Induction of antibody synthesis in vitro by immunogenic RNA. Spleen cells (SpC) from nonimmunized CFW mice were converted into antibody plaque-forming cells (PFC) by incubation with RNA extracted from livers and spleens of immunized mice (4 days after a single intravenous injection of 0.2 ml of 5% sheep red blood cells (SRBC). RNA was extracted by the phenol-detergent procedure only when sensitization determined by the technique of Jerne showed at least one PFC per 1,500 SpC. Immunogenic activity of RNA from lives of immunized mice was identical with that of RNA from spleens. Immunogenic RNA was inactivated by RNase but not by DNase or pronase, indicating that induction of antibody synthesis requires intact RNA. Newly synthesized antibodies were specific for the SRBC injected antigen; plaques did not occur when other RBC were used in place of SRBC for the in vitro test. The influence of antibiotics on this phenomenon is also discussed.


[Demonstration of fibrinolytic split products during administration of hormonal contraceptives]. During intake of four different hormonal contraceptives: Ovosiston (Mestranol 0,08 mg, Chlormadinone acetate 2 mg), Non Ovlon (Ethinylestradiol 0,05 mg, Norethindrone acetate 1 mg), Sequenz-Ovosiston and Deposiston (4th, 11th and 18th cycle day 1 mg Ethinylestradiolsulfonate, 25th cycle day 10 mg Norethindrone acetate) an increase of fibrinolytic split products in contrast to low values of the normal menstrual cycle is to be seen. While the values in the first two thirds of application of drugs undulate in the last third they are high in all four pills tested. It seems to be an interference of fibrinogenolysis by estrogens and secondary fibrinolysis after slight disseminated intravascular clotting by gestagens.


[The occurrence and frequency of pathological corpus luteum and follicular hemorrhage]. Proceeding from the results obtained by the analysis of laparotomies performed in the year 1972 and 1973 in all gynaecological and surgical hospital departments of the city Brno, the authors conclude, that the most cases of pathological haemorrhages of corpus luteum or Graaf's follicul --82,8 per cent -- were not received and operated at the gynaecological clinics, but at the surgical departments. The paper is analysing how much this fact can be caused by diagnostic mistakes. That disparity is apparently also able to impress the common false presumption in the gynaecology, that those haemorrhages are constituting only a very rare and curious case.


[Results of treatments for sterility].

[Results of treatments for sterility]. The author analysed 92 cases of female sterility. The average age run to 27 years, the success-rate to 36,9 per cent. 30 pregnancies end in delivery of living child. Most frequent conceptions devoted after clomiphene therapy and uterotubal insufflation with CO2.


[The current importance of ultrasonics in the diagnostic progressive program in prenatal care]. In the University-Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology (Charite) of Berlin we carried out about 20,000 examinations with the method of ultrasound. In the presented paper we want to put a declaration about the survey of this method in the system of diagnosis during pregnancy. Our experiences led to the same conclusions like published in international journals. The following parameters have been successful in clinical practice: biparietal diameter, position of the fetus, localisation of placenta, diagnosis of heart-beat and other. We concentrated our investigations to the calculation of actual fetal weight in utero. For this aim we established formulas; thus we are able to calculate the weight with the aid of 4 parameters of ultrasound. The evaluation of 621 cases has shown the deviation of the calculated weight compared with the real birth weight is without problems in the group of big babies. For the group of premature deliveries it is nessecery to carry out tocolysis until a calculated weight of 2500 g. In all the babies, calculated in this largeness everyways the real birth weight has been more than 2000 g.


[Electroencephalographic findings in electronically monitored risk births]. Electroencephalograms showed - in accordance with many authors - important statements of perinatal damage and of her prognosis. The fetal monitoring (electronical and gasanalytical) is able to acknowledge in due time a hypoxic situation and procures favourable to the perinatal morbidity. Gross-pathological electroencephalograms we found in 5% of monitored high-risk babies in contrast to 17% of no monitored intrauterine patients.


[Immunological aspects in EPH gestosis]. On the base of the fundamental knowledge on immunological reactions in the normal pregnancy the disease of the EPH-gestosis is described from the immunological viewpoint. The following facts may be significant: 1. The increased occurence of specific and nonspecific crossreacting antibodies against liver, kidney and placental tissue in the blood of pregnant women and puerperas. 2. The increased occurence of placental infarctions and throphoblastic defects as well as fibrinoid deposits in the placenta, the arteriols and in the kidney. 3. Changes in the protein composition of blood. 4. The changed maternal cell-mediated immunity.


[The problem of heparin therapy in suspicion of intrauterine retardation]. From 19 with Heparin treated patients by suspicion of intrauterine retardation 12 patients were investigated relative to the physiology of coagulation. The placentae were investigated morphologically. The treatment with Heparin was without danger. A certain effect of the efficiency by the treatment with Heparin we couldnt establish. The theoretical introductions relative to the efficacy of Heparin entitled the further application of this drug. We can hope, that a better selection of patients with intrauterine retardation by help of ultrasound and other methods (sequenzszintigraphy with In113m and electronmicroscopical procedures) are able to establish the favourable impression by the clinical use of Heparin.


[Experimental investigations on oral immunization with tetanus-toxoid (author's transl)]. Model-experiments in mice were used for the investigation of oral immunization with tetanus-toxoid. The efficacy of oral toxoid application was tested by challenge and anti-toxin determination. The oral immunization with tetanus-toxoid induced only a sufficient protection, when toxoid was in intensive contact with the mucous membranes of the oral cavity. Local immunization via gastro-intestinal-tract failed. After a single vaccination with 200 Lf tetanus-toxoid onto mucous membranes of the oral cavity the efficiency index was 75. In comparison, a single subcutaneous application of 2 Lf tetanus-toxoid resulted in an efficiency index of 100 and a single intranasal immunization of 100 Lf in an efficiency index of 93. So the application of toxoid subcutaneously or onto nasal mucous membranes induced higher protection than oral application. Temporary development of immunity after immunization via the mucous membranes of the oral cavity was much better than parenteral immunization. 20 per cent of orally immunized animals were immune 5 days p. vacc. At the same time subcutaneously immunized animals failed to develop any protection. The efficiency rates obtained in challenge correlate with antitoxin content in the serum.


[The fecal flora of man. III. Communication: The composition of Lactobacillus flora of different age groups (author's transl)]. From fecal flora of 66 infants aged 3 to 220 days, 29 children aged 4 to 6 years, 42 adults aged 20 to 64 years and 21 senile persons aged 65 to 86 years, the Lactobacillus flora was analysed qualitatively and quantitatively. In the feces of babies only the resident lactobacilli (L. acidophilus, L. salivarius and L. fermenti) were found, while in the feces of children, adults and senile persons the resident lactobacilli as well as the transient lactobacilli (L. casei, L. plantarum, L. brevis, L. buchneri and L. lactis) were found simultaneously. Within the Lactobacillus species L. acidophilus type I, L. fermenti type IVa and  L. salivarius type Ia were most frequently found in the feces of all age groups. In addition, L. acidophilus type X was also often found in the feces of senile persons. In connection with the numbers of species or types of lactobacilli in one fecal specimen, one or two species or types were demonstrated in 94,5% of positive cases of infants. With increasing age the numbers increased, especially more than three species or types were demonstrated in 85% of positive cases. In infants in 3 different clinics, clinic-specificities were demonstrated in relation to the species or types of lactobacilli isolated: in each clinic clearly certain species or types of lactobacilli were present. The results indicate that the composition of the Lactobacillus flora in the feces is influenced by lactobacilli orally ingested.


[On the theory of the growth of germs as function of time and concentration (author's transl)]. The experimental harvest of germs is proportional to the amount of the minimal substrate. We formulate, therefore, the growth of germs as function of the employment of complete nutrient mediae containing all substrates required between two divisions. This conception may also be used for the function of time of the growth curve even beyond the log phase and allows a hard-and-fast rule for the region of nutritional deficiency. Our growth rates estimated as function of the concentration deviates from those established by Monod. This deviation can experimentally not be determined as the values of both estimations are in the experimental margin of tolerance. In contract to Monod's ferment conception implicating a growth of germs up to an unlimited dilution of nutrient mediae, our conception can more be recommended because of the defined beginning of growth.


Antibacterial activity of some newly synthesized azaphenanthrene and diazachrysene compounds. Four newly synthesized azaphenanthrene compounds viz., 7,8,9,10-Tetrahydro-7-oxo-2-methoxy-benzo(c) phenathridine; 7,8,9,10-Tetrahydro -7-oxo-benzo(c) phenanthridine-2-[1-6-methoxy-1-naphthylimino)-methyl]cyclohexane-1,3-dione and 2-[1-(1-naphthyli; mino)-methyl]cyclohexane-1,3 dione and two diazachrysene compounds viz., 1,5-Diazachrysene and 2,5-Diazachrysese were screened for their antibacterial potency against a large number of bacterial strains. The antibacterial activity which to a varying degree was shown to be related to the aza, methoxy and keto groups, in the case of the Azaphenanthrene compounds, however, it was related to the position of the nitrogen atom in the ring in the case of Diazachrysene compounds.


Investigations on the efficacy of surface disinfection and surface cleaning procedures. 1. Tests under real-life conditions. The suitability of disinfection preparations is assessed on the basis of laboratory tests, different methods being used in the various countries. Since such model tests are rather inadequate when it comes to judging surface disinfectants, additional in-use tests are desirable. They might, in any case, serve as a reference system for judging the evaluation criteria which still differ widely at the moment. The experiments described in this study were chiefly designed to establish the effect of cleaning and disinfection measures on bacteria normally present on surfaces and on the artificial contamination of surfaces with Sarcinae as model germs. The tests were carried out in the halls on 5 floors of a medical (lift landings). "Rodac" plates were used to identify the germs. 3 disinfectants (aldehydes, phenol derivative), 3 disinfectant cleaning agents and soft soap were used. The preparations reduced the normal germ count by approx. 80 per cent. The reduction was mainly due to the cleaning effect (soft soap was as effective as the preparations with disinfectant properties). The effect on the "normal germ count" cannot, therefore, be used as sole criterion of disinfectant action. When the various preparations were applied in twice the concentration recommended for Staphylococcus hospitalism, the Sarcina count was reduced by 99 to 99.9 per cent within 2 hours. The efficacy of disinfectants and disinfectant cleaning agents was practically the same. Additional laboratory tests are necessary before the effect of soft soap can be finally assessed. In actual practice the unit count of pathogenic germs- such as Staphylococci and Klebsiellae- is too low to enable an objective assessment of a disinfectant to be made. On the other hand, artificial contamination with such pathogens is not possible because of the risk involved. The use of Sarcina lutea as test germ is therefore subjects to certain limitations. One of the prerequisites for using it is, for example, prior reduction of the normal germ count to values of less than 500/100 cm2. The second communication will report on investigations into the chemoresistance of Sarcina and how this compares with that of Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella. The need for such studies arose from our present investigation.


[Critical assessment of methods for testing chemical disinfectants and disinfection procedures (author's transl)]. Since the earliest days of disinfectant testing two different methods have to be distinguished: one group simulating practical circumstances the other one allowing the determination of germ reduction, disregarding any practical conditions. At present the assessment of disinfectant substances is carried out according to the results of several methods, done in different countries. Usually standardised suspension-tests with no correspondance to-in-use conditions are done. These are for example the determination of the Rideal-Walker and the Chick Martin coefficient and the capacity test by Kelsey and Sykes as well. Results obtained by the use-dilution method (A.O.A.C.) are also just of theoretical value. The British Standard-Test 3286:1960 and the suspension-test of the Committee on Phytopharmacy (Netherlands), to be preferred in order to state germ reductions, do not imitate particulars of practice either. After establishing recommendations for the various disinfectant procedures, the unification of the test methods on international level should be the next aim. Besides evaluation of disinfectant substances (as it is done by suspension-tests) the testing of disinfectant procedures under conditions, copying those of real life ought to be required. The results of such in-use model tests should answer all the questions arising, for instance, what the concentrations or the exposure-time should be. We would plead in favour of testing disinfectant substances and procedures in two steps - preliminary testing and main tests under in-use conditions for each new preparation. The base for all these tests is the selection of a suitable inactivator.


[Specific and nonspecific factors that influence the transduction of genetic determinants for penicillinase activity and pathogenicity in Staphylococcus aureus. III. The prevention of the transduction of penicillinase determinants by acridine derivatives]. In comparing the antitransducing activity of the acridine derivatives there was revealed a relationship between their chemical structure (the degree of substitution of position 9), the capacity to depress the lytic activity of staphylophages and the action in respect to the transducing particles of the donor lysate.


[Erysipeloid on the islands of the Sea of Okhotsk. I. The sources and vectors of the causative agent of erysipeloid]. The foci of the causative agent of erysipeloid at the islands of the Okhotsk sea were of the polyvector and polyhostal character. There were recorded 92 species of the naturally infected by the erysipeloid causative agent invertebrate inhabitants of the sea, fish, amphibia, reptilia, birds, mammals and ectoparasites of the warm-blooded animals. Gamazoid and ixodes ticks, mosquitoes, horse-flies and flees were found to be naturally infected with erysipelotrix. Ixodes persulcatus were found to be capable of infecting albino mice during blood sucking.


[Study of the pathogenesis of toxoplasmosis by means of tagged atoms]. The authors' investigations showed a principal possibility of labeling toxoplasma with radioactive isotopes on condition of the administration of the latter in vivo into the donor animals infected with toxoplasmosis. The labeled atom method could be used for studying the pathogenesis of toxoplasmosis in the experimental animals, particularly at the early periods of the infectious process. The use of the labeled atom method permitted not only to confirm the results obtained by parasitological and pathomorphological studies, but also to reveal the fact of a primary parasitemia, later confirmed by biopsy. In combination with other methods of study the labeled atom method can be used for studying various aspects of the problem of toxoplasmosis, particularly of the mechanisms of transmission of the infection.


[Epidemiological patterns of the import and spread of El Tor cholera]. The paper is a response to the paper by A. K. Akiev published in 1974 in the "Journal of Microbiology Epidemiology and Immunobiology": "Concerning the Epidemiology of El Tor cholera Abroad". The opinion of the author concerning the origin of El Tor infection in 1970, the sources of infection, and the factors of its transmission is critisized. Literature data and personal observations explaining the regularities of importation and spread of El Tor cholera as an intestinal infection are presented; these data are against the view of Akiev on El Tor cholera as a disease with a natural nidality caused by freely living vibrios.


[Isolation of parahemolytic vibrions from persons with acute gastrointestinal diseases]. Galophilic vibrios were for the first time in the Soviet Union isolated from the patients with gastrointestinal diseases in Novorossiisk during the summer-autumn period of 1973. The greatest number of strains of the parahemolytic vibrios was isolated in August and September, during intensive fishing season, from the patients in whom the disease usually developed 6 to 12 hours after eating the sea fish. The parahemolytic vibrios isolated from the patients were typical by all signs and produced a marked hemolysis on the Wagatsuma medium. The halophilic vibrios are inhabitants of the Black Sea. During the years of 1972-1973 there were isolated 109 strains of V. paraheamolyticus and 133 strains of V. alginolyticus from the sea water and various hydrobionts.


[Differences in certain immunological indices among persons who have had cholera and among Vibrio carriers]. Blood sera of persons, who sustained cholera of different degree of severity, and of vibrio-carriers, and also chromatographic fractions obtained in separation of the mentioned sera on DEAE-cellulose were investigated in the reaction of agglutination and the indirect hemagglutination test. Immunological response in the vibrio carriers was realized by the microglobulin, and in the convalescents--by the macroglobulin type. There was also revealed an association between the severity of the course of cholera and the prevalence in the blood serum of one or another type of specific antibodies: in severe forms of the disease the antibodies of the IgM-class were detected with the greatest frequency, and microglobulin antibodies--in vibrio carriers. The detected differences in the immunological status of those who sustained cholera and of vibrio-carriers could be used as an additional differential sign in the diagnosis of the mentioned conditions.


[Morphological characteristics of an experimental dysenteric infection reproduced against a background of reduced intestinal mucosal resistance]. The authors present the results of experimental-morphological study of the intestine and other internal organs of guinea pigs subjected and not subjected to starvation infected with a dysentery culture against the background of antiepithelial serum. A marked form of the infectious process with erosive-ulcerative affection of the cecum mostly developed in 70% of the former and in 58.8% of the latter animals.


[Morphology of Newcastle bacteriophages]. A study was made of morphology of 6 clones of Newcastle bacteriophages of different origin divided into 3 types. Bacteriophage H-18 referred to the III morphological type by the Tikhonenko classification was characterized by a comparatively short process and a head in the form of an isometric polyhedron; H-1, H-5, H-10 and H-17 bacteriophages referred to type V, despite their antigenic difference were morphologically identical: they had a comparatively large head in the form of an elongated polyhedron and a process with a complicated structure ending by a besal plate with 3 indentions originating from it. Bacteriophage H-4 was referred to the IV type and was characterized by a head in the form of an elongated polyhedron and a long curved noncontracting process; in difference from the others it had no basal plate on the end of the process. The revealed morphological peculiarities of the particles of the Newcastle bacteriophages only partially correlated with their division on the basis of serolological properties and the size of the negative colonies.


[Further research on an experimental justification for the emergency prophylaxis of typhoid]. Experiments were conducted on mice. A possibility was demonstrated of express prophylaxis of typhoid fever by subcutanoues injection of the vaccine and by oral administration of sodium nucleinate, of lowering the dose by half and replacement of revaccination by sodium nucleinate alone. An increase in the titre of typhoid agglutinins and of preventive activity of the blood serum was revealed on volunteers.


[Characteristics of the hydrodynamic and biological properties of flagellar preparations isolated from submerged cultures of S. typhi]. A study was made of the hydrodynamic and biological properties of the flagella from the S. typhi 4446 cultures, isolated by the methods of differential centrifugation, in crude condition and following depolimerization and denaturing by the action of chemical and physical agents. Molecular parameters of the slow and rapid components of the flagella and subunits of the flagellin were compared. The greatest antigenic activity was possessed by the high molecular fraction of the flagella isolated in the 60% sucrose density gradient.


[Inhibiton of isocitrate dehydrogenase and isocitrate lyase from Acinetobacter calcoaceticus by acids of the citrate and glyoxylate cycle]. Acinetobacter calcoaceticus contains two forms of NADP+-dependent isocitrate dehydrogenases differing, among others, by their molecular weights and regulatory properties. The regulation of the high-molecular form of isocitrate dehydrogenase and of isocitrate lyase by organic acids, either belonging or related to the citrate and glyoxalate cycle, is investigated. While alpha-ketoglutarate and oxalacetate competitively inhibit the isocitrate dehydrogenase against Ds-isocitrate, glyoxylate and pyruvate were found to increase Vmax and to lower the KM value for Ds-isocitrate and NADP+. Simultaneous addition of oxalacetate and glyoxylate (not, however, addition of the nonenzymatically formed condensation product of both compound) nullified the activation of isocitrate dehydrogenase by glyoxylate, and potentiates the inhibitory effect of oxalacetate. Alpha-ketoglutarate, succinate, and phosphoenolpyruvate inhibit the isocitrate lyase in a noncompetitive fashion against DS-isocitrate; L-malate, oxalacetate and glyoxylate inhibit competitively. The intermediates of the citrate and glyoxylate cycle afford additive inhibition of the isocitrate lyase. The importance of organic acids of the citrate and glyoxylate cycle and of phosphoenolpyruvate for the regulation of the citrate and glyoxylate cycle at the level of isocitrate dehydrogenase and isocitrate lyase is discussed.


[Dynamics of the human heart rate during changes of posture under various climatic conditions]. The time course of the heart rate (15-sec-periods) during active orthostasis (10 min) was investigated according to types found by Drischel et al. under different climatic conditions in 51 female and 50 male subjects. Constant types were observed in each subject in 3 repeated tests on different days at 20 degrees C and 55% R.H., the types remaining constant even at 25 and 90% R.H. The increase in environmental temperature from 15 to 30 and 45 degrees C showed a significant alteration from type A via different transitional types to type B. At 45 degrees C, an additional type was observed called superhigh type B, functionally being a precollapse type. The variation in typology includes the dynamics of the initial process of the active orthostasis as well as the deviation between the steady-state of the heart rate in erect and in supine position. The physiological mechanisms eliciting the changes in the dynamic behaviour and the correlations with the effective temperature are discussed.


[The effect of chlorpromazine on the mechanogram, electrocardiogram and membranopotential of the frog heart]. The action of chloropromazine in concentrations between 10(-6) and 10(-3) M was studied with regard to its effect on contractility, ECG, and membrane potential of the isolated frog heart. In concentrations above 10(-6) a depressive influence on the amplitude of contraction was observed; the speed of contraction was reduced. The heart rate showed negatively chronotropic changes. In the ECG there was a striking expansion of the PQ interval. The membrane potential was reduced under the effect of chloropromazine depending on the concentration used. The negative influence on mechanical and bioelectrical parameters of the myocardium is interpreted to be due to membrane-related factors. A vagus-like effect is discussed, particular importance being attached to the mechanisms of the "slow-channel" system.


[Experimental and clinical aspects of auto and coherence spectra of blood pressure, heart rate and respiratory rhythms]. Auto- coherence and phase spectra of blood-pressure, heart-rate, and respiration changes at various intervals were calculated in 34 healthy individuals and 46 patients with neurovegetative disorders in a direct way, partly by means of the Fast-Fourier transformations. It was only by 18-min recordings that reliably reproducible spectra could be obtained that permit exact evaluation of the statistical properties of these biorhythms.


[The effect of the tidal volume on the sinus arrhythmia of the heart]. The sinus arrhythmia of the human heart was investigated in its relation to the tidal volume under resting conditions in the course of the day, in voluntarily changed tidal volume, under atropine medication and during physical work. In resting conditions it was found that nearly 40% of the sinus arrhythmia is of respiratory origin, and that no respiratory influence is demonstrable any longer at sufficient doses of atropine. Under physical load, the sinus arrhythmia is diminished in spite of the enlarged tidal volume. In this case, an additional smoothing influence to the sinus arrhythmia has to be assumed.


[Method for the immediate measurement of myocardial pressure velocity relationships in situ]. A method for instantaneous measurements and representations of myocardial pressure-velocity relations permitting the analysis of various contractility parameters is described. Basing on a modified two-element model of cardiac muscle the measurement of the relative shortening velocity vce = dp/dt(p) of the contractile elements is carried out by a special analog computer, which calculates the quotient (dp/dt) to the simultaneous left ventricular pressure p. Electronic differentiation of the logarithm of pressure-proportional input voltages is used. The p-v-diagram can be displayed on x-y-oscilloscopes. Over an input voltage range of 20 mV---20V the quotient can be measured within the range of 20 sec-1---250 sec-1. Output voltages can be calibrated automatically. Between (dp/dt)p-1 determined by conventional methods and the dlnp/dt calcuated electronically there exists a correlation gamma = 0.995. An additional electronic circuit which permits the determination of a contractility parameter indicates the point of (dp/dt)max on the p-v-relation display. The application of the method in experimental studies under inotropic changes in the rabbit heart in situ following beta-receptor blockade is demonstrated.


[The functional motility of motor units of the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles in the rat under indirect stimulation depending on the stimulus frequency]. With increasing pulse rate (up to 150 square pulses/sec) applied for 1 second at the gastrocnemius and soleus muscle the amplitude of electromyographic response was found to decrease. An amplitude decrease of sum action potentials (AP) recorded from the muscle surface occurred already at pulse rates below 100 pulses/sec. For the gastrocnemius muscle, this amplitude fall in the medium pulse-rate region can be described by the relation: amplitude = -log-pulse rate. At the soleus muscle, the amplitude fall is shifted towards the higher frequencies. After intensive swimming of the animal the amplitude depression of AP at the gastrocnemius muscle occurs already at a lower rate, and departs from the aforementioned relation. The causes are looked for in the differential properties of the various muscle fibres.


[Non-propagated potentials in the electromyogram of mammalian ocular muscles]. Electromyograms of mammalian extraocular muscles were recorded by means of a coaxial electrode. Besides normal extracellular spike potentials (1-2 msec duration), monophasic waves (with a decline lasting up to 7 msec) were recorded. As to the interpretation of these potential changes in terms of a potential drop that is produced by local currents flowing from the resting region of a fibre towards the active region consideration is given to two cases. First, a propagated active region (spike potentials, at least diphasic) and second, a stationary active region (with resulting monophasic waves). In the EMGs spontaneous monophasic potentials recruit at a lower threshold than spike potentials; frequency changes were observed when head position was altered. The latter are interpreted as local depolarizations occurring at neuromuscular junctions of multiple innervated muscle fibres among those fibre types that compose extraocular muscles.


[The spectrum analysis of the electromyogram: the adaptation of autoregressive models to the interference electromyogram]. Power-density spectra of interference electromyograms of M. biceps brach. and triceps brach. from two subjects were estimated by the Tukey spectral window and by autoregressive series. By fitting autoregressive models parametric represeentations of spectra are obtained. The models for the electromyograms obtained from biceps (agonist) and triceps (antagonist) differed in the length of the autoregressive series. The intra-individual variation of the spectra from three time intervals of the same contraction was relatively small.


[Effect of D20 on contractility and excitation contraction coupling in the rat papillary muscle]. D2O decreases the isometric contraction force of papillary muscles from the left ventricle of rats. This effect can be compensated only partially by increasing the calcium content in the perfusion solution. Differences in the effect of D2O under different calcium concentrations point also to an action site other than at the contractile proteins. The enlargement of the restitution of contraction 300 msec after the basic beat, the diminution of the postextrasystolic tiation and the disappearance of postextrasystolic depressions because of high calcium potencontent in the bathing solution make it more probable that the action site lies in cell compartments which may be involved into the supply of activator calcium. The increasing occurrence of aftercontractions alredy at slightly enhanced extracellular calcium is in good agreement with this fact.


Postsynaptic potentials in cat abducens motoneurons evoked by stimulation of cortical eye fields. Intracellular recordings were carried out on abducens motoneurons of encephale isole cats in order to analyse synaptic influences of cortical areas engaged in control of saccadic eye movements. It was found that, in addition to the "frontal eye field" (FEF), eye movements containing a contraversive component may be triggered by electrical stimulation of the 1st and the 2nd sensorimotor areas (SM). Correspondingly, sustained postsynaptic responses (EPSPs) and rhythmic firing of abducens motoneurons could be reliably induced by prolonged stimulus trains. In this respect, the efficiencies of FEF and SM were about the same. They appeared to be higher than the efficiency of excitatory pyramidal actions on spinal motoneurons as reported by others. EPSPs elicited from both regions by short stimuli were, on the major part, polysynaptic. Quite complex multineuronal chains appeared to be stronger engaged in the transmission of FEF effects. EPSPs of SM origin contained a disynaptic fraction which could not be reliably identified in FEF responses. Recipocal innervation of abducens nuclei on both sides was found to be reflected in the asymmetry of excitatory and inhibitory influences from two hemispheres: EPSPs predominated in responses to contralateral, IPSPs and mixed PSPs - to ipsilateral stimulation.


[The efferent sympathetic activity of the rabbit renal nerve during local application of adrenaline to the carotid sinus]. Adrenalin solution (1:1000) administered at the carotid sinus, through excitation of the depressoric C-fibre system of the carotid nerve, induces a strong, lasting reflectoric decrease of arterial pressure with slowing heart rate, associated with an almost complete inhibition of the efferent sympathetic activity of the renal nerve. The efferent sympathetic activity, arterial blood pressure and heart rate, both at the onset and at the height of adrenalin action, show corresponding activity changes: the relative inhibition of the sympathetic nerve is strongest correlated with the depressoric blood-pressure effect, while the decrease of heart rate, related to the initial activity, is least pronounced.


[The inhibition of efferent sympathetic activity by means of pressure stimulation of the carotid sinus pressoreceptors]. The influence of pressure stimulation of a barorecptor upon the activity of the sympathetic nerve branch terminating in the wall of the contralateral carotid bifurcation was studied on narcotized dogs. The potential activity of this branch is of efferent nature. On the average, 570 msec after the pressure load applied to the opposite carotid sinus preparation, a silent period occurred. The duration of this silent period and the activity of the sympathetic nerve branch depend on the internal pressure of the preparation. The influence of different structures (central and peripheral) on latency, total and partial inhibition of the sympathetic activity are discussed.


[The behavior of the b-wave in the electroretinogram of light-adapted frogs during serial light exposure]. In light-adapted frogs (adaptation luminance 10(3) asb) repeated flashes of high intensity (10(5) asb) caused decrease of the b-wave in the electroretinogram as compared to the results obtained with dark-adapted animals. The amplitude changes were monotonous in all cases; they were dependent on the spacing and duration of the stimulus. With short intervals (2-10 sec) the amplitude adjusted to a new level no later than after 8 flashes. With longer intervals (30 and 60 sec), however, the amplitude decreased slowly and steadily over the whole period of experiment. Under these conditions, adjustment to a new level was prevented by disturbing factors, which additionally reduced the retinal sensitivity depending on the duration of the experiment.


[Demonstration of subcomponents of PIII in the ERG of isolated rabbit retina using sodium asparaginate]. Experiments on the sum potential to dark flashes after eliminating the positive components by low temperature (25 degrees C) and low content of plasma (10% instead of 50%) in the perfusion fluid have shown that the cornea-negative component PIII is extensively reduced by application of 10 mM sodium aspartate. The existence of an aspartate sensitive PIII-subcomponent, which was first discovered by intraretinal records, is not in agreement with the opinion that the whole PIII represents receptor activity. Fast and slow PIII-subcomponents are also discernible in the cornea-negative PIII - recorded with cross-electrodes - by their time course without and with adding sodium aspartate. The fast subcomponents are demonstrable in a rough approximation by condenser-coupling the amplifier (t = 0.3 sec). Changing the temperature from 22 degrees C to 27 degrees C the temperature quotient amounts to 1,3 for the fast subcomponents, and to 2.1 for the whole PIII including the slow subcomponents.


[Isolation of a PIIIcomponent in the electrogram of the frog retina by the use of acetylcholine]. By treating the isolated frog retina with acetylcholine the cornea-positive components in the ERG were suppressed and the cornea-negative component P III resulted as the only response to light stimulation in the mass potential. This P III corresponded in essential features to that P III isolated after treatment with aspartate and known as the mass receptor potential. Therefore, acetylcholine - the postulated transmitter substance between photoreceptors and second retinal neurons - meets the requirement to block the synaptic transmission in this region by artificial excess and to suppress the light evoked generation of the postsynaptic potentials.


[Technical simulation of intensity-duration curves with a model based on the membrane theory]. In earlier studies using a simplified black-box model, new concepts about the shape of I-T curves following electrical stimulation were developed. This model, however, was incompatible with the modern membrane theory of Hodkin and Huxley. The present paper describes a computer-aided simulation of the excitation process, based exclusively on the experimental results of Hdokin and Huxley. The simulated I-T curves do confirm the conclusions of the black-box model.


[Contribution to the structure of respiration control]. A structure is reported which describes the relatively free availability of the motor respiratory apparatus to non-respiratory functions due to the presence of a respiratory control both on homeostatic and motor levels. It is assumed that, at the motor level, a competition develops of two or more regulators for the same parameter (e.g. the activity of neurons that can be claimed both by respiratory and by a second skeletal motor process). The compromise being reached is dependent on the amplification in the competing circuits. The correlation between the metabolic value and that of the respiration-time volume may be accomplished by the fact that amplification in the respiratory-motor circuit is rendered variable as a result of its interconnection with the chemical respiratory control. The high time constant of the latter allows for the instantaneous free availability of the motor respiratory apparatus to non-respiratory functions. The postulated structure offers better interpretations for the actual respiration behaviour than those considering the respiratory function alone.


[The spontaneous change in the optokinetic reactivity in lizards]. The optokinetik reactivity of lizards (Calotes versicolor Daud., Agamidae, Squamata) varies spontaneously within seconds. The animals follow the sinusoidal movement of a striped cylinder with head and eyes. Thereby the line of sight may follow exactly the pattern movement without angular slippage, or a slippage of various degree happens, or the animal does even not react at all. The optokinetic reactivity varies continuously and not stepwise. Both eyes may move independently. Accelerated smooth eye movements which overtake the speed pattern movement were observed. In optokinetic reactions the eyes take the bigger part of the angular movement than the head; in cases of vestibular stimulation the reverse is observed concerning the amplitude of the compensatory countermovement. Similar effects of variable optokinetic reactivity in other animals and in man depending on attention are discussed.


[Possible functional properties of the labyrinth in Brachiosaurus brancai]. The dimensions of the semicircular canals and the respective ampullae of a complete labyrinth caste of Brachiosaurus Brancai were determined. Using the equation of motion and the dimensions of the semicircular canals the behaviour of the endolymph displacement of the Brachiosaurus labyrinth was calculated. The time constants of the system were found to be between the values 4 sec and 13 sec for T1 and 0.2 sec and 0.5 sec for T2. From these results it was concluded, that the head movements of the animal occurred in a range between 0.02 and 0.1 cps.


[Kidney function and arterial acid-base status during continuous stimulation of the carotid chemoreceptors in vagotomized cats]. In spontaneously breathing, chloralose narcotized and bilaterally vagotomized cats under mannite saline diuresis, the isolated carotid sinus were perfused for 1 hr with arterial and then for 1 hr with venous blood, and subsequently again with arterial blood for 1 hr. Either measure d or calculated were the parameters of arterial acid-base status, the arterial systemic bl-od pressure, the p-aminohippuric acid (PAH), inulin (IN), and osmolar clearance, the filtration fraction, the tubular reabsorption of oxmotically free water, the urinary time volume, and fractional excretions of the kidneys. Stimulation of the carotic chemoreceptors increased respiration, slightly enhanced the CPAH, and caused a minor fall of CIN with little altered filtration fraction. The renal resistance increased. The absolute and fractional excretions of urine, sodium, potassium, and of osmotically active particles rose significantly. Tubular reabsorption of osmotically free water showed a singificant increase. Urinary osmolarity remained constant in general. The changes of water and electrolyte excretion did not correlate with those of renal hemodynamics. The results argue against natriuresis being caused on chemoreceptor stimulation by increased filtrate volume of the whole kidney, or by decreased osmolarity of the renal medulla. The results are discussed with regard to the renal function in arterial oxygen deficiency.


[Effect of experimentally induced changes in blood flow on the heat and electrical conductivity of the skin]. This paper reports on the influence of experimentally induced changes in blood flow in upper extremities on both electrical resistance (1100 Hz; 30 kHz) and heat conductivity of the skin in 19 healthy adults. Exsanguination (ESMARCH bandage) caused a small decrease in resistance with recovery of the blood flow. Both changed of skin resistance and resting values of skin resistance have shown sex-related differences. The changes of heat conductivity are higher as compared to values of skin resistance. The results are discussed and compared with data from the literature.


Studies on the synthesis of liver phospholipids and the turnover of plasma phospholipids in non pregnant female rats using radioactive palmitate. Using the tracer method and a compartmental model we found that 0.9 mumoles plasma free fatty acids per min are esterified to liver phospholipids. The turnover rate of plasma phospholipid fatty acids was determined to be 0.5 mumoles phospholipid fatty acids per min. The turnover time of the plasma phospholipid fatty acids was calculated to be 0.9 hours. The results indicate that only 69 per cent of plasma free fatty acids esterified to liver phospholipids are secreted by the liver into the plasma.


[Measurements of electric membrane potentials in lymphocytes]. The interior of vital lymphocytes, as opposed to their outer environment, has a negative electric potential (rest potential), the magnitude of which depends on the potassium ion concentration of the extracellular medium. The bioelectric phenomena at the lymphocyte are determined not only by the functional state of the cell membrane, but also by the milieu of the blood cells which includes also the adsorbed proteins and lipids.


Development of cortical somatosensory evoked potentials in rats. The development of the contra- and ipsilateral cortical potential evoked by electrical sciatic nerve stimulation was studied in 77 male albino rats aged 5 to 45 days. A contralateral response was already recorded, as double negativity, in the youngest animals, while an ipsilateral evoked potential was not reliably present until the 10th day. At this time, however, both responses started with an inconstant positive wave and their shape was practically the same. During subsequent development the responses differed only in respect to their dominant component: in the contralateral response, the N1 wave had the highest amplitude for most of the time, while in the ipsilateral response the delayed N2 wave was the largest component. The latent periods of contralateral responses were somewhat shorter than those of ipsilateral evoked potentials. During development we noticed a phase of abrupt shortening of the latent period, which took place before the 15th day in the contralateral response and before the 20th day in the ipsilateral response. We also found a difference in the fatigability of the responses, which was greater in immature rats than in adult animals; in the ipsilateral evoked potential it approached adult values more slowly. The development of the ipsilateral response is thus delayed compared with the development of the contralateral response.


[The function of innervated kidneys during stimulation of the carotid chemoreceptors under constant renal perfusion pressure]. The carotid chemoreceptors of narcotized, vagotomized and spontaneously breathing hydropenic cats in hypertonic mannite diuresis were stimulated by perfusion with venous blood penic cats in hypertonic mannite diuresis were stimulated by perfusion with venous blood for 70 min. Elevation of blood pressure at the innervated kidneys was prevented by an automatically controlled balloon located within the aorta. Stimulation of the chemoreceptors intensified respiration and raised the arterial systemic pressure. With the renal arteries at constant pressure, the effective renal plasma flow and the glomerular filtration rate significantly declined. The filtration fraction remained unchanged. The absolute urinary and sodium excretion did not change significantly, whereas the fractional time-volume, fractional sodium excretion, and the fractional osmotic excretion significantly increased. The fractional tubular reabsorption of osmotically free water was significantly enhanced. These reactions subsided during subsequent perfusion of the glomerula carotici with arterial blood. The results suggest that tubular sodium reabsorption is inhibited by stimulation of the carotid chemoreceptors, although re-adjustment of renal perfusion and filtrate volume cannot be excluded.


[Continuous measurement of oxygen consumption in small laboratory animals]. A technique for measuring the oxygen consumption of small laboratory animals suitable for pharmacological and toxicological studies is described. The oxygen consumption of the animal in the respiratory chamber is compensated by means of a photoelectrically operating servo mechanism from an oxygen reservoir. The oxygen supplied is directly recorded via a transducer by an X-Y recorder. The carbon dioxide exhaled by the animal is entirely absorbed. Composition and pressure of air in the respiratory chamber correspond to the physiological medium. The usefulness of this technique is demonstrated by investigations on the effects of epinephrine and morphine on the oxygen consumption of rats.


[The kinetics of lithium in the rat serum, brain and liver]. The kinetics of lithium in the serum, liver and brain of rats is described. The serum levels resembled those of man, whereas considerable quantitative differences were observed when comparing specific kinetic parameters. The brain level increased with the increasing doses, approaching the corresponding serum level. Concentration differences between different brain areas could be observed only after repeated administrations. Striatum, cortex and hippocampus showed significantly higher levels than the thalamus. The liver content remained low with increasing doses, and was below the brain level.


[Acute prostaglandin E changes in the kidney medulla after intravenous application of blood pressure active drugs in rabbits]. The blood pressure active substances noradrenaline, alpha-methyl-dopa, clonidine, dihydralazine, and reserpine were studied 20 min after i.v. administration to rabbits for their action on blood pressure, heart rate, PGE-content and -synthesis in the renal medulla. Noradrenaline caused increase in blood pressure, and distinctly enhanced the PGE content in the renal medulla. alpha-methyl-dopa raised both PGE-content and -synthesis, without changing blood pressure and heart rate. Clonidine and dihydralazine caused a pronounced fall of the blood pressure, but only did dihydralazine lower PGE-synthesis, while no such effect was produced by clonidine. Reserpine, like dihydralazine, decreased PGE-synthesis, without simultaneously lowering blood pressure. Indomethacine, one of the most potent inhibitors of PG-synthesis, has no effect on blood pressure within 20 min. The results argue against the existence of a simple direct correlation between PGE-synthesis rate in the homogenate of rabbit renal medulla and the instantaneous blood pressure.


Studies on cardioactive steroids. III. Characterization of different cardiac glycosides by their effects on contractility and rhythmicity at different extracellular potassium concentrations. In the present paper, the naturally occurring glycosides digitoxin, gitoxin, 16-acetyl-gitoxin, digoxin, cymarol, ouabain, and proscillaridin, and the semi-synthetic 16-epi-gitoxin and 16-acetyl-16-epi-gitoxin are investigated as to their inotropic action and their effects on rhythmicity at isolated spontaneously beating atria of the guinea-pig heart in dependence on the variation of the potassium concentration of the nutritive fluid ([K+]0: 1.34, 2.68, and 5.36 mM resp.). The major results are as follows. 1. Effects of raising [K+]0 from 1.34 to 2.68 mM: The range of the inotropically effective concentrations as well as the size of the maximum inotropic action are more or less strongly improved with all glycosides. The glycoside concentrations required to get inotropic maximum had to be increased to a high degree with proscillaridin and digoxin. The mean arrhythmia percentage occurring at the inotropic maximum is either decreased (gitoxin, 16-epi-gitoxin, digoxin, proscillaridin), unchanged (digitoxin, 16-acetyl-16-epi-gitoxin) or even increased (16-acetyl-gitoxin, cymarol, ouabain). The inotropic value is improved to a high extent with gitoxin only. 2. Effect of raising [K+]0 from 2.68 to 5.36 mM: The range of the inotropically effective concentrations is extended (digitoxin and cymarol) or diminished (proscillaridin), but remains essentially unchanged with most glycosides. The size of the maximum inotropic effect is increased with digoxin, ouabain and 16-epi-gitoxin, but decreased significantly with digitoxin and proscillaridin. The glycoside concentrations required to produce the inotropic maximum are essentially unchanged with the exception of 16-epi-gitoxin, 16-acetyl-gitoxin and ouabain. The mean arrhythmia percentage at the maximum inotropic effect is dramatically reduced with digoxin, cymarol and proscillaridin. The inotropic value is improved with all glycosides except digitoxin. 3. Evaluation of the various glycosides: When judged on the basis of the range of inotropically effective concentrations, the maximum inotropic effect, the mean arrhythmia percentage at the inotropic maximum and the inotropic value, the best first three glycosides include 16-epi-gitoxin and digoxin. 16-Epi-gitoxin and its 16-acetate show that most favourable relationship between the effect on contractility and rhythmicity. The cause of the differential actions of the structurally-different glycosides on contractility and rhythmicity is hypothesized to be due to divergences in structure and/or conformation of the receptor areas of (Na+ + K+)-ATPase of contractile and excitable cells.


[Effect of increased diuresis on the renal excretion of sulfamerazine]. The excretion velocity of sulfamerazine is very slow, caused by a high reabsortion rate in renal tubuli. An increased diuresis by i.p. administration of saline or p.o. load with water has no effect on the sulfamerazine excretion velocity. The enhanced diuresis is accompanied by a decrease of the urine pH-value and consequently by a decreased dissociation rate of sulfamerazine.


Problems and terminology of functional teratology. Possible causes for the teratogenesis of fundamental processes of life are explained. Hence, it is suggested that traditional teratology, i.e. teratomorphology (developmental pathomorphology) should be completed by teratophysiology (developmental pathophysiology), teratopsychology (developmental pathopsychology), and teratoimmunology (developmental pathoimmunology), as developmental biology can be also subdivided into developmental morphology, developmental physiology, developmental psychology and developmental immunology.


Collaboration of serotonin and melatonin in the control of thyroid function. The stimulatory effect of serotonin and the inhibitory effect of melatonin on iodine incorporation by thyroid follicular cells are both inhibited by the serotonin antagonists methysergid and cyphroheptadine. Serotonin and melatonin can mutually prevent each other's action. A collaboration of melatonin and serotonin in the regulation of thyroid function is implied from the experimental observations.


[Comparative studies on the determination of the A-hel blood group factor in the pig by use of various lectins]. Comparable investigations of the A-hel-receptor with Anti-AHP and 6 different phytagglutinins are reported which have been tested in 305 samples of pig blood. Anti-ADb disposing of a higher specificity is recommended for determining the Hel-factor in pigs instead of Anti-AHP.


[Effect of the replication of rubella virus on the protein biosynthesis of BHK 21 cell cultures]. The protein biosynthesis of BHK-21/C 13 cell cultures under the influence of multiplying rubella virus was studied by the uptake and incorporation of 14C leucine. The uptake of 14C leucine by the cells of virus-infected cultures was found to increase up to the third day after infection; no further increase was detectable on the fourth day. Control cultures maintained under the same conditions showed a similar behaviour up to the second and on the fourth day. On the third day, the virus-infected cultures exhibited significantly higher uptake than the controls. It may be that the virus infection causes damage to the cellular wall, the nature of which has yet to be elucidated. The protein incorporation of 14C leucine slightly increases in the virus-infected cultures 36 hrs after infection. This increase is not equally pronounced in the control cultures, but the differences were not significant.


[Comparison of the activities of free and carrier fixed horseradish peroxidase]. Commerical horseradish-peroxidase was covalently bound to BrCN-activated sepharose. The activity parameters Vmax and Km were determined by the leukomalachite green reaction. Compared with the soluble enzyme, the immobilized POD has a relative residual activity of 22%. Dimethylsulfoxide and formamide were found to diminish the enzymatic activity in a concentration-dependent manner. The activity of the free enzyme in aqueous formamide solution (10%) is reduced by 43%, that of the insolubilized enzyme by 68%. Dimethylsulfoxide (15%) does not alter the LMG conversion rate of free POD, whilst a rate loss by 60% was observed for the immobilized enzyme.


Calcium uptake and calcium release by subcellular fractions of smooth muscle. II. Kinetics of calcium uptake by microsomes and mitochondria from pig coronary artery and guinea pig ileum. Calcium uptake by the microsomal and mitochondrial fractions of pig coronary artery and guinea pig ileum was studied in the presence of ATP, ATP plus oxalate and without ATP and oxalate. Microsomes and mitochondria of both smooth muscles were found to be unable to accumulate appreciable amounts of calcium in the absence of ATP. Oxalate noticeably stimulated the calcium uptake of the mitochondrial fraction from pig coronary artery but had little effect on calcium uptake by the microsomal fraction of this smooth muscle. The calcium uptake of microsomes and mitochondria from guinea pig ileum was not or only slightly enhanced by oxalate. There are typical kinetics regarding the time course and the extent of calcium uptake by microsomes and mitochondria from pig coronary artery and guinea pig ileum. In comparison, considerable qualitative and quantitative differences between both smooth muscles are observed. The high ATP-dependent calcium uptake capacity of the mitochondria from pig coronary artery and guinea pig ileum are a further argument for the hypothesis that these organelles may play an important role in the contraction-relaxation mechanism of smooth muscle.


[DNA and protein synthesis in cultured lens epithelial cells. I. Test system]. An in vitro test system for measuring DNA and protein synthesis in cultivated lens epithelium cells was developed. The method is suited also for other monolayer cultures; it has the following advantages: a) Cultivation of cells, incubation with radionuclides, preparation of the samples and measurement of radioactivity are carried out in the same vessel (scintillation vial); b) The use of 3H-thymidine and 14C-phenylalanine allows simultaneous measurement of DNA and protein synthesis; c) Only small amounts of cells (10(4) to 10(5) cells) are required to measure DNA and protein synthesis. The test system is highly sensitive to synthetic effectors (cytosone arabinoside, actinomycin D, puromycin), and is thus appropriate for the detection of inhibitors of DNA and protein synthesis and for testing the toxicity of drugs.


[DNA and protein synthesis in cultured lens epithelial cells. II. Activity of synthetic effectors]. Cultivated bovine lens epithelium cells are highly susceptible to inhibitors of DNA-, RNA- and protein synthesis. The strict correlation between inhibition by puromycin of protein and DNA synthesis suggests that, in the cell system investigated, protein synthesis is essential for DNA synthesis to occur. Studies with actinomycin D have shown that in cultivated lens epithelium cells, part of protein synthesis is accomplished through a relatively long-lived mRNA. In long-term cultivation experiments, no further stabilization of mRNA, which is typical of lens fibre cells, could be demonstrated. There are indications that high doses of actinomycin D produce direct inhibition of DNA synthesis. By means of cytosine arabinoside a linear relationship was established between concentration of the effector and inhibition of DNA synthesis. Protein synthesis remains virtually unaffected even after high doses. The strong inhibition of DNA synthesis with protein synthesis continuing ("unbalanced growth") could not be utilized for the synchronization of lens epithelium cells, because it was only partly reversible after changing the medium and applying deoxycytidine.


Discontinuity of the large ribosomal subunit RNA and rRNA molecular weights in eukaryote evolution. The molecular weights and the integrity of the two major components of ribosomal RNA from a wide variety of eukaryotic species, from protozoa to man, has been investigated by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis under fully denaturing conditions. The results show that the s-rRNA is largely heterogeneous, ranging in size, from 0.65 X 10(6) to 0.96 X 10(6) dalton. The l-rRNA ranges in size from a minimum mol wt of 1.28 X 10(6) to a maximum weight of 1.60--1.66 X 10(6) (of warm-blooded vertebrates, Cephalopoda and Diptera); several intermediate values have been found in lower organisms and Protozoa. The s-rRNA is a truly continous, uninterrupted polynucleotide chain in all groups of organisms (protozoans, plants, fungi and animals). The larger rRNA is a continous un-nicked chain in all of the deuterostomian animals, plants and fungi. However, the l-rRNA of all the protostomian animals and the protozoa is an aggregate molecule consisting of two subunits held together by limited regions of hydrogen bounding; in these organisms the size of the s-rRNA is generally identical to that of the larger fragment of the l-rRNA. Analysis of the molecular weights of the subunits of the l-rRNA in the protostomians and the protozoa suggests that the l-rRNA contains one short stretch, prone to nucleolytic attack, dividing the RNA chain into a molecularly conserved portion (0.65 to 0.72 X 10(6) dalton) and a variable portion (0.65 to 0.96 X 10(6) dalton).


An inexpensive device for sample stirring in VSU Zeiss spectrophotometers. Its use for kinetic measurements and active site titrations with immobilized enzymes. The construction of a simple and effective sample stirring device for commercial spectrophotometers and its use for continuous kinetic measurements and active site titrations with immobilized enzymes is described. Sepharose-bound leucine aminopeptidase and trypsin were selected as model enzymes to test the performance of the magnetic stirring equipment. Kinetic parameters of insolubilized leucine aminopeptidase using L-leucine p-nitroanilide as substrate and the catalytic site concentration of matris-bound trypsin using p-nitrophenyl p'-guanidinobenzoate as active site titrant could be evaluated without significant interference from the turbidity of the stirred Sepharose suspension. The problem of grinding of the support material could be overcome. Both unbound native and carrier-fixed enzyme may be reacted under identical conditions with similar convenience and sensitivity.


[Behavior of heart rate in man during movement from horizontal to upright position at different speeds]. In ten healthy males heart rate during changes from recombent to upright position at different speeds was studied. Contrary to the rapid passive and active change of body position the subjects showed no increase in heart rate in the sense of an "initial complex", when moved by slow tilting from horizontal to upright position (70 degrees).


[Various critical comments on the interpretation of staircase- and potentiation phenomena in the rabbit heart muscle]. Some critical remarks on the interpretation of staircase and potentiation phenomena (rabbit heart muscle). Isometric contractions of rabbit papillary muscles and atrial strips were investigated at temperatures from 13.2 degrees C to 35 degrees C after rests of different duration at constant stimulation frequency before rest, in a period after rest and in a transition phase following a step of stimulation frequency. Changes in potentiation as well as changes in dynamics after rest and dynamics after steps of stimulation frequency are caused by lowering the temperature. Any hypothesis on the subject of Ca-movements between intracellular stores would have to account for changes in potentiation, staircase phenomena and the development of after-contractions at low temperatures.


[Universal measuring site for the determination of tissue-impedance variations in relation to blood perfusion]. In view of the importance of impedance plethysmography requirements are formulated for a modern impedance measuring device basing on a long experience with this method of measurement. The principle mode of action of the measuring equipment and the pneumatics with the timing element are described. A number of recordings is shown to illustrate the universality of the measuring equipment.


[Interindividual variability and intraindividual reaction stability of bioelectric muscular tension of the long finger flexor in model exercise]. Twelve untrained subjects had to perform opening and closing movements of the hand (2 mm-sec(-1) on a hand ergometer. The load was 2kp for woman and 5 kp for man. Two sequences of the test were carried out, one after the other. The EMG was derived unipolarly from the belly of the Mm. flex. digit, and the mean bioelectrical muscle activity was measured. The following factors were tested in each subject by means of an analysis of variance. Factor A -- phase of exercise, Factor B --repetition of exercise and Factor C -- type of sequence. The analysis of the stability of individual reactions was made through serial correlations. Factor A influenced the mean bioelectrical muscle activity in all subjects while Factors B and C had an influence only in some cases. A significant interaction effect between pairs of factors occurred only in a few subjects. The serial correlation coefficients for Factor A of the same composition is between 0.40 and 0.80. The values of the mean correlation functions for the two sequences of Factor C, C(I) and C(II), are 0.69 and 0.68 respectively. In each subject the range of the cross correlation coefficients of the sequences C(I) and C(II) was between 0.70 and 0.92. Possible causes for the varying experimental results were discussed.


[Effect of brain stem lesions on hibernation of the hamster (Cricetus cricetus L.)]. Small lesions in the brain stem (including the hypothalamus) of the European hamster were effective with respect to food intake, hibernatory disposition and thermogenic power (oxygen consumption) as well. Hyperphagia was accompanied by depression of hibernation mostly. Moreover, hibernation was hindered by impairment of the thermogenic capacity. Entrance into hibernation depended on the integrity of the middle and caudal hypothalamic areas and the rostral portions of the pons and midbrain. Hyperphagia resulted from destruction of the middle (ventromedial) hypothalamic and caudal hypothalamic areas, including transition structures to the pons. A depression of thermogenesis against cold was observed after destruction of supramammillary and neighbouring mesencephalic areas. Supplementary results: An annual metabolic rhythm characterized by a minimum in december has been established once more. Urethane anesthesia did not abolish cold thermogenesis, despite the development of a slight hypothermia. Poikilothermia resulting from brain stem damage disappeared during a three-day period. Furthermore, diencephalic lesions did not suppress arousal from hibernation significantly.


[Adaptation of rats following sodium-nitrite-induced methemoglobinemia]. Adaptation of rats following sodium nitrite induced methemoglobinemia. The effect of repeated intraperitoneal injections of sodium nitrite on methemoglobin, hemoglobin and blood sugar level, on leucine aminopeptidase activity in plasma and methemoglobin reductase activity in red blood cells was investigated in rats. Repeated methemoglobinemia produced gradual disappearance of hyperglycemia, changes of hemoglobin content in blood and increase of methemoglobin reductase activity in red blood cells.


[Influence of various tasks on activation and self-evaluation in a test with equal psychomotor performance]. In two tests, healthy individuals had to perform one tapping-task each. In the first test they had to knock as quickly as possible (without feedback via the motor performance), while in the second test the motor performance of the first experiment was reproduced precisely by means of feedback allowing them to evaluate the result of their action. In the second experiment, the individuals were significantly less activated, and they felt the second task was easier, requiring less performance. The effect of feedback upon the course of activation, and the role of sensation of activation by the individual in judging his own performance are described.


[Adaptation of electropic and ionotropic vagal effects on the isolated rabbit atrium]. Long-time vagal stimulation induces a decrease of electrotropic and inotropic effects on the isolated rabbit atrium in spite of constant stimulation frequency. This decrease is defined as effect adaptation. To compensate this effect adaptation, the n. vagus was stimulated with increasing stimulation frequency. Compensation is possible for a certain period referred to as control time. The adaptation of the electrotropic effects is more delayed and weaker than the inotropic effect adaptation. The control times of the electrotropic effect are longer than those of the inotropic effect. Acetylcholine perfusion without vagal stimulation shows the same results. It was shown that the effect adaptaion does not result from depletion of acetylcholine stores or from co-stimulation of sympathetic nerve fibres. The effect adaptation is discussed as being the result of machano-electrical coupling.


[Biocybernetic studies on reflectory heart modification in the rabbit]. In rabbits the depressor nerves and cardiac vagal branches were stimulated. Their actions on heart rate, atrio-ventricular conduction time, myocardial action potential and mean central blood pressure were recorded. The frequency-effect characteristics of the chronotropic, dromotropic and electrotropic actions on the heart, resulting from afferent and efferent nerve stimulation, are compared. The participation of each of the depressor nerves in their total effects on heart rate and blood pressure is studied. Time courses of heart rate and blood pressure decrease by afferent and efferent nerve stimulation with sinusoidally modulated pulse rates are presented. The results are discussed with respect to the different dynamics of blood pressure and heart rate control. It is concluded that at least two mechanisms are involved in blood pressure control by the depressor nerves: 1. Decrease of vascular resistance by lowering the sympathetic tone. 2. Decrease of heart rate by enhancing the cardiac vagal activity. It is suggested that the parasympathetic control unit compensates rapid disturbances, whereas the slow-acting sympathetic vascular mechanism exerts a long-time pressure control of high efficiency.


[Marcov processes and neuronal engram formation--a model]. The multivariate partial autocorrelation bases on the noncircular serial correlation matrices and is a problem of eigen values. Autoregressive oscillations of a time series and its order can be tested. MARCOV processes are 1st order processes, they are found during the conversion of short into long time memory (conditioned avoidance response).


[Formation of crystal-like ribosomal aggregates in smooth muscle cells of the guinea pig ileum following incubation in vitro]. The formation of crystal-like aggregates of ribosomes with a ribosome-ribosome distance of 45--50 nm in degenerated smooth muscle cells from guinea pig ileum was described. The ribosome aggregates were formed under the influence of tissue incubation for 15--60 minutes at room temperature (25 degrees C) To our knowledge, this is the first observation of crystal-like ribosome aggregates in adult mammalian tissue.


[Two technical artifices useful in the surgical treatment of perforations of the thoracic oesophagus (author's transl)]. Perforation of the thoracic oesophagus sets a difficult surgical challenge because suture and drainage are rarely sufficient by themselves. The authors describe two artifices likely to help in such circumstances: endothoracic fundo-plicatio and pediculated flap of the greater omentum. Their use in 4 clinical cases is reported.


[Surgical treatment of chronic anal fissures. Modification of the operation of Gabriel (author's transl)]. The author reports a personal technique for treating chronic complicated anal fissures. The advantages of this technique are: 1. Complete removal of lesions (fissure and its sclerotic base). 2. Covering of the week area with good quality mucosa. 3. Small uncovered residual area with consequent fast healing. 4. Nonetheless good drainage of the suture line. 5. Sphincterotomy made unnecessary as the debridment close to the muscle of the posterior flap removes together with the fissure, the fibrous tract (pecten) that often formed beneath. 6. Horn-shaped incisions drain as well as the large excision of Gabriel and avoid development of a fibrous scar at the posterior anal commissure. 7. The operation is relatively painless. The experience of the author is based on 500 cases, with no morbidity or recurrence.


[Colorectal reconstruction after the Hartmann operation, by a simplified Duhamel technique using the GIA American stapler (author's transl)]. Reconstruction of the colon after Hartmann operation by an end-to-end anastomosis necessitates a rather extensive dissection of the rectal cul-de-sac; this can be avoided by posterior and transanal lowering according to Duhamel's technique. The major drawback of this technique, prolonged keeping of foreps in the anus, can be avoided by immediate anastomosis using the USSC-GIA stapler. The use of the stapler is described and a clinical case reported.


[Bronchial stapling. Review of 76 pulmonary resections (author's transl)]. Bronchial stapling with the USSC TA-30 device was used in 76 pulmonary resections. There were 6 fistulae i.e. 3.7% less than in a series of 216 bronchial sutures.


[Use of the brock punch for confection of a shunt between both ventricles, the ventricle and pulmonary artery or aorta without cardiopulmonary by-pass (CPB) (author's transl)]. Use of the Brock punch for placing a graft on the ventricle is a simple and easy technique not requiring CPB. This offers large experimental possibilities with clinical applications resulting from the experience gained in the laboratory.


[A metallic extractor in vascular surgery (author's transl)]. The authors have studied and perfected a series of 5 metallic extrators based on the extension of steel springs. This resulted in fine probe that can be used both in venous and arterial surgery. The authors have tested that the pressure produced by the springs does not exceed the mechanical resistance of normal vascular walls. It was possible to remove atheromatous fragments or clots, after other techniques had failed. These extractors seem well adapted to their task, that is to improve mechanical disobstruction of vessels.


[The needlewoman crochet and the arterio-venous fistula of Cimino-Brescia (author's transl)]. The authors describe a simple means of destroying the venous valves that oppose countercurrent perfusion of the distal venous segment of a latero-lateral arterio-venous fistula.


[Indications, method and results of autotransfusion in trauma and vascular surgery (author's transl)]. The authors have used the Bentley Ats 100 system, a disposable autotransfusion unit, in 31 cases of trauma and major vascular surgery. An original method of anticoagulation consisting in heparine (1 mg/kg bodyweight) and priming and flushing of the succion unit with ACD is described. The effect of the autotransfusion on the coagulation and the recent problems and advances are discussed.


The carbon dioxide laser; some possibilities in surgery. The CO2 laser emits an infra red beam with a wavelength of 10,6 mu. Focussing this beam gives a tremendous energy density. The strong absorption of this wavelength allows tissue evaporation at the focal point of the beam. The first surgical application is the use of this laser as a light knife. Satisfying haemostasis can be obtained. Vessels with an internal diameter up to 0,5 mm being sealed, haemostatic cutting is possible. Even cortical bone can easily be cut with this instrument. The ability to vaporize tissues can be used for tumor destruction. Special attachments for endoscopic surgery are available. Experimental work in the rectum and on vocal cords has been done in our laboratory. The important problem in laser surgery is the necrosis on the edges. Investigations about the viability of the margins, showed that the width of the necrosis is in linear relationship with the rate of the exposure time. For an exposure of 1/10th of a second this width was about 130 mu, for an exposure of 6 seconds about 600 mu. After one year of experimental work with the CO2 laser we are convinced that this instrument might prove to be a reliable tool in surgery.


[An improved technique for transverse pelvic incisions: supra-pubian deinsertion of rectus abdominis (author's transl)]. Deinsertion of the rectus muscles allows an esthaetic supra-pubian transverse incision, enlargeable at will and yielding a solid repair. The technique has the same indications, and many more, as the Pfannenstiel incision. For those who keep on using the latter the present technique always enables the surgeon to transform a narrow field into a large transverse laporotomy.


[Aponeurotic suspension of the bladder cervix: how much tension should be put on the sling and how should this be measured (author's transl)]. In the sling operation for stress incontinence, it is difficult to have an appropriate tension on the sling. The authors describe the use of a modified Spring-gauge to measure this tension: this should be of 170 grammes.


Electrical sizing of liver cell nuclei by the particle beam method. Mean volume, volume distribution and electrical resistance. Electrical sizing of liver cell nuclei gives similar results as histological techniques for the mean volume, the volume distribution and the proportions of the different nuclear volume populations. The electrical method has, compared to histological technics, however, the advantage of higher rapidity and accuracy. Due to the good volume resolution of the improved electrical sizing method two populations of nuclei with different mean volumes can be distinguished in rat liver tissue besides di-, tetra- and octoploid cell nuclei. In addition to the volume distribution curves, the mean electrical resistance of isolated liver nuclei can be determined by the electrical sizing method. A newly developed micromehod provides enough cell nuclei for electrical sizing from only 10 mg liver tissue in a few minutes. This should enable the measurement of nuclear volume distribution curves of human biopsy material from the liver and gastrointestinal tract for diagnostic purposes on a larger scale.


Synthetic capacity and cell metabolites of bile duct obstructed rat livers. Effect of free and conjugated dihydroxy bile acids. Morphologic alterations in liver cells after bile duct ligation are well known and documented in numerous reports. Biochemical studies concerning metabolic changes in cholestatic liver are rare. Therefore, in this study, liver cell metabolites and the capacity of the perfused cholestatic rat liver to produce glucose, urea and ketone bodies were measured. In addition the influence of dihydroxy bile acids on normal and bile duct ligated rat livers was studied. Concentrations of adenine nucleotides, lactate, pyruvate, 3-hydroxybutyrate, acetoacetate, glucose and UDP-glucose were found to be identical in cholestatic and normal livers. Glycogen content, however, was significantly lowered in cholestatic livers. Gluconeogenesis from lactate and urea production from ammonium chloride were only slightly reduced in bile duct obstructed rat livers. Dihydroxy bile acids did not affect the metabolism of normal or cholestatic livers. Ketone body production from oleate was reduced to 66% in bile duct obstructed livers, taurochenodeoxycholate further reduced this value to the normal value. In contrast to earlier reports (Fisher and co-workers, 1971 Lab. Invest. 21; 88-91; Gastroenterology 60: 742) chenodeoxycholate induced neither cholestasis nor a marked fall in ATP content or rat liver in our experiments with female Wistar rats. In conclusion, dihydroxy bile salts did exert toxic short term effects on rat livers.


The effect of long term treatment with penicillamine on the copper content in the liver in patients with Wilson's disease. Determination of hepatic copper concentration is the most exact criterion in the diagnosis of Wilson's disease. In the course of penicillamine therapy the copper content in the liver decreases, but normal values are achieved only after five or more years of treatment. Normalisation of the hepatic cooper concentration lags distinctly behind the clinical state. Distinct improvement of clinical state is already reached after a half to one year of treatment. The correlation between hepatic copper concentration and the amount of copper's excreted in the urine is statistically significant before the starting of treatment and during administration of penicillamine as well. The urinary copper excretion is a good indirect and indicator of the copper concentration in the liver.


The significance of HB antigenemy in apparently healthy persons in the clinic for liver diseases. The study tries to clarify the affliction of liver as a consequence of the permanent HB antigenemy in apparently healthy persons. The study proves beyond doubt that in the majority of the HB antigen carriers such histological changes of the liver can be found that can be attributed only to an infection by the hepatitis virus. The majority of the HB antigen carriers are suffering either from the chronic focal (58%) or from the diffuse (21%) persistent hepatitis. A smaller percentage is suffering from more dangerous hepatopathies (acute viral hepatitis 4,2%, hepatitis chron. aggressiva 4.2%, cirrhosis 1,4%). The kind of the illness can be determined with the histological examination only because of the absence of the clinical symptomatology and because of the liver function tests are in such cases frequently normal. Our investigations indicate that the diffuse and focal forms of persistent hepatitis can remain unchanged overlong periods and the same histological findings over a number of years. The chronic persistent hepatitis, however, may develop through clinically imperceptible changes into a chronic aggressive hepatitis, and the inapparent acute hepatitis can even pass over directly into cirrhosis. The identification of various forms of hepatitis, from light instances to the most severe cases, among the HB antigen carriers proves that the acute viral hepatitis of the type B may have in all the phases of its development a clinically asymptomatic course; it may even asymptomatically pass over into hepatopathies of the most severe kinds. The state of health of persons with HB antigenemy must be systematically followed up. For these reasons the histological examinations of the bioptic liver material that are made from time to time during the follow up of the illness have a decisive role.


PH of the gastric mucosa after surgical interventions an experimental study. In 41 dogs the mucosal pH was studied before and after different types of gastric resection. After BI and BII-Schoemaker type of resection a decrease of the slope of the pH-graph and an increase in latency was found. The mean surface of the non-acid area was the most extended in the BII-group, while the same was found for the pH-value of the border zone. Also the reduction of the number of parietal cells was reduced considerably. The changes in the microradioangiographic pattern and the histology of the border zone are discussed in view of the findings concerning the changes in mucosal pH and the histological investigation.


Histology of polypoid lesions found in specimens resected for adenocarcinoma of the colon. In a revision of 298 colectomy specimens resected for adenocarcinoma of the large bowell, 35 cases (13%) were found to have associated polypoid lesions. Twenty-nine of the polypoid lesions were adenomatous polyps, one a villous adenoma and other a retention polyp. Eight of the adenomatous polyps had a variable degree of benign atypical changes and malignant transformation occurred in four adenomatous polyps with the development of an adenocarcinoma. Four other lesions were small polypoid adenocarcinomas arising in normal colonic mucosa. Four double primary carcinomas were found among the 35 colectomy specimens with polyps. In this paper a significative incidence of malignant polypoid lesions associated with adenocarcinomas of the large bowell were found. The importance of well defined histological criteria in the diagnosis of malignancy and atypical changesin adenomatous polyps in stressed out.


Protein synthesis in human gastric mucosa: effects of pentagastrin, secretin, and 13-nle-motilin. This study in man (n = 35) deals with the effects of in vivo administration of pentagastrin, synthetic secretin, and 13-norleucine-motilin (13-nle-motillin), respectively, on the in vitro incorporation of 14C-leucine into gastric mucosal protein. From the results presented it may be concluded that pentagastrin has a trophic influence on gastric mucosa in man, too, while protein synthesis in human duodenal mucosa remains unaltered. As the incorporatin of 14C-leucine into gastric mucosal protein is inhibited both by secretion and 13-nle-motiln, it may be hypothesised that secretin and motilin act as functional antagonists of gastrin in the regulation of human gastric mucosal protein synthesis.


[Sera showing the ability of erythrocyte panagglutination]. The properties of a factor causing panagglutination of erythrocytes are described. The factor was found in the sera of three patients when blood was tested for transfusion. Panagglutination appeared in the indirect antiglobulin test when the erythrocytes were being washed with 0.15 M NaCl without addition of phosphate buffer. The method for cross testing in such cases was elaborated, with washing the cells with 0.15 M NaCl buffered with phosphates.


[Effect of HL-A system antigen differences on the specificity of produced anti-leukocyte antibodies]. In Rh-negative volunteers immunized for development of anti-D antibodies the specificity of developed anti-leucocyte antibodies was determined. The specificity of these antibodies was analysed in relation to HL-A antigenic differences determined in donors and recipients. The antigenic power of sublocus II was found to be superior to that of sublocus I. Another observation was more frequent production of cross-reacting antibodies. A trial of analysis of these volunteers in whom no antileucocyte antibodies developed during immunization with blood was undertaken.


Various background pattern-effect on saccadic suppression. It has been proved that the saccadic suppression is a phenomenon closely related to the presence of contours and structures in the visual field. Experiments were performed to clarify whether the structured background influences the pattern of attention distribution (making the stimulus detection more difficult) or whether the elevation of visual threshold is due to the "masking' effect of the moving background image over the retina. Two types of backgrounds were used therefore: those with symbolic meaning in the processing of which "psychological' mechanisms are presumably involved like picture reproductions of famous painters and photographs of nudes, and those lacking semantic significance like computer figures composed of randomly distributed black and white squares with different grain expressed as the entropy of the pattern. The results show that saccadic suppression is primarily a consequence of peripheral mechanisms, probably of lateral inhibition in the visual field occurring in the presence of moving edges over the retina. Psychological factors have to be excluded as being fundamental for saccadic suppression.


Evoked responses induced by random polygonal pattern presentation. An experiment is described which was designated to test the assumption that visual EEG evoked response waveshapes in human beings may be influenced by the presentation of random shapes differing in level of their similarity and in angular position. A clear-cut difference between the blank flash and the patterns which might be determined by the presence of contours was observed. However, neither differences in EEG evoked responses referred to the shape nor to the angular position of the polygons were found.


[Ultrastructure and cytochemistry of neutrophil granulocyte series in the bone marrow of white rats]. Ultrastructure of the neutrophil granulocyte series of rat was studied. Besides morphological investigations of maturating cells activity changes of two selected enzymes were determined: acid phosphatase and peroxidase. It was observed that the activity of acid phosphatase is connected with appearance of primary granules and peroxidase activity is connected with these granules as well but shows different location at different developmental levels of these cells.


Recall in acoustically similar and dissimilar letters by normal and deaf subjects. Stimulus matrices with 4 X 3 letters from an acoustically similar and dissimilar alphabet were presented tachystoscopically for 5 secs to 41 Ss divided into three groups, i.e. normal and deaf apprentices and deaf children. Each S was administered 42 stimulus matrices. While the difference in the number of errors between the acoustically similar and dissimilar alphabets proved significant in the hearing Ss, it was nonsignificant in the deaf, and in contrast to these two groups, in the children the number of errors with the acoustically similar alphabet was lower than with the dissimilar one. The error matrices indicate a systematic course of errors and their different pattern for the hearing and the deaf Ss. A visual and an articulating code which is reinforced by the length of oral training, may be presumed particularly in the deaf.


The impairment of learning of conditioned avoidance response in rats after 6-hydroxydopamine. Intraventricular injection of 250 mug of 6-hydroxydopamine, twice in two days apart caused a complete abolition of learning of conditioned avoidance response (CAR) in rats. L-DOPA in a dose of 100 mg/kg and then in a dose of 200 mg/kg 1. p. injected during several days did not restore the learning of CAR. This indicates that intact catecholaminergic neurons are essential for the learning of CAR. We suggest that different brain mechanisms are involved in learning and maintaining gross locomotor behavior.


A low frequency active filter with plug-in tuning impedances. A new approach to the construction of low frequency (1 Hz -- 20 kHz) active filters, based on the application of a pair of IC operational amplifiers forming a separate module and a plug-in unit containing RC tuning circuits, is described. The electronic circuits and the design of the filters are presented with all details.


[Comparative evaluation of the quality of leukocytes stored at -196 centigrades C in glycerol and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)]. The authors assessed the phagocytic ability of granulocytes, the ability of blastic transformation of lymphocytes after phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) stimulation in vitro culture, and the viability and number of these cells before freezing and after thawing. No significant differences were found in the quality of granulocytes stored in cryoprotective medium containing 13% of glycerol or 15% of PVP. On the other hand, much worse results were obtained in both cases in comparison with previous investigations in which DMSO was used as the protective agent. It was observed also that lympocytes stored in a cryoprotective medium containing 15% of PVP were not significantly depressed and retained their ability of blastic transformation in vitro under PHA stimulation. Similar results were obtained using in previous investigations a cryoprotective medium with DMSO.


[HL-A antigens in patients with Hodgkin's disease]. HL-A antigens were determined in 46 patients with Hodgkin's disease and a statistical analysis was carried out by the chi square test to compare the incidence of these antigens in patients with that in healthy people. Statistically significant differences were found in the first place in the HL-A5 antigen (chi square = = 32.2) (p less than 0.005). This antigen was much more frequent in patients (43%) than in the healthy population (15%). A slightly lower frequency of antigen W5 was found in the group of patients (healthy controls -- 13.5%, patients -- 4.5%, chi square = 7.08, p less than 0.05).


Characteristics and limits of tolerance in repeated subarachnoid hemorrhage in dogs. The effects of repeated subarachnoid hemorrhages have been investigated experimentally in dogs. The main objectives were to determine the tolerance to repeated hemorrhage and to study the changes occurring during the repeated bleeds, in intracranial pressure, EEG, ECG, systemic arterial pressure and respiration. The natural course of an intracranial hemorrhage was simulated by shunting blood from a femoral artery through a drop recorder into five different sites in the craniospinal system: the chiasmatic cistern, a lateral ventricle, the cisterna magna, the lumbar subarachnoid space and into the cerebral tissue of the left frontal lobe. The hemorrhage was allowed to continue until it stopped spontaneously. Each bleed resulted in a transient rise in intracranial pressure to the level of the arterial pressure, followed by a return to a steady state value. The time taken for the attainment of the steady state was increasingly prolonged. The final steady state pressure increased with each bleed. Ultimately, a stage was reached where the hemorrhage resulted in a sustained high pressure at the level of the arterial blood pressure, producing failure of vital functions and an irreversibly isoelectric electroencephalogram. The average number of bleeds necessary to produce this state in the case of hemorrhage into brain parenchyma was 3 (range 2-4), into the lateral ventricle, 4 range 3-5), and into the cisterna chiasmatica, 5 (range 2-7). After 5 hemorrhages into the cisterna magna and the spinal subarachnoid space, a local resistance at the bleeding site was built up which prevented further bleeding.


Lethal mechanism in repeated subarachnoid hemorrhage in dogs. The mechanism limiting the tolerance to repeated subarachnoid hemorrhages was analysed experimentally. Blood introduced by an extracorporeal femorointrathecal shunt or by injection, into five different sites of the cranio-spinal system in living and dead dogs, produced a progressive increase in the steady state CSF pressure after each subsequent bleed. The pressure increase was quantitatively related to the amount of blood entering the system. A comparison of the respective effects of injections of whole blood and of erythrocytes indicated that the red blood cells were the component which induced an increase in the outflow resistance by clogging the pathways of the cerebrospinal fluid. The increase in outflow resistance with each bleed resulted in a stepwise rise in pressure to a level incompatible with survival. The lethal volume of bleed was specific for each site of hemorrhage: namely for brain parenchyma 8.1 ml, lateral ventricle 16.2 ml, cisterna chiasmatica 17.7 ml, cisterna magna 30 ml, and spinal subarachnoid space 55 ml. The assumption that death might be a random event was discarded, the failure of vital functions being considered to be the result of the high intracranial pressure. Mock bleeds using intrathecal infusions of saline suggested that spatial decompensation rather than cumulative ischemic effects caused death.


Dexamethasone effect on blood-brain barrier damage caused by acute hypertension in x-irradiated rabbits. Unilateral X-ray exposure of brain increases the vulnerability of cerebral vessels to acute hypertension in the brain hemisphere exposed to radiation. A preventive effect of dexamethasone was observed when treatment with the drug was started before irradiation; but also when the drug was given 24 h before acute hypertension was induced, 1 week after irradiation.


Obstruction of the upper urinary tract after treatment of carcinoma of the uterine cervix. The frequency of obstruction of the upper urinary tract after treatment of carcinoma of the uterine cervix was assessed in an investigation of 100 consecutive patients. 64 of the women were treated surgically (Wertheim hysterectomy); the remaining 36, with Wertheim hysterectomy combined with radiotherapy (combined treatment). The patients were examined with isotope renography and with i.v. urography before, as well as 14 dyas, 2 months, 4-6 months, and 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 years after, the operation. When necessary, these examinations were supplemented by retrograde pyelography, intravenous pyelography and selective renal function tests. Postoperatively 40.3% of the patients treated with surgery alone showed signs of ureteric obstruction whereas the figure for those treated with the combined treatment was 55%. Of the patients 25 developed in the early postoperative course mild ureteric obstruction which disappeared within half a year. Such mild obstruction was not regarded as a true complication of the treatment given. On the other hand, 21 patients developed obstinate ureteric obstruction. In 14 of these patients surgical intervention was necessary to save renal function. Most of the patients with serious ureteric obstruction had fairly advanced carcinoma (15 of stage 2 and 6 of stage1). Radiotherapy had been given more often in this group (15 out of 21) than in the rest. In 4 of the patients the ureteric obstruction was due to a recurrence of a tumour. This means that the true frequency of postoperative ureteric obstruction was 17%. In the group given combined treatement urinary stasis persisted longer than in the group treated with surgery alone. Renography and urography were done on 682 occasions and the results did not agree in 14%.


Relationship between endometrial Arias-Stella phenomenon and concentrations of urinary chorionic gonadotropin and serum human placental lactogen. Serum placental lactogen (HPL) and urinary chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) were measured in 14 patients with the endometrial Arias-Stella phenomenon and in 35 comparable patients without this reaction in order to explore a possible causative relationship between the hormonal levels and the endometrial changes. The concentrations of HPL and HCG were similar in both groups of patients, indicating a lack of correlation between the levels of these two hormones and endometrial changes.