (Hg-UTP) in place of UTP to study RNA synthesis in a previously described isolated nuclei system (1). Employing isopycnic density gradient centrifugation to separate RNAs based upon their relative content of Hg-U, several conclusions can be drawn. In vitro RNA synthesis consists of end addition onto pre-initiated HnRNA molecules as well as apparent initiation of new HnRNA molecules de novo. Synthesis in our system continues linearly for greater than two hours. The chain elongation rate has been measured to be about 500 nucleotides per minute. The methods used to make these measurements are generally applicable to other in vitro systems.


In vitro transcription of vitellogenin sequences on chick liver chromatin. The in vitro transcription of chick liver chromatin before and after estrogen treatment was studied. Transcription was by endogenous as well as homologous exogenous RNA polymerase II and the products were analyzed for size and specific vitellogenin sequences. Quantitatively more RNA was synthesized from chromatin of 24 h estrogen-treated (E 24) chicks than from that of untreated chicks. In either case the size of transcribed RNA ranged from 5S to larger than 28S and most was between 5S and 18S. When a fraction enriched in estrogen receptor (E-Rec) complex was added to chromatin from untreated chicks, a dramatic shift of the RNA transcribed into heavier regions occurred. Analysis of RNA transcripts by hybridization to cDNAvit showed an equal number of sequences transcribed from E 24 chromatin and control; however, 13 times more specific sequences were transcribed in the presence of E-Rec complex. The results indicate the E-Rec complex exerts a regulatory function in the specific transcription of the vitellogenin gene.


Ribonucleotidyl transferase in preparations of partially purified DNA polymerase alpha of the sea urchin. Three ribonucleotidyl transferase types have been described in the sea urchin: riboadenylate trnasferase, the DNA dependent RNA polymerases, and a DNA polymerase associated ribonucleotidyl transferase (Biochemistry 15:3106-3113, 1976). In the present work this latter ribonucleotidyl transferase was found to purify with DNA polymerase alpha through phosphocellulose, DEAE-Sephadex and DNA cellulose and to cosediment at 6.5 S. This ribonucleotidyl transferase was active with Mn+2, but not Mg+2, on calf thymus DNA and poly(dC). Other synthetic templates elicited DNA polymerase alpha but no ribonucleotidyl transferase activity. From alkaline hydrolysates of the poly(dC) directed GTP polymerization, we found Goh and Gp in a ratio of 1:16 indicating an average chain length of 17 residues after a 20 min reaction. Co-polymerization of GTP (5 micrometer) and dGTP (10 micrometer) yielded a non-random distribution of the ribonucleotide in the deoxyribonucleotide. The properties of this urchin ribonucleotidyl transferase are unlike any previously described eukaryotic transferase and the data is discussed with reference to the known properties of E. coli DNA polymerase I  and the primase.


Transcriptional properties of nucleoli isolated from Tetrahymena. Nucleoli can be isolated from Tetrahymena in a yield of 30-60%. The isolated nucleoli contain rDNA (at least 90% pure) and have a protein to DNA ratio of 30:1. The endogenous RNA-polymerase activity of the r-chromatin has the following properties: (i) The in vitro transcript has a maximal size identical to the in vivo 35S rRNA precursor, demonstrating correct termination on the gene, (ii) 79% of the in vitro transcript is complementary to cDNA of 17S and 25S rRNA which is close to the theoretical maximum for the 35S rRNA precursor, (iii) the elongation rate of the endogenous RNA-polymerase molecules is 9-12 nucleotides/sec, (iv) an average of 4-16 active RNA polymerases are associated with each rDNA molecule depending upon the preparation.


A new RNA-RNA crosslinking reagent and its application to ribosomal 5S RNA. The synthesis of a new RNA specific bifunctional crosslinking reagent, 1.4-phenyl-diglyoxal, is described which reacts exclusively with guanosines. The properties of the crosslinked products enabled us to develop a straightforward method for identifying the reacted nucleotides. Results obtained with ribosomal 5S RNA of Escherichia coli demonstrate the formation of an intramolecular crosslink between guanosine-2 and guanosine-112 in the stem region.


The 1360 bp long basic repeat unit of calf satellite I DNA contains GC rich nucleus of about 140 bp. Fine melting profiles of calf satellite I DNA and its fragments obtained after digestion with endoR.EcoRI and endoR.AluI nucleases were investigated. It is shown that the 1360 bp basic repeat unit of calf satellite I DNA contains an about 140 bp long GC rich nucleus. It is localized on the 600 bp restriction fragment obtained after digestion of 1360 bp fragment with endoR.AluI nuclease. The main part of satellite I DNA melts as loops between such GC rich nuclei which strongly influence the melting properties of this satellite. There exist significant differences between the thermal stabilities of fragments containing many nuclei, one nucleus and those in which such nucleus is absent.


Search for DNA interchange corresponding to sister chromatid exchanges in Chinese hamster ovary cells. Chinese hamster ovary cells (CHO) grown for one cycle in bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) contain a small amount (0.5%) of unusually dense double stranded DNA. This dense DNA has been previously interpreted as being bifilarly substituted with BrdU and hence evidence that sister chromatid exchange (SCE) formation proceeds via the Holliday model of recombination. However, the amount of this dense DNA is 100 times greater than that expected based on the SCE frequency in similarly cultured CHO cells, and it is not increased by treating the cells with mitomycin C. Moreover, contrary to expectations for bifilary substituted DNA, the amount of this dense DNA is not reduced by growing BrdU-labeled cells for a second cycle in TdR. Finally, DNA isolated from CHO cells contains a minor band (0.5%) with a density 0.025 gm/cc greater than that of the main band, whether or not BrdU has been incorporated. These results call into question the identification of this unusually dense DNA as bifilarly substituted and hence its previously postulated relationship to SCE formation.


A computer assisted method for the determination of restriction enzyme recognifion sites. A computer program has been developed which aids in the determination of restriction enzyme recognition sequences. This is achieved by cleaving DNAs of known sequence with a restriction endonuclease and comparing the fragmentation pattern with a computer-generated set of patterns. The feasibility of this approach has been tested using fragmentation patterns of 0X174 DNA produced by enzymes of both known and unknown specificity. Recognition sequences are predicted for two restriction endonucleases (BbvI and SfaNI) using this method. In addition, recognition sequences are predicted for two other new enzymes (PvuI and MstI) using another computer-assisted method.


RNA synthesis in myeloma cells synchronized by isoleucine starvation. Myeloma cells have been synchronized by isoleucine starvation. Changes in RNA synthetic rates as a result of starvation have been studied. The ability of isolated nuclei to synthesize RNA declines on starvation and increases subsequently on refeeding isoleucine. There is a coordinate drop in synthetic rate for all three polymerases both in vivo and in vitro. The chain elongation rate in vitro is the same in starved and normal cells, so the difference is in the number of active polymerases in vitro. However, the nuclei do not exactly parallel the state of the cell from which they were isolated, but the in vitro RNA synthesis increases more slowly than the in vivo RNA synthesis. There is no change in relative amounts of synthesis by the different RNA polymerases. The in vitro RNA product is similar in starved and growing cells.


Interaction of tobacco mosaic virus protein with synthetic polynucleotides containing a fluorescent label: optical properties of poly(A,epsilonA) and poly(C,epsilonC) copolymers and energy migration from the tryptophan to 1,N6-ethenoadenine or 3,N4-ethenocytosine residues in RNP. A spectrophotometric method for determination of the modification degrees and molar extinction coefficients for poly(A, epsilonA) and poly(C, epsilonC) copolymers has been developed. Dependence of some absorption and fluorescence parameters of the copolymers on the modification degree has been studied. Distribution of modified residues in copolymers differs from random and depends on modification conditions. Interaction between the TMV protein and copolymers has been investigated. The protein interacts with poly(A, epsilonA) of low or medium modification degree and displays no activity with respect to poly(epsilonA). On the contrary, introduction of epsilonC to the polynucleotide promotes complex formation between poly(C, epsilonC) and TMV protein. Analysis of the fluorescence emission and excitation spectra has revealed energy transfer from tryptophan to epsilonA or epsilon C in the RNP to occur and permits one to estimate the average distance between Trp (presumably Trp 52)o and the RNA base binding region in the virus to be 17 to 20 A.


Nucleosomes arrangement in chromatin.

Nucleosomes arrangement in chromatin. The spatial arrangement of nucleosomes in rat liver chromatin has been examined using the electric birefringence technique. All chromatin subunits studied (up to 9 consecutive nucleosomes) contain their full complement of the five histone types associated with about 200 base pairs repeat length DNA. From the relaxation times and the orientation mechanisms, the nucleosome may be assimilated to an oblate ellipsoid of dimensions about 140 x 140 x 70 A, and the DNA superhelical axis is parallel to its shorter axis. The most important result is a sharp transition in the electro-optical properties of subunits when the number of nucleosomes in the chain is greater than 6 : the initial negative birefringence, as for DNA, becomes positive and the relaxation time is multiplied by ten. The hexanucleosome, which presents no birefringence, has an helical symmetrical structure without preferential orientation axis. This structure is approximatively spherical of about 250 A diameter and the chromatin appears as a periodic array of such a structure.


Histone-DNA interactions within chromatin. Isolation of histones from DNA-histone adducts induced in nuclei by UV light. We have developed a method by which to isolate histones that have been crosslinked to DNA following irradiation of calf thymus nuclei by UV light. The procedure involves separation of protein-DNA adducts from uncrosslinked protein by Sepharose 4B chromatography under dissociating conditions. Histones which are crosslinked to DNA are released by chemical hydrolysis of the DNA and identified by SDS gel electrophoresis. The results indicate that, of the histones, H1 and H3 become crosslinked to the DNA most readily under our irradiation conditions.


Isolation of discrete repetitive sequence classes from Xenopus DNA by high temperature reassociation. Sequences that did or did not reassociate at 75 dagrees C (stable and unstable, respectively) were isolated from total repetitive Xenopus laevis DNA. Sequence complexities or frequencies were determined by self (minicot) or DNA excess (slave minicot) reassociations at 60 degrees C. Stable sequences were five times shorter and four times more frequent than unstable sequences. Reassociations at 75 degrees C or at 50 degrees C were used to establish apparent sequence frequencies at these criteria. Interspersion curves at either 60 degrees C or 75 degrees C and low Cot reassociation of long fragments of total X. laevis DNA at either 60 degrees C or 75 degrees C, followed by S1 digestion and agarose chromatography, were used to determine genome arrangement of the stable and unstable classes of sequence. Reassociation at high temperature was found to permit the fractionation of repetitive sequences into two populations of differing characteristics.


DNA ligase activity in UV-irradiated monkey kidney cells. The DNA ligase activity of monkey kidney CV-1 cells has been measured at different stages of culture growth and after different time intervals following ultraviolet irradiation. Results indicate that: - The level of enzyme activity is about twice higher in non synchronous, rapidly dividing cells than in confluent cultures. - UV-irradiation of cells induces a "de novo" synthesis of DNA ligase. - This induction is dose dependent in its extent and kinetics, and may lead to a DNA ligase level in UV-irradiated stationary cultures of the same order as observed in unirradiated exponentially growing cells. - This induction seems to be independent of semiconservative DNA synthesis since it is not affected by fluorodeoxyuridine.


Most short DNA molecules isolated from 3T3 cells are not nascent. The population of short DNA molecules (less than 10(3) nucleotides) in 3T3 cells has been studied using in vivo and in vitro pulse labeling techniques and in vitro end-labeling. There is a large number of molecules of less than 100 nucleotides present in equal numbers in both Go and S phase cells. In S phase cells, most of these molecules are not replicating intermediates because they do not become density-labeled after a moderate period of substitution of BrdUMP, although they are detected by end-labeling in vitro. This population includes the nascent Okazaki pieces that can be labeled in a short pulse with [3H]dThd or [3H]dTTP, however, these represent less than 10% of the total population. Alkaline hydrolysis of the molecules that had been end-labeled with 32P using [gamma32P]ATP and polynucleotide kinase did not reveal significant release of [32P] 2'(3'), 5' ribonucleoside diphosphates.


Zwitterionic character of nucleotides: possible significance in the evolution of nucleic acids. X-ray crystallography has shown that the free acids of adenosine 5'- and 3'-monophosphates and of cytidine 5'- and 3'-monophosphates exist as zwiterions in the solid state with protonation of the adenine base at the N(1) site and of the cytosine base at the corresponding site N(3) and the phosphate group negatively charged. In this paper, evidence is presented for the zwitterionic character of the free acids of the monomeric nucleotides guanosine 5'-monophosphate and inosine 5'-monophosphate with protonation of the base at the N(7) site of the imidazole moiety.


Methylation status of 13S ribosomal RNA from hamster mitochondria: the presence of a novel riboside, N4-methylcytidine. The ribosomal RNA ("13S" RNA) of the small ribosomal subunit of hamster cell mitochondria has been found to have a distinctive pattern of methylated residues. Each molecule contained, on the average, approximately one residue of m4Cp, m5Cp and m5Up, and two residues of m62Ap. The natural occurrence of m4Cp has not previously been reported; we propose that this nucleotide is homologous to its ribose-methylated congener, m4Cmp, which is characteristic of bacterial 16S ribosomal RNA. We detected neither m4Cp nor m4Cmp in the hamster cell cytoplasmic ribosomal RNA. This is the first documentation of a modified residue present in mitochondrial RNA but absent from the cytoplasmic RNA of the same cells.


Spatial configuration of deoxyribotrinucleoside diphosphates in aqueous solution. The detailed conformational features and dynamics of the naturally occurring deoxyribotrinucleoside diphosphates d-TpTpT and d-TpTpC have been investigated at 20 degrees C and 80 degrees C in aqueous solution by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The observed NMR parameters indicate that the conformational properties of the trimers are very similar to those of the constituent dimers and monomers, i.e., the monomers and dimers conserve their intrinsic conformational features when they become incorporated into oligomers. Model building indicate that the distant shieldings can originate from spatial configurations in which the central nucleotidyl unit is bulged out and the w'1w1, w'2w2 occupy /g+g+, g+g+/ domains.


Stacking of Crick Wobble pair and Watson-Crick pair: stability rules of G-U pairs at ends of helical stems in tRNAs and the relation to codon-anticodon Wobble interaction. The occurrence of the noncomplementary G-U base pair at the end of a helix is found to be governed by stacking interactions. As a rule, a G-U pair with G on the 5'-side of a Watson-Crick base pair exhibits strikingly greater stacking overlap with the Watson-Crick base pair than a G-U pair on the 3'-side of a Watson-Crick base pair. The former arrangement is expected to be more stable and indeed is observed 29 times out of 32 in the known transfer RNA molecules. In accordance with this rule, the major wobble base pairs G-U or I-U in codon-anticodon interactions have G or I on the 5'-side of the anticodon. Similarly, in initiator tRNAs, this rule is obeyed where now the G is the first letter of the codon (5'-side). In the situation where U is in the wobble position of the anticodon, it is usually substituted at C(5) andmay also have a 2-thio group and it can read one to four codons depending on its modifications. A G at the wobble position of the anticodon can recognize the two codons ending with U or C and modification of G (unless it is I) does not change its reading properties.


A 1:2 crystalline complex of ApA:proflavine: a model for binding to single-stranded regions in RNA. The structure of a 1"2 complex of adenylyl-(3',5')-adenosine phosphate and proflavine hemisulfate has been determined using the methods of x-ray crystallography. Since the ApA does not form a mini double helix, it may serve as a model for the interaction of planar molecules with single stranded nucleic acids. The dinucleotide adopts an extended conformation with the adenines in adjacent molecules forming base pairs. A most unusual feature of the molecule is that it does not obey the "rigid nucleotide" concept although none of the torsion angles occur in energetically unfavourable regions. This is most probably due to the strong interactions between the proflavine and the oligonucleotide.


RNA synthesis in isolated nuclei of lactating mammary cells in presence of unmodified and mercury-labeled CTP. Isolated nuclei of lactating mouse mammary gland were capable of supporting DNA-dependent RNA synthesis in vitro in presence of unmodified and mercurated CTP (Hg-CTP) at high ionic condition at 25 degrees C. In presence of unmodified CTP, [3H]UMP incorporation into RNA increased linearly upto 180 min. The kinetic pattern of the reaction and the rate of RNA synthesis were essentially similar when CTP was replaced by Hg-CTP. Both in unmodified and Hg-CTP containing reactions, 70-80% of RNA synthesis was inhibited by alpha-amanitin. Presence of poly(A) in a small portion of the in vitro synthesized messenger-like RNA was detectable by oligo(dT) cellulose chromatography. Both poly(A)+ and poly(A)- RNAs sedimented with a clear peak around 15S region in a formamide-sucrose denaturing gradient. The Hg-RNA after separation from endogenous nuclear RNA by SH-agarose affinity column chromatography also sedimented around 15S region in a formamide-sucrose gradient. The Hg-RNA synthesized in the isolated mammary cell nuclei in vitro should now permit monitoring hormonal regulation of specific gene (casein) transcription in the mammary cells by molecular hybridization of the Hg-RNA with cDNA to casein mRNA.


[Morphology of myocardial perfusion (author's transl)]. Disturbances of myocardial perfusion are mostly due to obstructive coronary atherosclerosis. The shape of the narrowed lumen is polymorphic. The localization of severe stenoses is not influenced by risk factors. Atherosclerotic changes are more frequent in the coronary arteries than in their large branches. There is a good agreement between the localization and the size of the infarct and the poststenotic or postocclusive perfusion area. As a rule there are only few atherosclerotic lesions within samll intramural arteries and arterioles of the myocardium. We could not find a positive correlation between the extent of sclerotic changes in large coronary arteries and arterioles.


201Tl for myocardial imaging.

201Tl for myocardial imaging. 201Tl is an agent which allows good quality myocardial imaging with the gamma-camera. Its distribution in the myocardium is related primarily to perfusion and myocardial cellular integrity. Redistribution into regions of decreased activity identifies ischemic myocardium whereas persistent reduction of regional activity occurs in areas of infarction. 201Tl imaging appears to provide a means of differentiating between myocardial ischemia and infarction and is therefore applicable to exercise stress testing as well as to the acute coronary situation.


ST-vector orientation and location of myocardial perfusion defects during exercise. In 34 patients with chest pain the spatial orientation of the ST-vectors in the exercise electrocardiogramm 30 and 80 msec after the end of QRS were compared with the location of exercise induced local defects of myocardial uptake of 201Tl. The following results were obtained: 1. The sensitivity and specifity of myocardial perfusion imaging after exercise were the same as those of exercise electrocardiograms; 2. No relation could be observed between the location of reduced 201Tl uptake during exercise and the spatial orientation of the ST-vectors.


[Myocardial perfusion scintigraphy - methods and fundamentals (author's transl)]. Myocardial perfusion studies with labelled particles make a detailed analysis of the distribution of myocardial perfusion possible. Methodical and physiological fundamentals are described and the reliability of the method is shown by double radionuclide imaging. LAD-stenoses (greater than 70%) show a decreased activity in the distal areas of the LAD (on the average 36,5 +/- 10,3% in contrast to 59 +/- in normals). Mean local activity is 14,9 +/- 1,8% within scars. Scars and hemodynamically effective stenoses can be imaged with high sensitivity. Total defects (smaller than 15% of the activity maximum) correspond to a scar. A moderate reduction of uptake (15--50% of the activity maximum) does not allow any differentiation between scar and reversible diminution of perfusion.


The diagnostic significance of nuclear DNA measurement in cytologic smears of benign and malignant gastric lesions. Gastric mucosa was obtained from 126 patients by endoscopic biopsy and subsequent cell brushing for histological, cytological and DNA cytophotometric studies. 23 cases were carcinomatous. DNA histogram evaluation for each case was carried out with special consideration of the position of the DNA stem line and the scatter of the measured DNA values. Additionally, DNA distribution characteristics were established for clinical or cytological diagnostic groups. By ascertaining relative mean ploidy values (U values) and relative frequency of euploid and polyploid values (Z values) in the sample populations, cell nuclear DNA determination was used as a criteria for differentiating between benign and malignant alterations of the stomach. The results allow optimistic prognosis concerning the use of cell nuclear DNA content as a significant, though not as the only measuring factor in automated diagnostic procedures.


Hereditary neuraxial edema in Polled Hereford calves. Two newborn Polled Hereford calves with hereditary neuraxial edema were available for clinical and pathological examination. The affected animals showed extensor spasms and were unable to rise. Pathologic lesions were microscopic and consisted of widespread vacuolation of the neuraxis, chiefly in white matter and less markedly in grey matter. The lesions were most severe in the brain stem and cerebellar white matter. Examination of the breeding record indicated sire-daughters matings and thus a probably autosomal recessive mode of inheritance.


Accidental cytological findings in routine vaginal smear in primary carcinoma of the Fallopian tube. Adenocarcinoma cells were identified in a routine gynecological smear of a 65-year-old woman found at laparotomy to have a primary carcinoma of the fallopian tube. The value of routine cytologic studies in the diagnosis of fallopian tube carcinoma is discussed.


[Physical and biological examinations of polyester electret foil. Preliminary report]. The results of tissue reaction to polyester thermoelectret foil samples are evaluated. The electrostatic measurement of the foils was performed before implantation. The experimental animals were divided into four groups depending on the surface charge density of the foils. The autopsy of the animals was performed three days after the operation. The tissues of close contact to the foil were examined under the microscope and the electrostatic measurement of the foils.


[Comparative study of methods of estimating the hemolytic activity of aqueous plastic extracts. Preliminary report]. The examination of haemolytic activity of aqueous plastic extracts represents one of the method to evaluate plastics of medical grade. In own examinations different methods were used to estimate the haemolytic activity of aqueous extracts of some toxic materials, e.g. technical gums, epoxides, also silicone resins, which are admitted to medical use. On the basis of literature and own examinations the most sensitive method to estimate the haemolytic test was found to be the method after the Japanese Pharmacopoeia. The degree of haemolysis due to the water extracts both of technical gums and epoxides was found to be significantly different from the norms. The silicone resins fulfilled the demands for medical materials. On the basis of the results, the method described in the Japanese Pharmacopoeia was accepted as an appropriate test for evaluation of haemolytic activity of aqueous plastic extracts designed to blood contact or to implantation.


[Influence of hydrone on the dental pulp as compared to other drugs]. The possibility of application of gel-collagen-hydronic sponge was examined on calf teeth. The action was observed after the 4, 7 , 14, 21 and 28 days. The biological properties of the sponge alone were examined in the close contact to dental pulp. The reaction of dental pulp to this contact was settled. Simultaneously the application of this plastic was examined as a ground of different materials usually applied in the treatment of dental pulp diseases. The reaction of dental pulp to the close contact of gel-collagen-hydronic sponge was compared to the action of the sponge additionally suturated with a 0.5% solution of Cortisone, the sponge mixed with Framycoin powder, or saturated with a mixture of 0.5% solution of Cortisone and Framycoin the collagenic sponge, Caryosan, Calxyd, and to the reaction of uncovered and untreated dental pulp. It was ascertained that gel-collagen-hydronic sponge contacted with calf's dental pulp doesn't impede the composing of osseous-dentinal barrier and its porosity is gradually filled up with a numerous cell elements, later also with strands of tissue. The sponge may be applicated as a ground of examined materials. Within these materials the best composing of osseous-dental barrier was found after the application of Calxyd and then successively after the application of Caryosan, hydronic sponge alone, sponge with Framycoin, sponge saturated with dilution of Cortisone and Framycoin, and collagenic sponge, which gave the worst reaction of calf's dental pulp, similar to the reaction of uncovered and untreated dental pulp.


Basic studies on autogenized and lysophilized vascular prostheses. In an effort to improve vascular prostheses, basic studies on tissue-alloplastic prostheses according to a new conception were performed. A medical polyester yarn was used for the construction of three types of prostheses with different mesh and high porosity. The prostheses were autogenized on silicon rods and then lyophilized, resulting in their full intraoperative impermeability, but high biological permeability and antithrombogenicity. Vascular prostheses of this type fulfill many of the requirements of a so-called ideal prosthesis. Analysis of the test examinations provides a basis for elaborating principles for the preparation and production of new tissue-alloplastic prostheses for clinical purposes.


[Use of biological methods in the testing of extracts of plastics (preliminary report)]. In the first part of the paper the problem of toxicological testing of medical plastics is discussed. Particularly attention was given to the biological testing of extracts of plastics. The results of own investigations on the toxicological testing of extracts in water for injection of three types of polyester vascular prostheses, two types of technical rubber and one type of silicon caouthouc are presented. The author presents a proposal of a new testing method for the toxicological evaluation of extracts in water of medical grade plastics utilizing diluted fresh bull's sperm. The results of the preliminary investigations on different materials proved the bull's spermatozoons to be sensitive to even small qualities of toxic substances composed in various medical grade plastic fabrics. In the author's estimation, there is a good reason to ascertain, that the presented method will be a new biololgical test destined to the preliminary evaluation and the current check-up of plastic medical materials.


[Reconstructive surgery of extremities in temporary ischemia with the use of elastic bandages]. The authors performed basic technological, laboratory and clinical examinations of elastic bandages to choose the most proper one helpful to reconstructive operations in temporary ischaemic field, mainly in hand surgery. The physical and mechanical properties, and clinical advantages of chosen elastic bandages applied in 100 operations have been described.


Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis.

Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis. Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) is now considered to be caused by measles virus. There are four diagnostic criteria, namely the clinical picture, a characteristic EEG, serology of serum and CSF and brain histology. A register of cases in the U.K. has been kept since 1971, and up to September 1977, ninety-six patients have been reported. The male/female ratio is 2 : 1. The disease most commonly affects children between the ages of nine and eleven years who usually have had measles at a very early age. The average delay between the measles infection and onset of SSPE was 6.8 years and of the thirty-four patients known to have died the average survival times was 1.2 years. There are still many questions about the pathogenesis and epidemiology of SSPE that have yet to be answered.


Three additional malignancies occurring within one year in a patient with chronic lymphatic leukaemia. A patient with crhonic lymphatic leukaemia (CLL) is presented who was first seen with a basal cell carcinoma and subsequently developed two further malignant conditions within a year, without receiving any treatment for his leukaemia. It is suggested that this leukaemia was a predisposing factor in the development of his carcinomas.


The treatment of lupus nephritis by methyl prednisolone pulse therapy. Four patients with proliferative glomerulonephritis due to systemic lupus erythematosus were treated with intravenous methyl prednisolone 'pulse' therapy. In all, eight courses of therapy were given, three for acute oliguric renal failure; and on each occasion there was a good response to the treatment. Clinical, histological and immunological details of the patients are presented. The diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of disease activity in lupus nephritis are discussed in the light of this experience.


Hypocalcaemic cardiac failure.

Hypocalcaemic cardiac failure. A 35-year-old patient who presented with recurrent chest infection, pulmonary oedema and cardiac failure was found to be grossly hypocalcaemic owing to previously undiagnosed hypoparathyroidism. The cardiac failure was not easily relieved by digoxin and diuretics but it quickly responded when the plasma calcium was restored to normal with dihydrotachysterol. With dihydrotachysterol as sole treatment for more than 2.5 years he had normal exercise tolerance and no features of cardiac failure.


The genetics of human fetal growth.

The genetics of human fetal growth. Knowledge of the genetic control of human fetal growth is obtained indirectly from several different lines of evidence. Simply inherited pathological conditions indicate the number and effects of the corresponding normal alleles, and demonstrate the complexity of genetic factors in fetal growth, the interaction of quantitative and qualitative control, the large number of genes involved, and the pleiotropic effect of many. Information on genetic mechanisms shows that a cell at any one time responds to only a small proportion of its genes. Knowledge of human polymorphisms indicates that genetic control is exercised by switch mechanisms which bring into play a succession of genes producing different polypeptide chains. Implicit in this model is tissue specificity of isoenzymes, and temporal variation in their availability or activity during development, for both of which evidence is adduced. Such temporal changes do not coincide in different tissues, but vary according to physiological requirements of the tissues. Besides the sequential activation of genes, other mechanisms controlling the implementation of their instructions operate at all points from the replication of the genes, transcription, translation, to the final modification of their primary products.


The development of the pattern of growth. It is proposed that the varying patterns of growth in development can be viewed as an aspect of pattern formation, and that different growth programmes are specified at an early stage. This is illustrated largely with respect to the development and growth of the chick wing. The spatial pattern of cellular differentiation and programme for growth can be considered in terms of the concept of positional information. The lengths of the cartilaginous elements are determined by the initial length of the primordium and its later growth, involving cell multiplication enlagement and matrix secretion. It seems that tissues have a high degree of autonomy with respect to differentiation and growth after they have had their position specified. The cellular basis of programmed growth is discussed.


Catch-up growth.

Catch-up growth. Catch-up growth is a regular phenomenon seen in young children after a period of growth retardation when the cause of the growth deficit is removed. It consists of an immediate growth acceleration with an abnormally high velocity, followed by a progressive deceleration till the original or normal growth channel is reached. Examples of individual patients and groups of patients with endocrine disorders, metabolic disorders, malnutrition and prenatal growth retardation have been given. Clinical experience shows that complete or near complete catch-up growth is possible in infants and young children, but not in children near or in puberty. The factors responsible for catch-up growth and the regulating mechanisms are unknown. Serum growth factors, receptor changes or genetically programmed cells are more likely to be involved than the classical growth promoting hormones. Superficially catch-up growth is a growth spurt similar to the pubertal growth spurt. However, the shape of the velocity curve, the maturity stage at which it occurs and the mechanisms involved are entirely different. The opposite of catch-up growth which compensates for a previous growth deficiency is the lagging-down growth which compensates for a previous growth excess. Both forms of growth compensation are examples of the general biological phenomenon of canalization of growth and maturity.


The multiplication of cells.

The multiplication of cells. Cultured cells, particularly fibroblasts, have been useful for studies on control systems, since growth can be stimulated or suppressed experimentally. Combinations of mitogenic factors (hormones) in the extracellular fluid, provide positive signals for growth, potentially acting over a long range. Short range effects, such as cell-cell interactions and anchorage to substrates, also control growth but these are less well understood. A positive signal for growth, for example the binding of a mitogenic polypeptide factor to a surface receptor, leads rapidly to a complex change in cell physiology, which can be explained by an alteration of mobile cell surface complexes. This leads to an increase in probability, not certainty, of transition through an essential control point leading to chromosome replication and mitosis.


Analysis of the human growth curve.

Analysis of the human growth curve. Mathematical techniques are well suited to analysis of growth data. In the past there has been much emphasis on the mathematical description of shape and changes of shape as exemplified by the allometric equation. More recently these methods have been less popular and shape analysis has been handled largely by modern multivariate statistical methods. In contrast, there has been an increasing interest in fitting models to size data, related to time. Many such functions have been described; some for small parts of the growth curve and others for the whole growing period. More recently single, non-linear functions have been developed and their properties and use are now described.


Effects of the northern fowl mite, Ornithonyssus sylviarum (Canestrini and Fanzago), on fertility and hatchability of eggs from artificially inseminated White Leghorn hens. Egg production of White Leghorn hens infested with the northern fowl mite, Ornithonyssus sylviarum (Canestrini and Fanzago), was as much as 15% lower than egg production of control hens. However, when these hens were artificially inseminated with semen from mite infested roosters, fertility nor hatchability was affected by the mite infestation.


Anticoccidial activity of lonomycin (SQ 12,525) in chicks. Lonomycin (TM-481, SQ 12,525) at various concentrations in the feed was tested in controlled battery experiments against laboratory strains of single and mixed Eimeria species infections. The experimental results indicated that lonomycin at doses of .003125, .00625, or .0125% demonstrated a high degree of anticoccidial activity by preventing or reducing mortality, reducing fecal dropping scores, and allowing for normal or near-normal weight gains against single and mixed infections of 5 major pathogenic species, E. acervulina, E. brunetti, E. maxima, E. necatrix, and E. tenella. Lonomycin, at these same dosages, was highly effective against a recent field isolate obtained from a flock previously fed monensin. These studies involving 7 trials totaling 1,680 broiler chicks, have demonstrated that lonomycin at levels of .003125 to .0125% (dependent on species of Eimeria) in the feed is an effective aid in the control of avian coccidiosis in broiler chickens.


Transmission of radioactivity into eggs from laying hens (Gallus domesticus) administered tritium labeled T-2 toxin. The transmission of radioactivity into eggs from laying hens gastric-intubated with a single or multiple dose of 3-[3H]-T-2 toxin was investigated. In single dosed birds, the maximum radioactivity in eggs occurred at 24 hr after dosing; the yolk and white contained .04 and .13% of the administered radioactivity, respectively. In multiple-dosed birds given 8 consecutive daily doses, the radioactivity in the yolk increased with each dose, whereas the radioactivity in the white increased rapidly until the 3rd dose and thereafter remained constant. In both single- and multiple-dosed birds, the specific radioactivity of the white was greater than that of the yolk. The amount of residue transmitted into an egg in birds intubated daily with 1 mg T-2/kg for 8-consecutive days equivalent to 1.6 ppm dietary T-2) was about .9 microgram (based on specific radioactivity).


Battery efficacy studies with arprinocid against field strains of Coccidia. Graded levels of 9-[2-chloro-6-fluorophenyl)methyl]-9H-purin-6-amine (arprinocid) ranging from 30 ppm to 90 ppm in the diet have been tested for anticoccidial efficacy in controlled battery experiments against 20 field isolates of coccidia. These isolates, representing five major species of Eimeria, were collected from various geographic locations and all but one were found to be resistant to one or more of the currently marketed products. Arprinocid prevented mortality, increased weight gains, and reduced or eliminated intestinal lesions and oocyst production. A level of 60 ppm arprinocid provided adequate control of all isolates and no evidence of cross resistance was observed between arprinocid and the marketed products tested. On the basis of these studies, it is concluded that arprinocid at levels of 60 ppm to 70 ppm is effective in controlling coccidiosis in broilers, even that caused by isolates refractory to many of the marketed products.


Acquired resistance in turkey poults to Pasteurella multocida (P-1059 strain) during aflatoxin consumption. The potential for impairment by aflatoxin of the development of acquired immunity to fowl cholera in 8 week old turkey poults from a commercial flock was investigated by challenge of vaccinated poults at 10, 12, and 16 weeks of age. Sixty poults were allotted to 4 groups: A) aflatoxin fed, nonvaccinated; B) aflatoxin fed, vaccinated; C) control fed, nonvaccinated; and D) control fed, vaccinated. Aflatoxin B-1 (.5 ppm) was added to the control ration of groups A and B from 49 to 70 days of age. The avirulent CU (Clemson University) strain of Pasteurella multocida drinking water vaccine was given for one day to groups B and C. Challenge (5 poults from each group) was by administration of the virulent (P-1059) strain  of P. multocida in the drinking water for 4 consecutive days. The presence of aflatoxin B-1 (.5 ppm) in the feed during oral vaccination with the avirulent strain of P. multocida did not impair the development of acquired resistance to later challenge with the virulent strain. Results indicate that age of poults and method of vaccination may be important factors in the development of acquired resistance to fowl cholera when aflatoxin is present in the diet.


Yolk cholesterol in eggs from various avian species. Studies were conducted to establish the differences in yolk cholesterol concentrations in eggs from various avian species. Cholesterol was determined by a modification of the colorimetric procedure of Pearson et al. (1953). Species listed in increasing concentrations of cholesterol per gram of yolk, were guinea fowl, chicken, pheasant, quail, turkey, duck, goose, and dove with an overall range of 12.77 to 21.99 mg of cholesterol per gram of yolk. Significant differences in cholesterol concentrations also were found between domestic and wild genetic groups for turkeys and ducks. In a second study, eggs from 7 inbred lines of chickens showed significant differences in yolk cholesterol. The same general result was found in an analysis of eggs from 17 commercial test strains of chickens at two different ages. Yolk cholesterol tended to decrease as age of hen increased. These results confirm the possibility of genetically selecting for decreased yolk cholesterol if economic or other conditions warrant. The increased efforts required to decrease yolk cholesterol by this approach would undoubtedly be expensive.


Mercury metabolism in Japanese quail. I. The effect of dietary mercury and selenium on their tissue distribution. Immature and adult coturnix quail were fed isolated soybean protein diets to which methylmercuric chloride or mercuric chloride were added with or without supplemental selenium for seven days. Samples of brain, blood, liver, and kidney were analyzed for total mercury and selenium via atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Selenium addition had no effect on the mercury concentration in kidney, brain, or blood but did tend to increase the concentration of mercury in the livers of the methylmercuric chloride-treated birds. Selenium in the presence of methylmercury increased the selenium concentration of liver and kidney but had little effect on the selenium concentration of brain or blood. Methylmercuric chloride supplementation resulted in increased selenium concentration in the blood of the selenium supplemented group. All other tissue selenium levels were unaffected by the addition of mercury.


Copper salts for growth stimulation and alleviation of aortic rupture losses in turkeys. Approximately 4000 Large White, day-old turkey poults were used in a series of eight experiments to study the effects of dietary copper supplementation. The hens were grown to 15 or 16 weeks and toms to 24 weeks of age. Either copper as the oxide or sulfate (hydrate) at 120 ppm stimulated growth up to 10% with a concurrent reduction in feed requirement. Levels of 60 ppm were not adequate, whereas 240 ppm were not toxic. There was a greater response to copper in the presence of 4-nitrophenylarsonic acid (4-nitro) or with low protein diets. In two of the eight studies copper enhanced aortic elastin content. Incidence of aortic rupture was greater in the presence of 4-nitro and was reduced by one-half through copper supplementation. Liver copper was not altered by 60 or 120 ppm Cu; 240 ppm caused a significant increase.


A scanning electron microscope study of the caecal tonsil: the identification of a bacterial attachment to the villi of the caecal tonsil and the possible presence of lymphatics in the caecal tonsil. A scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to compare the proximal region (PR) and distal region (DR) of the caecum. The caecal tonsil (CT) occupied the initial 4-10 mm of the PR. Villi were present in the PR and absent from the DR. Segmented structures were attached to the surface of PR. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed these structures to be bacteria. No difference in surface morphology could be discerned between the CT and the remainder of the PR. Lymphatic vessels were observed in the CT by employing TEM.


The number and size of the follicular epithelium (FE) and follicles in the bursa of Fabricius. In a four-week-old chicken .1 ml carbon solution was deposited on the vent. The carbon was sucked into the lumen of the bursa and absorbed by the follicular epithelium which appeared as black dots on the surface of the folds. The number of black dots on the surface of a fold represents the number of follicles per fold. The average number of follicles per fold was 820. Since the number of folds per bursa ranges between 10--15, we were able to calculate 8000--12000 follicles per bursa. The volumetric mathematical analysis of the follicles and folds confirmed our calculated number of follicles. On a stereomicrograph from a randomly selected area of a fold surface, a trapezoid was outlined and measured. The surface analysis of the black dots within a trapezoid area revealed that about 10% of the bursal surface was covered by follicular epithelium which is immunologically oriented.


Identification of the chicken serum proteins by immunoelectrophoretic methods. Normal chicken serum examined by Laurell's crossed immunoelectrophoresis, using rabbit anti-chicken serum, gave a total from 38 to 40 precipitation arcs. All precipitates were characterized by staining intensity and morphology. The individual precipitates were identified by electrophoretic position, monospecific rabbit antisera against individual human serum proteins, goat anti-chicken immunoglobulins, binding properties, and specific staining methods. By these methods, it has been possible to identify 20 precipitates.


Glycogen depletion and repletion in the chick. Carcass glycogen was degraded by chicks at a faster rate than liver glycogen during the first 72 hr of a 120 hr fast. Degradation of both sources of glycogen proceeded at a slower rate during the final 48 hr. Carcass glycogen was repleted at a greater rate than liver glycogen.


Precisely controlled temperature variations: effect on hematocrit values of broiler and laying stock. An investigation was carried out to study the effect of several controlled environmental temperatures (4.4, 12.7, 23.9, and 32.2 C) on hematocrit values of broiler and laying stock reared from 10 to 20 weeks of age. There were no significant differences between the hematocrit values of broiler stock reared under the various temperature variations. Values for laying stock reared at 12.7 and 23.9 C were significantly lower than values observed for birds reared at control (ambient), 4.4, or 32.2 C temperatures.


[Experimental study on the abortive effects of chlorinated hydrocarbon anaesthetics (author's transl)]. The effects of inhalation anaesthetics derived from chlorinated hydrocarbons (halothane, ethrane, penthrane) on foetal development were studied in pregnant rats. Administration of the anaesthetics during the main organogenetic stage did not affect foetal development; but application during the embryonic stage resulted in increased incidence of intra-uterine deaths and difficult deliveries. No malformations were observed.


[Plasma Mg-levels during treatment of hypopotassaemia with Potassium-magnesium aspartate (author's transl)]. The importance of magnesium in the human organism is firmly established. About 250 Mg-dependent enzymes are so far known (2). Under intensive care conditions hypomagnesaemia is a fairly frequent occurrence, but is liable, as experience has shown, to be over-corrected. Serum Mg-levels in excess of 4.0 mg/percent already affect nerve conduction and induce bradycardia (4, 6, 7,). The inhibited liberation of acetylcholine (3) induces vasodilatation with hypotension, ileus and adynamia (3, 6, 7). Magnesium-containing solutions are, therefore, also contra-indicated in myasthenia gravis. Magnesium levels of 6--12 mg/percent are liable to lead to somnolence and even comma (4, 6). Platelet function and, consequently blood coagulation, are also affected by the Mg-levels in the blood (5, 8, 9). Should potassium substitution of more than 100 mEq/litre become necessary it must be borne in mind that administration of potassium-magnesium aspartate may raise the Mg concentrations to undesirable levels, espeically if renal function is impaired.


[Long-term measurement of arterial blood pressure via the superficial temporal artery (author's transl)]. The method used for prolonged continuous measurement of arterial blood pressure in surgical intensive care unit is describe. It was employed in 150 persons aged 1--65 year for periods of up to 30 days. It involved arteriotomy of the super-ficial temporal artery followed by the insertion of a catheter. The absence of side-effects in any of the 150 patients makes this technique very suitable for prolonged continuous blood pressure measurements.


[Haemodialysis in acute renal failure; technique and surveillance (author's transl)]. Access to the blood stream for haemodialysis is generally via an arterio-venous shunt. Experience has shown that the introduction of two Shaldon catheters (with a modified Seldinger technique) into the upper caval system does not require special surgical knowledge and shortens and simplifies the preparations for haemodialysis in acute renal failure. As the catheters can easily be changed over guide wires, correction of obstructions and bacteriological examinations of the catheter tips do not present a problem. There were no complications. With this simplified access the acute stage of renal failure can be bridged for up to 6--8 weeks. The diameter of the catheters ensures an adequate flow of  150--200 ml/min. In vitro tests with a modified catheter (not yet available commercially) established 1. that the flow rate could be increased by 45 percent without altering the pressure of the return flow, and 2. that its use did not increase the rate of haemolysis. Incorrect placing of the catheters--the venous limb should be higher, i.e. nearer the heart, than the "arterial" catheter--may raise the re-circulating fraction by 6--18 percent. Since heparinization is necessary for haemodialysis but carries the grave risk of haemorrhages, espeically in the patients of an intensive care unit, it is essential to provide the means for estimating partial thromboplastin time at the bed side. This allows the heparin doses to be sufficiently reduced to obviate haemorrhage during and after haemodialysis.


[Treatment of acute renal failure by hemofiltration (author's transl)]. Hemofiltration as an alternative to haemodialysis in the treatment of acute renal failure is described. The "Hämoprocessor" (Sartorius Membranfilter GmbH, Göttingen) as an computerized apparatus for haemofiltration is presented. First experiences with the clinical application of haemofiltration are reported, and the advantages and disadvantages are discussed.


[Anaesthesia and postoperative care in terminal renal insufficiency. Experiences in 132 cases (author's transl)]. A retrospective study was carried out examining the complication- and mortality-rate in 132 patients with terminal renal insufficiency who underwent major surgery: partial gastrectomy, bilateral nephrectomy and vascular surgery at the lower extremities. The anaesthetic management consisted primarily of general anesthesia and muscle relaxation except for vascular surgery at lower extremities where continuous epidural anaesthesia was used. The problems of the anaesthetic management and postoperative care including dialysis are discussed. Although this group of patients is at high risk, the complications can be kept at a minimum with appropriate anaesthetic management and postoperative care.


[Training on nursing personnel for work in recovery and intensive care units (author's transl)]. After prolonged deliberations guide lines have now been agreed upon regarding the training and examination of nursing personnel for work in recovery and intensive care units. The recommendations, as adopted by the German Hospital Association 16th November 1976, cannot be accepted unreservedly. One of the main objections is that the proposed course of training would lead to excessive specialization at too early a stage. The aim should be to provide training of an interdisciplinary character, including anaesthesia.


[Complications arising from catheterization of the vena cava (author's transl)]. Catheterization of the vena cava has become a routine measure in clinical practice. Its main applications are for prevention and treatment of shock, infusion therapy and parenteral feeding. Its advantages, however, are partially offset by potential complications which may arise during or after introduction of the catheter. To minimize the risk of complications the following conditions should be fulfilled: strict indication, a subtile and strictly aseptic technique and careful nursing.


[Epidemiological aspects of malignant hyperthermia (author's transl)]. A statistical review is given on cases of malignant hyperthermia in Hamburg. The total number of general anesthetics from 1970--1976 was 960 000. 10 cases of malignant hyperthermia have been observed so that a crude estimate of the incidence would be about 1 : 100 000. Some epidemiological aspects of the patients in Hamburg are discussed.


[Anaesthesia-induced malignant hyperthermia (author's transl)]. Two cases of anaesthesia-induced malignant hyperthermia are reported. One patient died; the other, a 29-years-old woman, recovered without ascertainable after-effects although high temperature persisted for a relatively long time. Suggestions for the early diagnosis of malignant hyperthermia are analysed and the problem of procaine dosage is briefly discussed.


[Results of urological evaluation of a suprapublic catheter set (author's transl)]. Well known hazards of urethral catheterisation as well as recent clinical reports of suprapublic catheterisation were reasons for the evaluation of a disposable set for suprapublic catheterisation referring to about 100 urological patient hitherto. Its positive results recommend the further use of this set instead of urethral catheterisation observing contraindications for suprapubic puncture as well as the general need for elective indication for both ways of vesical catheterisation. Preparation for and procedure of suprapubic catheterisation as well as catheter care is described.


[Abdominal aortogammography with YCK-11 99mTc. Preliminary report]. The Aortic Scanning with 99mTc was done initially by powell in 1966. This radioisotope is the ideal for dinamic studies. In this paper we purpose a new method in order to label erythrocytes, which allows the radiactive bolus sended for the vascular tree to be more compact (TCK-11 99mTc). Seventy abdominal aortic scanning in normal persons were done, fifty with TCK-11 and twenty with 99mTc with Powell's technique. The images were obtain from video-tape recorder. By this way it was possible to get cuantitative determinations from Aorta, Renal and Iliac arteries. These terminations can be very useful for diagnosis of several arterial abnormalities.


[Biosynthesis of L-asparaginase-2 by cultures of Bacillus polymyxa var. Ross]. Cell extracts of Bacillus polymyxa var. Ross.--producer of the polypeptide antibiotic polymyxin M. showed activity of L-asparaginase-2 (L-asparagine aminohydrolase EC 3.5.1.1). The enzyme activity in the growing culture increased with the biomass. The highest specific activity was detected in the cells at the onset of the stationary stage. The synthesis of L-asparaginase-2 was subjected to glucose catabolite repression in response to its addition to the culture at the logarithmic stage. After purification L-asparaginase-2 was obtained that was 350 times more active than the initial preparation. The enzyme properties were examined.


[Induced methanol dehydrogenase in the yeast Hansenula polymorphia DL-1]. The yeast Hansenula polymorpha DL-I showed NAD-specific dehydrogenase activity involved in the methanol primary oxidation. This enzyme was found to be induced during periodic and continuous H. polymorpha cultivation, using methanol as the sole source of carbon and energy. The enzyme was absent during yeast cultivation on the glucose and ethanol containing medium.


[Chitinolytic activity of Actinomyces kurssanovii under periodic and flow cultivation]. Chitinolytic activity of Actinomyces kurssanovii cultivated on the medium containing highly purified crab chitine as carbon source was studied. Under periodic cultivation the first to be accumulated were the (CHI)--enzyme that degraded ground chitine and beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase (EC 3.2.1.30). Then by the 15--16th hour of the producer growth chitinase-poly-(1,4-beta-(2-acetamido-2-deoxy-D-glucoside)-glucanohydrolase (EC 3.2.1.14) and beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase splitting N-N-diacetyl chitobiase were intensively accumulated. It was demonstrated that a highly active chitinolytic preparation of Act. kurssanovii can be obtained under flow cultivation at a dilution coefficient of D = 0.03--0.12 hr-1. A correlation between the respiratory activity of the culture and components of the chitinase system was established.


[Urate oxidase from pig liver: biochemical and immunological properties]. A highly purified uratoxidase was isolated from the pig liver. The sedimentation coefficient of the enzyme was 6.96 S and the molecular weight was 122,000 +/- 4,000. The enzyme was a tetramer consisting of subunits with a molecular weight of 31,600 +/- 2,500. Uratoxidase showed high substrate specificity with 0.05 M borate buffer, pH 8.5. During competitive inhibition 8-azaxanthine (Ki = 3.1 X 10(-7) M) produced the strongest inhibitory effect as compared with other purine compounds. N-chloromercuric benzoate and ascorbic acid also inhibited strongly uratoxidase activity. EDTA-Na2, methyl ester of n-oxybenzoic acid, phenyl methyl sulphonyl fluoride and cystein did not influence the enzyme activity.


[Synthesis of retinyl phosphate, its physico-chemical properties and biological activity]. Retinyl phosphate (RP) has been synthesized from retinol (R), using phosphodimorpholine chloride (PDMC) or POCl3. A method for isolating and purifying RP from the reaction mixture has been developed. The RP yield varies from 3 to 6% depending on the quantities of R and POCl3. The RP yield can be increased by 10--15% as a result of RP separation and rerun of the reaction. The resultant RP has an absorption maximum at 325 nm, is described by the formula C20H27PO4(NH4)2 and distributed between equal volumes of diethyl ester and 20% aqueous methanol at a ratio of 1:1. RP is alkaline-resistant and rapidly transforms into anhydroretinol (AR) in the acid medium. Eighteen hours after RP administration into the caudal vein or parenterally retinyl palmitate and R are accumulated in the liver of A-avitaminous rats.


[Effect of medium components on the metabolism of Brevibacterium ammoniagenes-producer of 5'-inosinic acid]. The effect of different carbon and nitrogen sources on the biosynthesis of 5'-inosinic acid (5'-IMP) by the culture Brevibacterium ammoniagenes 225-5 was studied. With respect to the yield of 5'-IMP, glucose was found to be the best carbon source and urea--the best nitrogen source. The proper ratio of concentrations of carbon and nitrogen sources in the nutrient medium was very important for a high 5'-IMP accumulation. The study of the effect of phosphate and magnesium concentrations on 5'-IMP biosynthesis demonstrated that their high concentrations were needed for intensive 5'-IMP salvage-synthesis from hypoxanthine and that they did not influence the de novo synthesis of hypoxanthine.


[Effect of triterpene glycosides on the biosynthesis of sterols and fatty acids by the yeast Saccharomyces carlsbergensis]. The effect of cauloside C from Caulophyllum robustum M., theasaponine from Thea sinensis L. and stichoposide A from Stichopus japonicus S. on the biosynthesis of sterols and fatty acids by the yeast Saccharomyces carlsbergensis was studied. In in vivo and in vitro experiments cauloside C and theasaponine inhibited ergosterol biosynthesis at the stage of squalene-to-lanosterol transformation. In in vivo experiments stichoposide A inhibited squalene biosynthesis. The triterpene glycosides tested showed a typical feature: in in vivo and in vitro experiments they blocked the biosynthesis of fatty acids.


[Preparation of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) form salmon milt by the phenol method]. The paper presents a modification of the Kirby method for the DNA preparation from salmon milt. The modified procedure includes ethanol pretreatment and subsequent homogenization in 0.01 M. Trylon B. The paper describes the conditions for DNA purification through alkaline treatment and renaturation at 66 degrees C. The modified method can be used to obtain two preparations of DNA viscous solution in water (DNA homogenate), employed as a raw material in the preparation of 5-deoxyribonucleotides, and a dry preparation.


[Chitin of mycelial fungi of the genus Penicillium]. The effect of the nutrient medium and cultivation conditions on the chitin content in cell walls of mycelial fungi of the Penicillium genus was studied. The chitin accumulation was influenced by the composition and quantity of carbon and nitrogen sources, acidity of the medium, aeration rate and age of the culture. The highest content of chitin in the strains studied was no more than 4--5%. The paper discusses the potential use of the fungi P. digitatum 24 P, P. notatum 1 f, P. terikowskii and P. claviforme as protein producers. It describes the procedure for measuring chitin in cell walls of mycelial fungi.


[Plasma kinin system indices in diabetes mellitus patients before and after treatment with prodectin]. Kinin system was investigated in 82 patients suffering from diabetes mellitus of various severity. To make pathogenetically substantiated pharmacological correction of the kinin system activity prodectin--kinin antagonist--was used in these patients. A conclusion was drawn that the blood plasma kinin system was activated in the patients with moderately severe and severe diabetes. The activity of total kallikrein and kininogen became normal against the background of prodectin treatment. The blood plasma kinin system activity was normalized simultaneously with the improvement of the diabetic angiopathies course.


[Determination of carbohydrate tolerance disorders in mass epidemiologic studies]. The authors evaluated the informativeness of both the individual sugar curve levels and their combinations for determination of disturbed carbohydrate tolerance. It appeared that the most informative one was blood sugar level 1 hour after the glucose load, and the least--on fasting stomach. Regression equations permitting to restore the sugar curve in the presence of incomplete data with no lesser precision than the biological reproducibility were obtained. Due to the fact that statistical connection was detected between the individual levels a possibility of increasing the sensitivity of the method of disturbed carbohydrate tolerance determination (particularly in using the blood sugar level on fasting stomach and 2 hours after the glucose load) was revealed.


[Fractional composition of the lipid complex of grain infected by the microscopic fungus Fusarium sporotrichiella Bilai]. Changes in the fractional composition of lipids isolated from millet, rice and semolina artificially infected with the microscopic fungus Fusarium sporotrichiella Bilai were followed. The lipid complex was found to undergo marked changes and to yield toxic sterololactones.


[Degree and frequency of activation of different adrenal cortex functions in diabetes mellitus patients]. The indices of three adrenal cortex functions were investigated in 517 patients with a moderately severe and severe forms of diabetes mellitus of various duration, outside of the ketoacidosis and hypoglucemia states. Both during decompensation and at the period of unstable compensation (subcompensation) of the disease 3--60% of the patients displayed increased indices of glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid functions, and 20--38%--of the androgenic ones. Along with different frequency of detection, there was revealed a distinct non-uniformity of different indices elevation. A prevalence of the mineralocorticoid function activation was noted. As suggested, at the mentioned periods of diabetes mellitus functional activity of the adrenal cortex reflected various phases of the oscillatory adaptation process to the frequently repeated stress actions (metabolic disturbances). Possible causes of prevalent aldosterone excretion elevation are discussed.


[Dynamics of levels of growth hormone and free fatty acids in the blood, and catecholamines in the urine of insulin-resistant and insulin-sensitive diabetes mellitus patients during insulin hypoglycemia]. The changes in the content of STH and FFA in the blood and of catecholamines in the urine under the effect of insulin hypoglycemia were studied in 28 insulin-sensitive and 40 insulin-resistant patients suffering from diabetes mellitus. Patients with diabetes mellitus who needed 100 or more insulin units per 24 hours for compensation of the affection were referred to the insulin-resistant ones. In these cases a less pronounced elevation of the blood STH level and of urinary catecholamines was noted in response to insulin hypoglycemia. This was accompanied by a considerable reduction of lipolysis in the insulin-resistant patients. It is suggested that in the insulin-resistant patients, due to reduction of the STH and catecholamine stimuli, FFA is incapable of providing the necessary energy balance at the cellular level in insulin insufficiency. This accounts for an increased requirement in exogenous insulin in the insulin-resistant patients with diabetes mellitus. Reduction of the FFA and catecholamine reserves in the insulin-resistant patients suffering from diabetes mellitus is postulated to be one of the main factors in the resistance pathogenesis.


[Dynamics of changes in the concentration of estradiol receptors in the cytosol of rat female hypothalamus during postnatal development]. Estradiol receptors content in the hypothalamus of female rats during the postnatal development (the 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th, 35th, and 42nd days) was studied. The greatest values of the binding capacity were revealed in the hypothalamus of 7- and 14-day female rats; thses values decreased gradually till sexual maturation. The number of estradiol receptors increased after the vagina opening in rats. Estradiol receptors possessed high sterospecificity and high degree of affinity to the receptive hormone.


[Age and reduction in the sensitivity of the hypothalamo-hypophyseal complex to the inhibiting effect of dexamethasone. Effect of stress, polypeptide epiphyseal extract and phenformin]. It was shown in experiments on rats that sensitivity of the hypothalamo-hypophysial complex to the inhibitory action of dexamethazone decreased in adult and old rats in comparison with the young sexually mature animals. Single administration of l-tryptophane and L-DOPA decreased, and 5-day administration of the both preparations potentiated the inhibitory action of dexamethazone. Resistance to dexamethazone action occurred under conditions of other stress, whereas potentiation of the inhibitory effect of dexamethazone took place under the effect of acetic acid polypeptide extract from the epiphyses and the antidiabetic biguanide--phenoformine. Arguments are presented in favour of the role of biogenic amines in the age-related increase of the sensitivity threshold of the central structures to the corticosteroid inhibition.


[Functional state of the pituitary-thyroid system of women during pregnancy]. Functional condition of the hypophysio-thyroid system was studied in physiological pregnancy by protein-bound iodine, T4, T3, thyrotropic hormone indices; the function proved to become more intense with the advance of pregnancy. A significant change of the T3 level during the early periods of pregnancy is possibly connected with the high hormone uptake at that period. A sharp elevation of the hormone-binding capacity of the blood serum proteins prevented the development of hyperthyroidism, this being confirmed by the results of the free thyroxin index determination.


[Relationship between the nucleolar and karyoplasmic forms of RNA-polymerase in the nuclei of normal cells from different tissues and following hydrocortisone administration]. Correlation of the nucleolar and karyoplasmic forms of RNA-polymerase was studied in the cell nuclei of the brain, liver, kidneys and the spleen of rats under normal conditions and after hydrocortisone administration. Hydrocortisone was found to stimulate both the nucleolar and karyoplasmic RNA synthesis. In the nuclei of different tissues correlation of the nuclear and karyoplasmic forms of RNA-polymerase changed under the effect of the hormone unequally. Transcription stimulated by hydrocortisone, both the nucleolar and  karyoplasmic was suppressed by actinomycin D. This indicated that, together with the activation of the enzyme forms, the hormone caused releasing the transcribed genom regions. The NAD-pyrophosphorylase activity of the nuclei, both under normal conditions and after hydrocortisone administration, was studied as well. Stimulation of the NAD-pyrophosphorylase activity occurred under the effect of the hormone in the cell nuclei of all the tissues under study; this stimulation was most pronounced in the nuclei of the spleen and of the kidneys. Nuclei characterized by a high RNA-polymerase activity also possessed an increased NAD-pyrophosphorylase activity.


[Effect of choriogonadotropin on the ovaries and uterus of infantile rats following treatment of the amygdaloid nuclei]. Experiments were conducted on female rats. The authors studied the effect of choriogonadotropin on the ovaries and uterus following simulation or destruction of the cortico-medial portion of the amygdaloid nuclei. In rats with an intact hypophysis administration of choriogonadotropin after stimulation or destruction of the amygdaloid nuclei led to increase in the number of the vesicular follicles and corpora lutea. In hypophysectomized rats the action on the amygdaloid nuclei failed to influence the choriogonadotropin effect on the ovaries. Changes in the ovaries depended on the total effect of choriogonadotropin and endogenous gonadotropins released into the blood after the action on the amygdaloid nuclei.


[Effect of alloxan diabetes on the enzyme activity of the mucous membrane of the small intestine]. Experiments on male rats showed that following subcutaneous injection of alloxan in a dose of 15 mg per 100 g of body weight amylolytic, invertase, glycyl-l-tyrosine dipeptidehydrolase activity of the mucosa of the small intestine altered differently. As a result, there occurred a deviation of the enzymatic spectrum from the normal characterized by a sharp increase (with the development of diabetes) of the activity of the carbohydrate hydrolysing enzymes (amylase and invertase) with a simultaneous reduction of the activity of the enzymes participating in protein (dipeptidase) and fat (monglyceridlipase) hydrolysis.


[Reaction between prolactin and serum proteins. II. Prolactin-binding gamma globulin of normal animal serum]. The authors identified prolactin-binding proteins in the blood of goats and rats. Proteins were isolated by affine chromatography. It was shown by gel filtration on Sephadex G-200 and Sepharose-6B and also by disc electrophoresis in polyacrylamide gel and zonal electrophoresis in agarose that these proteins were referred to gamma-globulins. In zonal electrophoresis prolactin complex with the binding protein dissociated. Immunoelectrophoresis showed that prolactin-binding proteins were referred to IgA class.


[Sensitivity of isolated adipose tissue to insulin and questions concerning the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus in patients with chronic liver diseases]. Immunoreactive insulin level proved to be elevated in the blood serum on fasting stomach and at various periods after glucose administration in patients with cirrhosis of the liver with normal glucose tolerance. Reduced insulin sensitivity of the isolated adipose tissue was observed in patients with cirrhosis of the liver. The blood serum cortisol level in these patients failed to differ from such in healthy persons; that calls in doubt participation of this contrinsular hormone in the genesis of reduced insulin sensitivity in chronic diseases of the liver. Elevation of peripheral insulin resistance can promote development or detection of carbohydrate metabolism disturbances in patients with chronic diseases of the liver.


Multiple births and visible birth defects in 13,000 consecutive deliveries in one Ghanaian hospital. The analysis of the data from this study, though not complete, has shown the following: 1) High rates of plural births may be expected in Ghanaian populations (3.21% for twins, 0.05% for triplets). 2) Hellin's law relating to the incidence of multiple births has been found to apply to a Ghanaian population. 3) Our data show that maternal age and parity have considerable effect on twinning. 4) Multiple pregnancies may not, in themselves, constitute a risk to the mother. On the other hand, the birthweight of the babies may be the cause of hazard at childbirth.


Perinatal and infant mortality in twins. The perinatal and infant mortality in the sample of all children born in the South Moravian Region of Czechoslovakia in the years 1970--1976 was studied. The total number of births was 237,655, including 4,072 twin children. The perinatal mortality of twins was 11 times higher and the infant mortality of twins was six times higher than those of the singletons. The mortality of B twins was significantly higher, especially in the groups with birthweight of 1,000 to 2,499 gm and with a gestational age of 22--36 weeks. The most important causes of deaths in twins are prematurity and anoxia or hypoxia. The B twin is more at risk, but also for the A twin the risk is higher for the average singleton. This difference disappears when only the infants with low birthweights are compared.


Twinning rate and reproduction failures. Spontaneous abortion of one of the zygotes is shown to explain some of the main epidemiologic features of dizygotic twinning: its decrease at higher maternal ages and its spatial and secular variations. Conversely, the dizygotic twinning rate offers a precious tool for the study of the etiology of reproduction failures.