The seasonal incidence of mania and its relationship to climatic variables. Monthly hospital admission rates (HA) for mania were classified by sex, type of admission (first, or re-admission) and by country (England and Wales or Scotland). Of the 8 classes thus created, all but one showed a statistically significant annual cycle with a peak in Summer and trough in Winter. There was no significant difference in phase or amplitude between male and female cycles. A linear increase in yearly re-admission rates was found during the 8 years of the English and the 11 years of the Scottish data. Current month's mean daily temperature (lag0) and last month's (lag1) mean day-length and mean daily hours of sunshine correlated better with admission rate than did the values for other months. In a multiple regression analysis temperature made the other 2 climatic variables redundant in accounting for variation in HA.


Features of children taken to juvenile court for failure to attend school. The social reports on 84 children taken to court for failure to attend school were studied. Independent raters were able to assess reliably the presence and absence of a variety of variables concerned with the individual's behaviour, school, family, and involvement with social work agencies. In 68 instances teacher's questionnaires measuring psychiatric disturbance had been completed. There was no evidence that truancy in these circumstances is a homogenous condition. At least 3 independent sets of features appear to be involved in most cases. One involves antisocial and educational problems ('clinical truancy'), a second is concerned with adverse social factors and parental complicity ('school withdrawal'), and a third set includes a tendency to social isolation ('school refusal'). There was no evidence that individuals tend to exhibit one of these features to the exclusion of the others.


Contrasting demographic patterns of minor psychiatric morbidity in general practice and the community. The 60-item General Health Questionnaire was completed by 90% of 4798 patients aged 15--69 years who consulted, on one day, the general practitioners of 97% of practices in the Perth Statistical Division. A point prevalence rate of minor psychiatric morbidity in various demographic groups was calculated in terms of the population at risk. The demographic pattern of morbidity was compared with that found in a probability sample of 2324 community residents drawn from the same population at risk, and surveyed at the same time using the same time using the same screening instrument. Widowed persons, British-born men who had recently migrated to Australia, and lower-social-class men with minor psychiatric morbidity were under-represented in general practice. Elderly men and women in upper-class occupations with minor psychiatric morbidity were over-represented in general practice. These differences, unlike others that were found, could not be explained by differing consulting habits or by differing completion rates of the screening instrument.


A further test of Foulds' personality and personal illness differentiae in a psychiatric group. Test and retest scores on the Symptom Rating Test (SRT), Manifest Anxiety Scale (MAS) and Maudsley Personality Inventory (MPI) were obtained from 45 non-psychotic psychiatric in-patients. The change in scores and the score distributions were examined to assess the extent to which these tests meet Foulds' criteria for measures belonging respectively to the universes of personality and personal illness. MPI Extraversion emerged as a stable, normally distributed, personality trait in contrast to the SRT which showed the characteristics of a symptom-state measure. MPI Neuroticism and MAS scores could not be allocated definitively to either universe and seemed to be hybrids. It is suggested that more attention be paid to the 'purity' of scales if meaningful interpretation is to be made in treatment assessment.


The effect of fluphenazine on basal prolactin concentrations. The effect of fluphenazine on basal human prolactin (hPRL) concentrations was studied in 10 male schizophrenics who had received fluphenazine treatment for at least 6 months, in 10 male alcoholics before and during the first week of fluphenazine treatment and in 8 alcoholics at daily intervals before and after treatment. The results were compared with basal hPRL concentrations in 17 healthy male controls. Investigations involved giving fluphenazine (Modecate)by intramuscular injection and taking blood samples at appropriate intervals  by venepuncture. Basal hPRL concentrations were significantly increased in the schizophrenics. The alcoholics showed a significant rise in hPRL concentrations after fluphenazine but there was considerable variation in hPRL levels between individual patients. Most patients showed marked elevation of daily hPRL levels with peak concentrations occurring 5--6 days after the injection. The results demonstrate that fluphenazine elevates basal hPRL levels and the variation between levels of individual patients merits further investigation.


Multicompartmental analysis of amino acids: II. Tryptophan in affective disorder. Two of the tryptophan pools in the body and their associated fluxes, as defined by multicompartmental analysis, were studied in patients with unipolar affective disorder, bipolar patients (manic) and control subjects. The 2 pools were tentatively associated with extra- and intra-cellular compartments. The investigations were performed fasting and may have been mildly stressful. Under these conditions the concentration of tryptophan in plasma and perhaps amounts in the extracellular space were reduced in unipolar depression, with intermediate values after recovery. Some model parameters were lower in females than in males. The results in unipolar affective disorder were interpreted in terms of a previously presented hypothesis that this illness may result in an idiosyncratic response to stress in which patients are unable to maintain normal amounts of tryptophan in the body. In manic patients extracellular levels of tryptophan were unchanged but intracellular and total quantities of 'freely available' tryptophan may have been reduced.


Serum dopamine-beta-hydroxylase in chronic alcoholism. Previous reports suggest that high serum dopamine-beta-hydroxylase (DBH) activity may be associated with vulnerability to alcoholism. However, there are also contradictory studies in the literature. Therefore we measured serum DBH  in chronic alcoholics followed for 12 months in a treatment programme after psychiatric hospitalization for acute alcoholism. Mean serum DBH activity in the alcoholics was unchanged from controls at 3 months, 6 months and 12 months following hospital discharge. These data imply that serum DBH activity does not provide a useful metabolic screen for vulnerability to chronic alcoholism. However, prospective studies of patients at high risk to develop alcoholism will be helpful in further clarification of this issue.


The reported film storage problem solved? 100 MM FILM MINIATURISATION USING THE Oldelft, Delcopex and Odelcard system. The case for film miniaturisation is argued. This system as practised at Kettering General is described. Some possible future applications of the system are discussed. I hope I may have stimulated some thought, or even argument as to our future in these directions.


Effects of rise in food costs on hemoglobin concentrations of early school-age children, 1972-75. In a hematologic survey conducted in 1972, microcythemia in school children was found to be associated with microcythemia in other family members. The association of cultural characteristics of chronic poverty with reduced red cell volume suggested nutritional iron deficiency. A resurvey of families was made in 1975. For 39 children between the ages of 3 and 10 years at the time of both surveys, mean hemoglobin concentration (HGB) decreased from 21.0 g/dl to 10.8 g/dl. Thirteen infants, 6 months to 3 years of age in 1972, in the resurveyed families had mean HGB of 11.5 g/dl as compared to 10.4 g/dl for 9 similarly aged children newly born into the resurvey families. The rate of somatic growth was unchanged during the interval between survey. During the interval between 1972 and 1975, food costs rose nationally, and the purchase of meat products decreased both nationally and (as found in this study) locally. The data suggest that the high cost of foods rich in micronutrients may increase the prevalence of iron deficiency in an impoverished community.


Sensitivity of ultrasound in the detection of biliary tract obstruction. In 28 patient with varying degrees of biliary obstruction, the ultrasonic findings were correlated with the serum bilirubin levels and with the size of the bile ducts as measured by percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (PTC). With ultrasound, study of the intrahepatic ducts achieved the greatest accuracy (71%); examination of common bile ducts and the gallbladder were found to be less sensitive (54 and 53%). Ultrasound proved to be very accurate in biliary obstruction, when the serum bilirubin was above 4.8 mg/100 ml (80 mumol/1).


Temporo-mandibular joint changes in renal osteodystrophy. The radiologic study of temporo-mandibular joints in patients undergoing long-term haemodialysis has led to documentation of osteodystrophic changes in 6 patients: 2 were asymptomatic and 4 had referred to pain. The roentgenologic picture of this unusual abnormally varies from a simple decrease of bone density to resorption of the condylar head.


Pneumatosis intestinalis in a female patient with systemic lupus erythematosus. This paper presents the case history of a female patient with systemic lupus erythematosus, in whom pneumatosis intestinalis developed. The lesions disappeared in response to oxygen therapy. Arteriography revealed evidence of mesenteric arteritis. The patient subsequently developed paralytic ileus with lesions of the intestinal wall, probably based on ischemia as a result of this arteritis.


Combination of lymphography and arteriography in the detection of lymph node metastases in malignant melanoma. Report of two cases. 2 cases of malignant melanoma with lymph node metastases evaluated by lymphography and arteriography are reported. This combination of methods established the extent of lymphatic dissemination which neither method alone had managed, irrespective of the sequence of the examinations.


Value of biplane computerized tomography in agenesis of the corpus callosum. A case history. A case of agenesis of the corpus callosum is described in a 21-year-old male, presenting with epilepsy. Computerized tomographic (CT) scanning was performed using axial and coronal sections. The diagnosis of agenesis was suggested by the presence of an enormous third ventricle, the coronal sections gave the definite proof. In our opinion, biplane CT scan appearances in this condition are characteristic and former investigations (PEG, cerebral angiography) become unnecessary.


Radioisotope determination of fat absorption. A diagnostic method is presented for the quantitative  determination of fat absorption. The method utilizes breath analysis of radioactive 14CO2 and involves the measurement of both the fat and fatty acid absorption curves, whereby the fat absorption curve is directly compared to the fatty acid absorption curve for a particular patient. The test results are standardized by fitting all measurements to a gamma-density function.


Radiobiological considerations in multifraction irradiation. The initial shape of a cellular dose-survival curve is a factor of major importance in determining radiotherapy responses. It is probable that survival curves for mammalian cells exposed to X- and gamma-rays, as well as higher LET beams have an initial exponential region after which they bend downwards. The slope of this initial segment of the curve, and more importantly, the width of the shoulder before it bends significantly are the subject of the investigations to be reported. Because of the difficulty in measuring the biological effects of low doses of radiation--particularly in vivo--we have used multifraction experiments to determine the effects of the fractional doses. Such studies help determine the width of the shoulder and, with less precision, the slope of the initial part of the curve. The tissues we have studied include the bone marrow, testis, fibrovasculature, transplantable tumors, and the gastrointestinal tract. The results will be presented and some of the difficulties in their interpretation will be discussed.


Simple computer method for equivalent square therapy field determination. A simple BASIC computer program allows rapid determination of the equivalent squares of irregular radiation therapy fields. A port film or scale drawing of the irregular field is outlined manually on a spark tablet digitizer, and the side length of the square of equivalent area to perimeter ratio is rapidly calculated and returned by the computer.


Malignant tumors of the larynx.

Malignant tumors of the larynx. A rational choice of treatment for patients with malignant tumors of the larynx depends upon a thorough evaluation of the location, size, and extent of the lesion. Roentgenological examinations of the larynx are a valuable adjunct to clinical and laryngoscopic examinations. In interpretation of roentgenographic findings of malignant tumors of the larynx, a good knowledge of the anatomy of the head and neck, and of the nature, history, and routes of spread of the lesions of the larynx is essential. A correct interpretation needs careful scrutiny of all the roentgenograms; only a persistent abnormality should be regarded as significant. Many of the changes are subtle and require judicious elucidation. Others are quite straightforward and easily recognized. Constant attention to details and willingness to use wisely the different techniques are necessary if the maximum contribution to the diagnosis and management of malignant tumors of the laynx is to be achieved.


Myelography of the dog: problems and methods. In the dog, myelography is complicated by problems arising from contrast media and canine anatomy, but it can still be a useful diagnostic aid when precise technique and supplemental medication are used.


[Reappraisement of lymphangiography in Hodgkin's disease. Comparison with 109 primary staging laparatomies (author's transl)]. Accuracy of lymphangiography was estimated in 109 patients with Hodgkin's disease by comparing its results with those of primary staging laparotomy. Accurate lymphangiographic diagnosis was achieved in 90% of involved and 85% of non-involved para-aortic lymph nodes, respectively. 11 of 12 false-positive cases were due to over-interpretation of lymph nodes exhibiting no enlargement but showing filling defects. Involvement without enlargement of lymph nodes appears to be a rare, even in young patients. Although staging laparotomy is of advantage, particularly when other methods fail to give reliable results, lymphangiography is still a valuable method for staging of Hodgkin's disease.


Patient-radiologic technologist interpersonal relationship and how it can be improved. The "team approach" is the most recent innovation to patient care in this country. It is theorized that by functioning as a "team" medical care can be improved. This  may well be the case if everyone is a member of the "team." The author believes many radiologic technologists are not on the "team" because educators are not providing students with the necessary skills.


Brief encounter: origin of patient communication. Although the amount of time a technologist spends with a patient may be brief, the attitude and approach he uses with that patient is of utmost importance. By being acutely sensitive to the often unspoken thoughts and feelings of the patient, the technologist can respond with the words, touch, or facial expression that will let the patient know he is recognized as a human being and that his needs are understood and are being responded to with empathetic concern.


[Lymphographic demonstration of lymphnode fibrosis in Hodgkin's disease (author's transl)]. In 9 of 450 patients with Hodgkin's disease the fibrosis of retroperitoneal lymphnodes has been diagnosed by lymphangiographys. 5 cases with fibrosis were assigned to the clinical stage III B, and 4 cases to the stage IV B. According to the microscopic subclassification nodular sclerosis was diagnosed 7 times, the mixed type and lymphocytic depletion were found in 1 case. Lymphnode fibrosis developed spontaneously in 1 case, in three other patients following cytostatic treatment and in 5 patients after combination of radiation and chemotherapy. It has been concluded from these results that lymphnode fibrosis is induced mostly by therapy. Spontaneous fibrosis is a rare event in Hodgkin's disease.


[Varicella pneumonia in a patient with Hodgkin's disease (author's transl)]. Varicella and primary varicella pneumonia occurred in a patient with advanced Hodgkin's disease. The radiological characteristics are shown. Various relations between varicella, herpes zoster infections and Hodgkin's disease are discussed briefly.


[Alterations of pulmonary patterns in roentgenographic follow up studies in respiratory distress of newborns and prematures (author's transl)]. The most common causes of respiratory distress in the newborn and the frequently rapidly changing pulmonary pattern in the follow up studies are presented. Various degrees of the hyaline membrane disease and bronchopulmonary dysplasia are demonstrated as well as the different changes of the pulmonary pattern in controlled and assisted ventilation, recurrent atelectasis, dystelectasis, emphysema, pneumothorax and pneumomediastinum. Chest film follow up series are demonstrated. The differential diagnosis includes pulmonary aspiration syndrome, the neonatal pneumonia and emergency cases in pediatric surgery (here an example of a congenital diaphragmatic hernia).


[Pathological and roentgenographic morphology in different stages of pulmonary shock (author's transl)]. Pulmonary shock syndrome may be better understood by comparing morphological and patho-physiological alterations in different stages. In the very early stage only fine structural tracer studies in experimental animals elicit morphological alterations of the microcirculation in the alveolar wall. These findings can be related to changes of ventilatory and blood-gas parameters. After a short interval microscopic and radiological features correspond. Interstitial pulmonary edema is the main syndrome of shock lung.


Flying lateral technique for thoracic myelography. Because of the difficulty in obtaining lateral projections in thoracic myelography, this area is frequently neglected. This article discusses the technique developed at Medical Center Del Oro Hospital, Houston, Texas, for imaging the contrast filled thoracic subarachnoid space in the lateral projection.


[The dynamics of roentgenographic morphology in pulmonary lesions demonstrated by miliary tuberculosis (author's transl)]. The process of disappearance of small inflammatory pulmonary lesions is demonstrated by way of miliary tuberculosis. The dynamics of the healing process are described by the roentgenographic morphology, and the alterations of remaining pulmonary infiltrates to scars within the anatomical pulmonary structures are illustrated. The concept of apparent complete restitution is explained and the importance of the recognition of late pulmonary alterations is emphasized.


Quantitative method to determine the liver size. The need for quantitative methods to determine the liver size has not been generally recognized at the clinic. Subjective evaluation of the size of the organ in roentgenograms is unsatisfactory, which is seen when subjective records are compared with the liver volume calculated by quantitative roentgenologic method.


[Combination of cystic dilatation of the hepatic, common, and intrahepatic bile ducts (author's transl)]. Common duct cysts are a rare entity. The combination of cystic alterations of the entire bile duct system is less known. Etiology, classification, and Roentgen signs are described in a case presentation with common duct cyst and marked ectasia of the intrahepatic bile ducts.


[The overgrowth of cartilaginous and fibrous structures in Paget's Disease (author's transl)]. The overgrowth of cartilaginous and fibrous tissue of the spine in Paget's disease is described in long-term follow-up studies. On cervical manifestation the disease progressed from one vertebrae to the other with destruction of the intervertebral discs, fusion of the vertebral bodies and intervertebral joints and shortening of the affected area. On the lower thoracic and lumbar spine osteomalacia with collapse of the vertebral bodies and biconvex deformities of the discs were seen in the initial period. Several years later the discs flattened, vaulted and fused in the periphery by dystrophic bone. Fusion of the corresponding intervertebral joints and ossification fo the intervertebral ligaments developed. The involved spine was shortened. The sarcroiliacal joint spaces were obliterated in cases with involvement of adjacent bones by Paget's disease. The overgrowth advanced from the periphery towards the center. Ankylosis of sacroiliacal joints has also been observed without fusion of the intervertebral disc spaces. Relatively low age, loss of height, invalidating bone pains and osteomalacia of the pelvis were the main features in cases with spinal changes. Osteomalacia of the spine followed by ossification of intervertebral ligaments and joint capsules and later by vertebral fusion are considered to be a special form of Paget's disease.


Saddle cancers of the colon and their progression to annular carcinomas. Twenty-five cases of flat, ulcerating colonic carcinomas with heaped-up margins and central ulcerations were studied at various stages of growth. If not found at an early stage, a flat carcinoma will progress to an annular carcinoma. A retrospective evaluation of 8 "negative" colon examinations revealed the tumor as a contour defect, often on only one view, 9 months to 7 years before actual radiographic diagnosis of annular carcinoma. The primary symptom in 21 of the 25 patients was bleeding and there was a high incidence of local and distant spread.


Polypoid colonic lesions undetected by endoscopy. Fifty-four endoscopically missed colonic polypoid lesions reveal the limitations of colonic endoscopy. Colonoscopy failed to identify 31 of the lesions, whereas 24 lesions were initially missed by proctosigmoidoscopy. One polypoid tumor of the rectosigmoid junction was missed by both. Most undetected lesions ranged from 0.5 to 1.5 cm. Endoscopic and radiologic diagnostic techniques are clearly complementary. Their combined diagnostic accuracy exceeds that of either technique alone. If results of the two methods conflict, one or both should be repeated. With a combined approach, completely missed lesions can be kept at a minimum.


Correlative studies of the histological and radiographic appearance of the breast parenchyma. A total of 143 breast biopsies were compared with xeroradiographic images. N1 breasts showed normal stroma, ducts, and lobules; P1 breasts had mild to moderate perioductal and perilobular fibrosis with some atypical lobules and other low-grade lesions; P2 was similar to P1 but with more fibrosis and higher-grade atypical lobules; and DY was generally similar to P2 but with more high-grade atypical lobules and extensive, confluent fibrosis. The highest grades of precancerous epithelial abnormality appear to be found in P2 and DY, seldom in P1, and very rarely in N1. Xeroradiographic and histological risk grades show very close correlation.


Therapeutic embolization for hemorrhage from locally recurrent cancer of the breast. Embolization therapy is reported in three patients bleeding from metastatic carcinoma of the breast. Two had life threatening hemorrhage from sternal erosion; internal mammary arteriography indicated encasement, false aneurysm formation or tumor blush. The third patient had intermittent bleeding of extensive fungating axillary and anterior chest wall metastases. Autologous clot alone was used in the first case with immediate cessation of bleeding and transient neurological symptoms secondary to back flow of thrombus into the vertebral artery were noted. The second and third patients received Oxycel-Ivalon and Gel-foam respectively; bleeding ceased and no complications were noted.


Arteriovenous shunts involving the liver. Arteriovenous shunting in the liver is a rare angiographic finding. Review of the literature shows that most cases are related to trauma or neoplasm. The authors discuss several entities which should also be included in the differential diagnosis, among them congenital arteriovenous malformations or hemangiomas of the liver and pancreas, cirrhosis with rearterialization of the liver, hepatic abscess, hypervascular liver metastases, and primary tumors with invasion of the portal and hepatic veins by arterial neovasculature.


Gossypiboma--the problem of the retained surgical sponge. Commonly used surgical sponges and appliances all have standardized, readily recognized opaque markers visible on radiographs. When these markers are identified on postoperative radiographs, they should be assumed to represent retained surgical sponges or appliances. With the rare exception of thoracotomy dressings, these marked materials are seldom, if ever, used as external bandaging materials. AP and lateral radiographs should provide an immediate answer as to the location of any retained surgical device. The early recognition of these retained surgical sponges should eliminate most complications related to their presence.


Non-neoplastic congenital and acquired renal arteriovenous malformations and fistulas. Abnormal renal arteriovenous communications were documented by renal angiography in 21 patients. Included were congenital malformations, traumatic fistulas and spontaneous fistulas associated with renal arterial disease. Each type exhibited characteristic angiographic features. Overt clinical manifestations were observed in more than half the cases. Specific treatment depended upon type, location and size of the arteriovenous communication. Small, covert renal fistulas and malformations were managed conservatively. Five medium size symptomatic intrarenal arteriovenous fistulas and one malformation were successfully treated by transcatheter embolization. Large lesions, especially when associated with renal arterial disease, may be more appropriately treated by surgery.


The use of the bristle brush for transcatheter embolization. Small nylon brushes with a stainless steel core have been found safe and effective for transcatheter arterial occlusion. Studies performed in 14 dogs demonstrate the brushes result in rapid occlusion of the renal artery. Follow-up studies for periods up to ten months document the safety and permanence of the occlusion. The animal studies reported herein suggest that these devices can be safely used in humans in cases where large artery occlusion is desired.


A new, simple test for renin sampling.

A new, simple test for renin sampling. In 8 of 18 patients with suspected diagnosis of renovascular hypertension, the resting renin values were inconclusive. However, following tourniquet stress, the values became positive. Sixteen of 18 patients showed significant decrease in blood pressure following surgery. The procedure was well tolerated, and its routine use is recommended.


Angiography of intimal and intramural arterial injuries. Fifteen patients with injuries disrupting the tunica intima and media are reviewed and 5 cases demonstrating the typical angiographic appearance of these injuries described. In all 15, the tunica adventitia remained intact and pulses were present on the initial physical examination. Injuries described include subintimal hemorrhages with and without an associated tear of the intima and a complete tear of both the tunica intima and media with the tunica adventitia intact. The authors conclude that angiography is the best preoperative diagnostic procedure for these injuries; it should be used whenever the trauma involves a site near a major vessel.


Cardiovascular trauma from angiographic jets--validation of a theoretic concept in dogs. The relationship of angiographic injections to cardiovascular trauma was determined. The aorta of dogs was studied by a mathematic model that (a) defines the kinetic energy of contrast-media jets emanating from the exit holes of catheters and (b) enables precise correlation of energy levels to potential trauma. A universal curve independent of the Reynolds number of the jet readily determines how far the jet penetrates intravascular blood. A traumatic histopathologic spectrum was found for those injections predicted by the model to be traumatic. The curve enables the angiographer to calculate the safe operating range of any catheter.


Lymphatico-osseous communication and primary lymphedema. A lymphatico-osseous communication was demonstrated by lymphangiography in a patient with primary lymphedema of the left leg. The superficial lymph vessels were markedly hyperplastic and contrast medium was visible within the epiphyseal portions of the femur, tibia, fibula, and foot bones. Biopsy of the affected femur showed no abnormality.


Idiopathic hypertrophic osteoarthropathy without pachyderma. There are two types of hypertrophic osteoarthropathy; (a) the secondary type, by far the most common and usually associated with bronchogenic carcinoma; and (b) the idiopathic type, a rare disorder occurring predominantly in males and not associated with any known disease process. Both may be associated with peculiar skin changes known as pachyderma. When idiopathic hypertrophic osteoarthropathy (IHOA) is associated with pachyderma it is called pachydermoperiostosis. In extremely rare instances, IHOA may occur without pachyderma. Three such cases are described.


Bedside radiographic examinations: indications and contraindications. Indications for requesting and performing bedside radiographic examinations in an institutional setting are proposed. A prospective study of such examinations was made in a 500-bed hospital. All nursing units were evaluated for criteria used in requesting bedside examinations. It was found that general medical and surgical wards generate the greatest percentage of bedside studies, and yet their criteria for requesting such studies yielded the lowest percentage of validity. General criteria for utilization of mobile radiographic equipment could lead to better radiographs and improved allocation of equipment and personnel.


Informal use of decision theory to improve radiological patient management. Six radiologists reviewed 50 urograms to determine whether arteriography or needle aspiration should be recommended for evaluation of a space-occupying renal lesion. In addition to their usual decision methods, they were encouraged to think about the problem from a decision theory viewpoint. No computations were required. It was found that even informal, non-numerical application of decision theory resulted in improved outcomes; further improvement was noted with explicit use of numerical methods.


The frequency of radiolucencies underlying cephalohematomas. The authors studied skull radiographs of 66 infants with cephalohematoma. Twenty-three (35%) had radiolucencies in the skull; most of the radiolucent defects were associated with beginning or extensive ossification over the cephalohematoma. Radiolucency associated with cephalohematoma is a frequent finding and rarely indicates local infection.


Critical aortic stenosis in neonates.

Critical aortic stenosis in neonates. Twelve infants with valvular aortic stenosis manifested symptoms of heart failure during the first 2 months of life. Nine became symptomatic and demonstrated cardiomegaly and pulmonary vascular congestion during the first week of life. The other 3 infants became symptomatic at 3-8 weeks. Echocardiograms revealed normal or enlarged left atrial and ventricular dimensions excluding hypoplastic left heart. Left ventriculography demonstrated segmental dysfunction in 7 infants and generalized hypokinesis in 2 others. Trabecular effacement corresponded with the sites of left ventricular dysfunction. Postoperative studies revealed a decrease in cardiac size and improvement in segmental dysfunction in most infants.


Pulmonary varix in early infancy: case report with 8-year follow up. The second case of a pulmonary varix documented in the neonatal period is reported. It is important to be aware that this entity may be encountered in the pediatric age group when considering the differential diagnosis of a solitary density in the lung of an infant or young child.


Computed tomography of herpes simplex encephalitis, with clinicopathological correlation. The computed tomographic (CT), clinical, and pathologic findings in 9 patients with biopsy-proven herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE) were reviewed. Seventeen scans (5 plain, 12 contrast enhanced) were analyzed. The major CT finding was a low-absorption abnormality, present in 11 of 17 scans (64%), affecting primarily the temporal lobes. Mass effect was evident in 9 of 17 (52%). Of the 12 contrast-enhanced scans, 6 (50%) showed an abnormal enhancement pattern affecting primarily the sylvian fissure and opercular areas. CT abnormalities are characteristic enough that, in the proper clinical setting, they lend support to the correct diagnosis.


Computed tomography of herpes simplex encephalitis. On the initial computed tomographic (CT) scan in 10 of 13 patients with herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE), the most characteristic finding was a unilateral, low-density lesion in the medial temporal lobe and/or insular cortex. This lesion was seen in all patients as the disease progressed. When associated with hemorrhage and streaked contrast enhancement this lesion added specificity to the CT scan, but this situation occurred in only 3 patients. Early in the course of HSE, focal CT findings localized the temporal lobe of greatest involvement in 12 patients; 1 had a normal initial CT scan.


Computed tomography of subcapsular splenic hematoma. Clinical and experimental studies. Computed tomography (CT) was performed in 3 patients and 2 dogs with subcapsular hematoma of the spleen. When fresh blood is in the subcapsular space, the hematoma may have the same attentuation value as the adjacent spleen, making it difficult to identify unless contrast material is injected. As the hematoma ages, the attenuation value decreases. CT appears to be a simple and accurate method of diagnosing a subcapsular splenic hematoma.


Diagnosis of nonopaque calculi by computed tomography. Computed tomography can aid in the distinction of calculi from both tumors and clots in the urinary tract. Its availability, simplicity of interpretation, and noninvasiveness establish it as an important diagnostic modality in selected cases when calculus is in the differential diagnosis of upper urinary tract filling defects.


Computed tomographic evaluation of disorders affecting the alimentary tract. The use of computed tomography (CT) in diagnosing disorders affecting the hollow viscera of the alimentary tract has received little attention. The authors reviewed CT scans of 43 patients on which lesions affecting the gastrointestinal tract were demonstrated. All cases were correlated with barium-enema examinations, surgical reports, or autopsy findings. CT can provide valuable information on the extraluminal extent of masses arising in the bowel, mesenteric masses, and can define and characterize extrinsic lesions. The authors's results suggest that CT is a useful adjunct in evaluating intramural or mesenteric lesions of the gastrointestinal tract.


Patient dosage in computed tomography.

Patient dosage in computed tomography. The maximum surface dosage in most clinical CT scans seems to range from 2-10 rads/study but much larger dose per study values seem possible with both rotate-translate and rotary geometry designs. The CT scanner type in itself does not significantly reduce doses. Secondary radiation dose values were measured for critical organs and indicate that dosage from secondary radiations may be reduced significantly by external shielding. Dose values in the vicinity of most CT scanners are typically 1-2 mrad/scan at 1 meter at the parameters of a typical clinical scan.


Echocardiographic diagnosis of dilatation of the ascending aorta using right parasternal scanning. With the ultrasound transducer positioned at the second or third right intercostal space, the ascending aorta was visualized in 8 patients in whom dilatation of the ascending aorta had been demonstrated radiographically. The diameter of the ascending aorta by right parasternal scan, with the transducer held perpendicular to the chest wall, measured 4.2-6 cm. The aortic root diameter (at aortic valve level) recorded by conventional left parasternal scan was normal or only slightly increased in 5 cases, but in 3 others it approached the value obtained by right parasternal scan. Aortography performed in 3 patients demonstrated marked dilatation of the ascending aorta.


High-resolution real-time ultrasound in the evaluation of the normal and obstructed biliary tract. Ultrasound was found to be useful in the evaluation of jaundice. Extrahepatic obstruction can be diagnosed by the presence of dilated intra- or extrahepatic bile ducts. Using a high-resolution real-time mechanical sector scanner, it was possible to show the common hepatic duct as it passes anterior to the right portal vein in 98 out of 100 consecutive adults without biliary tract disease. At this level, the normal duct measures 4 mm or less in internal diameter. All patients with a duct larger than 5 mm thus far have had either biliary tract obstruction or previous cholecystectomy.


The ultrasonic diagnosis of primary carcinoma of the gallbladder. A case of primary carcinoma of the gallbladder with nodal metastases, diagnosed by ultrasound examination in a nonjaundiced patient, is described. The gallbladder mass was also visualized on oral cholecystography. The ultrasonic and pathologic findings are correlated.


Assessment of radionuclide angiocardiograms using color/time images. Color images obtained directly from the CRT display of a digital computer were used to assess the passage of radionuclides through the heart. Following separation of the right and left heart images, the former was recorded as blue and the latter as red, after which a composite image of the entire heart was generated. A cardiac chamber or greater vessel may be filled during both color/time phases if an intracardiac shunt is present. On the composite image, these overlapping areas appear as either the complementary color or white.


Clinical evaluation of tumor imaging with 201 TI chloride. 201TI was used as an imaging agent in 173 malignant tumors and 76 benign lesions. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were 0.64, 0.61, and 0.63, respectively. Sensitivity was good in thyroid cancer (0.91) and fair in primary lung cancer (0.70) and primary liver cancer (0.71). Compared with 67Ga, 201TI appears to have a higher sensitivity in thyroid cancer and nearly the same sensitivity in primary lung cancer. 201TI might be useful in distinguishing cold thyroid nodules and in differentiating primary liver cancer from metastases.


A comparison of five methods for monitoring the precision of automated x-ray film processors. Five different methods for preparing sensitometric strips used to monitor the precision of automated film processors are compared. A method for determining the sensitivity of each system to processor variations is presented; the observed statistical variability is multiplied by the system response to temperature or chemical changes. Pre-exposed sensitometric strips required the use of accurate densitometers and stringent control limits to be effective. X-ray exposed sensitometric strips demonstrated large variations in the x-ray output (2 omega approximately equal to 8.0%) over a period of one month. Some light sensitometers were capable of detecting +/- 1.0 degrees F (+/- 0.6 degrees C) variations in developer temperature in the processor and/or about 10.0 ml of chemical contamination in the processor. Nevertheless, even the light sensitometers were susceptible to problems, e.g. film emulsion selection, line voltage variations, and latent image fading. Advantages and disadvantages of the various sensitometric methods are discussed.


The effects of the film/screen combination on tomographic image quality. Several film/screen combinations were studied to evaluate their effect on thin-section tomograms of the inner ear. Hypocycloidal images of a head phantom were subjectively ranked for image quality, and contrast, spatial frequency spectra, and Wiener noise spectra were measured. Resolution appears to be significantly improved when medium-speed screens are used instead of fast, unsharp screens; observers could perceive increased detail through the higher noise of the medium-speed screens. The authors conclude that medium-speed screens yield more diagnostic information than fast, unsharp screens in thin-section tomography of the inner ear.


Computed tomography of the lung.

Computed tomography of the lung. Preliminary work has shown that normal lungs have predictable CT patterns and density ranges. In emphysema, there are irregular zones of extremely low density as well as an overall low mean density. CT appears to have considerable potential for early detection of pulmonary emphysema and characterization of the degree of involvement. CT can also be useful in the study of physiological phenomena such as regional blood flow.


Technical considerations in B-mode scanning with an aspiration transducer. Proper orientation of the B-mode ultrasonic aspiration transducer is important for accurate imaging during aspiration biopsy. The transducer extension axis must be perpendicular to the plane of the scanning arm for accurate representation of reflector locations. Single pass scans without compound angulation of the transducer are recommended when perpendicularity is not absolute. A simple adaptor to maintain perpendicularity is described.


The radiology identification card and charge card: an addressographic radiographic film borrowing system. We describe a system using an addressograph card and tickler file to facilitate the lending and returning of radiographic jackets, which brings into accountability both the borrower and the lender.


An easy method for passing an intestinal intubation tube under fluoroscopic guidance. A new technique (using readily available materials) for passing any single lumen tube into the duodenum is presented. This procedure usually greatly reduces the time and effort required to pass an intestinal tube through the pylorus. Once passed, the tube functions normally, without the limitations posed by duodenal tubes.


International Commission on Radiological Protection: 1978 Stockholm meeting. At its 1978 meeting, the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) issued a statement explaining and modifying certain aspects of its recommendations (ICRP Publication 26) and describing its current program of work. The items discussed include estimates of radiation risk at low dose levels, the introduction of the term effective dose equivalent, and corrections of the text of ICRP Publication 26. The Commission also announced the forthcoming publication of a report on annual limits of intake for radiation workers, to replace ICRP Publication 2, together with three other reports.


ICRU and ICRP activities are important to radiologists and allied scientists. The ICRU and ICRP, two commissions of the International Society of Radiology, have provided Internationally accepted recommendations on radiation quantities, units, measurements, and protection for the past 50 years. A few salient points covered during recent meetings of these bodies are outlined. Radiologists and allied scientists are urged to make full use of such recommendations.


The bedside examination: a time for analysis and appropriate action. The number of mobile-unit examinations is increasing dramatically. Their disadvantages--expense, frustration, and, most importantly, poor patient care--are well known. It is imperative that the number of such examinations be reduced to a minimum. The remainder, which require studies outside the department, warrant the effort and expense of a new technology such as that developed for other "special" procedures.


Morphological and functional adaptation after massive resection of the small intestine: experiments using minipigs of the Göttingen strain. In order to examine the adaptation processes in young, growing animals, massive resections of the small intestine were carried out in 3-week-old minipigs. The length of the remaining terminal intestine was 65 cm, corresponding to a resection of 85%. Proximal and distal resections of the small intestine were carried out. In some animals simultaneous resection of the ileocecal valve was performed. In some of the animals a reversed intestinal segment of 8 cm in length was interposed in the intestinal tract. The adaptation processes were checked at different times by morphological and functional examinations. It was observed that in animals with proximal intestinal resection and in animals with reversed intestinal segment, the postoperative progress was much more favorable than in animals with distal intestinal resection and animals without a reversed segment. It was further demonstrated that an early oral calorie supply is an important factor in the intestinal adaptation process. Contrary to views previously expressed, calories should be given early by mouth in order to stimulate the intestinal enzymes. After massive intestinal resection, the interposition of a reversed segment should also be considered in children if difficulties are expected with the oral supply of calories caused by a too-short terminal gut or if attempts at oral feeding have failed.


Conditions for studying the exact pressure changes in the alimentary tract. The following conditions must be observed if the actual pressure in the alimentary tract is measured and recorded with the aid of an open probe: 1. The probe must have a laterally placed opening, rather than a terminal one; 2. The opening must be as large as or larger than the internal diameter of the probe; 3. The internal diameter of the probe must be at least 1.2 mm or larger; 4. The pressure should not be measured with a nonperfusion technique if exact measurements of the intraluminal pressure are to obtained. One always has to use a perfusion, and the measured pressure depends on the speed of perfusion; 5. In order to be certain that the measured pressure corresponds to the actual pressure, one must ascertain whether the pressure will not change although the speed of perfusion is increased.


Indications for operative treatment of fractures in childhood. Fractures in children heal more quickly than in adults. Stiffness of joints hardly ever occurs in children, even after prolonged immobilization. Pseudoarthrosis and Sudeck's atrophy are extremely rare. Axial, lateral and longitudinal malpositioning can be largely compensated by increased growth. Only rotation malpositions remain permanent in children. By and large, the treatment of fractures in childhood is therefore still conservative. Operative treatment is recommended for some types of fractures near joints, for fractures of the neck of the femur, and for some types of the fractures around the elbow. In all other types of fractures surgery should only be undertaken when the conservative methods fail. An exception may be in adolescents over 12 to 14 years of age and children with multiple trauma, especially cerebral trauma with consecutive spasticity. In these patients, conservative treatment with extension may be difficult and an osteosynthesis may facilitate general care.


Fetal surgery: general management and operative technique for creating anomalies in sheep. Sheep are the best experimental animals for intrauterine surgical research because the fetal lamb is sufficiently large at approximately one-third of gestation to allow handling without prohibitive fetal loss, the lamb has a relatively brief period of gestation (145 days) which allows evaluation of results in a short time, the mother sheep is easily handled and cared for, anesthetic techniques produce smooth, easy induction and steady intraoperative management with a brief recovery period appropriate uterine relaxation is readily attained without dangerously deep anesthetic levels and the sheep is a relatively inexpensive laboratory animal both in initial cost and subsequent maintenance. All aspects of preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative management of intrauterine surgery in sheep is discussed in detail and examples of specific congenital anomalies which can be created in utero are discussed. Finally, the lamb at term may be delivered by caesarian section under control conditions and then studied for evidences of altered physiology and function resulting from the intrauterine procedures.


Colonic interposition between the jejunum and ileum after massive small bowel resection in rats. Most patients who undergo massive small bowel resection develop the "short bowel syndrome", which usually resolves as intestinal adaptation takes place. Some, in whom adaptation appears to be inadequate, remain severely incapacitated, and attempts have been made to improve absorption using a variety of surgical maneuvers. Successes have been recorded, but the procedures (of which reversal of a segment of small intestine to prolong the intestinal transit time has been most frequently used) are unpredictable and may actually be harmful. This study was designed to evaluate the theory that, because of the slow pattern of peristaltic activity inherent in the colon, the intestinal transit time could be safely and predictably prolonged after massive small bowel resection by transposing a segment of colon to between the jejunal and ileal remnants in an iso-peristaltic direction. The following procedures were performed, using 56 rats: (1) Resection of 80% or 90% of the small intestine. (2) Small bowel resection (80% or 90%) and iso-peristaltic jejuno-ileal colonic interposition. (3) Bowel anastomoses without resection. Intestinal function was subsequently evaluated by studying the following: (1) body weight; (2) blood count; (3) intestinal transit time (by contrast radiography); (4) intestinal absorption of sodium iodide, albumin, triolein and Vitamin B12 (using radioisotopic methods); (5) intestinal morphology. Colonic interposition did not have any significant effect following 80% small bowel resection. After 90% resection, colonic interposition increased the intestinal transit time significantly (p less than 0.001) without mortality or serious morbidity, and did not cause intestinal obstruction or prevent intestinal adaptation. Body weight and intestinal absorption were not increased significantly, but the study was too short to exclude an eventual beneficial effect in terms of body weight. It was concluded that iso-peristaltic colonic interposition is a safe and reliable method of prolonging the intestinal transit time after massive small bowel resection in the rat, thereby increasing the efficiency of absorption within the existing absorption capacity. The procedure has been found to be beneficial in dogs, and for reasons discussed, should be equally effective in man. Adjunctive surgery is not recommended at the time of resection in man, but should be considered if absorption remains severely impaired.


Synthesis and metabolism of prostaglandins E2, F2alpha and D2 by the rat gastrointestinal tract. Stimulation by a hypertonic environment in vitro. Whole cell preparations of rat stomach corpus, jejunum, and colon were incubated and the released prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), PGF2alpha, PGD2, 15 keto-13,14 dihydro PGE2, and 15 keto-13, 14 dihydro PGF2alpha were measured by combined gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. All regions made PGD2 and possessed a high capacity for production 15 keto-13,14 dihydro derivatives of both PGE2 and PGF2alpha. Hypertonic sucrose solutions resulted in concentration-dependent increases in prostaglandin release, particularly of PGE2 and its metabolite. It is suggested that PG's may play a role in the local effects of luminal hyperosomolarity on digestive tract functions.


Synthesis and biological activity of 15-arylprostaglandins. Prostaglandin analogues in which the alkyl chain attached to C-15 in the natural compounds is replaced by an aryl group have been synthesised. Some of these compounds are potent luteolytic agents and comparisons are drawn between this series and 16-aryloxyprostaglandins.


Methylated analogues of prostaglandin E2 and the gastric mucosal barrier. 15(R)-methyl PGE2 methyl ester (15MPG) and 16,16-dimethyl PGE2 methyl ester (16DMPG) were assessed for their effect on gastric mucosal permeability to Na+ and H+ in dogs prepared by antrectomy and vagally-denervated fundic pouches. 15MPG did not increase mucosal permeability to either ion when given topically (18.75-300 microgram) or parenterally (30 microgram), and did not affect permeability increases induced by topical 5mM sodium taurocholate in acid solution. 16DMPG caused significant increases in net Na+ gain when given topically (18.75-75 microgram) but did not affect net H+ loss from the pouch lumen. Attempts to use higher doses of 16DMPG were abandoned because of bleeding from the pouch, and perforation in one animal. It is conceivable that 16DMPG could cause adverse effects on the gastric mucosal barrier if used to suppress gastric secretion therapeutically. 15MPG does not share this potentially harmful property and remains worthy of further study as an inhibitor of gastric secretion with therapeutic promise.


Preparation of some prostaglandin E1 and omega-homo-prostaglandin E1 esters and their inhibiting properties on rat blood platelet aggregation. Various esters of omega-homo-prostaglandin E1 and prostaglandin E1 were prepared in a yield of 28-55% to investigate their effect on ADP-induced aggregation of rat blood platelets. The biopotency of the omega-homo-PGE1-esters is about four times higher than that of the corresponding PGE1-esters. Furthermore, the biopotency of aliphatic esters decreases with increasing chain length of the ester group.


Inhibitory action of prostaglandin E1 on smooth muscle contraction and calcium responses. The relation between the inhibitory action of prostaglandin (E1 (PGE1) and external Ca concentration was investigated using the guinea-pig isolated ureter and the perfused central artery of the rabbit isolated ear. PGE1 20 ng/ml reduced the ureteral contraction evoked by a single electrical stimulation. This inhibitory action of PGE1 was enhanced with a decreased external Ca concentration. PGE1 100 ng/ml also reduced Ca-induced contracture of the ureter depolarized in Ca-free K(80 mM)-Krebs' solution. Furthermore, PGE1 50 ng/ml inhibited the responses of peripheral vascular resistance to noradrenaline, and this effect increased with a reduced external Ca concentration.


Effects of indomethacin on uterine capillary permeability and blastocyst development in rabbits. Increased capillary permeability at implantation sites was demonstrated in rabbits by extravasation of intravascular blue dye on day 7 of pregnancy. Subcutaneous administration of indomethacin (Id, 8 mg/kg twice daily) on days 4-6 of pregnancy inhibited this uterine blueing response and appeared to reduce the size of implantation swellings. To test the latter observation blastocyst diameter and development of the embryonic disk were assessed at 144 hr post coitum. In females receiving indomethacin at the dose level which inhibited uterine blueing, blastocysts were significantly smaller than those from control females. Developmental staging of embryonic disks revealed only slight differences between the smaller (Id-treated) blastocysts and control blastocysts. No effect of Id was seen on ovarian function as judged by luteal weights and plasma progesterone and estradiol levels. Since the major biological effects of indomethacin are due to its inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, it appears that prostaglandins may play a role in the uterine response to blastocyst stimulation and in the expansion of blastocysts in the rabbit.


Prostaglandins restore the hyoscine-induced inhibition of the guinea-pig ileum. Prostaglandins E1, E2 and F2alpha as well as arachidonic acid partially increase the hyoscine inhibited twitch and tetanic responses of the guinea-pig ileum to electrical stimulation. They also produce a shift to the left of the dose-effect curve for acetylcholine and histamine previously displaced to the right by the administration of hyoscine or mepyramine. These results indicate a postsynaptic sensitization effect of the prostaglandins rather than a presynaptic facilitatory activity.


Radioimmunoassays for prostaglandins. I. Technical validation of prostaglandin F2alpha measurements in human plasma using sephadex G-25 gelfiltration. Human plasma samples of 1 ml were processed according to three different procedures prior to Radioimmunoassay (RIA) of Prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF2alpha). Serial dilutions of ethyl acetate extracts as such, or combined with either silicic acid or Sephadex G-25 chromatography were assessed for linearity, homogeneity and parallelism with the corresponding standard dose response line. For plasma extracts used as such, non-parallelism is observed. Subsequent chromatography on silicic acid of such extracts gave only a limited linear and parallel portion upon serial dilution. However, purification of the extracts by gelfiltration on Sephadex G-25 results in linear and parallel lines over the full range of the standard dose response line (B/BO 0.9-0.2). Upon comparison of separation by Polyethylene glycol (PEG) and Dextran coated charcoal (DCC) in these systems, PEG proved to give the best results. It was found that in the Sephadex G-25 procedure, separation by PEG is essential. The method of gelfiltration on Sephadex G-25 is simple and reliable. Intra- and inter-assay coefficients of variation are 6% and 12%, respectively. Accuracy, as measured by recovery of added known amounts of PGF2alpha is 97.6%.


Inhibition of harmaline induced tremors by 16 (S)-16-methyl PGE2 in different mammalian species: a correlation with central cyclic nucleotides and prostaglandins. Harmaline, an alcaloid of Paganum Armala, induces tremors of central origin and increases cerebellar cGMP without affecting cortical and cerebellar prostaglandin levels. 16(S)-16-methyl PGE2 protects the animals against the seizures induced by the alcaloid and prevents the concomitant rise in cerebellar cGMP. Experiment performed in cats and limited to pharmacological observations, confirmed that, the PGE2 derivative, is a powerful antitremorogenic agent at doses that are devoid of appreciable side effects.


Immunoreactive urinary prostaglandins A and E in neonates, children, and adults. Urinary prostaglandins were measured by radioimmunoassay in neonates (31-35 weeks gestational age), children (4-15 years) and adults (24-36 years). Neonates showed significantly lower levels of both iPGE and iPGA compared to children (p less than 0.01) and adults (p less than 0.01). Children also had significantly lower levels than adults (p less than 0.01). Since urinary prostaglandins reflect intrarenal levels of prostaglandins, the results support other studies that suggest prostaglandins may play a role in controlling renal blood flow in infants.


Pharmacological modification of thromboxane and prostaglandin release in cardiac anaphylaxis. Isolated perfused sensitized guinea pig hearts release relatively large amounts of radioimmunologically measurable thromboxane B2 (TXB2) as well as smaller amounts of prostaglandin (PGs) after antigenic challenge. Using thin layer chromatography the major PG released was shown to cochromatograph with PGD2, while smaller amounts of immunoreactive PGF2alpha were found. The TX-synthetase inhibitor imidazole (100 microgram/ml) significantly decreased TXB2 release and simultaneously increased PG release during cardiac anaphylaxis. On the other hand, the beta-sympathomimetic drug isoproterenol decreased both TXB2 and PG release from the anaphylactic hearts. While isoproterenol significantly diminished anaphylactic coronary flow reduction, imidazole was without effect in this respect. PGD2 (0.5 microgram/min and 5.0 microgram/min) infused intraaortally into non-sensitized guinea pig hearts reduced coronary flow dose-dependently. These results are compatible with the view that release of TX and PGs might contribute to coronary flow reduction in cardiac anaphylaxis.


Effect of 16,16-dimethyl prostaglandin-E2 given intra-arterially or intra-gastrically, on acid secretion by canine stomachs perfused ex vivo. Isolated whole canine stomachs, perfused ex vivo with homologous blood, were used for studying the effect of 16,16-dimethyl prostaglandin-E2 (dmPGE2) on gastric secretion. DmPGE2 was administered either into the gastric artery or instilled intragastrically through an esophageal cannula. Histamine, infused intra-arterially, induced acid secretion of all ex vivo stomachs and this was significantly inhibited by intra-arterially or intra-gastrically administered dmPGE2: volume of secretion, output of HCl and concentration of H+ were decreased and gastric peripheral vascular resistance was significantly reduced. The inhibitory action of dmPGE2 continued after its administration was stopped.


Termination of early pregnancy by ONO-802 suppositories (16,16-dimethyl-trans-delta2-PGE1 methyl ester). ONO-802 was used in the form of vaginal suppositories for the termination of early pregnancy in 63 healthy volunteers. Fifty-four (86%) of the 63 cases had complete abortions and remaining 9 (14%) had incomplete abortions. One (1.6%) of the 63 cases complained of nausea and vomiting, and 3 (4.8%) complained of headaches. No other side effects were observed. These results suggest that ONO-802 is acceptable in the form of vaginal suppositories for the termination of early pregnancy.


Release of prostaglandin F 2alpha during the bovine peripartal period. Progesterone, estrone and 15-keto-13, 14-dihydro-PGF 2alpha levels were determined in the peripheral blood circulation during the peripartal period in 12 cows. Plasma concentrations of progesterone showed a gradual and continuous decrease during the last 60 days before parturition. This gradual decrease was followed by an abrupt decline in the progesterone concentration occurring 24-48 hours before delivery. The plasma levels of estrone started to increase about 30 days prior to parturition with high concentrations attained during the last days of pregnancy. After delivery the estrone content decreased to baseline levels. Increased levels of the PGF 2alpha metabolite were recorded 24-48 hours before parturition. These increased PGF 2alpha metabolite levels occurred before or in conjunction with prepartum luteolysis. Prostaglandin metabolite levels remained high during parturition and returned to baseline 10-20 days after delivery.


The effects of 11-methyl 16,16 dimethyl prostaglandin E2 on canine gastric acid secretion. 11-Methyl 16,16 dimethyl Prostaglandin E2 (TM-PGE2) at peak effectiveness inhibited acid output stimulated submaximally by histamine in the dog by 95 and 84% when administered by the intravenous and oral routes, respectively. Inhibition of secretion was maintained for 1-1/2 hours following intravenous administration while with the oral route, secretory inhibition was still present at the end of two hours after administration of the drug. The degree of inhibition of acid secretion caused by TM-PGE2, its duration of action and the lack of side effects observed following administration of this drug makes it a suitable compound for evaluation as an anti-secretory agent in man.


The effects of 11-methyl 16,16 dimethyl prostaglandin E2 on gastric acid secretion in man. 11-Methyl 16,16 Dimethyl Prostaglandin E2 (TM-PGE) was administered orally to man in dosages of 2.5, 5,7.5 and 10 microgram/kg. Maximal inhibition of basal secretion was 52 and 78% and submaximal histamine-stimulated secretion 45 and 70% for volume and acid output, respectively. Secretory inhibition was observed for approximately two hours after ingestion of the drug. No effect was observed on serum gastrin levels. Side effects occurred with equal frequency in the placebo and drug groups. TM-PGE is well tolerated and inhibits both basal and submaximal histamine-stimulated acid secretion in man. Further evaluation may prove it to be helpful in the clinical treatment of acid hypersecretory states and peptic ulcer disease.


Termination of early pregnancy by a single-dose 3.0 mg 15-methyl PGF2alpha methyl ester vaginal suppository. The abortifacient effect of a single-dose, long-acting vaginal suppository containing 3.0 mg of 15-methyl PGF2 alpha methyl ester was investigated in 104 early pregnancies. The pregnancy was terminated in 91 per cent of the cases. The abortion was uncomplicated in 79 patients, while 12 patients experienced prolonged bleeding. In 21 uncomplicated cases, VabraR curettage done 4 weeks after therapy revealed necrotic residual tissue in 16 patients and nonspecific endometritis in 20 patients. Residual tissue was found in about 50 per cent of the patients curettaged after 1st menstruation, but no residua was found after 2nd menstruation. In patients with prolonged bleeding, substantial amounts of necrotic residual tissue was found in all patients curettaged 4 weeks after therapy. The decline of serum hCg and plasma progesterone levels was significantly slower in these patients as compared with uneventful abortions.


In vivo activation of renal phospholipase activity by bradykinin in the rat. Activation of a renal acylhydrolase by bradykinin (BK) with subsequent release of prostaglandins precursor arachidonic acid has been postulated but not yet demonstrated. BK was infused into the left artery of 27 rats which were subdivided into 9 groups according to BK concentration (10, 100 and 1000 ng/min) and time of infusion (20, 40 and 60 min). The rats were then sacrificed and the left to right ratio of renal phospholipase activity was determined. The data obtained were processed by a factorial analysis of variance which allowed the effect of BK and the time of infusion to be evaluated independently as well as interdependently. The results of the statistical analysis showed that phospholipase activity depends on both BK dosage and infusion time and that there is no interaction between dose and time. These findings offer evidence for the "in vivo" activation of the kidney phospholipase activity by BK.


Effects of prostaglandins on the spreading, adhesion and migration of mouse peritoneal macrophages. The effects of prostaglandins on the in vitro properties of mouse peritoneal macrophages namely spreading, adhesion and migration were investigated. PGE1 and PGE2 inhibit the spreading and adhesion of complete Freund's Adjuvant induced peritoneal macrophages significantly at concentrations of 1 ng per ml and above whereas they enhance the migration of these cells at concentrations of 100 ng per ml and above. PGA2 and PGB2 are less potent as they inhibit spreading and adhesion only at a concentration of 1 microgram per ml. At his concentration PGB2 enhances migration whereas PG2 has no effect. PGF 2alpha has no effect on the spreading, adhesion and migration of macrophages in the concentration range of 0.1 ng to 1,000 ng per ml.


Synthesis of ring halogenated prostaglandins (1). The synthesis of nine mono- and difluoro prostaglandins XIII, XV, XXIV, XXVII, XXXII, XXXVIII, XLV, LI and LIV, and two monochloro prostaglandins LVII and LXI, from appropriately protected derivatives of natural PGF2 is described.


Synthesis of a trans-hydrindane nuclear analog of 11-desoxy-dihydro-prostaglandin E1. Stereospecific synthesis of trans-hydrindanone 2a, a bicyclic analog of prostaglandin E1, via the trans- hydrindane beta-keto ester 8, is described. When tested in the guinea pig, 2a exhibited no effects on blood pressure and no broncho-constriction or dilation activity. Additionally, 2a failed to inhibit both ADP and collagen induced blood platelet aggregation.


Synthesis of thromboxane B2 metabolites. This paper reports the synthesis of 11-dehydrothromboxane B2 methyl ester (II), 15-dehydrothromboxane B2 methyl ester (III), 15-dehydro-13, 14-dihydrothromboxane B2 (XII) and 2,3-dinorthromboxane B2 methyl ester (XV). These compounds, as their free acids, have been reported to be thromboxane metabolites.


Increase in vivo of unesterified fatty acids, prostaglandin F2 alpha but not thromboxane B2 in rat brain during drug induced convulsions. The amount of free arachidonic acid and prostaglandin F2 alpha in rat cerebral hemispheres was increased following convulsions induced by carbachol and metrazol. The level of thromboxane B2 was not affected and prostaglandin endoperoxides could only be "trapped" after a very short convulsive period. Unesterified fatty acid levels at 2 minutes post-mortem were decreased by 50% in the cerebral hemispheres of phenytoin treated rats. Under the same conditions, phenobarbital and diazepam had little effect on the levels of free fatty acids in rat brain.


Stimulation of prostaglandin production in bone by phorbol diesters and melittin. The production of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and bone resorption were studied in neonatal mouse calvaria in organ culture. Two tumor promoters 12-O-tetradecanoyl-phorbol-13-acetate (TPA) and phorbol-12, 13-di-decanoate, but not the non-tumor promoters 4alpha-phorbol-12,13-didecanoate and phorbol, stimulated both PGE2 synthesis in bone and bone resorption. The effect of TPA was maximum at about 25 ng/ml, and half-maximum stimulation occurred at about 8 ng/ml TPA. The effects of TPA on the production of PGE2 and bone resorption were inhibited completely by indomethacin (5.6 X 10(-8) to 5.6 X 10(-7) M). The been venom toxin, melittin, was also a potent stimulator of prostaglandin synthesis in bone and bone resorption. The effect of melittin was maximum at about 25 ng/ml, and the dose-response curve was biphasic. The effects of melittin on the production of PGE2 and bone resorption were also inhbited by indomethacin. Indomethacin did not inhibit the bone resorption-stimulating activity of exogenously added PGE2. We conclude that phorbol diesters, which have irritant and tumor-promoting activity in mouse skin, and the polypeptide melittin can act directly on bone to stimulate resorption by a mechanism involving the local production of PGE2 or possible other indomethacin-inhibited metabolites odonic acid.


Effect of honey bee venom on prostaglandin levels in mouse skin. The effects of honey bee venom on prostaglandin (PG) E levels were studied in mouse skin under in vivo and in vitro conditions. Levels of PGE were increased 10.8-fold after 15 minutes exposure to reconstituted bee venom in vitro and 3.8-fold 35 minutes after a bee sting in vivo. Phospholipase A2 (PLA2), a major componet of bee venom, also caused a 10.9-fold increase in PGE levels in vitro and may be primarily responsible for this response of skin to bee venom.


Chemotactic activity of thromboxane B2, prostaglandins and their metabolites for polymorphonuclear leucocytes. (1) The chemotactic activities of thromboxane B2 (TxB2), PGE2, PGF2alpha, the 15-oxo, 15-oxo-13,14-dihydro and 13,14-dihydro metabolites of PGE2, PGF2alpha, and a metabolite of TxB2 for polymorphonuclear leucocytes (PMN) have been investigated. (2) Thromboxane B2 increased the directional migration of rat peritoneal PMN at a concentration of 2.0 micrograms/ml and of human peripheral neutrophils at a concentration of 0.5 microgram/ml. (3) Neither PGE2, PGF2alpha nor their metabolites showed chemotactic activity for rat peritoneal PMN. (4) PGF2alpha and 15-oxo-13,14-dihydro-thromboxane B2 showed no chemotactic activity for human peripheral PMN. (5) The possible role of thromboxane B2 in inflammation is discussed.


Furosemide exhibits physicochemical properties similar to prostaglandins and interferes with their bioassay. The parallel pharmacological assay system has been of inestimable value in the identification and quantification of prostaglandins. A greater degree of specificity is conferred on the bioassay system by the preparative techniques of extraction and chromatography, for substances which might interfere with the assay of prostaglandins are usually eliminated by these procedures. It would be highly unlikely for a substance to survive the extraction procedure, to exhibit chromatographic properties similar to the prostaglandins and to interfere with their bioassay. We report here such an occurrence. Thus, furosemide not only survived the acidic lipid extraction, but, in addition, it exhibited chromatographic properties identical to those of the prostaglandins of the E series and finally, furosemide, at a dose which in and of itself was without effect on the assay tissues, inhibited the responses to prostaglandins. The quantification of prostaglandins by radioimmunoassay was, on the other hand, not altered by the presence of furosemide. This latter method appears to be the one of choice when interrelations between prostaglandins and furosemide are being examined.


Analytical methods for thromboxane B2 measurement and validation of radioimmunoassay by gas liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. A sensitive and specific radioimmunoassay using a 125I tracer of high specific radioactivity was developed for thromboxane B2 and was applied to the determination of the in vitro biosynthesis of this compound in some systems (i.e. human washed platelets, human platelet rich plasma (PRP) and rat spleen homogenates). The assays were also evaluated by mass spectrometry; levels measured by these two analytical methods were very similar. The results obtained for washed human platelets with a thin layer radiochromatographic method were in good agreement with the two preceeding methods.


Fluorescent derivatives of prostaglandins and thromboxanes for liquid chromatography. Fluorescent esters of the prostaglandins D2, E2, F2alpha, and 6-keto-F1alpha and of thromboxane B2 have been prepared using the reagent 4-bromomethyl-7-methoxycoumarin. All of these derivatives can be separated in a single run either by thin-layer or high-performance liquid chromatography (TLC or HPLC). As little as 20 ng of PGE2 can be detected after derivatization and HPLC analysis. Identification of thromboxane B2 produced by human platelets and of 6-keto-PG F1alpha produced by bovine aortic microsomes has been achieved with this method.


Separation of prostaglandin metabolites on sephadex LH 20 columns. Sephadex LH 20 columns have been investigated for the separation of initial prostaglandin metabolites. Solvent systems are described for the separation of the free acids of 15-keto-dihydro-PGE1, 15-keto-PGE1, PGE1, and PGF1alpha. Further, one of the solvent systems is described for the separation of pulmonary metabolites of PGE1 and PGF1alpha, and another one for separation of dihydro-PGE1 and PGE1.


Plasma prostaglandin levels during early neonatal life following term and pre-term delivery. The concentrations of prostaglandin E (PGE), prostaglandin F (PGF) and 13,14-dihydro-15-oxo-PGF (PGFM) have been measured by sensitive and specific radioimmunoassays in neonatal plasma after term and pre-term delivery. Blood samples were taken in the term delivery group from the umbilical artery at birth and on the sixth post-natal day and after pre-term delivery at 2-4 days, on the sixth day, at 2-4 weeks and at 5-8 weeks after birth. The levels of prostaglandins circulating during the first month of life were far greater than those found in normal adults. In neonates delivered at term the plasma concentration of PGE was significantly lower six days after delivery compared with the concentration at delivery whereas the concentrations of PGF and PGFM were essentially unchanged. Following pre-term delivery prostaglandin concentrations declined with increasing neonatal age although only levels of PGE at 5-8 weeks of age were within the normal range of adult values. Comparison of prostaglandin levels six days after delivery between neonates born at term and pre-term showed no significant differences. These results suggest that prematurity per se is not associated with marked abnormalities in the ability of the neonate to synthesize or metabolize prostaglandins.


Cultural influences on delusion.

Cultural influences on delusion. The nature and content of delusions were studied among 51 schizophrenic patients. The most common delusions in order of frequency were delusions of persecution, religious, magic, ideas of reference, passivity feelings and grandeur. The beliefs of the head of the family, or his equivalent, did not contribute directly to the content. It was concluded that the general cultural beliefs, rather than the immediate environment, play a dominant role in determining the contents of delusion.


Primitive group treatment.

Primitive group treatment. Although it has been known for many years that hallucinogenic drugs are used by witch doctors in the Peruvian jungles for therapeutic purposes, there have been no descriptions of their use. We studied one type of treatment carried out in groups of about 10 to 12 'patients', where the healer makes a magical diagnosis and provides a potion, usually ayahuasca (active hallucinogenic agent: harmine) which is drunk by the witch doctor, his assistant and the patients. The groups meet one a week in the open air in the jungle, at dawn and for an average of 5 h. The patient attends the weekly sessions until he feels well enough to leave, and only then does he pay a voluntary fee. One of our main tasks was to study the group processes.


Migration, ethnicity and diagnosis.

Migration, ethnicity and diagnosis. Various studies have demonstrated an increase in mental illness in black immigrans in Britain. A retrospective study of hospital records suggests that if the culturally atypical features of paranoid and religious flavour are taken into consideration, rates are then similar to those of the British-born. An interim report from an ongoing prospective study, using the Present State Examination and a Religious Interest Questionnaire, suggests that some of the black patients with diagnoses of schizophrenia might be more reasonably considered to have acute psychotic reactions or bouffées délirantes. The relative significance of culturally significant features as consitituting an entity or merely being pathoplastic is briefly discussed.


Aspects of depression in a Jewish minority group. This paper reports some findings of a cross-cultural study of depression in which Jewish and Protestant East Londoners were measured on several parameters. In discussing the findings, differences on familial factors are attributed to the marginality of Jews and those on hostility to differences in levels of repressed anger. Tentative observations on the types of illness seen among the depressed patients suggests that one needs to be cautious in applying subdivisions of the illness cross-culturally.


[Investigations on the change of diagnosis in the course of illness in cases with initial respectively final diagnosis 'schizophrenia', 'endogenous depression' or 'psychopathia' (author's transl)]. One hundred and fifty-two cases of changes in diagnosis of 'schizophrenia', 'endogenous depression' and 'psychopathia' in the course of illness, are statistically analyzed in regard to tendency of changes of diagnosis, sex, symptomatics and syndromatics, age of onset and duration of cycles. The changes of diagnosis show a clear tendency in favour of the diagnosis of 'schizophrenia' as opposed to 'psychopathia'. Among the cases with changed diagnoses, women are significantly over-represented. On the level of symptomatics, few significant changes of symptom frequencies can be found. More information can be obtained in the analysis on syndromatics: four out of six groups show significant changes in the intensity of syndromes; on the basis of similarities in syndrome profiles, derived from materials which are diagnostically homogeneous, the actual diagnostic components can be evaluated. The analysis of the age of onset shows significant differences of means corresponding to the expectations of the hypothetic diagnostic components. Regarding duration of cycles, significant differences of means between the groups are not to be found.


[About musicogenic epilepsy (author's transl)]. A case of musicogenic epilepsy or psychomotor seizures supervening whenever the patient hears a certain tune is presented. Nearly 70 cases of musicogenic epilepsy have been documented so far. The findings in these cases including those encountered by ourselves may be summarized as follows: Musicogenic epilepsy is more common among middle-aged persons. In an unexpectedly large proportion of cases the cause is unknown. Among the organic causes, head injury is of the highest incidence. It is quite unlikely that brain bumor is responsible. There is no dementia or mental retardation as in some forms of reflex epilepsy. The seizure is overwhelmingly of the psychomotor type. The EEG pattern often suggests temporal lobe epilepsy. There seems to be no cerebral dominance. Different kinds of music can be the inducer, ranging from those primarily intended to stimulate the sense to those appealing to affect. The activating mechanism of the condition still remains obscure. In the strict sense of the word, the condition cannot be termed reflex epilepsy.


[The gamma ray peak efficiency determination for volume samples using a radioactive point source (author's transl)]. The peak efficiencies for volume samples in gamma spectrometry of environmental radioactive materials have been determined using a radioactive standard point source. The advantages of the method, as compared with conventional calibration method using standard volume sources, are as follows; 1) The peak efficiencies can be obtained with high accuracy and precision, 2) To be applied easily to any sample container being axial symmetry, 3) The correction for self-absorption can be performed by the simple calculation. On the other hand, the application of the method is restricted to only the cylindrical or coaxial detector.


[Determination of mercury and copper in water samples by activation analysis using preconcentration on emission spectroscopic carbon powder (author's transl)]. A simple preconcentration procedure for mercury and copper was examined in the activation analysis of water samples. The preconcentration using pure activated carbon has been reported in several papers. The authors found that the carbon powder for emission spectroscopic analysis showed the high purity equivalent to pure activated carbon. The influence of various parameters in adsorption conditions was studied by radioactive tracers 197Hg and 64Cu. It was confirmed that 100% of these elements were adsorbed on carbon powders as pyrrolidine dithiocarbonate complexes at an acidity of pH 6--8, the temperature of 50 degrees C and the stirring time of 30 minutes. This method was applied to the activation analysis of the river water samples taken from the upper stream area of the Arakawa river and the ground water samples taken from the upper stream area of the Arakawa river and the ground water samples taken from the wells of the environs of Tokyo Megapolis. The carbon powders which adsorbed these elements were filtered, dried and analyzed by instrumental neutron activation analysis. The Hg concentrations of 0.01--0.1 ppb in river water and 0.03--1.4 ppb in ground water were obtained as well as the Cu concentrations of 0.3--3.0 ppb in ground water. The limits of determination of this method are 0.01 ppb Hg and 0.2 ppb Cu in the case of 11 sample of fresh water.


[Test production of 60Co sealed sources of high specific activity (author's transl)]. To establish the production technique of 60Co sources with high specific activity, test production was started in 1967 by using JRR-3 and JMTR reactors. Two kinds of cobalt targets, a wafer type (diameter 8.0 mmxthickness 2.3 mm, 1.1g) and a pellet type (diameter 1.0 mmxlength 1.0mm, 6.9 mg) were used. The former was irradiated at a maximum nvt of 4.4x10(20) neutrons per cm2, yielding a maximum specific activity of 8.5 Ci per gram, and the latter at 2.2x10(21) neutrons per cm2, yielding a maximum specific activity of 68.1 Ci per gram, and the total activity of 60Co sources amounted to 4.1 kCi. After the 60Co sources were enclosed in stainless steel capsules, these sealed sources were submitted to wipe and immersion tests to examine surface contamination and leakage. Through the test production, could be obtained much important knowledge such as irradiation method, handling of highly active materials, sources assemblage and remote welding.


Distribution of 67Ga-citrate in tumor tissues and various organs--macroautoradiographic and scintigraphic studies. Localization of 67Ga in various tissues was demonstrated by whole-body autoradiography of tumor-bearing mice in order to obtain comprehensive information which would aid in making more accurate interpretations of clinical scintigrams. The macroautoradiograms (ARG's) showed the most intense accumulation of 67Ga in the reticuloendothelial tissues, the wall of the intestinal tract and tumor tissues. 67Ga nonspecifically accumulated in the abdominal region and was apparently excreted mostly from the kidneys and from the mucosa of the intestinal tract. In the reticuloendothelial system such as bone marrow, liver and lymph nodes were sometimes difficult to distinguish from the lung tumor. In the 67Ga-scintigram the high uptake of 67Ga was seen in these organs. Tumor in the lung could be readily detected as the alveolar structure is occupied with a considerable amount of air and has much lower activity per unit volume in the normal lung tissue. Thus the application of 67Ga in autoradiography in experimental animals provided useful information which should assist in analyzation of routine 67Ga-scintigrams in patients with neoplastic diseases.


[The effect of pentazocine on pyelo-ureteral activity. A radiological study (author's transl)]. Following 30 mg pentazocine lactate intravenous in the course of perfusion urography in 20 patients, changes in the amplitude and motor activity of the calicopyelic cavities were noted on a television circuit and spot-films were taken. An early and protracted increase in ureteral peristaltic activity was shown. A number of examples of this are presented.


[Mesomelic dwarfism. Pronounced form in a female infant of a father with dyschondrosteosis and a mother with Madelung's deformity]. A serious form of mesomelic dwarfism was observed in a 4 1/2-month-old girl whose parents (first cousins) presented dyschondrosteosis and Madelung's deformity respectively. The radiological findings in all three subjects are discussed. It is suggested that the three morbid forms are expressions of the some genotypical alteration, probably at the homozygote status of mesomelic dwarfism.


Cardio-protective contribution of hard waters to magnesium in-take. The reported inverse correlation between water hardness and incidence of cardiac fatalities has led to tentative hypotheses concerning the role of magnesium intake in this phenomenon. The present article reviews the evidence in favor of the magnesium hypothesis, with emphasis on differentiating between diet-derived and water-borne magnesium intake, and their respective cardio-protective potentials.


[Effect of pyridoxine deficiency on fatty acid metabolism in the rat]. We have studied the effect of pyridoxine deficiency on rat liver fatty acid synthetase using acetyl-1-14C-CoA. We have observed no significant difference in the synthetase activity between the deficient and ad libitum control rats. From in vivo experiments with palmitate-1-14C, linoleate-1-14C or arachidonate-1-14C, we noted an increase in the oxidation of all fatty acids in the deficient animals. Studies with the same tracers on their incorporation rate into liver triglycerides and phospholipids showed an increase in the rate of incorporation of palmitate and linoleate within lipids of deficient rats, but no significant difference was seen with arachidonate.


Retinal organisation in goldeye and mooneye (Teleostei: hiodontidae). This paper presents the results of a comparative investigation of the retinas of two Hiodontids, the goldeye (Hiodon alosoides) and the Mooneye (H. tergisus) employing light and electron microscopy, cell isolation techniques as well as microspectrophotometry. Contrary to the observations of previous workers these species possess a duplex retina. The photoreceptors are bundled in groups of 20 rods and 20 cones. They exhibit features which have hitherto not been observed in vertebrates. These are a) an ellipsoid divided in two parts by the myoid: b) tubules in cone outer segments and, c) large "lateral sacs" (accessory outer segments). Cones are immobile but the rods and epithelial pigment are capable of movement (retinomotor responses). The prominent reflecting layer consists of cuboid and rod-like crystals composed of uric acid. The inner layers are made up of three tiers of large horizontal cells, one of amacrine cells and scarce bipolar and ganglion cells. Bundle density is 1 700 per sq. mm. Roughly, one receptor bundle projects onto one bipolar and one ganglion cell suggesting that each bundle acts as a functional unit. The visual pigment of the mooneye absorbs maximally at 535 +/- 2 nm, and is based on vitamin A2 (porphyropsin). We suggest that all non deep-sea fishes with bundled receptors have duplex retinas and the adaptive mechanisms for vision in turbid waters are based on different morphological means as illustrated by the comparison with Stizostedion.


Possible role of fundus circulation as an intraocular colour filter in certain fishes. The possible role of the fundus circulation as an intraocular colour filter was studied by measuring chromatic aberration in two species of fish. One species (the goldfish) has an extensive fundus circulation while the other (the rock bass) has a minimal one. Chromatic aberration was measured retinoscopically in the living eye and by determining the spectral variation in focal length of the excised lens. In the rock bass, chromatic aberration of the excised lens is always a little less than that measured by retinoscopy. In the goldfish, the retinoscopic measurements are substantially less than measurements of the excised lens. This difference is apparently due to the limitation imposed by the goldfish fundus circulation on the possibility of performing retinoscopy with blue light. It is suggested that a fundus circulation can modify the intraocular transmission of light.


[Scotopic visual pigments in 3 Percidae: Perca flavescens, Stizostedion vitreum and S. canadense]. The scotopic visual pigments of three percids from Quebec waters, viz. the yellow perch (Perca flavescens), the walleye (Stizostedion vitreum) and the sauger (S. canadense), were studied in situ using a microspectrophotometer-computer complex. The difference spectra show that the three fishes possess a porphyropsin whose lambda max. is at 530 nm in the yellow perch, 533 nm in the walleye and at 536 in the sauger. This variation corresponds to the tendency of the visual pigments to fit the preferred environments. The three species studied also have different modes of life. The yellow perch inhabits mostly shallow, clear waters while the walleye and sauger prefer turbid waters. The retinal structure and responses also differ among them. Since the difference in lambda max. is so small, the differences in habitat and behaviour may be attributed to morphological differences in the retina rather than to its visual pigment content.


New microbial secondary metabolites under preclinical development for cancer treatment. Limitless numbers of various genetic structures have been formed in chromosomes and plasmids and numerous bioactive compounds are produced by microorganisms. Therefore, it may be said that compounds useful in treatment of cancer will be found more and more in microbial secondary metabolites and more effective antitumor antibiotics and their derivatives, or more effective products producing immune resistance to cancer, will be discovered. In these studies, as discussed in this paper, the most urgent problem is to establish a rational screening principle or system to select compounds worth clinical examination. This is particularly important in the analog area. Bleomycin is an analog of phleomycin chosen because of lower renal toxicity. It has become an antitumor agent of significant value. Macromycin is a new structure which has been found to bind with animal cells and inhibit growth. Neothramycin is a new benzodiazepine antibiotic which has lower toxicity than other structures studied in this class and is active against L1210, Yoshida sarcoma, and Sarcoma 180. Aclacinomycin A is an analog of adriamycin chosen for clinical study based on its low cardiac toxicity and high distribution in mouse lung and spleen. Coriolins are another new structural class. Diketocoriolin B has activity in L1210 leukemia and has been shown to inhibit Na-K-ATPase. Bestatin is a compound which inhibits aminopeptidase B and leucine aminopeptidase has been shown to increase delayed hypersensitivity. Bestatin also increases the effects of other antitumor agents such as adriamycin, and bleomycin.


The current status of chemotherapy for gastric cancer in Japan with special emphasis on mitomycin C. 1. Significant differences in the survival rate between the control and MMC groups were observed for carcinoma simplex, in Stage III in the first and fourth studies, and also for 5FU group in the fifth study for carcinoma simplex and Stage III. 2. For Stage I patients, chemotherapy as an adjuvant to surgery may not be necessary because it decreased the survival rates in the second, third and fourth studies. 3. Total dosage of more than 0.6 mg/kg MMC is necessary to obtain a significant difference in the survival rate between the control and the treated groups. Further controlled clinical studies are necessary to determine the effects of a long-term and multiple combined chemotherapy as an adjuvant to surgery in gastric cancer. These problems are under consideration in the following studies.


Clinical aspects of adriamycin in Japan. Adriamycin has not been as extensively evaluated in Japan as in some other countries. This is due both to the widespread use of mitomycin C and importantly to the alopecia caused by adriamycin being particularly disturbing to Japanese patients. Japanese studies have shown the drug to be highly active in tumors such as stomach cancer (31/92), lung cancer (27/84), and malignant lymphomas (15/46). Combination studies have been mainly with 5-FU although others have also been investigated. Other approaches which have been studied include intraarterial infusion, local application in bladder cancer, intrapleural application and in the treatment of childhood malignancies.


Synthetic analogs of antitumor drugs under development in Japan. Synthetic studies on new antitumor drugs in Japan are mainly oriented toward analogs of known active structures. In the nitrosourea area ACNU, a pyrimidine analog of CCNU, is currently under clinical investigation and has myelosuppression as a side effect Nitrosoureas with a sugar moiety are of great interest and two compounds called GANU and MCNU are now ready for phase I study in Japan. Among new alkylating agents are included a series of bis-methanesulfonate of aminoglycols, an analog of cyclophosphamide called 4-hydroperoxy-cyclophosphamide, and aziridine derivatives which include the now commercially available carbazilquinone. In the antimetabolite field cyclocytidine is an analog of arabinosyl cytosine which has been extensively studied. A newer analog called N4-behenoyl-cytosine arabinoside is now being studied experimentally. In the fluorinated pyrimidine area Ftorafur has been extensively studied and a new compound FD-1 is of interest.


In vivo antitumor evaluation of antibiotics. Selected results from the Drug Evaluation Program of the National Cancer Institute, U.S.A. A summary is given of the in vivo screening results for selected antitumor antibiotics in various stages of the National Cancer Institute drug development program. In addition a brief description of general screening practices of the program is given. After long-term usage of leukemia L1210 as a primary screen, a new screening panel is being initiated with P388 leukemia as a prescreening system. Illustrative data on anguidine, actinomycin D, macromomycin, aclacinomycin, and other fermentation products are shown.


Detection and assay of antitumor antibiotics. Cell culture techniques and antimicrobial systems can be used as detection systems for new antibiotic structures. Antimicrobial systems by virtue of their speed, economy, ease of use, and adaptation to chromatographic (bioautographic) techniques are definitely superior for assay and for dereplication purposes. A prescreen assay system which combines the advantages and minimizes the disadvantages of the two approaches is described.